After the defeat of Wrath, the Mane Six take some time off to relax. For Battle Ready however, there's no rest for the wicked as the Sin, Envy, is about to unleash her power on Equestria. The battle with Wrath may be over, but the war rages on.
The Mane Six return to Equestria after the battle with Wrath to enjoy some rest and relaxation. However, for Battle Ready, there's never any time for rest. Uncovering a plot to overthrow Warhorse and eradicate the world as he knows it, Battle discovers the kingdom once ruled by the Sin of Envy: Equestria! Battle and the Mane Six must take up arms once more in order to save the kingdom of Equestria from the cult Cultoribus de Peccatis and stop them from unleashing the power of Envy... Sequel to Battle Ready
General Arson of the Warhorse army breathed fire into his cold hands and playfully rolled it through his fingers before he relit the camp flames that had been snuffed out by the cold, to grateful grunts from the rest of his team. They held their own hands up and rubbed them together to regain some feeling back into their fingertips. Arson smiled at them before turning his attention to where he was standing. It had been nearly seven months since he had last been here, believing he would never have to set foot in here again. Of course, fate had other plans.
The Tomb of Wrath had been colder when it was still inhabited by the Sin, but still it was freezing, the only heat coming from the fires that they set. It didn't help that they had set up camp in the pit outside of Wrath's burial chamber. The room where he had died and lived for so long. It was a chilling thought.
He didn't ask question though. He had already received all the answers that he needed when they had set off for the expedition. Arson tried not to let the answers worry him of course, but it was hard.
If something concerned Battle Ready this much, then it was desperately serious.
"Keeping cool Arson?" asked a voice from beside him. He turned and smiled at the familiar face.
"You could say that," Arson shrugged. "How're you though Sky?"
General Sky Blade shrugged, the dagger Vindicta strapped to her hip.
"We think we may have something that the Commander may have an interest in," she said, keeping her voice low. She held up a beaten and leather bound book.
"What is it?" Arson asked.
"It's the notebook of one of the architect's," Sky explained. "It's written in the ancient tongue though. I can barely make heads or tails of it. I just hope the Commander can translate it."
"You do realise the Commander speaks the ancient tongue so fluently he curses in it?" Arson reminded Sky. She laughed.
"What does 'Mordetis meum latus tu limo' mean anyway?" she chuckled.
"I have no idea but he's been saying that to his sister rather a lot recently," Arson smirked, recalling a recent incident where Battle and his younger sister were having a usual shouting match. Well not shouting match. Battle would taunt his sister and she would scream at him.
"I'll go give this to the Commander," she said, walking through the camp site and reaching the door to the burial chamber itself. Battle had set up his command post at the very heart of Wrath's tomb. Battle seemed to have gone out of his way to disrespect the tomb of the Sin in anyway he could, ending up with his bed being set up over Wrath's black casket.
Not that he had done much sleeping.
From the very first day they had been in the tomb, the various finding's had been brought to Battle to examine. Most of them had been weapons and jewels of some variety, but there had been a fair few books. All of which were now being read by Battle, as he sat cross-legged on the casket, book in his lap, lips forming words Sky couldn't even begin to understand. Eventually however he tossed the book aside.
"What is it with ancient civilisations and cursed artefacts?" he asked aloud. He glanced at his hands to make sure that they hadn't caught on fire or something. He looked up at Sky, smiling slightly. "Something for me General?"
"Two things sir," Sky corrected, walking up to where Battle sat. "I think you'd be interested in this," Sky explained, handing over the leather bound book.
"What's the other thing?" Battle asked, jumping to his feet and taking the book.
"I think the book may hold more answers," Sky said, reaching into her pocket and withdrawing the second item, hiding it from her commanding officer. Battle shrugged and began reading.
"Written in the ancient tongue," Battle observed. He took a sideways glance at Sky. "For future reference it means 'Bite my flank you slime'."
Sky blushed slightly as Battle continued reading. As he continued to read the notes of the architect, his frown became more and more pronounced, until he was scowling at the book in his hands.
"Problem sir?" Sky asked. Battle nodded.
"According to this book the enchantments on each of the tombs of the sins are supposed to keep the Sins imprisoned even when they are at their most powerful," Battle explained.
