Kissed by fire

Chapters

Chapter 1: To catch a falling star
Chapter 2: Fire and snow
Chapter 3: Joan
Chapter 4: Tea with a princess
Chapter 5: The merry company
Chapter 6: The gilded cage
Chapter 7: A wolf in sheep's clothing
Chapter 8: Through murky waters
Chapter 9: Songs of Valour
Chapter 10: Needle and Fang
Chapter 11: No mares land

Chapter 1: To catch a falling star

Stalwart keep remained the northern most outpost in all of Equestria since it was completed centuries ago, from that time it has changed little. The small town and its castle were built at the foot of the white mane mountains, its thick walls protecting it from the worst of the brutal northern winds and the various creatures that stalked the snowy tundra, its tall imposing towers providing a commanding view of the surrounding area. The keep itself stood at its centre a giant monolith of stone partially built into the rock face a steep set of stairs kept the keep connected to the rest of the town. Whilst numerous underground passage ways linked to key points about stalwart keep as to limit the amount of time its hardy citizens had to spend exposed to the elements.

Despite its somewhat bleak location stalwart keep has kept a healthy population of ponies, From enterprising adventurers seeking the areas vast mineral wealth and hidden treasures to simple hardworking merchants and labourers looking to carve out a life from the white wilderness far from the troubles that plagued the larger equestrian cities. But like any settlement in Equestria from the humblest villages to the tallest citadels stalwart keep was griped with heart-warming fever as the streets bustled with holiday activity.

Captain Daybreak walked down the high street, his golden armour glinting under his thick grey cloak occasionally exchanging pleasantry's with the citizens and returning salutes from his fellow guards. He remembered first arriving at the isolated town for the first time nearly 10 years ago his new captains armour doing nothing to keep him warm he had almost frozen to death in his first week. Back then his new posting had felt more like a punishment than a promotion maybe he had in avertedly angered princess Celestia or insulted some noble somehow during his initial posting at Canterlot, but as the years passed he had come to love the small town, sure it was not as a prestigious posting as Canterlot or even Staliongrad but he had become respected by its ponies even if they kept reminding him of his disastrous first week the nick name "Captain Icicle" had ever dogged his hoof steps over the years.

He was shaken from is thoughts as a ball of crimson fur slammed into him at incredible velocity knocking him to the ground driving the wind out of him. Blinking away stars Daybreak quickly struggled to his hooves and brushed the snow of his immaculate white coat before rounding on his attacker, who was frantically snatching up a large collection of brightly coloured Parcels which had fallen out of his grasp in the collision. Daybreak instantly recognized the red pony before him as one of his guardsmen

"Guardsman Crimson Bolt!" he barked threateningly

Crimson instantly froze his eyes going wide in terror his wings spread out in shock as he realised he had just accidently tackled his captain.

He snapped to attention giving a sloppy salute with the wrong hoof stammering his apologies.

"C-c-captain Sir!"

Daybreak calmly used his magic to levitate his helmet wish had been knocked off, back onto his head stands of his golden mane still visible and fixed crimson bolt with his light blue eyes in a withering stare

"Why are you not in uniform, and why in the name of Celestia are you not at your post?"

his voice low and commanding

"Sir s-s-sorry sir I s-s-swapped shifts with s-starlight sir.....to do some hearts warming eve shopping .....Sir"

Daybreak relaxed but kept his gaze stern "relax Crimson... and put your dam hoof down!"

Crimson immediately complied and seemed visibly relieved

"thank you sir"

Daybreak levitated one of the parcels still on the snowy ground up to his face so he could read the label "Guild mane" he read out loud

"is she new in town?"

"Sir no sir" crimson brightened up a wide smile dancing across his face

"She lives in Canterlot works as a jeweller....sir"

Daybreak let a rare smile cross his own lips "night shift Crimson, observation tower you had better be at your post"

He said handing the lovingly wrapped package back to Crimson bolt

"Yes sir! Thank you sir!" and with that crimson went supersonic down the high street scattering the crowds, forgetting to salute.

Captain Daybreak was left standing in the high street deep in thought. Crimson bolt was the keep's newest recruit and a total enigma to Daybreak he had no idea how such a ... unique Pegasus could have become a guardsman. Until he had seen him fly that is, he could give the wonder bolts a run for their money he bet. And despite his outward appearance he was a very dedicated pony that's why the captain supposed he had a soft spot for Crimson despite him flogging a long dead joke every hearts warming holiday. He started back of on his original course muttering to himself

"he better not have bought be another bucking scarf"

Later that evening Daybreak was walking the western wall on his way to the observation tower, staring at the moon lit landscape the wind had died down and the air was crisp and still the sky was filled with a vast tapestry of stars. Marveling at Princess Luna's hoof work He slowly climbed the spiral staircase that lead to the observatory taking care not to slip and fall all the way down the stone steps at the top he was greeted by Crimson bolt who was as expected on sentry duty.

"Anything to report?" Daybreak asked nodding to crimson who again saluted 'wrong hoof' the voice in his head pointed out

"A lot of shooting stars sir nothing else".... "Wow look at that one!" he said excitedly pointing out a partially bright shooting star

"Quick make a wish!"

Suddenly remembering who he has talking to, he quickly added "sir" looking embarrassed by his outburst

Daybreak's bemused expression quickly turned into one of puzzlement then of shock as he tracked the shooting star "err... sir...what" crimson began the captain cut him off.

"SOUND THE ALARM!" the supposed shooting star had somehow turned and has burning brightly as it hurtled towards the town the ball of molten fire now lighting up the sky like Celestia's sun.

It hit the ground a mile or so west of the city with enough force to send out powerful shockwaves rocking the mountain to its foundations a great fire spread out from the impact site the flames hungrily dissolving the fresh snow and feasting on anything it touched.

The cruel fires persisted for several days, the captain had called out the guard to combat the blaze with water and earth lest it make its way to the keep, over the roaring of the flames there was another noise an impossible noise a noise that chilled every pony to the bone despite the savage heat, the sound of some pony screaming.

Chapter 2: Fire and snow

After three days the inferno was finally dying out and the black smoke was also receding revealing the desolation the fire had wrought.

Only ash and blackened earth remained, Pegasus guardsman could finally do flybys of the actual impact site by early morning the heat still making a closer inspection impossible till the sun was kissing the horizon. By then a large crowd had gathered around the site more observed from the walls as the spectacle unfolded. Daybreak had his men form a perimeter to keep the area secure

"Well here goes nothing" he said to himself as he led a small group of guardsman forwards tentatively stepping over the still burning embers there hoof falls muted by the ash coated ground, the smell of acrid smoke stung his nostrils and his eyes began to water.

The small party of five guardsmen soon came to the edge of the deep crater and peered into the broken earth

"Sweet Celestia!..That smell!" one of his guards moaned into his scarf which he had improvised into a mask the crater had a distinct smell that overpowered the smoke, it took daybreak a second to identify it 'burnt flesh' he realised.

As he did the smoke cleared and revealed the object nestled in the crater the whole company backed away eyes wide with horror save the captain who was rooted to the spot,

"get a wagon down here!, NOW!" He shouted to break his guardsman out of there trances

"And get me guardsman Crimson bolt!"

"Have you got all that crimson!?" the captain asked loudly to cut through crimson bolt's confusion since being called to the captains office, Crimson bolt had been bombarded with information and had a heavy saddle bag strapped to him.

"Deliver this..." he held up a dull beige envelope before stuffing into crimsons hooves "...to princess Celestia or Luna personally. You don't wait or stop till it's in one of their hooves and knock over any pony that gets in your way understood?"

"But sir... Canterlot is..." he was cut of once more by the highly agitated captain "I will teleport you as far as I can without killing myself... don't worry. You got everything crimson?" crimson gave a another panicked look and weakly nodded his head his saddle bags swigging slightly.

"If you make it... you can have the week off in Canterlot to visit that guild mane mare of yours" daybreak added with a warm smile which crimson returned before screwing his eyes shut, daybreak backed up behind his desk before focusing all his energy into his horn it shimmered with a golden glow growing in intensity until if filled the entire room a sudden crack of thunder and crimson was gone. Leaving the floor singed and smoking, releasing the spell the captain promptly collapsed to the floor.

Dawn was breaking over Canterlot, the suns golden rays bathing the whole city in a bright yellow glow as the tendrils of night receded to the shadows.

An alabaster alicorn looked down from her tower admiring her work from the balcony of her chambers, Celestia goddess of the sun was not in the best of shapes. Roused prematurely from her slumber to perform her royal duty she now stumbled back into her exquisite chambers, she just made it to her bead before she collapsed onto the mattress. she had definitely done too much 'celebrating' this hearts warming holiday though to be fair it was her first holiday season with Luna since she returned, so of course she had let her mane down a little more than usual. Her stomach made a loud gurgling noise and she groaned in discomfort 'I should not have eaten so much cake' she half mumbled into her silk sheets. Her lamentations were interrupted as the doors to her chambers swung open and her all too cheerful sister trotted in.

"morning Tia" she exclaimed happily ignoring her sisters distress and heading straight to the balcony "Luna" Celestia grumbled at her as she passed. Luna started giggling as she turned to take in her sister

"you know I don't think I have ever seen a sugar hangover before" she continued giggling.

Irritated Celestia threw one of her pillows square at Luna's face putting an end to the laughter

"This is all your fault sweet sister" Celestia said with a mixture of frustration and tiredness before falling back to the mattress

"Now now" Luna said smugly "I didn't make you eat 3 chocolate cakes in one sitting" she trotted over to her sister and began to massage the base of Celestia's wings working out the tense muscles. "Three!" Celestia yelped indignantly into the mattress both proud and disgusted in her achievement.

She soon went limp as Luna's expert hoofs worked along her back "twas quite a sight to behold" Luna murmured "I was rather impressed..."

Their conversation was cut short as a flash of red burst through the open window the princesses cried out in shock as a crimson Pegasus crashed head first into the far wall, a second later the door burst open and a dozen royal guards charged the dazed intruder. A scuffle ensued as they attempted to restrain the Pegasus. The cry of one particular guard staggering away from the mêlée with a broken nose seemed to jolt Celestia from her shock. "Enough!!" she bellowed using her royal Canterlot voice to cut through the din, the guards immediately untangled themselves from the red Pegasus who Celestia could now see was sporting a set of guard armour.

