Northern Lights

The room was silent bar the scratching of a quill on parchment, Shining Armour was thankful for this. The thick walls of his private office blocked out all noise outside, including those made by the disgruntled crystal ponies threatening to tear down the palace just outside. He had just slipped away an hour earlier, confident his second in command, Diamond Dust would be more than capable of keeping the situation under control. The poor girl was always so eager to prove herself, much like a certain lavender unicorn Shining knew so well.

He continued writing for another few minutes, conscious he wasn’t making nearly enough of an impact in the stacks of paperwork sitting on his desk as he should have. It was only when the tip of his writing implement snapped that he finally gave up, he was barely focused as it was, he would do better stopping now and making a fresh attempt in the morning. No sooner had he made the decision than his office doors were thrown open, and the very mare he had just been thinking about rushed in.

“Captain,” Diamond Dust uttered breathlessly, “I could really use a hoof out here.”

“Sure, I’m not getting any work done here anyway,” he replied exasperated, sliding out from behind his desk. Together he and his lieutenant walked down the hall, the sound of discontent clear now. It wasn’t long before the two stepped from the palace onto a raised platform, surrounded by dozens of very disgruntled ponies.

Shining Armour had lived in the Crystal Empire for over a year now, but he wasn’t sure he would ever get used to the way the locals’ coats shined the way they did. The crowd gathered noticed his arrival and immediately began directing their indistinguishable ills at him.

“One at a time please!” he shouted over the crowd, though he knew exactly what they were going to say, it had been the same every day for the last few weeks.

“We told you!” one stallion at the front of the herd exclaimed, “It’s these damn dreams!”

“We’ve been over this,” Shining said rubbing his temples, feeling a headache coming on, “the court mages have found nothing to suggest anything magic is causing this.”

Or that they even existed, he added mentally, so far nopony residing in the palace had been afflicted by these supposed nightmares.

“Well what about the princess?” a mare further back asked, “Why doesn’t she look into it?”

“For the last time,” Shining began, his patience waning, “Princess Cadance is busy with an immensely important task for the royal court. So please, standing here shouting isn’t helping matters, just go home and let us work to find a solution.”

The crowd grumbled among themselves, but they couldn’t argue, not without risk of the captain really losing his temper and throwing a few in jail overnight. He was normally a benevolent enforcer of the law, but nopony wanted to test that.

Within moments the crowd was dispersing and the courtyard in front of the palace was left clear once more.

“Thank you Shin- I mean, Captain,” Diamond Dust said with a small blush, “I tried to explain the situation to them but they wouldn’t listen to me.”

“That’s okay,” he said nodding understandingly, “it’s only natural they’re so frustrated after three weeks of these… dreams.”

Diamond Dust noticed the scepticism in his voice but didn’t comment; instead she excused herself allowing Shining Armour to stand in solitude for a moment at the base of the crystal spire that was the palace. With a sigh he craned his neck, looking up at the highest room, an open air space surrounded by pillars, the very location Twilight had once found the long lost crystal heart.

“Whatever you’re doing up there Cadance,” he whispered, “please hurry, I need your help down here.”

Little did Shining Armour know his hopes would not be dashed that evening. High up in the spire, a single pink alicorn sat alone, her hind legs folded, her eyes shut. She had tried everything she knew, and many more methods she hadn’t known after hours of researching, but for the first time since she was given her instructions a month before, she was getting somewhere. Unbeknownst to her, for her consciousness had long since slipped away from her body, malevolent forces watched her closely, curious as to what the princess could be working on so obsessively.

As they watched, their quarry began to stir. The twitching of her limbs, the fluttering of her eyelids. She woke up almost suddenly, nearly startling the curious spirit. Thankfully for it however, it was beyond her abilities to perceive, but even if it wasn’t she still may not have noticed it through her excitement. For as her eyes snapped open she exclaimed one sentence before rushing from the tower.

“I found it!”

Northern Lights

Ponyville library was a hive of activity this morning. Following the recent events that resulted in Sugarcube Corner being quarantined due to the spread of contagious and highly lethal parasite that Pinkie Pie had taken to causing Little Icky, said party pony had moved in temporarily with her best friend Twilight Sparkle. What she didn’t know was that shortly after the incident her friends had insisted on drawing straws to see who would be stuck with Pinkie, Twilight had, much to her annoyance, drawn the short straw.

It wasn’t that any of them disliked the mare, on the contrary they loved her as much as any of their friends, but it was for the very reason that the library was now the location of one of Pinkie’s spontaneous parties that nopony had been too eager to take her. the Cakes themselves had family just outside town who had taken them in, and following Pinkie’s request, Twilight had ‘volunteered’ to house her for a while. Another reason Twilight hadn’t been keen on taking in Pinkie Pie, was that she wasn’t the only mare living with her at the moment.

A month had passed since the royal summit in Canterlot, and each day Twilight and Clarity paced with baited breaths, impatiently waiting for the inevitable letter informing them the first gate had been discovered. it seemed strange to both mares that life in Ponyville could continue as normal when the fate of the world was hanging by a thread, but each day Applejack tended her orchard and set up her stall in the town market, Rarity fashioned garments and tended to her high class commissions, Rainbow Dash managed the weather teams and filled the rest of her time napping or showing off, Fluttershy kept to herself, caring for the many animals under her roof and beyond, and Pinkie… discovered parasites and travelled to a parallel universe where she was a white Pegasus.

This had bewildered the pair of studious mares, it was only after the first week that Spike had finally had enough and insisted they get out of the library (which he achieved by locking them out after tricking them into leaving under the pretence of orders from the princess) that they began to relax, and while they continued to remain anxious about their upcoming mission, they tried to balance it out with spending time with their friends. However once Pinkie moved in and introduced anarchy to the normally quiet library, it somehow had the adverse effect of causing Twilight and Clarity to regress into panic mode.

“One month,” Twilight said for perhaps the hundredth time as she paced her usual path on the ground floor, “it’s been one month and all we’ve gotten is a note saying ‘still nothing’.”

“Come on Twilight,” Pinkie said hopping over, a party hat embedded in her frizzy mane, “turn that frown upside down and have some cake.”

“Pinkie, how can you party at a time like this?” Twilight demanded, her sleep deprived eyes stretched wide.

“Duh, how couldn’t I party at a time like this?” Pinkie asked like it was the most obvious thing in the world, “this is my ‘it's-been-one-month-since-the-end-of-the-world-began-and-Twilight’s-starting-to-have-a-break-down’ party.”

Twilight opened her mouth to retort, but stopped as Clarity dragged herself down the stairs, she looked as bad as Twilight felt.

“What’s all the noise down here?” she asked, clenching her eyes.

“Pinkie Pie thought it would be appropriate to throw a party celebrating the fact it’s been a month since the world was royally screwed,” Twilight spat. Clarity and Pinkie Pie both stared at her wide eyed.

“And I thought I was wound tight,” Clarity muttered moving into the kitchen, ignoring the sugary party treats laid out on Twilight’s writing desk.

“Morning Clarity,” Spike said humming, however he stopped when he turned around and saw the state she was in, “didn’t get any sleep again? Here have some pancakes.”

“Thanks Spike,” Clarity replied accepting the plate gratefully.

“Do you wanna talk about it?” Spike asked, pulling up a seat opposite.

“What’s there to talk about?” Clarity asked rhetorically, “I’m worried about my sister, I’m worried about the world, and I can’t find anything here to take my mind off it all.”

“Don’t you like living in Ponyville though?” Spike asked over the noise of Twilight shouting in the other room.

“Of course, I just haven’t been able to appreciate it much,” she replied between mouthfuls.

“I’m sure the princesses are just having trouble getting started,” Spike said trying to cheer her up, “you’ll see, as soon as they find one the others will follow quickly enough, just like… just like…”

“Dominos,” Clarity finished when he never did. However looking up she saw that he hadn’t stopped talking because he didn’t know the word, but because he looked like he was going to vomit.

“Are you okay?” Clarity asked just before she was nearly engulfed in a belch of green fire. She had remembered to dodge just in time, she was unfamiliar with dragon magic but sure enough when she sat back up, a sealed scroll lay on the table.

“Pardon me,” Spike said earning a giggle from Clarity.

“Perhaps Blueblood is sending Twilight more marriage proposals,” Clarity joked as she helped herself to pulling open the scroll with her magic and holding it out before her.

“So what is it about? Because if it really is him again I swear I’ll…” but he stopped when he noticed Clarity’s eyes wide with shock, “Clarity, what is it?”

But she had already bolted from her seat, the letter trailing behind her.

“Twilight!” she screamed, rushing in just in time to pull Twilight away from attempting to strangle Pinkie with streamers. “It’s… it’s…”

Twilight took the letter from Clarity; her reaction could only mean one thing. Sure enough as her eyes darted back and forth across the page, they slowly widened.

“They found one,” she whispered, dropping the letter, “they found one!”

Twilight began bouncing up and down with excitement, she was quickly joined by Pinkie, whether she knew what was going on and was happy too or if she thought jumping up and down looked like fun.

“But more than that,” Clarity interrupted, barely able to contain herself, “my sister found it, which means…”

“Spike! Pack your bags,” Twilight ordered, “we’re going to the Crystal Empire!”

~

“What took you guys so long?” Rainbow Dash complained as the others mounted the station platform.

“The train ain’t for another half hour,” Applejack reminded her, “’sides, not all of us can get from one end of Ponyville to the other in five minutes.”

“Four minutes actually,” Dash boasted earning an eye roll from Applejack.

“I’m not complaining,” Twilight said entering the conversation, “frankly I was worried you’d sleep in today.”

“Hey, I’m not about to ‘sleep in’ when the world’s counting on us,” Dash said indignantly, “I’m the element of loyalty remember.”

“And for that we’re very glad,” Twilight replied sweetly casting a look at Spike who carrying the box which housed the elements.

“Oh, how I envy you,” Rarity said drawing all three of their attentions, “the thought of living in the Crystal Empire is just…”

Rarity began to swoon dangerously and to no pony’s surprise her fainting coach made its appearance to break her fall.

“It’s nice and all,” Clarity replied reluctantly, “but it’s actually really boring, not like here at all.”

“Well maybe in my twilight years I might need to get away from all the excitement,” Rarity said, getting to her hooves once more. “That reminds me, I crafted a new dress for when we arrive which I’ll want all your opinions on.”

“So Twilight,” Rainbow began, probably desperate to change the subject, “tell us, how’s living with Pinkie Pie?”

Twilight glared at her, she just smiled maliciously back.

“Oh it’s been great” Pinkie interrupted bouncing over and putting a hoof around Twilight, “just this morning she tried to play strangle the pony on me.”