"Most powerful sir?" Sky said, confused.
"The Sins work on an astrological calender in terms of strength," Battle explained. "The seven stars they were each born under grant them enhanced strength when they appear in the sky. The times in which they each appear are referred to as the Zenith's of the Sins. We've just moved from the Zenith of Wrath and are approaching the Zenith of Envy."
"Well then what's the issue? If you don't mind my asking sir," Sky asked again.
"The spells are supposed to hold the Sins even during their respective Zeniths and yet Wrath escaped at the peak of his power," Battle explained. "You know what this tells me General?"
"What sir?"
"Someone let Wrath out. Someone wanted him to be free."
Sky's mouth opened. "Who could or frankly, who would release a Sin?"
"No one outside of Warhorse that's for sure," Battle reasoned. "I mean, nopony outside of the empire knows the Sins exist."
Sky scuffed her feet.
"Not strictly true sir," she reminded casually. Battle's eyes narrowed on Sky.
"If you are implying that our allies from Equestria had something to do with this General..." Battle said ominously.
"I was merely listing the probabilities sir," Sky said quickly. "I fought and trained Rainbow Dash myself. I know for a fact she would never lift a finger to harm the empire, nor any of her friends."
Battle smiled. "I was just messing Sky," Battle said. "I know you didn't mean it. Thought that still leaves us with who released Wrath?" He looked back to Sky. "You said you had something else Sky?"
Sky held up the ring to the light before passing it to Battle. "It's not much. I found it by the entrance on guard duty. Too recent to be part of Wrath's collection."
Battle took the ring and held it to the light as Sky had. He began to turn it over in his grasp and lifted it to his eye. His scowl darkened his face one more. The silver band of metal was shaped like an open phoenix head, the eye of the great bird set with a glistening purple gemstone.
"You're right," Battle said. "This is too recent to be in Wrath's collection."
"Then what is it?" Sky asked.
"A calling card," Battle muttered. "Of the people who unleashed Wrath for us."
"Which are?"
"The Cultoribus de Peccatis," Battle growled. "An underground society that worship's the Sins as their gods. It's like a cult. The thing is, they're extremely underground. We don't know the individual members and their movements are secretive."
"They unleashed Wrath?"
"It would appear so," Battle replied. "My grandfather never took them seriously. They were just a pack of jokers and hecklers who caused trouble for the empire back when he was King. But now? If they're actually attempting to release the Sins from their prisons... We have to find them and stop them."
Sky's eyes suddenly opened. "Sir?"
"Yes General?"
"Didn't you say we were entering the Zenith of Envy?"
Battle looked up sharply.
"Victoriam nos adjuvet," Battle whispered. "We have to find Envy's tomb."
"Who's to say though sir that they even know where Envy's tomb is sir?"
"They knew where Wrath was buried did they not?" Battle said, opening up the architect's notebook once more and scanning some of the later pages. He flicked through page after page, barely glancing at the words on it.
"Anything?" Sky asked.
Battle remained silent. He remained still as he continued to read.
"I recognise this," he said quietly.
"Sir?"
Battle looked up, a glint of fear in his eyes. "I know this tale."
"Tale sir?" Sky asked.
"The notebook says that when Wrath appeared in these lands the three tribes began to feel ill-content and mistrust for one another. They didn't work together see? So the unicorns and pegasi demanded food from the earth ponies, and they in turn changed day to night, night to day, and altered the weather to better suit the earth ponies."
"And then the windigo's came?" Sky asked. To prove her point, a strange, ethereal cry came from outside. Battle nodded.
"According to this, a group from each tribe, led by their respective ambassadors left these lands to search for a new home."
"And who were these ambassadors?" Sky asked.
"The daughter of the unicorn king, Princess Platinum. The pegasus military leader Commander Hurricane. And the earth pony leader, Chancellor Pudding-head."
"Pudding-head? Really?"
"The point is I've heard these names before!" Battle exclaimed. "These were three of the six founders of Equestria!"
Sky raised an eyebrow.
"Why would an architect be so concerned with the migration of another nation?" she asked. Battle flicked through the pages. His eyes widened.
"You had to ask," he muttered.
"Sir?"
"Quod ignari et ambulavit in ulnis amplexus unum peccatum alterius. Oro invidia quam ira sit mitior illis erat," Battle recited, closing the book.