"Guardsman crimson bolt...Your majesty"

He announced as he nursed a cut above his right eye giving a sideways glare at the royal guards "you may return to your post sir's false alarm" Luna addressed the guards after coming to her senses. They bowed respectfully to both princesses, and then filled out the door in practiced discipline. At the sound of the gilded doors slamming shut Crimson bolt let out a audible sigh of relief before remembering what he was there for, he quickly removed the letter Day break had given him and handed it to princess Celestia who came forward to receive the letter wearing a bemused serine smile "Urgent news from Captain daybreak majesty"

"Daybreak.... from stalwart keep?" examining the wax seal before opening it and holding the letter before her with her magic

"Stalwart keep? that still exists?" Luna interrupted with a confused voice of all the things that had been eroded during her 1000 years incarcerated on the moon it baffled her how that isolated rock had somehow survived. As Celestia read the words her face turned grave as she drank in the urgently scribbled writing, by the time she came to the end she had more questions than when she started. Her tiredness and discomfort forgotten Celestia called the guards still present outside her chambers to have her chariot ready.

"Sister...?" Luna was worried she had rarely seen the look that her elder sister was now sporting it was a mixture of worry and dread and it chilled her to see it.

Chapter 3: Joan

It had been a long journey to reach stalwart keep, to do so in just under two days had required Celestia's Pegasus guards to push themselves to the limits of their endurance even with the assistance of her magic the royal carriage was barely staying airborne as the white mane mountains came into view. Celestia had stayed awake through the journey ignoring the many comforts offered to her in her carriage preferring to instead watch her kingdom roll by out of her window. Stalwart keep was routinely overlooked when her ministers planned a royal tour for her to do, so she had not seen this corner of her kingdom since... 'Must have been almost 800 years' Celestia thought to herself. A small pang of guilt struck the princess for letting any of her little ponies be swept under the rug,

"Well better late than never" she mused as the carriage began its decent.

The royal carriage landed with much fanfare, the whole town had turned out a small band of guards held the crowd of eager ponies back. Wild cheering emerged as the princess emerged confetti flying and banners waving. A white stallion pushed his way through the crowd the guards parting to allow him through.

"Ah Daybreak there you are" Celestia said with relief

"Whatever happened to a discreet arrival" she continued in a low voice as he knelt before her

"You try keeping a royal visit a secret in such a small town your majesty" day break looked up

"I have no idea where the banners came from ma'am" at this Celestia laughed and he rose from his knees before beckoning with his hoof.

"It is good to see you Daybreak again" Celestia said as they made their way through the crowd

"How has the north been treating you?" the captain thought a moment before answering

"Likewise ma'am, the north is a little cold for my tastes but the company is good"

Celestia was about to reply when they veered off suddenly and were suddenly outside a small clinic the name on the building read 'Eclipse Surgery ' they passed a pair of guards as they entered the small building.

"Captain" Celestia said frustration evident in her voice "I want answers before we go any further"

Daybreak stopped with a sigh before checking around to see if any pony was within earshot before starting to speak

"A week ago something fell from the sky, it burned in its crater for 3 days before we could get close and that whole time ... it was screaming"

"What... something?" Celestia whispered in horror as they started to move once more down the corridor.

"I had a wagon fetched and had her moved here for treatment, the doctor can explain to you... FROSTBITE!"

Daybreak called out to a light blue earth pony that was just emerging from one of the doors lining the corridor,

"This is doctor Frostbite head surgeon"

"Only surgeon "he added in a gruff voice "what do you want" he said in a suspicions voice eyeing the two of them ignoring the fact that one was a princess.

"Her majesty is here to see the patient" the captain said in a tired voice

"The only patient" Frostbite corrected before moving off down back the way he came

Daybreak let out a snort of frustration as he followed "I see what you mean by good company" Celestia teased as she fell in step with him.

"THE patient aka 'Joan' was brought in four days ago" Frostbite began in a scratchy monotone

"it took me a whole half an hour to identify her as a pony and another half an hour to be convinced she was alive, Joan had suffered sever burns across 100% of her body down to the bone in some places" at this point he shuddered at the memory before continuing "along with a myriad of other injuries including four broken legs, we kept her sedated throughout her stay due to the scale of her injuries. were out of sedatives by the way" he turned giving the captain a look "due to her size she has needed large amounts to keep her docile and she has built up a resistance to them which is fun" he said sarcastically "Over these couple of days she has.... regenerated at a extraordinary rate not surprising in hindsight considering her ... biology" as they reached the door at the end of the hallway Celestia had a million questions "Joan?... size?...biology?" Frost bite turned round and gave her a sympathetic smile "you can thank the nursing staff for the name as for the other two... see for yourself princess" he motioned to the door with a hoof "well if that is all I have other things to do, captain a word?"

Celestia did not even hear the rest of the conversation as he slowly pushed open the door and stepped inside the room. Numerous machines hung from the walls platters of medicines lined the walls, despite the time of day a large black out blind had been pulled over the window the only light came from a small lantern by the patient's bed. The bed itself was two singles pushed together in the dim light Celestia could only make out an outline on the makeshift double. As she moved further into the room the door swung shut behind her, the sound of ragged breathing was audible in the silence Celestia's own heart was beating loudly in her ears as she made her way around the bed.

She let out a gasp of shock as the light finally illuminated Joan's form, before her lay a sleeping pitch black Alicorn laying on her side, approximately the same size as Celestia herself the bed was hardly big enough. Her mane was also black but with red roots putting her in mind of a blazing fire set against a starless sky. At the sound of Celestia's shock Joan's visible eye flew open, Celestia backed away slightly in irrational fear. Joan's eye was like a burning coal and seemed to glow as she stared at her for what seemed like an eternity. Feeling like she should say something Celestia came forward and said

"Err... Hello" she said lamely 'great start'

Joan seemed to relax somewhat her eye stopped burning and looked around the room with interest, until it fell on the lantern at her bed side. her eye went wide with panic as she gazed at the small flame, the flame began to burn more and more fiercely under Joan's petrified gaze until Celestia rushed forward and extinguished it with her magic. She then turned to pull the blind up telekinetically to allow some natural light to seep into the room. Taking advantage of her newfound confidence and Joan's thankful gaze she moved to the head of the bead and reached out a hoof. Again the black alicorn's eye went wide with panic and she fought against the drugs to get away from the approaching alabaster hoof.

"shhhh its alright I'm not going to hurt you Joan" Celestia whispered gently as she began to stroke Joan's mane. As she started humming softly and soothingly to the alicorn, Joan's eye began to close and with a deep sigh she fell back to sleep a faint smile creasing her lips.

"She's a..." Celestia began

"Yep" Daybreak sat next to her in the deserted waiting room staring resolutely at the far wall.

"How...?" Celestia was deep in thought as the day's events played out for the millionth time in her head.

"I was hoping you could tell me ma'am, is she not... one of yours?" the silence stretched out uncomfortably occasionally broken by a loud curse from Frostbite as he worked in his office.

"Was she really that bad Daybreak... when you found her?" The captain gave her a look his eyes softened, he before saying "let's just say your majesty that the only reason the fire did die out, was because it had run out of fuel and leave it at that." Realising he had killed the conversation Daybreak continued "What are your orders?"

That was what Celestia had been contemplating since she had set eyes on the alicorn; she couldn't

Keep her hidden indefinitely; if the news became public it would introduce a whole host of problems. The nobles would demand an explanation, she groaned inwardly as she realised the political shit storm that would be unleashed, not to mention how the general population might react 'I really need a coffee...and a slice of cake' she lamented, 'she has not even spoken a word and already I have a headache'

Chapter 4: Tea with a princess

After a extensive meeting with both Captain Daybreak and Doctor Frostbite Celestia had decided the best course of action would be for Joan to moved to Canterlot were both Luna and Celestia could keep an eye on the mysterious alicorn. So under the cover of darkness she was covertly transferred to the royal carriage still sedated before Celestia once more departed from stalwart keep.

It was about midday and the royal carriage was well underway to Canterlot, golden rays shone through the open windows in this light Celestia realised that Joan was a lot less imposing, her coat had lost that unnervingly black hue in favour of a lighter shade. her eyes especially where no longer burning with intensity, even with the short time Celestia had been watching Joan sleep she had noticed her mane and tail had grown a little adding to the softening effect . Joan's golden eyes opened to fix the sun goddess with a questioning stare of molten gold.

Celestia couldn't help but feel trapped in the carriage, it had been designed and built with Alicorns in mind but even so the space was a little too enclosed for two ponies of their size and power.

Joan's silent stare was not helping her nerves it being akin to a manticore seizing up its prey. To diffuse the situation Celestia had the perfect solution.

"ah your awake good" she magically pulled out a large platter from behind her "you must be hungry" the platter was filled with a large assortment of cakes and sweet treats, having a royal sweet tooth meant that the servants knew to always keep the royal desert cart well stocked with fresh goodies from all over Equestria. She set the tray between them and motioned with a hoof

"Please help yourself" she encouraged, Joan perked up at the tantalising smell of the deserts and struggled into a sitting position as Celestia helped herself to a sticky apple turnover. Joan after a paused and reached out a hoof for a chocolate muffin after several failed attempts at coaxing it into her hoof she let out a snort of frustration, Celestia took pity on her and whispered "its easier if you use your magic dear" kind heartedly , the black alicorn looked at her with confusion "how?" her voice was not what Celestia was expecting it was too gentle for her intimidating exterior the word itself baffled Celestia she quickly recovered

"Just focus with your horn , the rest should come naturally to you" she said simply with a kind smile

Joan glared down at the muffin that had dared defy her and reached out with her horn, something seemed to click into place the world was brought into focus as she felt the raw power of her mind confidently she instinctively grabbed the muffin in a black aura and levitated before her she opened her mouth to claim her prize when.

Celestia nearly choked on her apple turnover when Joan opened her mouth to reveal d two long sharp fangs nestled in amongst her normal pony teeth not unlike nightmare moon, Celestia passed the moment off pretending something had gotten stuck in her throat. To get the image of the other alicorn's maw out of her mind she restarted the conversation.

"So do you have a name my friend?" Joan disengaged from her muffin and gave Celestia another calculated look her eyes seemed to glaze over

"At the hospital you called me Joan, is this not my name?"

"It's what the nurses named you, can you not remember what yours is?"

"I can only remember the fire" her voice had gained an edge of steel "twisting, dancing, biting, burning... beautiful" she muttered to herself ,

Officially disturbed by Joan's muttering Celestia made a coughing noise to break her trance like state.

"...it sounds wrong, but it will do" she continued as though nothing had happened glancing out of the window she carried on "and you my gracious host, what is your name and where are we headed?"