That pushed Rainbow over the edge and she collapsed in a fit of raucous laughter.

“Again Pinkie, sorry I lost my head like that,” Twilight said looking at her hooves in shame.

“It’s okay,” Pinkie insisted pulling Twilight into another rib crushing hug, “that’s what friends do.”

“Uh…” Twilight began, but stopped as heard the unmistakable sound of an approaching train, “oh it’s here, I guess we could board early and get good seats.”

~

Celestia sighed as she closed her study doors behind her. Cadance’s letter had been the first good news she had received in too long. Although she had said it was important the princesses don’t ignore their other duties, she was finding it increasingly hard to find the time for both that and locating the gates, and she knew the others would be having the same problem. It didn’t help that with Luna over the channel in Panchea, she had to keep a near constant communication open with her so they could coordinate the shift from day to night and vice versa.

It was times like this Celestia cursed living on a round planet; true it made it capable of so many things including the seasons, but moving celestial bodies would be far less hassle if it was simply a case of raising and lowering the sun. No, rather she pushed the sun along, which meant it had to be timed perfectly with Luna’s moving of the moon as eclipses caused so many problems, the least of which preventing them from using magic and thus forcing them to wait for it to end naturally. No, she’d rather not have a repeat of that incident; Roma would never let her forget about it.

Celestia stopped thinking when she remembered, no Roma wouldn’t say anything about it, because she’s gone, she betrayed them. Celestia shook her head in an attempt to clear her head of thought. She needed to get down to business, Cadance explained the method that yielded the gate’s location to her, but she had already tried that and it resulted in failure. Could it be there were different methods for each gate, there was no logical reasoning to assume so, but Celestia dreaded the thought none the less.

~

It was late evening as the Friendship Express arrived at the Crystal Empire station. Twilight and Clarity had been staring out the window eagerly the entire ride while most of the others got a little sleep. Only Pinkie and Fluttershy stayed awake, much to the others displeasure as Fluttershy wanted peace and quiet and Pinkie wanted to play board games.

“It’ll be good to see Cadance again,” Twilight said, breaking the uncomfortable silence.

“Yeah, I’ve lived with her my whole life, I hardly ever spend this long away from her,” she explained, her eyes had a glazed look as she thought back.

“Guys, wake up, we’re here,” Twilight announced, causing the others to stir and both Fluttershy and Pinkie to breathe sighs of relief at not having to bear each other’s conflicting personalities for any longer.

“Spike,” Clarity said, nudging the baby dragon next to her, “time to get off.”

“Sure thing,” he said after a wide yawn. Grabbing their luggage, Spike trailing the elements on a small trolley, the departed the train

“Am I glad to see you girls,” a voice announced as they stood trying to get their bearings. Twilight looked up and her face broke into a wide smile as she rushed over to embrace her big brother.

“Hey BBBFF, how have you been?” she asked still pressed tightly against Shining Armour’s chest.

“I… I’ve been better if I’m honest,” he said reluctantly. This took Twilight by surprise and she only now noticed Shining Armour was looking awfully tired.

“Has something happened?” she asked concerned.

“It’s nothing for you to worry about,” he said dismissively, “come on, I know Cadance has been very eager for your arrival.”

They group started to walk towards the exit when a voice at the back of the group made them stop.

“Where the heck’s Rarity?” Applejack asked looking around; the others joined her in scanning the station, but to no avail.

“I think she’s still putting on her dress,” Fluttershy proposed, “don’t worry; I’ll check on her, you can all head on.”

Shining Armour didn’t argue, in fact he seemed grateful that they weren’t going to be delayed any longer. Swiftly he began leading them from the station in a beeline for the palace which shone out like a beacon in the low light of the evening sun. as they walked Twilight became acutely aware of something wrong. A number of crystal ponies ambled along the streets as they walked, but in stark contrast to the last time they were here, there were no smiles and friendly greetings as they passed by. The others seemed to pick up on this; Clarity especially was thrown off by it.

“Um, Shining Armour,” she began, speeding up to walk next to him, “is something wrong with everypony.”

“Yes they’ve been having…” he began before catching himself, “I mean, doesn’t matter, we can take care of it, even more so when this damn gate business is taken care of.”

The last sentence was more of an inward grumble. Clarity cast a look back at Twilight, who looked equally perturbed by her brother’s response. Before she could speak up however she felt Spike nudge her in the side.

“Come on Twilight, you can’t be expected to solve every little problem that comes around,” he reasoned in a whisper. Twilight relented and dropped the subject, instead focussing her gaze on the crystal spire which was drawing closer.

As they neared the main entrance to the palace, a small platoon of guards marched past, as they did the mare leading them stopped, ordering her comrades to carry on.

“Hey Captain,” she said greeting them, “and Clarity, haven’t seen you in a while.”

“Hi Diamond Dust,” Clarity said cheerfully.

“So these are the ones you were talking about?” Diamond Dust asked Shining Armour, he simply nodded in response, “thank goodness, the sooner the princess is free of this… issue; she can help us sort this mess out.”

Without another word she rushed off to join her squad, Twilight was now struggling to keep herself quiet. Again they set off, this time ascending the palace which was now becoming vaguely familiar to Twilight and her friends, Shining Armour and Clarity knew it like the back of their hooves. Twilight remembered the throne room being absolutely deserted the first time they visited here, now however it was packed with officials and dignitaries running back and forth giving the distinct impression they hadn’t a clue what they were doing.

“I guess it’s too much to be able to expect a dozen alicorns to run the world without need of assistance,” a familiar voice said, approaching them from the side. They all turned and were delighted to see the pink princess they had come to know so well.

“Cadance!” Clarity and Twilight exclaimed rushing over, however they stopped themselves when they saw she was clearly too tired for any signs of affection.

“Forgive me girls,” she said with a weak smile, “I am delighted to see you again, but these past weeks have been trialling.”

“But it paid off,” Twilight said, drawing light to the silver lining, “you found the gate.”

“Indeed, though it was by no means an easy task,” she replied disheartened, “our enemy spent centuries locating them all, for us to have even found one in such a short space of time is nothing short of a miracle.”

“So where is it then?” Twilight asked, barely able to contain her excitement.

“It’s underground actually,” Cadance replied leading them out of the packed room to a more peaceful study area, “in some of the ancient caverns used by Sombra during his reign.”

“So what are we waiting for?” Dash exclaimed flying into the air, “let’s get down there and blast it to smithereens.”

“Not so fast hot shot,” Shining Armour cut through, “those caverns are pretty vast, we’re all going to need to be well rested before attempting to venture into them.”

“That suits me,” Applejack said, “ah’m plum tuckered as it is.”

“Alright in that case I’ll show you to your rooms,” Shining said making for the door, “of course, your own room is available Clarity.”

“Thanks I’ll head up in a minute,” Clarity replied, still standing next to her sister.

Realising she wanted a private word the rest exited the study and re-entered the throne room which was peculiarly entirely silent.

“Well that was sudden,” Applejack announced.

“They look like they’ve seen a ghost,” Pinkie said before gasping with excitement, “Maybe they did, this calls for Pinkie Pie, Ghost Bus…”

But she was cut off by an approaching voice.

“Really Pinkie, they’re just rendered speechless by my stunning dress,” Rarity said reaching the group, Fluttershy in tow.

“Wow Rarity,” Twilight said, her eyes wide with amazement, “you look just…”

“Isn’t that your pageant costume?” Dash interrupted, this made Rarity snort in indignation.

“No it is not, the clear difference being my costume comprised only a cape and crown,” she began to explain, “this is the full regalia, but yes it is based on historical representations of Princess Platinum so I can understand your confusion.”

“Well I think it’s very nice,” Twilight said, “we were just heading to our rooms for some rest.”

“Oh good, that train ride was most uncomfortable,” Rarity stated mingling into the group, “lead on good sir.”

Shining Armour rolled his eyes at how he was addressed but continued none the less. As they left the room Twilight was faintly aware of the crowd whispering excitedly behind them.

~

“So how is life in Ponyville treating you?” Cadance asked after a long hug.

“Good, really good,” she replied eagerly, “interesting, but enjoyable.”

“I’m glad, I know you’ve been feeling cooped up here, and don’t try to deny it,” she said as Clarity opened her mouth to argue, “you’re still young, you should be out having fun and making friends.”

There was a moment of silence broken only by Cadance’s laughter.

“What’s so funny?” Clarity asked quirking an eyebrow.

“Nothing, well, it’s just,” she stammered between giggles, “I sound like Celestia.”

“Oh god, you’re getting really old then,” Clarity said joining in the laughter, “not that age matters for a pony who’s immortal.”

“Well, immortality's a choice,” Cadance murmured, “but anyway, are you getting along with…”

“Hang on a moment,” Clarity cut through before she could change the subject, “what’s that supposed to mean? Immortality is a choice.”

Cadance shifted uncomfortably, she hadn’t meant to bring it up, even less for Clarity to actually hear her comment.

“Well…” she hesitated wondering how best to approach this subject, “it’s just that alicorns can only live as long as they choose to.”

“Yeah, so?” Clarity asked, “It’s not like you’d ever want to die.”

Clarity laughed a little at the notion, but stopped when she realised Cadance wasn’t amused by her joke.

“Hang on, you can’t possibly…” she trailed off, Cadance looked back sadly.

“Don’t worry Clarity, I won’t leave for a long time,” she began, “it’s just, what with marrying a mortal unicorn…”

“You mean if Shining Armour dies, you’d kick the bucket too?” Clarity asked indignantly, “does he know?”

“Yes, it took some time for him to accept, but he came around eventually,” she explained, “I’m sure you will as well.”

“You can’t be serious?” Clarity exclaimed.

“Clarity, keep your voice down,” Cadance begged, “I knew this wouldn’t go down well with you, but you have to understand death is natural, even for us.”

“No, don’t say that!” Clarity screamed, “If you can fight it, why not live on, why leave me alone?”

“Clarity no, listen…” but Clarity had already run out of the study, the tears streaming down her face hadn’t been missed by her older sister.

Cadance sighed as she walked over to her desk. She knew this would be a touchy subject with Clarity, she just hoped she could come to understand in time, she would just have to bear with some emotional turbulence until then.

~

“Princess, may I say what an honour it is to be at your service today,” Hoity Toity said all while making the usual fool of himself that only the Canterlot gentry could pull off so spectacularly.

“Thank you kind sir,” Cadance replied sincerely, it always amazed Clarity how her sister could find in her heart to be so nice to everyone she met. “My sister is in need of a dress, I’ll explain the details.”

As she said this she led Hoity Toity across the shop, Clarity didn’t take notice of this, she was too exasperated at being dragged to the dress shop by her older sibling.