"In modern day terms sire?" Sky sighed.
"Little do they know that they have walked from the embrace of one tomb and into the arms of another. I pray Envy will be kinder to them than Wrath," Battle translated. Sky's eyes widened.
"You said that the people who he spoke of were the founders of Equestria?"
"Yes I did."
Sky looked at him for a long moment.
"We have gathered all we can learn from here," Battle said swiftly. "Tell the troops we move out in exactly one hour and that they're to get the lead out. I want to reach Legion within one week."
"Yes sir!" Sky said, snapping to attention.
Battle looked to the book in his hand. "Victoriam mea custodiant Twilight tutum."
Twilight Sparkle could hardly contain her excitement. She knew that if she let her friends see how flustered she was she would never be able to live it down. Even this though was barely enough to keep her in check. She spent most of her time rushing to the bathroom mirror to check her mane, her clothes, her feathers and anything else that could possibly have gone wrong in the past thirty seconds since she had looked at herself. It wasn't because she was nervous she told herself. It was because the pony she was expecting to see today had saved her life. The least she could do was look presentable.
She gave out a small girlish squeal before blushing severely. She did not just make that noise did she?
"Twilight come on, you're gonna be late!" Spike cried from downstairs. "The train's leaving in five minutes!"
Twilight checked her watch and gave a cry of alarm as she realised Spike was right. She had been so worked up about her appearance she had completely failed to notice how time had flown. She flew downstairs to the library proper and turned to Spike who was holding the front door open, tapping his foot impatiently.
"Thanks Spike, you'll watch the library while I'm gone?" she said breathlessly, jogging on the spot.
"Yeah, I always do don't I?" Spike asked. "I don't see why I can't come to Canterlot with you though."
"Spike we'll barely be there for an hour if all things go right," Twilight explained. "Plus with the train ride there and back, do you want to spend four hours on a train for an hour in Canterlot?"
"I guess not," Spike admitted. He looked up. "You better get going. You don't wanna be late."
"Oh right! Bye Spike, don't eat too many gems while I'm out!" Twilight said as she rushed out of the front door and down the high street. Spike rolled his eyes as he closed the door after him.
"I swear she get's worse everyday."
"Hoo."
"Twilight."
"Hoo."
"TWILIGHT!"
Rainbow Dash tapped her foot impatiently, wings fluttering rapidly behind her back. Applejack rolled her eyes at her friends impatient behaviour.
"Give it a rest Dash, Twilight'll be here when she gets here," she sighed.
"Yeah but isn't Twilight always like super early when she's meeting somepony?" Dash asked. "And you'd think with who she's meeting today, she'd be camping out in front of the damn station."
"Dash there is no need to swear dear," Rarity admonished checking her mane in a small pocket mirror.
"I know," Dash sighed. "It's just... I'd hate for her to be late you know? I mean we all know how important this is for her right?"
"Well duh?" Pinkie exclaimed. "I mean she's only been talking about everyday for the past week! And besides, who wouldn't be excited. I mean, every pony in Ponyville is in a buzz. Isn't that right Fluttershy?"
"Um, yeah, every pony," Fluttershy mumbled, slightly terrified of being put suddenly in the spotlight.
"You see? Even Fluttershy's excited!" Pinkie cried. "I mean this is only the first time Battle's come to Equestria since we beat the pants off of Wrath after all!"
"We know Pinkie darling," Rarity said, flipping her mirror shut and sliding it into her pocket. "And we're all terribly excited to see Battle again."
"Well of course we're excited Rarity, that's what I was just saying," Pinkie cried, rolling her eyes.
"Oh, yes," Rarity muttered.
"I just hope he brings some of that Warhorse mead with him," Dash muttered. "He still owes me a barrel."
"Oh, Apple Family Cider not good enough for ya now Dash?" Applejack huffed, folding her arms.
"I never said that!" Dash cried. "But you refused to try any so you never saw how good it was. I mean don't get me wrong, it's not better than Sweet Apple Acres Cider but... it's not worse."
"I was messin' with you Dash," Applejack chuckled. She looked over Dash's shoulder. "There she is."
Dash and the other three turned as Twilight came panting into view.