Finally with a normal conversation going Celestia relaxed into her seat "My name is princess Celestia of Equestria and we are on our way to my palace at Canterlot" Joan raised her eyebrows "royalty hum... should I be bowing?"

"Please there's no need for that" Celestia laughed raising a hoof "we will arrive at Canterlot in about a day or so" the black alicorn l flashed a small fanged smile "thank you Celestia" lowering her head in a small nod at which point Celestia became acutely aware of how long and sharp Joan's horn truly was. They carried on talking for the next few hours, well Celestia talked Joan lay back and listened as she enthusiastically brought her up to speed on the basics she would need to know before touching down in Canterlot and out of the shadows.

Chapter 5: The merry company

Many years ago...

"There I was, cut off, surrounded by four shades" Brightmoon began, gesturing wildly with his flagon of fire blood. "They came at me cutting, and slashing!" he jumped onto the table re-enacting the scene as his fellow wolf kin hurried to cleared the table of their drinks. The hall rang with laughter and cheers as Brightmoon fought off his imaginary foes. The candles fluttered in the strong wind as the doors swung open and a band of heavily armoured ponies piled in.interrupting Brightmoon as he was in the process of decapitating shade number three with his phantom long axe.

"Nice to see you could finally join us Verex in the victory celebrations!" he shouted over the din. Verex set down his red plumed helm on a free table "mopping up survivors Brightmoon, you wolves should really stop playing with your food" he replied grabbing a nearby mug of cider. "Some wolf has to make you look good in front of the empress Verex" Brightmoon shot back, Verex joined in with the laughter before moving further into the hall. He spied a lone cloaked figure bent over there table reading a book, he headed over and sat down in the spare seat.

"Verex" the mare muttered as a greeting not taking her eyes off the book, the white earth pony took it in his stride as he eyed the dark blue unicorn "Good to see you made it Aurora, another book from the empress?" she looked up and gave him a friendly smile "just brushing up on some old texts for when she comes back"

The doors slammed open and two more figures strolled into the makeshift hall. The first was distinctive by his unique physic walking in on two legs a hand clasped firmly on the pommel of his sword a shield slung over his back and his face hidden behind a full-face white plumed helmet. The second figure was a stunning fire drake her pristine white scales glistening like diamonds in the candle light yellow eyes in her majestic ivory horned head flickering around the room. Falling instep behind her two legged companion they made their way over to a free table claws and feet beating out a unique tempo on the dusty floor. Brightmoon quickly finished ripping out the neck of shade number four before jumping off the table and loping over to them; Verex and Aurora also pushed themselves to their hooves and made their way to the rapidly filling up table were Brightmoon and the drake were already deep in conversation, as serving ponies set down a platter of fresh bloody meat and a large flagon of fire blood.

"... go sniff somewhere else wolf you will get no answers from me" the white drake shot at Brightmoon irritably before ripping into a thick slab of meat, blood dripping from her razor sharp fangs. "What news of the empress Marshall?" Verex asked addressing her companion as he took his seat at the table. "The empress does not answer to me Verex, and certainly not to you" Sentinel replied pulling a dagger from his cloak and went to for his own slice.

"So... you don't know where she is" Aurora deadpanned coaxing a bark of laughter form Brightmoon. The pale drake intercepted Sentinel's food deftly snatching it from him and blasting it with a dose of flame from her maw, Aurora to duck under the table to avoid the blast, the drake then casually passed the now cooked meat back to Sentinel with a toothy grin. "Thanks Snyder... and actually Aurora she crossed her desolation two nights ago" he took off his helmet taking a deep swig of fire blood before fixing the now stunned table with his ice blue eyes his somewhat alien features in a relaxed as he tucked into his still smoking stake. "Two days ago... so where is she, the desolation is but 30 miles to the south" Verex asked perplexed a slight tinge of worry crept into his voice. "She is... in council" the Marshall said warily between his chewing, "Speak plain by the veil!" Brightmoon snapped getting to his paws and bearing his teeth in frustration. "Even gods' answer a call wolf" Snyder answered calmly in her usual silken cryptic manner, "true enough... hers" Verex countered before raising his mug high and shouting "To the empress!","To the empress!" The entire room chorused before erupting into cheers and bouts of heavy drinking. Sentinel took a moment to look around at his merry band of misfits ruffling his short blond hair before taking a long drink from his own mug.

Chapter 6: The gilded cage

Joan's eyes drifted lazily open, she was lying on a ridiculously comfortable bed in a very spacious and expensively decorated room. The walls trimmed with gold leaf patterns a set of double doors lead out onto a balcony wide, the large windows allowed moonlight to stream through and offered an intoxicating view of the night sky. A fire burned merrily in a small alcove leaking yellow light across the marble floor. Joan tried to rise from her feather and silk prison; she quickly became acutely aware of metal rings encircling both of her fore hooves thin chains connected them to the bed with enough slack to allow her a comfortable slumber. Her mind was set racing by the fact of wakening up tied up to a stranger's bed she let loose a quite chuckle at the absurdity of the situation.

Joan was shaken from her thoughts by the sound of the balcony doors opening and a blue alicorn stalking through her wings slightly ruffled from her recent flight, Joan watched her progress with interest as she came to a halt before the bed eyes alight with suspicion.

"You must be Luna" Joan said matter-of-factly, Celestia had spoken at length of her sister the 'princess of the night' during their long carriage ride.

"And you must be the alicorn 'Joan' that the whole of Equestria is talking about" Luna's words were ice cold Joan was readying a verbal parry when Luna continued

"but I know who you really are...Fire mane"

The name 'Fire mane' was like a key that opened Pandora's Box; centuries came flying back at blinding speed. It was too much for Joan to handle; she grimaced in pain as her brain went into overdrive

"w-w-what did you call me?" Joan stammered out breathlessly her vision going briefly white,

"That's your real name isn't it" oblivious to Joan's ongoing mental battle, Luna advanced on her

"those shackles are of my own design its pointless to struggle against them"

Fire mane paid her no heed and continued to strain against her bonds. Irritated and her temper rising Luna carried on,

"I know what you are Fire mane and I will not allow you to put my realm in danger..."

"And what am I Luna?" Joan snarled back her head clearing, the flames in it hearth began to grow in intensity

"You are a monster and a traitor to the alicorn conclave fire mane and I shall see you punished for it"

Luna spat back, her words stung Fire mane a veil of anger descended on her features,

her eyes began to smoulder her once calm gold orbs had turned into a molten sea bubbling and boiling, her fur rippled turning from ash grey to pitch black, it seemed to suck all the light from the room, even the moonlight dimmed and was absorbed into the advancing darkness. Joan's mane began to blow in an ethereal tempest her red streaks coming alive into living flames. Before Luna could even take a step back from the black alicorn, the fireplace exploded outward the flames rolling out and streaking towards the pair, the night princess let out a yelp of surprise before levelling her horn at the approaching inferno and firing a powerful blast of magic.

The flames danced to the side of the bolt briefly taking the form of a phoenix flying over Luna's head and enveloping the bead in a nimbus of flame.

Luna scrambled back wards still in shock over just what happened 'it was impossible' she told herself 'the shackles were designed to suppress magic...what in tartarus was happening'

tartarus was right as two resounding cracks echoed out above the roaring of the fire, she barely had time to register it was the sound of the shackles breaking before ...

Fire mane leapt through the flame curtain and off the bead her enraged eyes noted the satisfaction the look of terror in Luna's wide eyes before the night princess fired another desperate bolt of magic missing her left side by inches by then fire mane was on her. Luna fell backwards as the larger alicorn crashed into her pining her to the floor with her power full fore hooves. Luna struggled fruitlessly against the other alicorns iron grip,

When nothing happened for some time she stopped wriggling and looked up. Joan stared at her intently her face so close to Luna's that she could feel her breath rolling over her ,Fire manes mouth was partially open offering Luna a close up of her pearl white teeth and fangs.

"Don't ever call me a traitor again little princess" Joan whispered softly into Luna's ear,

"I'm sorry" Luna whispered back shakily. Joan's eyes calmed and the light seemed to bleed back into the room, the fire died out leaving the bed still pristine and un burnt.

The last of Joan's anger subsided and she relaxed her hold on the other alicorn instead lowering herself and using her body weight to keep her captive in place,

"What are you doing Fire mane?" Luna asked strength coming back into her voice, a slight hint of a blush appearing at the somewhat intimate situation,

"please call me Joan... and this is payback for chaining me to a bed princess" Joan said thoroughly enjoying her position

"I take it, that it was your idea, Celestia does not seem the type" she let out a small laugh as Luna's face flushed deeply and she tried to form a coherent response. Taking pity on her captive Joan continued

"I will let you up princess, on one condition, that you and your sister hear my story before passing judgement on me" Luna's eyes narrowed once more with suspicion

"... in return I offer my solemn word that I will not try to flee during my time here" Luna did not look convinced

"my word as a alicorn, and as a praetorian of the celestial throne" Joan added in a softer voice at this Luna relented offering Joan a curt nod.

"Thank you ... your highness" she said playfully nuzzling Luna before rising, likewise Luna struggled to her hooves her face once more flustered. Joan made her way over to the inviting bead and flopped onto it the rigors of the evening catching up to her, closing her eyes she heard the bedrooms doors closing a smile played across her lips before darkness took her and she fell once more into a deep sleep.

Joan was awoken by the sunlight streaming into her room through the windows; she rose from her bed yawning loudly before fishing feathers out from between her teeth, as she had evidently begun to eat one of her pillows during the night. Its shredded casing allowing feathers to freely spill onto the bed, feeling full of newfound energy she dived of the bed and began exploring her gilded cage.

a rather unremarkable bathroom occupied a side room slightly disappointed Joan turned her attention to the balcony upon stepping out she was greeted by a vista of Canterlot sprawling out beneath her bathed in the morning sun, she let out a low whistle it was far more impressive than any city she had seen before even Ember. The flutter of wings alerted Joan to the presence of another pony judging by the sound defiantly princess Celestia

"morning princess" she said without taking her eyes off the scenery, her guess was confirmed when the alabaster alicorn landed next to her eyes looking at her wearily with magenta eyes, Joan guessed Luna had already treated her to a retelling of the evenings discussion.

"Good morning ... Joan" the hesitation in her voice was very telling, Fire mane had heard it many times before 'friend or foe?' it said

"Troubled by your newest guest princess" she turned to the solar goddess with a small smile.