“Cadance, I have plenty of dresses,” Clarity whined as her sister approached.

“I know but I thought you might like another one,” Cadance replied simply, Clarity knew there was something wrong with that reply, she would not like another dress and Cadance knew it. However before she could question her sister she was swept away by two shop assistants who pulled her over to the measuring area. After Celestia knows how long she was finally presented to her sister and Hoity Toity in an inarguably over the top dress.

“I think she looks magnificent,” Hoity Toity commented, Cadance smiled in response, but Clarity knew her sister well enough to know it was a forced smile.

“Yes it looks lovely,” she said through gritted teeth.

“Shall I place the order?”

“No!” Cadance replied, a little too quickly, “I mean, not yet. I’ll have everything paid for at a later date if you don’t mind.”

“Of course your highness,” he replied oblivious to her disdain for the dress.

The sisters left the store and made their way down the main street of Canterlot.

“That was disappointing,” Cadance said with dismay, “maybe Celestia will know somepony better.”

“I don’t understand Cadance,” Clarity said again, “why would I ever need a new dress?”

“Well,” Cadance began with a devious smile, “I just thought you’d want to look your best should you ever attend a wedding.”

“Yeah, maybe, but it’s not like we’re going to any wed…” Clarity stopped dead in her tracks as what her sister had said sunk in.

“No, you don’t mean?” Clarity asked looking up at her sister, who looked back with a wide smile. Clarity screamed with delight and rushed to pull her sister into a neck breaking hug, ignoring the shocked looks from passing Canterlot snobs.

“Yes, it’s true,” Cadance said still beaming at her sister’s excitement.

“I knew he was going to propose, I told he would,” Clarity screamed still ecstatic with joy.

“Yes well, I guess I owe you twenty bits,” Cadance replied reluctantly, “still, I think that bet was a win-win for me whatever happened.”

Together they walked back up to the castle, still talking excitedly about the upcoming event.

“And of course, the best news,” Cadance said suddenly remembering something.

“What, you mean even better than starting a family with Shining Armour?” Clarity asked queerly.

“Well maybe second best news then,” Cadance relented, “I will of course need a maid of honour.”

“You mean… me?” Clarity breathed, the thought made her light headed. As Cadance nodded, Clarity’s scream of joy could have broken the ear drums of every guard in Canterlot.

~

“Yes Rarity, the dress is gorgeous, but could you please turn out the lights and go to bed?” Twilight asked, her bed covers drawn up over her head to block out the intense light Rarity was using to admire herself in.

“Oh very well,” Rarity gave in with a sigh walking towards the door.

“Are you going somewhere?” Twilight murmured as she heard the door open.

“Well I can’t very well let this image go to waste,” Rarity justified, “I think I’ll go see if I can give the night guard a heart attack.”

Rarity giggled at her own joke as she flicked the lights and left the room she was sharing with Twilight. No sooner had she closed the door than she nearly barrelled over by a blue blur.

“Please watch where you’re running,” Rarity asked, furious at the pony’s audacity. But as she looked to see who it was she realised it was Clarity, and most disturbingly she was crying. “Oh my dear, I didn’t realise it was you, please forgive me.”

“It’s alright Rarity,” Clarity said looking down and giving a little sniff, “it was my fault really.”

“But darling, whatever is wrong?” Rarity asked stepping in closer to her friend.

“It’s just…” Clarity began, stopping dead as she saw Rarity’s dress, her eyes wide.

“Ah, I see you like,” Rarity said proudly, forgetting she was supposed to be cheering Clarity up.

“Yeah, it’s really… yeah,” Clarity replied, unsure how she should react.

“What is it dear? Too much?” Rarity asked, suddenly concerned her dress wasn’t the masterful work of art she had intended it to be.

“No it’s not that, it’s just…” she drifted off again, thinking desperately of the right words, “have you heard of Princess Platinum?”

“Why of course,” Rarity exclaimed, “daughter of the unicorn king, one of the founders of Equestria, she’s actually who I designed this dress after.”

“I think you’d better come with me,” Clarity said starting down the hallway, Rarity frowned but followed none the less.

It didn’t take long for them to reach their destination; Clarity led Rarity into a deserted library. The outside was being guarded by a crystal stallion, but he stepped aside when Clarity identified herself. Rarity knew Twilight would give anything to gain access to this room, now that she was a princess it probably wouldn’t be too hard. The shelves lining the room were filled to the brim with stacks of ancient looking tomes, but Rarity could tell they weren’t there to read. There was a single stretch of wall which was free of books and shelves; instead it bore a single floor to ceiling oil painting.

Rarity gasped as she took in the very familiar, regal dress adorning the grey mare who was the occupant of the picture.

“This painting is incredible,” Rarity exclaimed, “but why is there a picture of Princess Platinum in the Crystal Empire?”

“Don’t you know?” Clarity asked, slightly bewildered, “Princess Platinum was the last crystal princess before its fall.”

“No way,” Rarity said most uncharacteristically.

“Yes way,” Clarity replied, “and incidentally, that unicorn king who was her father, he had a name.”

“Oh, what was his name?” Rarity asked, though a part of her knew what Clarity was going to say.

“Sombra.”

~

“I knew she’d react this way,” Cadance moaned, “I should have waited.”

“No, the longer you left it the worse it was going to be,” Shining Armour reasoned. The two lay intertwined in their bed for the first time since Cadance began her task of locating the gate.

“I know, but still,” Cadance said, “I wish there was a way to make her understand.”

“She’ll understand, she just needs time.”

“Since when were you such an expert in this field,” Cadance said laughing.

“I have a little sister too,” he retorted.

~

Twilight began to stir from her sleep, which was curious considering it felt like no more than a few minutes since Rarity had left, but, that was just sleep she reasoned. It was only when she felt the tickling of wind against her fur that she began to realise something was wrong. Her eyes snapping open, she saw she was no longer in her bed; she wasn’t even in the palace. But she could see the crystal spire and the surrounding city… from where it stood a long way below her.

Twilight screamed as she realised she was hanging in mid-air, but scrambling to her hooves she found herself standing on some invisible platform giving her a bird’s eye view of the whole empire.

“Wow,” she whispered to herself, as confusing as the situation was it was undoubtedly impressive. Her thoughts however were interrupted by the sound of whimpering. She looked around to find that she wasn’t along where she stood, but instead there were dozens of the crystal ponies standing along with her, each one curled up in terror of something Twilight couldn’t see.

“Excuse me,” Twilight began tentatively, getting one of the trembling pony’s attention, “do you know what’s going on?”

“I-its h-him,” the mare stammered in response, pointing a hoof upwards, “h-he’s back!”

Twilight tilted her head up slowly, her eyes following the direction the mare was pointing in, and every other pony was pointedly averting their eyes from. Twilight felt her heart stop as her gazed upon the thing that everypony was so scared of. A single, colossal eye, wrapped in darkness stared down over the empire, squarely over the palace.

Twilight had the sinking feeling she knew who that eye belonged to, but her train of thoughts didn’t make it far as soon after a shudder ran through the entire city. All the ponies gathered moaned, as if they knew what was coming, but Twilight just stared transfixed by what was happening. Before her very eyes the city appeared to be ripping itself apart, no something was pushing up from underneath. As she watched she began to make out shapes through the rising smoke and showers of shattered crystal. It appeared to be some gigantic fortress carved from black stone, no, black crystals.

The fortress was rising up from the depths of the earth, devouring the city. Two of the legs that held the palace in place were smashed from under it, causing it to tip at a dangerous angle. The stadium that had been built for the Equestrian games was annihilated by the rising castle.

“What is that thing?” Twilight screamed over the devastation taking place bellow them.

“I-it’s the Under Bastion,” another mare replied. This meant nothing to Twilight but the mere mention of it seemed to earn another wave of cries from the gathered ponies.

Twilight desperately wanted to tear her gaze from the destruction bellow her, but her eyes seemed locked on. As she watched the tip of the ‘Under Bastion’ rose higher until it stood towering over the crystal palace itself, and as she stared something appeared atop it, an ethereal blue tear in the fabric of space, the Aether Gate.

“No!” Twilight screamed as she sat bolt upright in her bed, she stared around her taking in the room, her breathing heavy and laboured, “it was just a dream… just a horrible dream.”

She lay back down panting, trying desperately to rid her mind of the images it had just witnessed, but to no avail. She knew there was no hope of getting any more sleep tonight, and besides, she had a funny feeling Cadance needed to know about this.

~

Rarity and Clarity sat in silence, while Rarity took this new information in.

“Oh dear,” she said at last, “you don’t think I offended any pony do you? it would explain the weird looks I was getting on my way here.”

“No, I don’t think so,” Clarity replied unsure, how would she know? She wasn’t a native of the Crystal Empire. “It is a very nice dress; maybe… this wasn’t the right place for it.”

“You’re right, it was stupid of me not to do thorough research,” she said chastising herself, “but listen to me, going on about myself. I was supposed to be asking you what was wrong.”

“Oh,” Clarity said, remembering the events leading up to her running into Rarity, “it’s not important.”

“Nonsense,” Rarity insisted, “I don’t think I’ve ever seen you in worse state, now tell me, what happened.”

“OhRarityIdon’tknowwhattodoCadancethinksit’sbesttodiewhenShiningdiesbutshe’smyonlyfamilyandIcan’tloseher!” Clarity said without pausing for breath, leaving Rarity still somewhat confused.

“Alright,” she said slowly, “maybe try saying that again, but this time leave spaces between your words.”

Clarity took a deep breath, mentally preparing herself.

“Cadance thinks it’s best, that if Shining Armour passes away, that she should…” she hesitated, “that she should go too.”

“Oh,” Rarity replied simply, “well yes, I can see why that would upset you.”

“Do you think I’m being unreasonable?”

“Of course not,” Rarity insisted, “why I would think you cold not to be showing this level of emotion at the thought of losing your sister.”

“But do you think it’s right, what she’s planning?” Clarity asked slowly.

“That’s not for me to judge,” Rarity argued, “but you have to remember that Cadance and Shining Armour are in love, love… makes ponies do crazy things.”

“I can’t lose her, she’s my only…” Clarity whispered, drifting off before she could finish. Rarity bit her lip, she guessed what Clarity had been about to say, and she had occasionally wondered about the rest of her family, but she knew it would be rude inappropriate to ask outright.

“Would it maybe help if we went and talked to her about it?” Rarity suggested, Clarity shook her head in response.

“No, after I stormed off like that I don’t think I should go back just yet.”

Rarity opened her mouth to reply but was interrupted by the sound of shouting outside.

“For the last time miss, I don’t care who you are, you’re not allowed in here!” the guard bellowed.

“And I told you buddy, I’ve got an important massage from the princess!”