"Luna told me about you Joan all I want to know is whether it is true" Celestia's tone was a lot harsher than Joan had ever heard it, the voice of a leader.

Joan took a moment to consider her response walking back into her chambers Celestia close behind her multicoloured mane flowing behind her

"truth is a matter of perspective, and you at this moment have none Celestia" Fire mane finally replied her voice calm and even as she stalked over to the bathroom, Celestia now slightly aggravated still on her heels

"Yes or No Joan...." her voice rising "...what are you doing?" Joan was busy playing with the levers next to the sunken bath

"Haven't got a clue... what's wrong with a waterfall or a lake? Can you help me out here?" she replied honestly now striking at the taps with her hooves.

Celestia thrown off balance by her guests behaviour stood there shocked until smiling despite herself, tuned the taps on with a brief glow of her horn, Joan let out an exclamation of triumph a hot water began to fill the large alabaster bath.

"Princess..." Joan turned to face her, her eyes sorrowful and face serious, she clasped her hoof in both of her fore hooves sitting herself on her haunches "I have fought a thousand battles against the Queen's enemies, but never one against her" Joan's eyes burned with pure emotion, all Celestia could say was

"I believe you Fire mane"

and she meant it and she could not figure out why something about those golden orbs, a smile broke out across Joan's face as she gave the white alicorn a powerful hug, wrapping her wings tenderly around Celestia's form nuzzling her softly. Celestia felt suddenly breathless something in her chest began to flutter, until in a burst of movement Joan dived backwards into the now full bath disappearing from sight beneath the water sending waves splashing across the tiled floor. by the time Joan came up for air the white alicorn was gone and she was left alone in her chambers once more, she eyed the bottles that lined the baths edge with suspicion before beginning to lay them out ready for use, this day was going to be interesting and she resolved to look her best for her 'trial'.

Chapter 7: A wolf in sheep's clothing

Joan was left alone for most of the day, thank fully she managed to stave off boredom by organising her thoughts and newly acquired memories. The sun was low over the horizon by the time there was a curt knock at the door.

"Enter" Joan called out from the balcony were she had been meditating.

Much to her surprise it was not one of the alicorn princesses who came to visit her but a very serious looking white unicorn stallion, by the look of his red uniform an officer of the royal guard. He levitated a large box before him, placing in upon the bed before turning to her saying,

"Princess Celestia commands you to were this before I take you to her" his voice left no room for argument, his blatant mistrust and dislike of her was evident but like any good soldier he did not let it come out in his tone.

The box intrigued her however 'something to wear .... Perhaps another pair of shackles' "And who might you be soldier?" she asked walking into the room and over to the bed lifting the lid with her own magic.

"Captain Shining armour of their majesties royal guard" he said with pride

Joan laid out the boxes contents carefully examining each item, a set of four silver shoes, a simple gold trimmed silver necklace and a matching silver circlet decorated with a single ruby.

"What no chains?" Joan gasped in mock shock and disappointment turning to 'Captain Stone' as she had decided to dub him. He merely gave her an un-amused look before returning to staring at the wall. She began to grudgingly put on the regal attire "this costume is some sort of stratagem I assume care to fill me in Stone?" the Captain gave a brief show of irritation at his newly acquired nick name before answering her.

"The princesses have deemed it appropriate for you to pretend to be a member of the royal family; by the name of Princess Joan should anyone get past me and ask you." the distaste in his voice was palpable.

"I take it you don't approve of this masquerade captain" Joan slipped the necklace over her head and down her long neck

"Royalty is more than silver and gold ma'am" adjusting her circlet Joan checked herself over in the mirror, it was nothing on her old set of barding now that had been a real work of art, interlocking plates of ethereal steel and crimson cloth, she gave a sad sigh lamenting the loss of her old friend.

"Well I have donned my sheep skin, how do I look stone?" Joan asked turning and striking her most regal pose. Shining armour wordlessly gestured to the door, taking the hint she followed him through as they walked down another deserted hallway in silence Joan suddenly had a thought "I don't suppose captain that you know a First Charger Verex...perhaps a relation?" Shining gave her a quizzical sideways look "no ma'am I do not know any...Verex at all"

"No...I don't suppose you would" feeling slightly foalish it hit her , 'they must all be dead by now... it's been such a long time' the sense of loss hit her harder this time she had always avoided becoming too close to the ponies around her, but it seemed the curse of immortality had finally caught up with her.

"Princess!" A voice rang out, Shining armour visibly tensed up as a smartly dressed white unicorn came trotting towards them, and "not now blue blood" the captain tried to cut him off but Blue blood was having none of it side stepping the captain and standing before Joan, "Princess Joan allow me to introduce myself I am prince Blue blood, first duke of Canterlot" He announced offering her a extravagant bow, amused by this pompous noble Joan gave the prince a equally exaggerated bow "it's a pleasure to finally meet you my lady it is most unfair that my aunt has kept you all to herself" he continued to gush, seeing Shining armour face Joan decided it would be best to wrap this up "well we have had much to catch up on, your grace I would be most happy for you to give me a tour of this magnificent castle at a later date, for I am afraid I shall be late for another engagement if I tarry here much longer." and with that she gracefully moved past him heading for a large set of double doors "I will hold you to that my lady" Blue blood shouted after her. 'I don't doubt it' Joan had dealt with her fair share of nobles in her time.

Shining armour fell in step with guiding her wordlessly "I see I'm not the only one here pretending to be royalty around here" at this he let out a small laugh despite himself, pushing through the door Joan was brought into the throne room via a side entrance, she let out a low whistle impressed by the intimidating space, portraits and statues stared down at her as shining armour brought her to before the twin thrones of Equestria both occupied by their respective princess a small group of ponies sat to the side six in total, all turned their heads as they approached

"Ah there you are shining...we expected you sooner" Celestia called out her tone friendly

Bowing low the captain spoke "sorry majesty we ran into prince blue blood on our way here"

"I see...you may leave us now captain" another low bow he made his way back out the door giving the purple unicorn of the group a small wink before disappearing.

"Well Joan allow me to introduce you the elements of harmony..."

'Elements of harmony...some sort of choir... no that doesn't make any sense ....ah buck it! I'll find out soon enough'

...Twilight Sparkle, Rarity, Rainbow Dash, Pinkamena Diane Pie, Fluttershy and Applejack..."

'Like I'm going to remember any of that'

"...I have asked them here to hear you case and help judge you"

'Buck' Joan just managed not to face hoof before her 'judges'

"Were shall I begin...?" she addressed the two alicorns atop their thrones

"The beginning is traditional Fire Mane" Luna shot at her

un perturbed Joan began her tale...

"Second praetorian Alexa Fire mane of the celestial throne, dubbed 'the queens charger' and member in good standing of the ecclesiarchy at you service ...but you can call me Joan"

Joan gave a bow that would have put blue blood to shame before flashing a fanged smile, all the non alicorns eyes widened in confusion and worry, "What's a praetorian?" the pink earth pony asked titling her head to one side.

This time Joan did face hoof, thankfully Celestia handled the explanations "The Praetorians are the Alicorn warrior class" she said simply "as for the rest... it's not important right now"

"Alicorns have a warrior class?" this time it was the purple unicorn 'something sparkle' Celestia made a silencing motion with her hoof, taking it as her queue Joan continued,

"Centuries ago I was charged by the queen herself with the cleansing of this realm ..." she was interrupted once more by princess Luna this time

"that is a blatant lie, it goes against all the evidence both me and twilight uncovered in the Canterlot archives!"

"You Fire Mane waged your own personal war and harnessed that slaughter to further your own standing!"

"You dare call a praetorian a liar!" the now flaming pitch black alicorn roared back at the night princess.

"ENOUGH!" celestas voice cracked through the air like a whip he windows rattled in there frames and the whole room seemed to shake.

A sullen silence fell on the group, "we could always use a truth spell princess" twilight piped up helpfully, Joan snorted and Luna rolled her eyes, Celestia wearily explained that in fact Alicorns were immune to such low level magic as a lie detector spell. Luna however fixed Joan with a very calculating look unnerving her slightly before saying "There is another way sister" all eyes snapped to Luna at this, Celestia and Luna started to speak in hushed tones.

Joan stared at them with curiosity, then slowly her mind began try and work out what Luna was talking about, only one thing came to mind, her blood seemed to freeze and a small bead of sweat ran down her face "you can't be seriously considering... "She choked out nervously her gut was replaced with gnawing fear as both princesses turned to her with a look of grim determination.

"NO...NO...YOU CANT!" Before Joan could make a move to flee she was griped my a immensely powerful purple aura, she barely heard the commotion of the elements of harmony being removed from the throne room as she tried to kick bite and stab her way out of Luna's telekinetic grip. The loud clack of doors closing and locking caused to look up whimpering slightly, Celestia moved passed Luna who was now standing before her, both there gazes cold and detached

"don't fight it Fire Mane it will make this easier" Celestia said clinically trying to calm the other alicorn 'Liar!' Joan shouted in her mind, she had known ponies who had taken death rather than this.

Joan had only managed to beat Luna with the element of surprise on her side but against the both of them she was partially hornless for all the good it would do her. Then she felt it Celestia's mind beginning to entwine itself around Jonas like a serpent, her skull seemed to compress onto her brain

"Stop, Daughters of Virtue!" Joan cried out with her dying strength, it had the desired effect Celestia's mind relinquished its hold even Luna gave a little slack to her bonds "If this must be..." Joan continued "then let me guide you down the right path"

"You would submit your mind willingly?" Luna gasped; Celestia was too stunned for the moment to speak. To willingly give your mind and memories over to another was a supreme show of trust and intimacy.

"I am a Alicorn of the praetorian order and faithful servant of the celestial throne and her daughters ... allow me to prove it" and with that Joan calmed her mind and waited, slowly tenderly the two princesses probed Joan's mind cautiously, until her mind embraced them both and dragged them deep into her memories.

Chapter 8: Through murky waters

The princesses found themselves in a long white hallway, countless doors lined the walls all shut to them. For a moment they were tempted to break one down as they walked down the metaphysical corridor. the sound of some pony playing the violin could be heard its haunting melody echoing strangely around the royal pair, like a siren song they followed it to a door that stood ajar, pushing through first Luna found the sounds origin, a dark grey alicorn foal with a black and red mane and tail sat on her haunches before a roaring fireplace her back to them. The flames seemed to be weeping at the young filly's tune, the violin was far too big for her but she hugged it close as she finished her piece.

Loud voices could be heard coming from an adjacent room over the roaring of the fire.

"So what Magnus?! You're going to raise her... here?!"

The argument was muffled but still filled the silence within the room,

"She is still my daughter!" another voice shouted back this one deep and gruff, the filly's eyes filled with happiness as the continued to hold her violin tight to her chest.

"No she isn't you fool! She is an abomination!" Celestia winced at the terrible words filtering through the wall a small fire of anger began to burn in her chest.

The filly turned to them "you shouldn't be here" her voice had the high pitch of youth her golden eyes r burned with the light of the fire, tears glistened on her cheeks. Celestia moved past her sister and sat down next to the foal, her maternal instincts kicking in "What's you name little one?" she asked with a warm smile, she could sense Luna rolling her eyes at her behind her back.

"Oh I'm Alexa and this..." she softened as she cradled her violin "...Is Aurora" the instrument was a dark ebony with silver strings that glittered in the fire light Celestia took a moment to marvel at its beauty.

"She is what she is Aegis; Alexa is my mistake and my responsibility"

"So you would parade your shame in front of the entire conclave! What do you think the Queen will do when she finds out Magnus? And she will find out be certain of that"

"Do what you must Aegis, now get out of my house" Magnus growled

The scene dissolved into nothingness before the two princesses only to be almost immediately replaced by a new memory.

FireMane strode through the vaulted halls of the celestial palace with unnatural speed. She had not been here for nearly five centuries and it could have been another five for all she cared, but she had been summoned to stand before the conclave and like a good alicorn FireMane had dropped everything and came. She let loose another snort of frustration as she pushed through another set of doors flanked by two stone golems, their eyes glowing in their stone faces.

Her sixth sense told her something was wrong; there should be more ponies around even the royal praetorians weren't at their posts.

She entered the conclave chamber armoured hooves clacking against the marble floor. The room was like an amphitheatre petitioners would stand in the middle and argue their cases before the gathered assembly, judged by ten alicorn nobles with the queen presiding. The hall was unnaturally empty only the ten high seats were occupied; the queen also was conspicuous by her absence.

"The conclave recognizes second praetorian Alexa FireMane!" a voice rang out, the assembled nobles snapped their eyes on her with superior sneers on their faces 'I hate them, and they hate me' Alexa mused to herself as she took up her position in the centre of the room barding clinking softly.

"FireMane!" one of the nobles, a light pink alicorn mare with matching mane called out "Here you are in the hallowed celestial halls, and you come before us with freshly bloodied steel " the mare shot at her drawing murmurs of agreement from the others, FireMane looked down she had clean forgotten about her armour, it was practically her second skin 'at least two days old' she thought inspecting the small trains that marred her chest plate 'hardly fresh'

"I came from a war my lady, and I intend to return there as quickly as possible" Fireman stated simply, more mutterings.

"We shall see about that" the pink mare replied snidely

"You are to cease all your operations in the equestrian plane, while this conclave judges you on the charges that have been brought against you"

This time a white alicorn addressed her, his golden mane marked him out as a Nimbus or lord of the court. FireMane could feel a familiar anger burning in her gut, 'Aegis' her mind whispered venomously.

"I answer only to the queen Nimbus, you have over stepped your bounds in this matter." She argued gesturing to the empty throne. "And what are these charges levelled against me, I have..."

FireMane was cut off by another shrill proclamation from the pink noble "The charge is treason Abomination!" It took all of Alexa's discipline not to lunge at the mare and rip out her throat, she instead let loose a fanged snarl that seemed to startle the nag into silence.

"You have been accused of abusing the queen's favour and gorging yourself upon the suffering of others in this... personal crusade of yours" the nimbus continued his gaze severe. "You will be held until a decision is reached by this conclave in the absence of our queen"

"You can't be serious..." Alexa said shocked, such a move was unheard of, never in history had the queen not presided over a case "I demand to be judged in the presence of our sovereign!" She shouted as golems began to fill the room there stone feet stamping out a solemn beat. "request...denied" a smile filtered across the Nimbuses face, several of the other alicorns began to stamp there hooves in approval adding to the tempo "Seize her" Aegis called lazily to the golems, who immediately rushed at her.

Joan slowly came to; she could not yet open her eyes the light blinding her even through her closed lids. Joan could feel the soft silk of sheets and a mattress; they must have brought her back to her room then. She could sense that she was not alone, her ears picking up the soft breathing of another pony. Her throat burned "water" she croaked out, almost immediately a chalice was being pressed to her lips. Joan latched onto it with her large front teeth keeping it in place as she greedily gulped down mouthfuls of soothing water. Using her great feathery wings to shield herself from the worst of the glare Fire mane opened her eyes fully. Princess Luna knelt beside her wearing a worried smile.

"How long was I out for princess?" Joan asked

"About twenty three hours, and please just call me Luna " she said in a much gentler voice than Joan had ever heard from the night princess. she opened her mouth to say something but seemed to think better of it and closed it again ,Joan raised an eyebrow at Luna as a silent invitation for her to speak.

"What happened next... Joan" the princess asked hesitantly, Joan laughed weakly

"Well, were did we get up to?....."

"You had just been grabbed by some golems" she replied quickly her curiosity getting the better of her

Joan sat up wiping the last of the sleep before continuing her story "I actually managed to escape before they could actually grab me, thanks in no small part to StarBorn"

seeing Luna's confused look Joan elaborated "StarBorn is my sword , a blade of flame and of ghost steel, I forged in the heart of Celestia's sun many centuries ago. It could phase through any material or simply cut through it with its ethereal edge. Suffices to say it made short work of those golems."

FireMane erupted in a ball of molten fire, incinerating any of the golems that had got too close before summoning her sword StarBorn She sliced at the remaining golems spilling there magical essence like blood. The other alicorns either fled from the hall or like Aegis flew into the fray summoning their own weapons, she knew she couldn't win she was outnumbered, and more and more golems were pouring into the hall. Nimbus threw his spear at her, it glanced off her armour he quickly followed it up with a blast of his magic, FireMane parried his blast with one of her own while simultaneously decapitating another charging golem. Deftly dogging a vicious slash from another alicorn she spread her wings, Firemane drew from her vast reserves of magic to form herself into a living flaming comet. Smashing past her would be captors and obliterating anything foolish enough to get in her way, she raced back down the corridor she had come from blazing fire in her wake.

Joan was once more alone in her quarters; Luna had left without a word after her story. The day past slowly as the sun began its slow decent a familiar curt knock on her door broke her meditations and an irritable Captain Stone entered,

"Ah Captain..." Joan began light heartedly

"Her majesty princess Celestia has summoned you, get dressed you have five minutes" He cut in his serious blue eyes brooked no argument, Just behind him a whole squad of royal guards waited outside her room. Realising it would be pointless to argue, and more than a little intrigued Joan nodded and hurried to put on her regalia.

Chapter 9: Songs of Valour

Praetorian command - many years ago

"Attention Praetorians" the gathered armoured alicorns snapped to attention, eyes glued to the front of the briefing hall as an elderly Alicorn officer strode in flanked by his adjutant. First Praetorian Valliant had commanded the Praetorian Guard since its creation, he was a hero of a hundred wars and each of them had left its mark. His grey fur was marred with scars and his white mane and tail were unnaturally short he turned his steal grey eyes onto the gathered assembly, all one hundred Alicorns present and correct save for one.

"Soldiers!" his voice boomed out "we are gathered here to perform our duty, the conclave is scared so they called us, we are to hunt down the most dangerous weapon ever forged by the will of fate, she knows we are coming, and she knows our weaknesses, be under no illusions she is more than a match for us..."

Valliant paused trying to suppress any hint of pride he might let leak into his voice; he turned as a picture dramatically unfolded behind him.

"...FireMane!" A likeness of the black alicorn was revealed to the assembled Praetorians "She has spent over eight hundred years fighting the corruption in the equestrian plane, not only that but the locals named her their empress and ..."

Valliant paused as Nimbus Aegis appeared by the podium in a flash of white, unfazed Valliant went to continue but the nimbus silenced him with a hoof. The Praetorians mumbled unhappily at their commander being so rudely interrupted.

"The services of the Praetorian Guard will not be needed commander, you will stand down."

Valliant gave him a disbelieving look, the mutters grew in volume "SILENCE!" he shouted out, he would be dammed to Tartarus if he would let discipline slide, especially in front of the Nimbus.

"She is one of ours Nimbus, we take care of our own" he said plainly

Aegis gave a small smile "Exactly Commander she is one of yours, your order is compromised..."

He silenced his objections with a hoof "...this is not open for debate, the Signet have already been called" even the mention of their name brought an unnatural chill to the room.

"The Signet, you can't be serious?" Valliant spoke in a hushed whisper.

"Who better to send after her commander? Surely you can see my reasoning behind this?"

"But she has not been committed my lord, the queen has yet to even hear her case..."

"Her actions have dammed her Commander, and the Signet will bring what is left of her for punishment"

he turned to the other praetorians "Dismissed" he said threateningly, grudgingly one by one the alicorns began to teleport out.

"All hail the god empress FireMane flame giver and ash bringer! Sovereign and eternal queen of the charred kingdoms! All Hail the empress!"

"All hail the empress! All hail the empress!" the gathered crowd erupted cheering as FireMane emerged from her command tent, she could feel the waves of love from her army. Ponies cheered stamping there hooves, and wolfkin howled there approval, a few jets of flame were fired into the sky by both dragons and unicorn mages in salute.

Smiling she whispered to Sentinel who as always was at her side, face unreadable behind his great helm.

"I'm a god empress now am I?" the music had started up, it was a tune she had composed and performed once, at the opening of Embers new opera house, which had been taken and made into the empires national anthem.

"You can thank the crimson order for that one" FireMane turned to him with a questioning look,

"your own religion majesty..." he let out a chuckle at his empresses bemused expression. Not surprising she had been there since before ponies invented the wheel.

She cast her mind back to those early days, the world was a dark place the sun had no warmth and nocturnal monsters ran unchecked and unchallenged. She had taken pity on these ponies who bared such a startling resemblance to her own kind, it started with saving one family from a pack of frost wolves, those ponies then shadowed her for days for her protection, despite her efforts to drive them off. soon enough more and more ponies flocked to her like moths to a flame until they reached such large numbers they grew bold enough to approach her directly for help.

"Oh...great and powerful one...we come bearing gifts" the brown earth pony stuttered into the ground as she bowed as low as possible her hooves shaking in fear, the rest of her party kept their distance cowering behind any cover they could find in the snow. One of them, a blue unicorn stallion quickly darted out placing a small woollen wrapped bundle before the cave that FireMane was trying to sleep in, before scurrying back to his fellows.