“Rainbow Dash?” Rarity whispered, walking towards the door before things could escalate. When she opened it she found she had chosen to act just in time, Rainbow Dash hovered in front of the crystal guard, their foreheads pressed into one another threateningly.

“Rainbow Dash, what in Equestria do you think you’re doing?” Rarity demanded.

“There you are,” Dash exclaimed, forgetting the guard, “come on, both of you.”

Without another word she flew away, Rarity exchanged a glance with Clarity who just shrugged in response before setting off together after the Pegasus.

~

Canterlot was in a state of emergency when Clarity entered the castle that morning. guards were running in every direction, seemingly more wound up than usual. Clarity quickly found who she was looking for amidst the battalions of armoured stallions.

“Shining,” she called out, grabbing the captain’s attention, “what’s going on?”

“Oh Clarity,” he said in a hurried tone, “sorry I can’t stay to talk, a threat was just made against Canterlot and we’ve been put onto high alert.”

“A threat! From who?” Clarity asked panicked.

“We don’t know, but we’re not taking any chances.” he began to march away but Clarity ran after him.

“Wait, what about the wedding?” she asked worried.

“That should be going ahead assuming everything goes as planned,” he assured her, “but right now I need to work. Maybe you should go see Cadance; she already knows of the situation, she can fill you in more.”

As Shining Armour left, Clarity found herself wondering.

“A threat… this close to the wedding,” she whispered to herself. She was sure it wasn’t a coincidence, and she had a funny feeling it was somehow linked to the pain she had been feeling in her chest all morning. Shining Armour had told her to go find her sister, and that’s exactly what she was going to do, for reasons she wasn’t entirely sure of.

~

The guards stepped aside without a second thought when Twilight came into view; her wings were more than enough of a hall pass for them. She passed through the door into a foyer she had never been to before, but then she had never had reason to visit her brother’s bedroom before. The chamber guard raised a hoof as she approached, signally her to remain quiet, they must already be asleep, maybe she should come back in the morning.

“Can I help you princess?” he whispered. Well, she was here already.

“Yes, I need to have a word with the princess,” she explained simply.

“Is it urgent,” he asked with the usual blank expression she associated with guards.

“I believe so,” Twilight replied, not technically lying, after all how was she supposed to gauge how important a dream was.

The guard nodded and turned to the door, giving it a loud, clear knock. After a brief moment it was opened and Shining Armour stood on the other side, peering sleepily back at them.

“Twilly?” he said, unsure if he was seeing things or not.

“Sorry to wake you,” she began, she was beginning to think this really wasn’t worth bringing to his attention now of all times, “but I needed to discuss something with you and Cadance.”

Shining didn’t question her any further, instead just nodded to the guard and let her pass through.

“Hello Twilight,” Cadance said groggily, “has something happened?”

“Y-yes,” Twilight said hesitating, “I’ve just had a dream.”

She was expecting a negative reaction at this, perhaps her brother would facehoof and tell her to grow up, she wasn’t expecting him and Cadance to exchange worried looks.

“That’s not good,” Shining said, “any dream you thought was important enough to bring to our attention can only be…”

“I thought you said nopony inside the palace has been having it,” Cadance questioned.

“No, they haven’t, it’s only been the towns ponies,” Shining explained to her, Twilight was now positively confused.

“Just to be sure, what was your dream of Twilight?” Cadance asked. Twilight explained to the best of her abilities, which was easy considering how vivid the dream had been, all the while she noticed nothing she was saying came as a surprise to either of the older ponies, at least, nothing until she mentioned the gate.

“Hang on, what?” Shining interrupted, shocked at this new revelation, “that’s new; nopony’s ever reported that before.”

“What’s that supposed to mean? Who else is having these dreams?” Twilight demanded.

“Shortly after we got back from Canterlot,” Shining began, now fully awake, “every pony in town began having the same dream every night, the same dream you’ve just had.”

“Naturally, they’ve been very panicked about it,” Cadance continued, “but with my efforts at locating the gate, I have been unable to look into it.”

“But none of them have mentioned the gate before,” Shining said, still confused.

“And what is this Under Bastion thing?” Twilight asked.

“I’m not sure,” Shining admitted, “after the crystal ponies started talking about the dreams I tried researching it, but found nothing relating to it.”

“Maybe one of the crystal ponies who was present before the disappearance of the empire will know something about it,” Cadance proposed, “Do you know any pony who might fit that criteria.”

“Yeah, just a minute,” Shining said leaving the room and the two mares alone. After giving a quick order to the chamber guard he returned. “I’ve sent for Lieutenant Diamond Dust, hopefully she’ll know something about it. Also I sent for the other bearers, I’ve got a feeling our expedition won’t wait until morning.”

~

Diamond Dust walked at as swift a pace as she could manage without seeming too undignified, she knew something must ahoof if she was being called to the princess’s private quarters in the dead of night.

“Hi there!” a voice exclaimed in her ear, nearly causing her to jump clean out of her armour.

“What the…” she began spinning around wildly to come face to face with a pink earth pony standing uncomfortably close, “um, can I help you?”

“Well actually, you can,” she said in an unbelievably cheery voice, “we’re looking for Cadance’s bedroom.”

“You’re… what?” Diamond Dust exclaimed after the pink pony’s words sunk in.

“Sorry ‘bout her hun, she’s a few screws short,” an orange mare wearing a Stetson said, approaching from the same direction the pink one had come in, “we were summoned by Shining Armour to their room for some kinda emergency meetin’.”

“Oh of course,” Diamond said realising where she had seen these ponies before; they were part of the group Shining Armour had brought in earlier to help with the ‘crisis’. “I’m actually on my way there myself, if you would like to follow me.”

“That’s mighty kind of yah,” the orange mare said tipping her hat, “name’s Applejack. The loud one’s Pinkie Pie and that’s Fluttershy hiding behind my tail.”

It was only when Applejack said that, that Diamond notice the quivering Pegasus curled up behind her.

“Is she alright?” she asked concerned.

“Just gets nervous around strangers is all Miss…”

“Oh, Diamond Dust,” she said starting to walk, the others following, “I’m Shining Armour’s Lieutenant.”

“Ohhh, you work with Twilight’s brother, what’s he like? Is he mean? Is he friendly?” Pinkie began asking, all the while bouncing next to the group.

“Pinkie, you’ve met him,” Applejack stated simply.

“I mean as a boss, what’s he like?” she elaborated.

“He’s actually really good,” Diamond said as they walked, “the Crystal Empire has never been famous for its discipline, but then it’s never had any desire to extent its borders, but even the guard were poorly trained. Shining Armour turned all that around when he became captain.”

“That sounds like Twilight’s brother alright,” Applejack replied smirking.

“But if the Crystal Empire doesn’t have an army, then how did King Sombra take control?” a quiet voice whispered from behind Diamond, she looked around to see it was Fluttershy who spoke. When she did, Fluttershy seemed to panic and let out a small squeak, “that is, if you don’t mind me asking.”

“No its okay, we’re coming to terms with it,” Diamond said looking away so as not to make Fluttershy feel uncomfortable. “Actually he enforced his rule with soldiers he forged from the dark crystals he controlled.”

“Crystals huh?” Applejack said thoughtfully.

“Well yeah, it is the Crystal Empire,” Diamond pointed out with a small laugh.

“It’s not that,” Applejack said thoughtfully, “it’s just… never mind.”

Diamond Dust had been interested in what could have made Applejack so curious, but in her position she had learned when to keep her mouth shut, and besides, they were almost there.”

~

It didn’t take long for all the ponies to be gathered. Rainbow Dash was the first to arrive with Rarity and Clarity, the latter pointedly not making eye contact with her sister. Cadance was only now for the first time seeing Rarity’s dress, which she hadn’t had a chance to change out of. Rarity mumbled something of an explanation which Cadance took to mean she didn’t want to discuss it. Twilight had stepped out to fetch Spike and returned swiftly with him half asleep on her back, the elements al held in her telekinetic aura. Shortly after Diamond Dust arrived escorting the last three.

“Thank you all for coming,” Cadance began when all were gathered, “I apologise for puling most of you from your beds, but this couldn’t wait.”

“To cut a long story short, Twilight has had a dream, and yes Diamond,” Shining Armour said noticing his Lieutenants look of surprise, “that dream exactly.”

“One thing we don’t know,” Twilight said, entering the conversation, “is this thing called the Under Bastion.”

Diamond Dust visibly shivered at the mention of it, causing the rest in the room to exchange worried looks.

“You know what it is?” Cadance asked, Diamond Dust gulped and nodded.

“When Princess Platinum was the Crystal Princess…” she began.

“She what?” Twilight exclaimed only to be shushed by Rarity.

“She made her father her advisor, and rewarded him with dominion over the caverns beneath the Empire,” she explained, “deep within the earth he carved his own castle, which he dubbed the Under Bastion. When he took over, he ruled within the Crystal Palace but kept the Bastion for… other things.”

Diamond shuddered at the memory but Cadance continued to press her.

“I know it’s difficult, but please,” she insisted, “what did he use it for?”

“Torture, re-education, experiments,” she listed, “he ruled us above ground, but it was below ground where the really dark stuff happened. If anypony tried to resist they would be taken down, sometimes they would come back and it would be like they were an entirely different individual, but mostly they were never heard from again.”

“But that doesn’t make any sense,” Twilight whispered, “it still doesn’t explain how Sombra could do anything now; he’s still gone… isn’t he?”

Nopony answered; instead the room sat in silence for a moment. It was only broken when Shining armour spoke up again.

“It doesn’t matter right now,” he stated, “what does matter is that if the gate is in any way involved in all this we need to close it now!”

“Alright, time for action,” Dash said pumping the air.

“Is there an entrance into the caverns?” Twilight asked.

“We kept one open following the Empire’s return in case of emergencies,” Cadance responded, “We’ll head there now.”

“Sir, what are your orders?” Diamond Dust asked standing at attention.

“I’m not saying I believe it will actually happen, but just to be on the safe side, I want you to mobilize the guard,” he ordered, “be ready at a seconds notice to evacuate the city.”

“To the palace?”

“No, get outside the city limits,” Shining specified, “if Twilight’s dream is accurate, that will be the safest place.”

Diamond Dust saluted and strode from the room, once she was clear of the door she could be heard breaking into a gallop. Twilight turned to her friends, raising the necklaces out to them.

“Alright girls, suit up,” she ordered passing each element out one by one, “as soon as we reach that gate we fire these up, no hesitation, got it?”

They all nodded in agreement, latching the elements around their necks.

“All right,” Cadance announced, “Twilight and I will teleport us as far as the ground floor.”