FireMane stalked forwards in full armour save her helmet, the vicious wind blowing through her mane. As she approached towering over the now prone earth pony, Alexa recognized her, this was the second time this earth pony had worked up the nerve to approach her.

"Did I not make myself clear the last time? You are severely trying my patience!" FireMane noted with satisfaction the small wiper that escaped the mare as she displayed her teeth menacingly. Annoyingly she did not run off like the last time, but instead she gathered up her courage "I am sorry...y-y-your..."

"Cease your snivelling mare I have no time for it" FireMane cut in "Now spit it out"

"They say t-t-that you command the elements, and... can make fire dance...your most..."

"Call me FireMane if you must, and as for what 'they' say..." she gestured with a hoof towards the settlement at the bottom of her mountain just visible through the early morning fog

"my power is far beyond your comprehension" she turned to leave when without warning the mare dived forwards holding onto her forehoof with all of her strength. FireMane rounded on her, murder in her eyes; the other ponies let out a collective gasp.

"You dare...!" she began her voice like thunder. The mare's eyes were closed tight but she wore such a peaceful expression it gave Alexa pause, it was then that she realized quite how cold the other pony was to the touch. In an effort to drive these ponies from her company she had taken up residence in the coldest most hostile place she could find, near the summit of a blasted mountain

"Please your majesty...we are dying of cold we need your help" the fear was gone from her voice replaced only with sincerity

"...the foals barely have the strength to stand, and the air cuts our lungs" she looked up into Alexa's own eyes pleading with her,

shocking herself the alicorn placed a comforting wing around the earth pony for a brief moment, before she made her way over to the woollen bundle on the ground carefully unwrapping it with her magic. Inside was a small metal disk emblazoned on the front was the image of a mountain with a great fire blazing behind it, it was crude carving no doubt, like a coat of arms, but still she gave a small smile and fastened it to her breastplate. "Well you had better bring me to your camp them miss...."

"StoutHeart majesty" she supplemented

On that day she gave unto her followers the gift of her fire to warm there nights and protect them from predators. Over the coming years more and more flocked to this Immortal being of fire that stood against the nights darkest terrors, so many came that beneath her mountain, a city began to take form. When she left to pursue her enemy further south, more and more settlements sprung in her wake. Before she knew it, a kingdom had grown under her gaze not only that, but ponies and other creatures began to follow her example and charged with her into battle, and here we are now. A series of city-states united into a single empire under their reluctant empress, all in the shattered Isle flew the crimson standard of the flaming mountain, and an army 'The empress's legion' hers to command.

"That your queue majesty" Sentinel broke out of her memories chucking, she step forwards nodding her thanks before addressing the gathered masses.

"My people, long and loyally have you served me, and know that I love you for it..." another salvo of cheering washed over her

"I am proud to call you my subjects, knights of Ember..." a section of heavily clad ponies in full helms cheered above the rest at their mention banging there shields with their hooves

"... Lancers of white spear" another group brandished there long white lances in the air whooping, she spotted Verex among them cheering the loudest. She carried on like this until she reached the end of her mental checklist

"And the mages of AshField "at this the mages shot out magic from their horns like fireworks, entertaining the gathered assembly.

"But my time here has come to an end." the cheering died and silence fell the look of shock and confusion adorned all their faces.

"I have been called away and I may never return" a slow growl began from the legion as they started to mutter to one another. Verex dashed to the front of his lancers shouting

"The legion stands with the empress no matter the foe!"

This was greeted by a roar of approval, the Wolfkin howled loudest. The empress felt tears stinging her eyes but she could not allow her emotions to get in the way of what she had come here to do. there was no way she would drag her empire into this fight.

She silenced the army with but a look "You forget your place Verex..." she continued "I must leave you for your sakes, believe me when I say that loyal subjects" Sentinel moved to her side allowing her to draw strength from his presence.

"Though I love you all, I cannot, embrace you all" despite her best efforts she could feel the tears starting to fall, it felt like she was ripping out a piece of her own heart.

"Good bye my soldiers, goodbye my sons, good bye my child-ren" she choked on her words as she opened her wings ready for flight the tears falling freely now,

"United forever, in friendship and honour..." Sentinel started to sing his gravelly voice joined immediately by Verex's "...our mighty empire will ever endure..." every pony present quickly took up the song the band coming to life,

"...Long live our Imperial Motherland

built by the empress, mighty and grand.

Long live her people united and free

strong in friendship and tried by fire

long may she inspire

shining in glory for all ponies to see.

Through days dark and stormy

the great FireMane led us

our eyes saw the bright sun of Freedom above

and Firemane our leader

with faith in the people

inspired us to build this land that we love

We fought for the future

destroyed the invader

and brought to our empire

the laurels of fame.

Her glory will live in the memory of nations

and all generations will honour her name.

Long live FireMane, long may she rule us well, the goddess of kings and the queen of our hearts, Long live FireMane, long may rule us well, beneath her standard I gladly give my life."

FireMane stopped crying and gave a weak smile as the empires new national anthem faded; she had to admit that the words touched her deeply "Thank you" was all she could muster looking at a certain unicorn in the crowd who was also crying at this point 'Aurora' for she knew it was definitely her who had written it. She then rocketed up into the clear blue sky and race to meet her destiny.

Chapter 10: Needle and Fang

'Finally' Celestia thought, as the door to her study swung open and a familiar ebony alicorn entered. Despite the mountain of paper work before her, and the dignitary's of the griffon kingdoms. Celestia had found her mind drifting more and more to the crimson manned alicorn. With their numbers so few Celestia had never had much opportunity to meet others of her own race, save her immediate family, as she had never attended court in the celestial halls, before starting her tenure in Equestria. This made Joan a subject of keen interest for Celestia, she lamented that she had not been able to spend more time with her outside of her official position; FireMane presented a unique opportunity to converse with a being of equal age and stature. She watched as the alicorn walked around her study, content to wait for Celestia to make the first move, her fur she realised was not a complete black, rather it contained fine dark blue and purple highlights, like shards of obsidian. Feeling Celestia's eyes on her, FireMane turned giving her a small and surprising warm smile.

"Good evening Celestia"

"Good evening... Alexa" she flushed slightly realizing she had been caught staring, FireMane gave a small shudder at the mention of her name.

"...please princess...we would prefer just Joan" before Celestia could push her on the subject, FireMane moved to one of the walls where a grand map of the world was displayed, it had been a present form the royal cartography institute of Canterlot for her birthday many years ago.

'Not the most original present from a group of map makers' she mused to herself.

The golden image held Joan's complete attention, as she traced the different continents with a hoof softly muttering to herself, Celestia set her quill down mid sentence before trotting over to the enraptured alicorn. Joan was deep in thought as Celestia stood beside her before the map.

"The world has not stood still in my absence it seems..." Joan seemed to be talking to herself more than her, Celestia silently waited for her to continue, Joan's voice was soft and melancholy and her eyes adopted a faraway look.

"I was there ten thousand years ago when earth was newly raised from the oceans depths, long before these ponies carved out a living from its soil..."

"I know Joan, I was there also" Joan gave Celestia a sad smile, something rippled behind those immaculate golden orbs.

"No you weren't princess... "She said in a soft whisper "...you did not see what I saw; the sky's were choked, by billowing black spore clouds, no day, no warmth of the sun, just darkness. The very air a poisonous fume." she took a long breath before continuing.

"But it was our duty, one alicorn alone, sent to purge the darkness clean alone..." she gave a snort "a suicide mission, which suited the Conclave just fine"

"What did they mean by 'abomination' Alexa... when you were just a foal, that's what they called you" the question took Joan by surprise she looked down at the floor her wings and head drooping in an expression that stabbed at Celestia's heart. "You weren't supposed to see that" she muttered he eyes shining with unshed tears.

Celestia finally broke, stretching her wing out tentatively and laying it across Joan's back in a comforting gesture. She quickly composed herself slightly leaning into her, "That is a tale for another time...we will tell you, we promise" she said

Realising that this line of questioning was depressing the other alicorn Celestia quickly reminded herself why she had called Alexa to see her. With a grin she trotted over to her desk to retrieve her party plans, "Joan..." she started "...come have look at this" FireMane shock off her foul mood and trotted over, before casting a critical gaze over the sprawling paper work, upon closer inspection she turned to Celestia with a bemused look "you can't be serious..." she started.

"You can't be serious" she muttered again, as a white unicorn danced around her with a measuring tape, talking nonstop as she clambered over the alicorn, taking every conceivable measurement. Joan was back in her quarters, having been escorted back there by a far too happy Captain. She had waited for a few minutes when this unicorn had bounced through followed by a spotty stallion carrying a mountain of luggage.

"...or perhaps a dazzling ensemble of sequins and gem stones... no that won't do, far too flashy... or perhaps not flashy enough, do griffons love shiny things..."

The small mare Rarity was in full fashion mode as she started drawing up different designs rapidly littering the floor with dozens of rejected concepts.

"Really miss Rarity there is no need to trouble yourself..." Joan tried to fit in between the gaps left by Rarity needing air to fuel her monolog.

Rarity stopped mid flow her eyes going wide "...It's an honour darling, I Rarity get to design a dress for an alicorn princess! And by Celestia I will make you the talk of the party." she gushed batting her perfect eyelashes.

FireMane finally relented and accepted her fate sighing heavily, aside from her barding she had never dressed up as these ponies were so fond of doing, Celestia and Luna had cleverly sidestepped this torture by making it a policy not to endorse anyone ponies work by wearing it, preferring to wear the same garments day in day out. FireMane would kill to have her old armour back, and this yapping white unicorn was making a tempting target.

"Hmmm...Yes something tight, yet flowing to extenuate your form..."

Joan felt her murderous thoughts melt, and her ears redden with embarrassment as the mare gave her anon too subtle once over, she thanked the spirits for the mercy of her dark fur to hide her blush. After nearly forty minutes of debating with herself Rarity, held up a sketch for Joan's inspection. She was pleasantly surprised; this mare clearly knew what she was doing. Though FireMane knew nothing of fashion in general, she could still tell if something looked good, and this was nothing short of stunning.

"wow..." was all she could manage

"You...like...it!" Rarity gasped, she then proceeded to have a slight breakdown of hysterics

'maybe she is clinically insane' Joan pondered, eyeing the unicorn warily.

To escape Rarity, who was now dancing with a ponyequin in jubilation, she moved out onto the balcony of her room, took a deep breath before calmly throwing herself off the edge.