“Quick question,” Rarity said quietly, sounding more like Fluttershy, “would I have time to change out of my dress?”

Immediately all her friends gave her a look which clearly said ‘are you kidding me’.

“Fine, message received.” Rarity muttered darkly, there would be hell to pay if this garment got ruined.

~

“Cadance!” Clarity called out. Her sister stopped dead in her tracks along with the four royal guards on either side of her. They all turned around at the sound of her approaching hoof steps.

“Oh, Clarity,” Cadance said, odd was the first word that came to Clarity’s mind when her sister spoke, “sorry, I can’t talk right now.”

With that she turned away and along with her entourage of guards began walking away. Clarity stared dumbfounded; Cadance had never just shrugged her off before.

“Hang on,” she called out, running up to her sister once more, “we need to talk.”

Cadance seemed to sigh in frustration at this, Clarity was sure she had misheard her.

“Very well,” she said with a smile that looked all too forced, “why don’t we go in here for some privacy?”

“That’s a spare guest room,” Clarity said as her sister made for the nearest door, but shrugged and followed her in none the less.

The guards remained outside as the door closed and Clarity was left alone with her older sister.

“What is it you needed to talk about?” Cadance asked in a falsely warm tone.

“We could start with what’s wrong with you,” Clarity said frowning.

“Why whatever are you talking about dear sister? I am perfectly fine,” she lied, Clarity knew it was a lie, the way she said it was practically ringing alarm bells in Clarity’s mind. Everything about Cadance seemed wrong, lies, false warmth, forced smiles. These were not things her sister did, and that made one thought clear in Clarity’s mind.

“Who are you?” Cadance’s eyes opened wide in shock for a split second.

“I’m your sister,” she lied. Clarity could see through her now like she was made of glass, everything about her was wrong, a crude mockery of the one constant in her life.

“Where is my sister?” Clarity asked coldly. The Cadance look alike stared at her in contemplation for a moment for sneering.

“I’m no fool,” she said it a voice that couldn’t be further from the sweet music that was the real Cadance’s, “I can tell when I have no hope of tricking somepony, and this is one of those occasions.”

“Where is my sister?” Clarity demanded again, though the tremble in her voice gave away her fear. The imposter laughed, it was a cold, bitter laugh that chilled Clarity.

“Oh poor little Clarity, you have no one else do you?” she asked in mock sorrow, stepping slowly forward, “no mother. No father. The only family you’ve ever known is your sister, and now you’ve lost her too.”

“No!” Clarity screamed with a mixture of horror and fury, “what did you do to her?”

“Oh calm your little head, she’s not dead if that’s what you’re afraid of,” the imposter replied coldly, “not yet anyway, I’ll find it more amusing to allow her to watch how I destroy her life before ending it.”

Clarity’s legs were frozen, rendering her unable to run from the creature that was now mere inches away from her.

“In fact,” it said suddenly, grinning wickedly, “I think I shall allow you the same privilege.”

With that she stood up, her horn glowing with a poisonous green light. With a blast of light, the room was enveloped in a green radiance. Clarity blinked in confusion when nothing apparent happened, the impersonator strode from the room, the door opening before her.

“No one goes in, she doesn’t come out,” she stated to the guards outside who nodded obediently. Finally she turned to face Clarity one last time, “bid your life farewell, because from that window you’re going to watch it all crumble into nothing.”

Then the door slammed, leaving Clarity alone, paralysed in fear.

“No,” she whispered, before screaming, “No!”

She charged forward and bucked the door with her forehooves, and immediately was thrown across the room by a bolt of green lightning, knocking her head off the bed frame, and slipping into unconsciousness.

~

The entrance to the caverns was located under the south leg of the palace, it was quite simply a spiral staircase carved from stone, running deep into the earth. When the party arrived after being teleported down by the princesses they found it heavily guarded by a squadron of eight soldiers.

“Like I said, it’s the only entrance remaining,” Cadance repeated, “Hence we keep it under heavy guard.”

When nopony commented, except Pinkie but Cadance had learned to just block her out when she started talking, they began to descend the steps, unaware of an ominous presence lurking in the shadows, following them very closely.

~

Diamond Dust donned her helmet as she left the barracks; her officers were spiraling out in every direction, rounding up each and every guard, on duty or off duty. While she didn’t know all the details, she could the read the situation well enough to know the stakes had to be pretty high to get the princess this worried, and that called for her highest level of cooperation, not that she would have given anything less.

She was so lost in her thoughts that when she saw the figure she was about to pass it off as her imagination, but  a double take made it impossible for her to walk away. standing on the street corner was the most peculiar creature she had ever seen, it appeared to stand on a goat leg and a lizard foot, along with this is it appeared to have a slender serpentine figure with a tail to match, however she couldn’t see much of the figure due to it wearing a grey trench coat and a fedora.

“Um, excuse me, can help you?” she asked, slowly approaching the creature. It turned towards her and that’s when she saw it had the head of a pony, although a very peculiar one at that. It appeared to be smoking a cigarette which it took a drag of before dropping and grinding into the pavement.

“Disgusting,” he muttered, a clear look of regret in his face as he reached inside his coat and whipped out a small square of leather which he flipped open in Diamond’s face. “My credentials.”

Diamond’s eyebrows rose as she saw the poorly crafted badge with crude lettering spelling ‘Royal Detective’.

“Uh, detective?” she read doubtfully.

“Yes, detective Discord, at your service,” he said, the badge disappearing in a puff of smoke, he then pointed at the wall he was looking at, “do you mind?”

“Um, no…” she replied hesitantly.

“Excellent,” he said, a hammer and chisel appearing in his mismatched hands.

“Wait, what?” Diamond exclaimed as she saw this, but Discord had already proceeded to hammer a chunk of crystal out of the wall. Diamond Dust stared in utter confusion at him.

“Sorry, royal business,” he said tipping his hat, before stretching the originally small headgear over his entire body. Diamond watched as he seemed to disappear within it, until only the hat was left lying on the street. To top off what she just witnessed, the hat, the only evidence of the entire encounter besides a cigarette butt, dissolved into ash and blew away.

“I really need to take some time off work,” Diamond muttered, walking away from the street corner.

~

Twilight was reminded heavily of the crystal caverns beneath Canterlot as they journeyed through the cave system, the scholarly part of her being wanted desperately to stop and investigate the likeness further, but the rest of her was urging her on, reminding her she had a duty to attend to. Cadance was leading the group, her horn glowing; Twilight guessed she was using a simplified version of the spell she first used to locate the gate, now to show them the way.

“So we just hit this thing a blast with the elements and that’s it?” Applejack asked, sounding sceptical.

“Celestia thinks so,” Twilight replied, “If it doesn’t work, we’ll find some other way.”

“It’s just ahead!” Cadance shouted back grabbing everypony’s attention. As they passed through the supposed final archway, they found themselves standing on the edge of a wide rock outcrop, amidst a pitch black cavern of unknown size.

“Now what?” Fluttershy asked from the back of the group.

“Shouldn’t be a problem,” Twilight said, lighting her horn up. Cadance, Clarity and Shining Armour followed suit, guessing the spell Twilight was about to cast.

Once they were sufficiently charged, all four fired off their varying colours of magic into different directions of the cavern. They each flew as far as they could, and when they hit something solid exploded into a permanent light, before bouncing off and repeating the process elsewhere. With all four of their spells the cavern was very quickly lit up, which was impressive considering it was colossal.

“Wow, this is huge!” Pinkie yelled, before bursting into giggles at the sound of her voice echoing through the giant cavern.

“Not just that,” Spike said pointing ahead.

From where they stood they had a vantage point of view of a sight Twilight recognised well, although she had only seen it the once. The Under Bastion was just as terrifying as her nightmare had painted it to be, even more so that she knew it to be real this time.

“We have to go in there?” Fluttershy asked, sounding terrified at the prospect.

“No, the gate should be at the centre of this cavern, or the very tip of the Bastion,” Cadance responded.

“Shouldn’t there be a blue light?” Dash asked flapping absently along the edge of the stone shelf they stood on.

“Don’t be disappointed Rainbow,” Cadance remarked, “the fact that we can’t see anything from this far means it’s still not going to be fully open for some time.”

“So what are we waiting for? You, me and Twi can fly us all over there and we can finish this,” Dash exclaimed.

“Hold your horses, this is Sombra’s place remember,” Applejack interrupted, “there could be traps.”

“She’s right, especially with what Twilight saw in her dream,” Shining agreed, “I’ll scan around; see if I pick up anything.”

With that his horn began to glow and the others waited for him to finish so they could decide what to do. As they did, Rarity examined her dress under the dim light of her own horn, it had become frayed in places, but so far it was nothing she could fix, for that she was glad. Clarity wandered over to the edge and stood with Rainbow Dash looking down into the abyss.

“Don’t worry,” Dash assured her when she gave an audible gulp, “you’ve got Equestria’s fastest flyer to save you if you fall.”

Clarity opened her mouth to respond, but it was that moment the presence chose to make itself known. Forgetting all previous intentions of stealth it sped forward, ramming straight into the Pegasus and unicorn in its desperate attempt to dive into the deep darkness below them, where the rest was awaiting it.

Clarity barely had a moment to scream before Dash made good on her word and swept her out of the jaws of death and flew her back to safety, but still, both knew something had pushed them.

“Clarity!” Cadance exclaimed, rushing over to her sister as Dash deposited her back onto solid ground.

“What happened?” Shining Armour asked, fear audible in his voice. Clarity didn’t have time to answer as something began sounding through the cavern, rising from the depths she had nearly fallen into.

“Pinkie, why are you laughing?” Rarity demanded, as indeed the pink pony had burst into giggles in response to the sound.

“Because silly, laughter is contagious,” she replied like it was the most obvious thing in the world. Sure enough, as they listened closer and the noise grew louder it became clear that it was laughter, a deep, dark laughter. it was only when an equally skin crawling voice spoke that their fears were confirmed.

“I… live… again!”

~

Clarity lay on the bed; she had long since cried herself dry. It had been a day at least, she had tried every spell she was ever taught, but to no avail, she even began improvising spells which more often than naught had even more negative effects that simply not working. When she had spent her entire knowledge bank, she resorted to pleading with the guards outside to let her out, but whether the room was also soundproof or they just didn’t care, they never responded. It was of course very likely they too had been replaced by whatever had been impersonating her sister.

After that she simply curled up on the bed and cried, she had forgotten about the need to eat or sleep as she lay there, all she could think about was her sister, her only family, locked away somewhere like her, while that monster stole her wedding day from her. Cadance had watched over Clarity her whole life, she had played with her when she was happy, and she had comforted her when she was sad. She told her stories of the parents she had never known, and of the futures they hadn’t had yet. Whenever Clarity was ever worried life wouldn’t turn out for the better, Cadance was always there to chase those fears away and replace them with thoughts of family and love, but now Clarity was alone. There was no one to tell her everything would be alright… as she knew it wouldn’t.