The Imperial palace, Ember

The red cloak moved quickly through the dusty corridors of palace, frequently glancing behind him, they were watching, they were always watching. The grand imperial palace had been practically abandoned ever since the empress's fall centuries ago, the gilded halls neglected, the many treasures it harboured covered up by webs and dust, but they still clung to the place like shadows to a corpse.

His hoof falls caused clouds of dust to rise up from the carpet, and moon light poured in through dusty stained glass panes. She had been gone for so long, yet her spectre lingered, be it as portraits, statues or murals, the empress glared at him as he pushed onwards. He could feel their eyes on him now, hidden in the darkness. That had been his first mistake, at this time of night they were all on the prowl under the midnight sun. The only reason he was not dead, or worse, was the sealed envelope he carried in his saddle bag and the medallion around his neck, depicting a crescent moon and a clenched fist. Others who had dared enter this dark sanctum were not so fortunate. He tried not to think of the enumerable stories that came to mind as he hurried his steps.

"Not one step more!" He froze instantly as the stern feminine voiced boomed out, echoing off the vaulted ceiling. A shadow moved in the dark, a cold chill ran through his body and his red armour shook. Summoning what little courage that had not abandoned him he rasped out...

"I have a message for Tribune Rex..." he stopped as he felt something brush past him making him jump, a ghostly chuckle danced through the air. He quickly pulled out the envelope and placed it before him along with the medallion from around his neck. this time he could hear the muffled hoof falls of somepony moving down the corridor towards him, the first thing he saw was a set of pupil-less pale blue glowing eyes, then as the creature came slightly out of the shadows he caught the glimpse of gold trimmed black barding. Tribune Rex of the empress's sentinels stepped out into the light, her black feathered wings spread wide, and her muscled frame crouched low as she stalked forwards. The red cloak was rooted to the spot in terror as she moved ever closer, bearing her fangs she hissed

"Run!"

She smirked as he immediately turned tail and sprinted back the way he had come, his fear radiating of him in waves. She looked down at the delivered items. The medallion identified the message as being from Midnight Castle, The Shrouded HQ or Central Intelligence. Marking the letter as being worthy of her attention, she deftly opened it with her hooves before starting to read, she could feel her comrades disappointment as they un-cocked there crossbows and put there fangs away, there would be no hunting tonight. Rex however did not care, as she continued to read the report a smile began to bloom across her features. She quickly relayed orders through the Sentinel's telepathic link, they grumbled but Rex immediately put her hoof down snarling, she was going on a trip.

Chapter 11: No mares land

Chapter: 11 No mares land

FireMane was in freefall; the wind rippled through her fur, sending her crimson streaked mane billowing behind her. She fell for what seemed like hours relishing the adrenalin coursing through her veins, as the ground rushed up to meet her. Just before it was too late, her instincts kicked in and she spread her wings with a flourish. Skimming along the moonlit grass as she pulled out of her vertical dive, flapping her great wings she blasted up into the night sky, her excitement causing her mane and tail to catch light. She hovered briefly, taking in her surroundings, the sky was clear and the stars shone brightly under a full moon, Joan stealthily headed from the palace extinguishing her flames, her dark form now perfectly camouflaged from anypony on the ground.

Joan lazily danced through the night sky; she could not remember the last time she flew like this. Rising and falling, coupled with daring corkscrews and highly precise aerial cartwheels. Her fun was interrupted however, by a small brush against her mind; it was not a hostile move, more a mental equivalent of a tap on the shoulder. Changing direction suddenly FireMane flew towards a great expanse of forest on the outskirts of a small town she could spy in the distance; she recalled the name of the wood from the map in Celestia's study, the Everfree forest.

As she brushed along the tree line a few minutes later, she spotted a set of crumbling ruins by a calm lake, something about the place felt familiar; she immediately brought her wings in close in a dive aiming for the lake. She hit the water like a professional diver, hardly disturbing the water's surface. Before emerging from the lake, now drenched and refreshed, her muscles warmed up after her energetic flight. She briefly fired up her magic to dry herself out before investigating her surroundings. She had landed in the remains of what must have been some great castle long ago, time had eroded the stone walls, but there was still evidence of a great clash of magical energy. Black and white scorch marks marred the crumbed walls, FireMane was still absorbed in this frozen history when she felt someone approach. A large yellow unicorn mare emerged on the far side of the ruins, they briefly eyed each other for a minute, each unwilling to make the first move. In silent agreement they both began walking towards the other.

"Cousin!" the mare shouted happily wrapping Joan in a warm hug

Joan gave a genuine smile "Spirits...you look terrible...Chrysalis" she said laughing

There was a flash of green flame "...much better"

"You say the nicest things" Chrysalis took a step back joining in Joan's laughter, as they began moving back towards the lake side.

"I can't believe its you FireMane, I never dared hope the rumours might be true."

"yet still you came, I'm touched" Joan said theatrically

"oh shut up, I had other business in the area anyway" Chrysalis shot back in mock annoyance

"How have you been?" Joan asked sitting down and admiring the tranquil water

"Aside from a failed coup, every 'would be queen' challenging me and the lack of any good feeding ground, not all that bad" she replied frustration evident in her voice.

"'A failed coup'?"

"Don't get me started on that...but at least with you here it will be much easier next time..."

She was cut off by FireMane getting to her hooves "what is that supposed to mean?" she growled

Chrysalis fixed her with a disbelieving expression "FireMane, you owe nothing to these foals, after what they did to you I thought you would relish a chance for revenge..."

Something moved inside Joan, something she thought she had long since berried

"They used you, and then called you a monster...after all you did for them, look around you FireMane! This is your legacy!" the changeling's voice echoed of the broken stone that surrounded them,

FireMane stood firm her eyes glowing in anger "so I should do what exactly cousin?! would you have me teach these' foals' a lesson?! I am a praetorian of..."

"...no your not!" Chrysalis cut her off "your name was stripped from the records and your very existence denied..."

the changeling squared up to the alicorn spiting her words out like venom "not even granted the dignity of death you were cast out into the void for all of see 'FireMane the traitor, FireMane the fool'

FireMane's anger exploded, her fur darkened to an abyssal black and flames erupted along her mane and tail, her eyes bubbled with molten fury. With a cry of rage, she slammed chrysalis into the ground with bone shattering force. Fire leapt up from the ground as the changeling queen struggled to breath, FireMane snarled bringing her fanged maw down towards Chrysalis.

"That's what hurts the most isn't it?" she gasped out "the fact that just like this place, you have been swept away and forgotten, it hurts doesn't it"

FireMane stared deep into those emerald eyes, her flames slowly dying and her eyes turning watery with tears as a sob wracked her frame. She broke away from chrysalis before falling to the grass, as she desperately tried to keep her emotions from over whelming her again.

"now, now cousin, none of that" the changeling said gently "I am sorry... but it had to be said" she tried to place a comforting hoof on Joan's shoulder, but the black alicorn shrugged it off raising herself up and setting off along the shore line. She sat back down by the water's edge a a little further on. It was not long before Chrysalis came and silently sat beside her. Joan let out a long sigh before breaking the silence.

"I'm still not going to help you burn Canterlot to the ground cousin" she said in mock seriousness

"Give it a week FireMane, and you will be begging to help me" Chrysalis fired back grinning slightly

"Oh I don't doubt, especially if rarity has to measure me again..."

Chrysalis broke out laughing as the thought of FireMane in a pink frilly dress crossed her mind, Joan continued "and as for captain Shining armour..." at the mention of his name Chrysalis smile widened

"And how is my favourite guard captain?" Joan shot her a quizzical look, one eyebrow raised "you and him...?" chrysalis nodded once grinning wolfishly "tell him I said 'Hi' if you want to see him turn whiter"

FireMane was slightly taken aback; he didn't really seem her type. Looking to change the subject Joan cast a glace to the ruins just behind them.

"Is this Ash fall?" FireMane asked.

"No, these are the ruins of nightmare castle, built on the ruins of Ash fall"

"Ruins within ruins, how very poignant" she half chuckled.

"Ah! I almost forgot..." Chrysalis fired up her magic conjuring an impossible black case before FireMane

"That's...not possible" she reached out, taking it in her own magic before opening the case slowly, and with reverence.

The moonlight fell upon those familiar ebony curves and silver strings,

'It's had been far too long old friend' she thought picking up her Violin from its velvet cushioning.

FireMane lovingly cradled it once more, that first draw of her bow across its shining strings silenced all other noise, even the wind seemed to go silent in homage to her instrument. She played a simple yet enchanting melody that echoed and travelled far in the night air. she felt like she was soaring once more among the stars like her flying it had been far too long since she had practiced her craft.

Finally Alexa returned her violin to its cradle; a single tear ran down her fur as she gave it a final caress before closing the lid, she turned a questioning look to the changeling queen.

"It was given to me by a very melancholy Alicorn, Valliant put it in my care just after your...exile" Chrysalis replied to the unasked question, at Joan's look of surprise she continued with a little laugh.

"he paid me a little visit some time after his own disgrace....

"....Do you know what happened to him after that?" Joan asked

"he dropped off the map and he can stay there for all I care..." Chrysalis said waving her hoof dismissively.

"You are too harsh on him cousin..." she admonished quietly

Chrysalis gave a snort of exasperation "what happened to the immortal god empress FireMane, what was it? Fire giver, and ash bringer?"

FireMane gave a fanged grin "I hear she got her flank kicked Chrysalis...but she is not out of the game quite yet" the changeling queen gave her own pointed smile at those words

"Ready when you are cousin"

Rex moved stealthily through the forest, her hooves ghosting over the ground, for nearly two weeks she had travelled west, across the shrouded sea and into mainland Equestria, keeping low to the ground and flying only at night so as to avoid any unwelcomed attention. Her pale blue pupiless eyes scanned the area cutting through the shroud of night while her ears twitched with every step. the music of water dancing on rocks had lead her this way, the gurgling of water and the scent of potential prey had caught her interest as she stalked through silent pines. She froze suddenly; she could see the moon light reflecting off a river ahead of her and the soft sound of splashing, Rex gave a small smile, the swift runners would no doubt be quenching their thirst at this time, unaware of her nocturnal hunt bearing her teeth in anticipation as she crouched low, muscles coiled ready to pounce through the bushes and onto her prey. Then something suddenly burst through the canopy and blindsided her, she was slammed into a tree with enough force to shake its deep roots. Rex quickly recovered slamming a black hoof into her attacker; it connected with a loud bag as her hoof made contact with metal. at blinding speed her advisory swept her legs from underneath her, slamming her head into the tree as she fell. Tasting blood Rex lunged at the pony with a feral assault of hooves and teeth, snarling and biting. Another glint, Rex too late felt the presence of another pony behind her suddenly there was a blade at her throat, its edge lightly kissing her skin. She felt the wet fur of against her back as she was held in a vice like grip.