~

“Tell me that ain’t what ah think it is,” Applejack begged as the cavern began shaking, and the unmistakable sound of some great creature rising from the depths could be heard. As they all watched, their eyes wide with horror, an armoured leg emerged over the crest of the platform, the end of the hoof was warped to form five viciously sharp claws. Soon followed the other leg and together they pulled the rest of the body up into view.

“Oh… my,” Fluttershy whispered as Sombra’s face emerged from the liquid shadows flowing freely around his body. it was an even more terrifying sight than they remembered from their last brief encounter, his teeth were especially frightening, resembling a mouth full of scythes, and his once green eyes were now swirling vortexes of shadow, exactly like the one Twilight had seen in her dreams.

“So, you have come to my domain,” he boomed, his voice seemed to cause the whole cavern to tremble, “I must thank you for leading the last remnant of my spirit here safely.”

“Thanks for doin’ what now?” Applejack asked looking around wildly at her friends who looked equally as confused as her.

“Sombra, how can you be here?” Shining Armour demanded, “We defeated you!”

“You broke me,” Sombra corrected, “scattered my spirit into the winds. It’s taken a long time to come together, but at last I am complete once more, ready to take back what was once…”

Twilight quirked an eyebrow as he seemed to freeze mid-sentence, his eyes appearing wider than normal, fixed on something before him.

Everyone followed his gaze, and looked upon Rarity, still wearing her dress.

“Oh, oh no,” Rarity began realising all eyes were on her, “let me make one thing very clear, I am not…”

But she never had time to finish her sentence before Sombra’s entire form burst into shadow and flooded down upon them. Twilight felt as if she was just punched in the chest as she was thrown back into the cavern wall. Soon she was joined by all her friends in one big heap, all minus one.

“Rarity!” Spike yelled, being the first to recover. As Twilight regained focus she saw that Sombra’s shadow had wrapped around Rarity and was now flying away with her in the direction of the Bastion.

“Oh no you don’t!” Dash exclaimed lifting off the rock shelf and speeding after them. Without hesitating Twilight and Cadance took off after her, even Fluttershy could be heard swooping in shortly after them, but they knew there was no hope.

Even Dash had no hope of catching up with the wave of shadow carrying the screaming Rarity, before the whole thing landed atop the Bastion, retaking its physical form. Twilight slowed down as she became aware of what was going to happen, but before she could shout a warning to Dash who was still desperately trying to reach them, it began. Sombra’s horn lit up, a swirling mass of black and red energy enveloping the Bastion whole, and that’s when it began to rise.

~

Diamond Dust felt the shudder, that was her signal, without waiting for further confirmation she shouted approval for the evacuation to all officers standing in position. Her decision had been correct, if she had digressed for even a minute, it might have been too late. As it was, the guards were escorting the last of the crystal ponies outside the hazard zone when the disaster began. Only Diamond Dust was still left in the city, standing outside the Crystal Palace, praying for her princess’s safe return, but as she saw the first cracks appear in the courtyard, a sinking feeling in her gut told her it was too late.

Going against her every instinct she bolted from the scene, galloping as fast as her legs and armour would allow her too. As she did she heard the destruction following in her wake. A single glance over her shoulder was enough to send the essential shot of adrenaline through her body. She ran, and she ran, so focused on her destination of the city edge that she hadn’t noticed herself running into the path of a collapsing building, not before it was too late.

~

“We gotta get outta here!” Applejack yelled over the sound of the cavern collapsing all around them.

“What about the others?” Clarity shouted back, looking un-eager to move.

“We won’t be any help to them if we get squashed!” Applejack reasoned. Clarity mulled it over for a split second before nodding her approval and charging out of the cavern with Applejack, Shining Armour, Spike and Pinkie Pie, the latter still bouncing happily. The path they had taken to reach there had been simple enough, hence they were able to navigate their way out with only Shining at the head, lighting their way.

However when they arrived at the place the spiral staircase used to be, they found a whole in the ceiling and a pile of rubble at their hooves.

“Now what do we do?” Pinkie asked, her cheery nature finally waning with the prospect of being trapped in here.

“I can try and teleport us up,” Clarity suggested, “I… I’m not very good at teleporting, but it’s our best chance.”

“Sugarcube, as long as we get outta these caverns I don’t care how many pieces we end up in,” Applejack stated flatly, Clarity knew she wasn’t serious, but it wasn’t wise to jinx it.

~

“Cadance, go back!” Twilight shouted over the sound of falling rocks and crystal.

“It’s no good!” she replied, “We’ll get knocked out of the air if we go back that way!”

“Then what do we do?” Fluttershy squealed, giving up on flying entirely and clinging to Twilight’s back. Twilight looked around, she had lost sight of Rainbow Dash, but she was sure she would be fine. Then she saw the ceiling of the cavern give way for the rising Bastion.

“I have an idea, follow me!” she ordered, diving towards the black fortress, Cadance at her tail. While it was difficult to see through all the crystal fragments and dust clouds, Twilight quickly found what she was looking, a small alcove carved into the wall of the Bastion.

“Right there!” she shouted over her shoulder, diving for it. Once the three had landed and tucked themselves in close to the wall for added protection they let out a deep breath they hadn’t realised they were holding in, and waited as the Bastion carried them higher and higher.

~

Diamond Dust’s first thoughts when she regained consciousness were of surprise, surprise that she was still alive. If that falling building hadn’t killed her, the following wave of devastation surely would have. Yet here she was, lying among her fellow Crystal ponies, the sound of destruction safely in the distance.

“Lieutenant, you’re awake,” a guard said, he sounded relieved.

“I am,” she replied with an edge of sarcasm, “how did I get here?”

“That would be me,” a voice said approaching the pair of guards. Diamond Dust twisted her head around to get a better look at her saviour, when she recognised the pretentious trench coat and fedora she immediately passed out again.

~

When the noise finally died down, Twilight dared to open her eyes. The sight that greeted her was not pretty. The Crystal Empire was unrecognisable, it appeared no building had survived the ruin that swept over, but as long as the crystal ponies had reached safety, Twilight could bare the state of the city.

“I think it’s over,” Twilight murmured over to Cadance and Fluttershy who had their heads buried in one another’s shoulders. When Cadance looked up at her home, the expression on her face cut Twilight like a knife.

“No…” she whispered, but was drowned out by Fluttershy’s scream.

“Rainbow Dash!” following her terrified gaze Twilight saw the blue heap lying sprawled over a pile of rubble, recognisable even from a distance by her distinctive mane. Fluttershy sped off to the ground, Cadance and Twilight close behind. When they touched down, Fluttershy was already cradling Rainbow’s still body.

“Is she…” Twilight began, but her voice stuck in her throat, unable to finish.

“She’s alive,” came Fluttershy’s relieved voice, “just unconscious.”

Twilight sighed before closing the gap and leaning down to view Rainbow. She had definitely seen better days, she was heavily beaten and bruised, and her wings were bent terribly out of shape, but she breathing evenly, and for that Twilight was thankful.

“Is there anything you can do for her?” Fluttershy asked Twilight.

“Let me look, I know a little healing magic,” Cadance announced, leaning down and touching Dash’s forehead with the tip of her horn.

“Hey guys!” came the unmistakable voice of Shining Armour, bursting into a wide grin Twilight spun around to greet the rest, but her smile faded and her jaw dropped at the sight before her.

“Yeah, this is my bad,” Clarity said shyly, her coat replaced by purple scale and her horn noticeably absent.

“Woo hoo!” Pinkie exclaimed, cartwheeling in, now powder white with a blue mane and unicorn horn, “I look just like Shiny now.”

Twilight looked over at her brother and immediately bust into an uncontrollable fit of giggles at the bright pink, hornless stallion before her.

“Yeah, yeah, laugh it up,” he said with an angry snort.

“What happened to you all?” Twilight said after getting control of herself.

“Clarity tried to teleport us,” the now blue Spike said, massaging the unicorn horn too big for his head, “ending up splicing us all.”

“It’s only temporary,” Clarity insisted, before whispering, “I think.”

“Don’t worry, it is,” Twilight assured them, “I did the same thing when I first teleported successfully.”

“But Applejack seems just fine,” Fluttershy pointed out. Indeed Applejack looked just as she always had.

“Don’t be so sure,” the blue Spike huffed, giving Applejack a hard pat on the back. Twilight and Fluttershy both ducked as a spout of green fire erupted from the earth pony’s mouth.

“Well, that’s unusual,” Twilight admitted standing back up, Applejack looking annoyed with herself, her mouth shut tight.

“Happens any time she opens her mouth,” Spike explained.

“Well that’s a barrel of laughs,” a weak voice said before making a weak attempt at laughter. They all turned to see Rainbow peering up at them.

“Rainbow!” Fluttershy exclaimed running forward before being tugged back by Twilight’s magic.

“She’s still injured Fluttershy, be gentle.”

“Oh, of course, sorry,” Fluttershy apologised, before walking over and leaning down next to Rainbow Dash, Pinkie Pie also bounced over to examine the Pegasus.

“So how’s it looking?” Fluttershy asked Cadance as she lifted her horn away and opened her eyes.

“She’ll be perfectly fine, but she won’t be flying for a couple of weeks,” she informed them, this seemed to send Rainbow Dash into cardiac arrest as she seized up upon hearing the news.

“A couple of weeks!” she exclaimed.

“I minimised the damage,” Cadance assured her, “if I hadn’t you might never have flown again.”

The thought made Rainbow Dash turn noticeably paler and gulp loudly.

“Hate to interrupt,” Shining began, “but don’t we have a damsel to rescue, a king to over throw and an apocalypse to stop?”

“Well if that doesn’t win an award for sum up of the year,” Twilight joked.

~

The imposter had picked a good room, so much so that Clarity wondered if it was entirely random as she had previously thought. The large window gave a unique view over the whole castle and city of Canterlot; from here she could see all the comings and goings over the following days, so that when the day of the wedding arrived, she could recognise it. She had been forced to transfigure a lot of the furniture into edible food substances; otherwise she would not have made it this long. The imposter hadn’t sent any food, so clearly her method of torture was secondary to keeping her out of harm’s way.

Clarity watched as the shield around Canterlot shattered and the city was over run. She had never seen creatures like these before, like ponies but black with insect wings, fangs and blue eyes. She watched as they wreaked havoc over the ponies of Canterlot. She knew without having to be told this was all part of the imposter’s plan. However, when all hope seemed lost, something caught her eye. Six ponies fighting their way out of the castle, heading for one of the other wings. Something about them drew her attention, and as she watched the reasons became clear.

They fought countless of those monsters and came out victorious, Clarity felt the first sparks of hope light in her chest for days as she watched them do battle. As she did it dawned on her where she recognised one of them from. a lavender unicorn mare, casting spells left, right and centre, it had been years, but Clarity still remembered Twilight Sparkle. She had heard the stories over the last two years, defeating Nightmare Moon and freeing Princess Luna, imprisoning Discord, the spirit of chaos, along with her fellow bearers of the element s of harmony.

Clarity grinned, if anypony could save her sister and Canterlot, it was those six. Clarity watched them fight until they were out of sight, while she could no longer see them, she felt the pain in her chest alleviate, they were going to win, she knew it. Then, after a short period of stasis, it happened. From the centre of the castle a wave of blinding, pale lilac light burst forth, spreading through the entire city, casting the monsters out along with it. Clarity felt the wave wash over her, felt the magic imprisoning her tear away, and knew there was only one source of power like that, her sister was the princess of love after all, she knew it when she felt it.

~

Rarity was backing away slowly from the divine form of Sombra, inching towards her. they stood atop a wide plateau at the top of the Under Bastion, which was now technically over but…

“Listen, I believe there is some sort of misunderstanding here,” rarity began, panicking.

“There is no misunderstanding,” Sombra breathed, “you are here once more, my efforts were not in vain.”

“But listen, I’m not actually…” Rarity attempted only to be interrupted again.

“For I have done a great many things, none of which I am proud of,” he continued bearing down upon her, “but at last, you are here with me, Platinum, my beloved daughter.”

“Uhhh,” Rarity croaked as Sombra came inches away from her face. “See here is the thing; I’m actually not Princess Platinum… I just happen to look like her.”

There was a long moment of silence as Sombra started down upon her.

“No, you must be, you are the very image of my child,” he insisted.

“Well, I thank you for the compliment, but I’m afraid I am not.”

“But, that would mean my daughter is still dead, and everything I’ve done has been for naught,” he exclaimed, anger rising in his voice.

“Well…” Rarity began to say, fear rising in her core, “yes.”

~

The interior of the Bastion was just as gruesome as Diamond Dust had described it. Since only three of their party could reliably fly they decided it would be better to ascend the fortress by hoof, that way they could stick together.

“Remember everypony,” Twilight called back as they ran, “with Sombra back, he’ll no doubt have full control over his old soldiers, be on the lookout for them.”

“Oh is that what this thing is?” Pinkie suddenly asked.

They all stopped dead in their tracks and spun around to see Pinkie with an insect like creature, clad in black armour, sitting on her back as she fed it hoof fulls of cake from her mane.

“Pinkie, where did you get that thing?” Twilight exclaimed, her eyes wide.

“At the door when we first came in,” she explained, “can we keep him? I think I’ll call him Imp!”

Twilight opened her mouth to respond when she felt a tapping on her shoulder.

“What?” she asked turning around and seeing not a member of her party but yet another armoured creature, far bigger than Imp, and radiating shadows.

“Oh great,” she said just as it swiped down with an armoured claw. She dropped to the floor and barrel rolled to safety, but soon the fortress was overflowing with creatures, emerging from every nook and cranny where shadows gathered.

“Of all the times to lose my magic,” Shining Armour grunted, head butting one of the creatures away from him and Fluttershy. Another two charged up behind them but were dissipated in a gulf of green fire.

“Huh, I didn’t know I could do that,” Spike murmured, firing off sparks from his new horn, doing zero damage on any of the oncoming creatures.

“There’s no end to these things!” Dash shouted over a crowd of them pushing her into a corner, “I hate to say it, but I think we might have to make a run for it.”

“Dash is right,” Clarity agreed, bucking one of the creatures ganging up on Rainbow. “Everypony for themselves, just keep climbing higher and we’ll all meet at the top.”

“No, we should stick together!” Twilight insisted, but her voice was drowned out by the battle around her.

Sighing, she spread her wings after clearing a path before her and swept forward, picking up Spike in her fore hooves before exiting the chamber they had been ambushed in. keep climbing higher and they would find Rarity, she just hoped the others would be okay without her.

~

“Looks like you’re with me,” Cadance said to Applejack as they ran down a side corridor, she nodded in response, only opening her mouth when an enemy reared its armoured head. They ran for about five minutes, encountering yet more creatures every time they turned a corner. “This is getting ridiculous! Get on my back Applejack; I’ll get us to the top.”

Applejack obliged after clearing some breathing room for Cadance. Once she had clambered on, Cadance aimed her horn skywards, sending a beam of destruction through the ceiling, Applejack would have whistled if it wouldn’t have set her mane on fire.

“That was a little revenge for my home,” she said bitterly before spreading her wings and calling over her back, “hold on.”

Applejack wrapped her hooves around Cadance’s neck as she took off from the ground, accelerating into the air.

~

“Pinkie Pie, drop the damn Imp and let’s go!” Shining Armour ordered after flinging a limp Fluttershy over his back, he hadn’t seen anything attack her so more likely she passed out from shock.

“Oh fine,” she huffed, crouching down and nudging Imp off her back, “go on home little fella.”

Shining Armour was sure he imagined it; there was no way that thing was crying as it trudged away. Pinkie stared back up at him as if to say ‘how could you?’.

“Come on Pinkie, you wouldn’t want Gummy to be jealous would you?” he asked, that worked. Pinkie stopped her pouting and ran out of the room with him.

As they ran, a detachment of creatures followed them. Shining tried to ignore them but they were gaining ground fast.

“If only I had my magic,” he whined again, “it would make this so much easier.”

“Magic? Hold on,” Pinkie said, her new horn lighting up with a deep pink light. In a flash the trio found themselves standing in an entirely different room, all the creatures following them gone. on top of that, Pinkie and Shining Armour had been restored to their original forms, there was only one explanation, Pinkie teleported them further into the Bastion after having a horn for no longer than half an hour.

“Pinkie, how the heck did you do that?” Shining Armour asked amazed, Pinkie just shrugged.

“Dunno, but when I do stuff like that back in Ponyville, ponies usually say ‘it’s just Pinkie Pie being Pinkie Pie’,” she said before beginning to bounce towards the nearest door. Shining Armour just stared as Fluttershy began to stir on his back.

“Has something happened?” she murmured.

“If by something you mean a lot, then yes, something has happened,” he replied walking after the once again pink pony.

~

“So, uh…” Dash stammered as they cantered up a set of stairs, closely pursued by a wave of creatures, “guess this isn’t really what you had in mind when you went to visit home.”

“No,” Clarity replied breathless, “I imagined more tea and casual chats, but really I should be getting used to this.”

“Yeah, we lead quite the lives,” Dash agreed trying to laugh between sucking in deep breaths.

“Come on,” Clarity panted at her partner, “I thought you were supposed to be athletic.”

“Is that a challenge?” Dash questioned, grinning widely.

“If it will get us up these steps any faster, then yeah,” she replied.

“Oh it is on!” Dash exclaimed picking up the pace.

~

“Bet you wish I had this horn permanently,” Spike mused as they glided up the keep, “you could have your own faithful student.”

“Oh Spike, you have enough responsibilities without adding learning magic to that list.” Twilight retorted.

“Glad you think so,” Spike agreed, “maybe now would be a good time to talk about getting some time off?”

“Let’s save the world first, then we can talk,” Twilight retorted.

“We must be almost there,” Spike theorized, “we’ve been going up for a while now.”

“I think that’s the end just at the end of this…” she began, but was cut off when both alicorn and dragon were rammed out of the air by two other groups of ponies all converging into their hallway from side corridors.

“Wow, soft landing,” Dash exclaimed as she climbed off Twilight, “thanks Twi, I might have really damaged my wings if it wasn’t for you.”

Twilight grumbled in response before getting to her own hooves.

“Where’s Cadance?” Shining said in a concerned tone. They all looked around but saw neither her nor Applejack with them.

“Maybe they…” Clarity began, but didn’t get further than that as they all felt a low rumbling rising through the Bastion.

“Speak of the devil,” Spike said just before they all dived out of the way, clear of the explosion in the floor where they had just been standing.

Once they reassumed their stances they saw Cadance rise up through the hole in the floor, Applejack clinging desperately to her back.

“Oh good, the whole gangs here,” Cadance said as she saw them all gathered around the hole she had just blasted through, “I don’t think Applejack is a fan of flying.”

As she said that, the farm pony leapt off her back and began kissing the filthy stone floor.

“Sweet solid ground,” she said trembling.

“Hey!” Spike exclaimed, “You can speak again.”

“Oh yeah,” Applejack exclaimed suddenly realising she was no longer afflicted, “looks like you’re all back to normal too huh?”

Indeed Clarity’s blunder had appeared to have worn off, leaving a purple scaled Spike and a blue coated Clarity with her horn returned.

“Sorry again,” Clarity said awkwardly.

“Don’t worry Sugarcube,” Applejack insisted, “no harm, no fowl.”

“Alright girls, and guys,” Twilight said catching herself on when Spike glared at her, “I can feel Sombra’s presence just ahead, now be ready for a fight, he won’t go down easily.”

“Alright, just let him try and kidnap our friend and see where that gets him,” Dash exclaimed rushing forward, the others in tow. Dash and Applejack were the first ones at the door and together they bucked it open, charging through.

“Drop the mare buster!” Applejack shouted.

“Put her down!” Dash yelled, but they all stopped dead in their tracks at the sight before them.

Rarity stood in the middle of the plateau, still in her dress, trying desperately to console the giant Sombra… who was crying his eyes out.

“What the…” Twilight began.

“Is anypony else reminded of the time Fluttershy shouted down that dragon?” Pinkie asked, staring in confusion at the scene before her

“Should we… maybe cheer him up?” Fluttershy asked tentatively.

“Are you crazy?” Dash asked, “he’s our enemy, this is clearly a trap.”

At that moment Sombra let out a loud wail and the puddle of tears forming beneath him got considerably deeper.

“What do you think Cadance?” Twilight asked.

“We’ll see what’s up,” she replied, “but don’t let your guard down.”

With that they began approaching the pair, it was only then Rarity noticed them, presumably not having heard them shout over the sound of Sombra’s sobs.

“Oh, you’re here, I’m so glad you’re all alright,” she said, sounding relieved.

“Yeah, we’re fine, but how are you? What’s going on here?” Clarity asked concerned.

“Oh this, it’s just a big misunderstanding,” Rarity replied casually, Cadance snorted.

“I fail to see how destroying the city and endangering my little ponies could be considered a misunderstanding,” she replied tersely.