There was a moment of silence before her executioner spoke.

"You alright there Clipper?" she asked huskily

Rex instantly recognized the voice, even as her attacker heaved himself onto his hooves. the Pegasus shook himself off looking down at his cracked armour before replying.

"Nothing serious flight captain..." he trailed off as his hoof came away bloody from one of the deeper bite marks Rex had inflicted. He looked up scowling at her, Rex slowly licked her lips hungrily before asking.

"And just what are you doing this side of shrouded sea DaggerWing, flight Razor Flame is not authorised..."

She was cut off as flight razor flame's commander roughly pushed her away releasing Rex's neck from her iron grip. Rex subconsciously ran a hoof over her neck, tracing were the blade had been. She turned to face the Flight Captain, Dagger wing leaned briefly against the cracked tree studying Rex as she slid her vambrace and attached blade off her tan foreleg. her usually dusty tan colour was darkened by its present waterlogged state, her mane hung limply over her face its distinctive brown and gold made her look like some sort of tan zebra.

"Rex...you really need to get more combat, you're getting slow" DaggerWing's tone was detached as she turned and began walking back in the direction of the river.

Rex took the silent invitation to follow and fell instep behind her, followed closely by Clipper. Seeing no need to strike up a conversation with either of them the sentinel reviewed her mental notes on the young Captain. 'Top of her class at White Spear flight academy, hoof picked to attend the prestigious collage of Demons Run, a promising career in the making. Then a routine patrol turns into a ambush, she was found a month later as a Wolfkin prisoner, the only one of her flight to survive the massacre. the long weeks of torture had taken their toll on the young Pegasus, she was judged mentally unfit for service by the medical staff, a decision that was swiftly over ruled by a certain Marshall BitterSnout' Rex gave a sly grin 'it helps to have a farther at the top of the chain of command' she mused.

"Clipper, get yourself cleaned up. I don't want you bleeding all over the place, and take the tribune with you." DaggerWing ordered sternly

"Yes, Flight Captain" Clipper moved past Rex leading her down towards the distant glow of a camp fire.

There was a full flight of Pegasus ponies all moving about the small campsite, several tents had been set up and a fire was burning brightly. The ponies seemed far too busy collecting fire wood, pitching tents or indulging in idle chit chat to pay any attention to Rex or her injured escort.

"Tribune?" An angelic voice asked

Rex turned to see an equally angelic looking unicorn mare emerging from a nearby tent, her perfectly defined curves and flowing red mane making her a stunning sight in the otherwise drab forest.

Rex knew the regal unicorn, but her presence caught her completely by surprise.

Rex gave a curt bow "Canoness? I did not expect..."

"...come with me Rex, take a seat by the fire we have much to discuss"

The unicorn lead Rex to the fireside, she turned to the legionnaire DaggerWing had called Clipper who was trying to slink away.

"Let me see to your wounds Eisen"

The young Pegasus had the look of a startled deer at being addressed by the elegant unicorn, a excuse formed in his mind but she simply patted the ground next to her as a silent command.

reavently he approached her, she looked to Rex as she began to heal the cut she had inflicted upon him.

"What are the chances of meeting here of all places Rex, surely the empress herself guided you to us"

Rex barely stopped an eye roll at the canoness's words "Intelligence and the flight captain splashing around brought me here my lady, not divine providence"

She was impressed to see no sigh of emotion in those light pink irises, she continued in her usual school mistress like tone.

"I have always found it odd tribune, the ire you hold for those of us who worship your own creator the way she deserves. Some may even call it ungrateful on your part."

Clipper gritted his teeth as she began work on the worst of the bite marks, Rex gave a snort, she had neither the time nor energy to get wrapped up in another theological debate with Ardent Voice.

"The empress taught us to be loyal, not foals"

"Tread carefully tribune..." her voice had not changed how ever her eyes had hardened dangerously

Their verbal sparring was short by the arrival of Daggerwing, after finishing bathing she had scouted out the surrounding area before rejoining the rest of her flight. DaggerWing had by then dried herself out and restyled her gold and brown striped mane back into its usual zebra style, allowing it to be threaded out of the back of her helmet. she had also put her eye patch back over her ruined left eye socket, a memento from the months of Wolfkin 'hospitality' she had donned her barding once more, unlike other pegasi she preferred the heavier infantry barding over the lighter Pegasus variant. The fact she could even fly in it let alone uphold her reputation as the best flyer in the empire was a constant source of amazement. Her back caparison had the razor flame insignia of a wolfkin skull and three crossed bolts was emblazoned on dark blue cloth

"The path is clear from here to Canterlot, per sacros ignis we will reach Canterlot tomorrow at dusk." DaggerWing reported her voice still husky as she stared deeply into the camp fire.

Clipper took his captains presence as his queue to leave, limping slightly as his newly repaired muscles tightened in protest. Ardent Voice let out a contented sigh.

"at last all the pieces are coming together"

"Canterlot...so you're chasing the rumour?" Rex asked

Ardent Voice gave a brief silver bell laugh "oh it's no rumour Rex, on the morrow we will be reunited once more with our empress, I dare say it shall make us immortal."

"How can you be so sure, Canoness?"

"Well for one thing you're here, and secondly...flight captain, bring out our guest"

DaggerWing wordlessly moved off only to retune a moment later dragging a bound earth pony behind her. She unceremoniously dumped the colt in front of the canoness before removing the gag and stepping back. Rex gave the pony a quick once over, orange fur and yellow mane, shaking in fear. Rex also noticed a strange tattoo on his flank of a quill and piece of parchment.

"now...tell the tribune what you told me" Ardent asked in a soft and comforting voice, as her hoof playfully traced his jaw line, upon seeing Rex however the stallion lost all colour his face turning pale as he renewed his cowering.

"This.." DaggerWing began "is a Equestrian intelligence operative, my flight captured a few days ago..."

"reporter..." came a week voice, it took the three of them a moment to realise the prisoner had actually spoken. "I'm a reporter for the..." DaggerWing silenced him with a venomous one eyed glare

"What's a reporter?" Ardent asked, genuine interest entering her voice "A professional busybody it would seem..." the flight captain dismissed "...all that matters is that tomorrow this so called alicorn princess 'Joan' will be attending the ambassadorial ball in Canterlot."

"And you think this 'Joan' is the empress..." rex gave a smirk "...need I remind you of the Candence fiasco?" DaggerWing gave a scowl

"It matters not..." ardent interjected in her sing song voice "it is a chance I am willing to take, this time tomorrow we will know the truth"

"What do you plan on doing with 'this'" Rex gestured to the earth pony

"Hungry Rex?" DaggerWing asked

rex looked down at the prisoner then back up to DaggerWing

"I prefer pegasi, less fatty"

The captain scowled and Ardent laughed, before long they all decided to hit the hay for the evening.

Chrysalis had left a few minutes ago, saying something about 'other matters' that required her attention, leaving Joan to enjoy the still night air. FireMane's well tuned senses soon became aware of the presence of another alicorn her interest picked when she recognised the magical aura.

"you can come out now Luna" she shouted up to one of the clouds that had started to gather. After a minute or so a familiar midnight blue alicorn glided down from her hiding spot.

"How did you know?" she asked landing next to FireMane with a slight scowl

"Lucky guess..." Joan replied looking up "...you moved the Septimus cluster" she said pointing out a constipation with her hoof.

"err...yes, I never can get it just right though" Luna turned her head skyward, evaluating her hoof work. Slightly taken aback by her choice of subject

"...do you like it?" she added hopefully

"Masterful as always princess" Joan replied not taking her eyes off the sky, Luna felt herself swell with pride at the compliment, she rarely felt recognised by anypony save her sister and occasionally Twilight Sparkle.

"Thank you...not many ponies share your appreciation for our night" Joan's head snapped down to look at her, a strange feeling of anger simmered as she imagined such hard work being overlooked. She however quickly quashed the errant emotion with practiced ease.

"I am sorry to hear that Luna, I still remember how your tapestry looked before you realised your calling, suffices to say I do not take your talent for granted."

"you mean before we came to Equestria?"

Joan offered a small nod, her golden orbs locked with Luna. the smaller alicorn figited nervously under Joans intense gaze

"Take my hoof Luna" joan wispered to her quietly

unthinkingly she stretched out a fore hoof, catching herself just shy of contact she paused. Joan offered her a sincere smile before saying

"I would like to show you something"

Another moment of silent staring before Luna finally gave a timid nod, still smiling Joan carefully wrapped both her black hooves around Luna's out stretched limb.

Joan took a deep breath as her horn began to glow with a deep golden aura she closed her eyes and tightened her hold on Luna's hoof, as a bright white flash enveloped them both.

Luna opened her eyes, still slightly blinded from the intensity of the flash she looked around. A gasp escaped her as she took in her surroundings.

the sky was impossibly clear the vastness of the night sky was laid bare for them, the only light came from the thousands of stars burning brightly above them. and bellow them...

Luna took a instinctive step back from the edge of the grass they were sat on, she then noticed a small ripple as a blade of grass dipped into the water. Luna realised that they must be in the middle of a vast ocean stretching off forever, the water's surface was completely still and acted like a polished mirror, reflecting the nights tapestry above on its smooth surface. the overall effect was like standing off the edge of the world.

"Welcome to my observatory" Joan chuckled lightly at Luna's dumfounded look

"It's beautiful" Luna added weakly

"I built this place soon after you started at your post, in truth this place has been my place of meditation and refuge, occasionally my concert hall..."

"Concert hall?..." luna interupted "...that music I heard, that was you?"

Joan offered a nod as a reply "That was extraordinary; I only wish I had half your talent FireMane"

Joan blushed slightly at the praise she was not used to it,

"Luna..." she began giving her a serious look "you are a greater artist then i could ever claim to be..."

seeing her unconvinced joan placed a hoof under her chin forcing eye contact. she stared deep into her aqua eyes before continuing.

"If you ever doubt my words Luna all you need do is look up"

a small smile spread across the night princesses face "this place I give to you Luna, may it serve you as well as it served me"

with a wink the black alicorn powered up her horn once more the flash mirrored in the waters still surface.