“Well, I’ll let him explain,” she said, gently tapping Sombra’s muzzle to get his attention, “Sombra, the Crystal Princess is here to hear you out.”

Sombra sniffed and looked over at them; there was no doubting the pain in his eyes.

“Princess,” he murmured, “I have done many terrible things, I know you can never forgive me.”

“If you truly want forgiveness, then you can start by explaining yourself,” Cadance replied flatly.

“The last crystal princess was my daughter, Platinum,” he began, reminding them of what they already knew, “she meant the world to me, I even threw away my old kingdom when Discord attacked, all to keep her safe. When she died, I was distraught. I had delved into the mysteries of life further than most unicorns and discovered the secrets to immortality; alas I was too late to share my discovery with the one who mattered most to me.

“Over the following years I toiled away in loneliness, it corrupted me, changed me into a monster. I began to do terrible things, experiments that cost the lives and happiness of many, all to bring my daughter back to me. In the end I lost sight of everything, changed beyond recognition, it was only when I saw Rarity, that I was reminded of what I set out to achieve in the first place, and along with that came the realisation that it had all been for nothing, my daughter is gone, and nothing can bring her back.”

When he finished, a heavy silence hung around the air, even Cadance was left speechless. it was only Rarity speaking up that finally broke the silence.

“He really isn’t that bad,” she insisted, “not deep down anyway.”

“I never knew,” Cadance whispered, Sombra nodded sadly.

“So few did, perhaps if I had let others in, instead of suffering alone, things might have been different,” he said, his voice heavy with mourning, “I have no right to ask anything of you princess, but if you could find it in your heart to do me one last thing, my spirit would be eternally grateful.”

“I can’t bring Platinum back,” Cadance reminded him.

“I know, I have accepted that,” he replied, “no, what I want you to do, is to end my life.”

“What?” Clarity exclaimed, drawing Sombra’s attention, “but you shouldn’t have to die just because the one’s you love are gone, you can still live.”

“There is a difference little one, between living, and living forever,” he explained, “to have lived out my natural life for my daughter, knowing that one day I would see her again, I could be happy with… but to live forever, knowing it separates me from not only her, but all those that I may ever come to love, that is a cross I cannot bear.”

Clarity hung her head low and stared at her hooves as tears threatened to spill from her eyes.

“If that is really what you wish,” Cadance said, walking forward, “then I will oblige.”

“It is,” he whispered, Cadance nodded in response.

“In that case, farewell King Sombra,” she said raising her horn as it glowed with ethereal light.

“Thank you Crystal Princess,” he murmured before looking to Rarity, “and thank you Rarity, for reminding me.”

“Goodbye,” she whispered in response before closing her eyes so she wouldn’t have to watch, and to stop the tears from escaping.

~

Cadance stood in front of the mirror in her dressing room, this was it. As she turned to leave she noticed someone had slipped in. Clarity stood next to the door, grinning at the sight of her older sister in the dress.

“You pull it off well,” she said, Cadance blushed.

“You really don’t mind about not being my maid of honour?” she asked again, she knew what her sister would say but she wanted to be sure.

“Of course not,” Clarity insisted stepping forward and pulling Cadance into a hug, “you owe them after all.”

“That’s true,” she replied with a little laugh. “I was so worried about you.”

“I was worried about you too,” Clarity replied, the room immediately became silent as the two sisters just remained in each other’s embrace. It was only when Clarity noticed the clock on the wall that she broke it.

“Well, I’d better get to me seat,” she said rubbing a hoof over her face to wipe away an errant tear, “as for you, don’t keep the groom waiting, he already had to push his wedding back a week.”

“I’ll keep that in mind,” Cadance said laughing as Clarity departed the room. Yes, it was about to be the best wedding ever. As she arrived into the castle chapel she found it packed with all manner of ponies, she was impressed Cadance had managed to keep the usual Canterlot snobs off the guest list. as she arrived at the door a young colt offered to seat her, she ended up in the dead centre of the crowd gathered at the right of the alter, a big step down from standing next to her sister, but as the ceremony begun and she gazed upon her big sister, her future brother in law, and the elements of harmony standing on either side, she knew she was where she belonged. The limelight was theirs, not hers.

And that thought sent a strange feeling through Clarity, one she’d never be able to describe, but she would remember none the less. As she looked up at the altar, she wasn’t looking at Cadance, Celestia or even Shining Armour; she was looking at the lavender unicorn standing to his left. Twilight Sparkle.

“Thank you Twilight,” she thought, “you saved my sister, you saved my family. I swear, no matter how long it takes, I will repay you this debt. Next time I won’t be the damsel in distress, I’ll stand by your side, and save your world, just like you saved mine.”

~

The Crystal Empire was in ruins, but Cadance didn’t care. Thanks to the efforts of her guards, not a single pony had been lost. The lieutenant responsible for managing the evacuation, Diamond Dust, had been injured but was recovering quickly. It may take years to fully restore the Empire to its formal glory, but Cadance was prepared for that, she would be there every step of the way. But as she gazed up at the now desolate Bastion, she knew there was still one last deed to be done.

~

Spike adjusted the crown on Twilight’s head, and she nodded her appreciation before stepping forward to join the circle her friends were making on the plateau. When they had first seen the Under Bastion they were too far away to make out the gate, but not anymore. They all stared up at the rip in space, emanating ethereal blue light, the sight made Clarity cringe at the memory of that place she had been cast into. One thing that had grabbed all their attentions, was the thing floating in the centre of the gate, it appeared to be a large, black orb.

Clarity had never told anyone the details about what she had seen in the Aether, even now as she saw this peculiar reminder, she remained silent, although she wasn’t sure why.

“Alright girls, this is it,” Twilight said, suppressing a gulp, “the moment of truth.”

With an exchange of nods all six mares closed their eyes, the jewels on their respective elements lighting up. Spike and Clarity stepped a few paces back for safety as the light grew in intensity. Soon the whole plateau was overcome by a pure white light before separating into a brightly coloured rainbow which twisted in the air and dived upon the gate.

The resulting impact threw all seven ponies and dragon flying, lying in heaps all over the black crystal floor. When Clarity’s vision began to return she could make out the gate beginning to stitch itself back together again.

“We did it!” Twilight exclaimed, rushing over and throwing her forehooves around a still dazed Spike, “we actually did it!”

“Ah don’t believe it,” Applejack mused, “I was really worried for a moment that this was all gonna be for nothin’.”

“Well I for one, never lost hope,” Rarity boasted, “I knew Twilight and the princesses had this figured out.”

“Woo hoo! Now we can have ‘this-wasn’t-a-massive-waste-of-time’ party!” Pinkie exclaimed pulling a small, novelty trumpet out of nowhere and blowing into it excitedly.

“I’m just glad we’re all okay,” Fluttershy said quietly, earning an ‘aww’ from the rest of the group.

“Speak for yourselves,” a voice moaned, and they all turned to see Rainbow Dash had landed on her already damaged wings when she was thrown back.

“Well, almost all of us,” Spike said which caused the others to break out into laughter.

“Quit laughing and help me!”

~

“You know,” Applejack began as they loaded their bags back onto the train, “ah had a thought earlier.”

“Always a dangerous moment,” Dash remarked, earner her a punch on the shoulder, “watch the wing!”

“Like ah was sayin’!” Applejack said loudly, “that guard we met last night, Diamond Dust ah think she was, said somethin’ about Sombra makin’ soldiers outta crystal, and that reminded me a bit of that stuff your princess of order used to block the door. You don’t think that…”

Applejack began to say before being interrupted by a figure appearing directly behind her.

“Right you are Applejack Daniels,” Discord said causing Applejack to leap into the air with a yelp of surprise, “whoops.”

“For pete’s sake Discord, quit doin’ that,” Applejack yelled after landing on the ground again, “now what are you blabberin’ on ‘bout?”

“I was just confirming what you thought,” he replied leaning on a cane he pulled out of the grey trench coat he was wearing.

“Why are you dressed like that?” Applejack asked flatly.

“I’m investigating for Celestia, you have to look the part,” he replied, “now, as I was saying, it would appear Roma did indeed base the order crystals she used on experiments carried out by Sombra. Interesting to note, the difference between the two, is that Roma crafted hers from pure magical energy.”

“You mean the stuff those gates are spewing out?” Dash asked, quirking an eyebrow thoughtfully.

“Exactly,” Discord confirmed, “it only makes sense after all. Roma said she would create a perfect world after using the Aether to destroy all physical matter, it appears she planned to replace it all with her own creations forged from the remaining magic.”

“A world of dull, grey crystals,” Pinkie said horrified, “that sounds like, THE, WORST, POSSIBLE, THING!”

With that she pretended to faint and Applejack, Rainbow Dash and Discord all burst into laughter, Fluttershy merely smiling discreetly. Rarity just stared at them all stony faced.

“I am not like that,” she said before storming off.

~

Twilight, Clarity and Cadance walked together down the platform, still in deep conversation.

“We won’t know for sure until I conduct a few test,” Cadance said at last, “but it looks like that gate is closed for good.”

“We can only hope,” Twilight agreed, “with one down there’s still ten to go, hopefully the others won’t be too far behind.”

“I’d say take this opportunity to relax while you’ve got it,” Cadance said, “Heavens knows there might not be a chance later.”

“And you’re sure you don’t need help fixing this place up?” Twilight asked again, receiving an eye roll from the older princess.

“Yes, I’m quite sure, you have enough on you plate without adding this,” she said gesturing over the city lying behind them. “Now go on, I’m sure we’ll see each other again soon at this rate.”

Twilight nodded taking the hint, and quickly left to say goodbye to her brother, leaving the two sisters in silence.

“Are you still mad at me?” Cadance asked after a long pause.

“No,” Clarity replied with a sigh, “that whole thing with Sombra got me thinking, I would never want to lose you, but the thought of living forever without you or anyone else I’ve come to love just sounds…”

“Difficult,” Cadance finished, “I know, it takes a very strong kind of pony to carry that burden, that’s why so few alicorns remain as such.”

“It’s your choice,” Clarity said reeling the subject back, “I just hope that time won’t be for a long time yet.”

“Nor do I dear sister,” Cadance said leaning down to hug Clarity. “Now go on, go see your friends, there’s a whole world to see and so little time to do it in.”

“Yeah,” Clarity said laughing a little, “we’re going to see the world.”

“It is something most only dream of,” Cadance agreed, “It’s a shame it wasn’t under better circumstances.”

“No… but we can’t change that,” Clarity said, suddenly far brighter, walking for the train and calling over her shoulder, “after all, what better way is there to spend a life, than actually going out and living?”

Cadance smiled as her sister broke onto a run for the train before whispering to herself, “that’s the spirit little sister.”