"S-sorry," she panted, "Lost... track... of... time..."
"You? Twilight Sparkle, loose track of time?" Dash scoffed.
"What were ya doing?" Applejack asked.
"I was... reading through some notes," Twilight lied.
"Uhuh," Applejack nodded, not believing a word of what she said.
"Twilight it's okay to be nervous," Rarity assured her.
"I'm not nervous! Who said I was nervous?" Twilight demanded, flushing bright pink.
"Well considering the last time you saw Battle he was two steps away from sticking his tongue down your-"
"RAINBOW!" Applejack cut off.
"Throat," Dash finished. "Celestia get your mind out the gutter AJ, geez."
"You, um, saw that?" Twilight squeaked.
"We all did Twilight," Rarity said before adding, "And we all lost ten bits to Fluttershy."
"For what?" Twilight asked as Fluttershy scuffed her feet, a small smile on her face.
"We had a bet on how he'd say bye," Applejack explained. "Fluttershy was the only one who bet on that sweet little smooch he gave your Cutie Mark."
"It wasn't a 'smooch'!" Twilight protested.
"Really? Looked like that from where we were standing," Dash chuckled.
"Oh look here's the train!" Twilight exclaimed loudly, a blush staining her face a deep red.
And she was correct as the train pulled up into the station. Twilight was the first aboard, instantly trying to avid any further conversation about the last time she had seen Battle Ready. She did however have to ask one last question.
"My brother didn't see did he?"
Celestia bit her lip in annoyance and rubbed her temples with two fingers each. Frustrated was one word to describe how she was currently feeling. Another word would be disappointment. Not for any failings that would have normally affect her. No the disappointment was to something that she knew would only cause distress to her student and fellow Princess. She felt sorry too of course. Sorry that Twilight would come all this way to Canterlot for nothing. Sorry she wouldn't get to see who she came here to see. And sorry she would have to deal with her.
Celestia groaned as she pinched her nose. She was good friends with Veteran Centurion and they saw eye to eye on several matters of diplomacy between their two nations. However if they could both agree whole-heartedly on one fact and one fact alone they knew which one it would be.
Centurion's daughter was the most annoying pony on the planet.
Celestia could only hope the guards she had left in the meeting chamber would forgive her for trapping them in the same room as Tactical for any extended period of time. Why Tactical? Why? Celestia racked her head to think of a reason why Centurion would saddle her with his daughter. She came up with none.
She sighed. She had to be rational and calm about this. Despite the fact that if Tactical made one more snooty request she would rip her-
"Calm Celestia, calm," she breathed in deep and heavily.
"Speaking to yourself is never a good sign dear sister," said a voice from behind her. Celestia turned to see Luna standing there, her grim face a mirror of her own.
"What did she say to you?" Celestia asked.
"She really is here?" Luna groaned. "I thought it was some awful joke Veteran thought to play on us."
"I assure you, Tactical is very much here," Celestia grumbled. She looked at Luna. "So, did you want anything sister?"
"Twilight's here," Luna said, glancing out of the window. "Do you want me to intercept and tell her about the change in plans?"
"No," Celestia sighed. "I shall tell her."
"Better hurry," Luna said as she looked down from where they stood. "She's almost at the meeting chamber."
Twilight felt her smile had been stretched to near Pinkie Pie standard's as she climbed the steps to the meeting chambers. The guards that flanked her were silent and bore emotionless expressions but Twilight didn't really care. Her good spirits kept her smile on her face and, if what Battle had promised had come to fruition, she might even get to spend time with one of her few male friends. Not that there was any reason she wanted to hang out with Battle in particular.
She blushed to the tips of her ears again, hoping the guards wouldn't notice. If they did, they didn't care. She cleared her throat and shook her head, trying to clear all thoughts from her head as they approached the door. She had to look presentable after all. She was a Princess. She couldn't look all flustered in front of a foreign dignitary, even if he was a friend.
The guards stopped on either side of the door and came to attention with the guards who stood beside the doorway. They saluted back as Twilight's escort's turned on their heals and began back down the staircase. The door-guards leaned in and gripped a handle each and pulled.
Twilight was immediately fixed with a pair of familiar navy blue eyes. They just weren't the ones she wanted to see.
"You're very nearly late," said Tactical's clipped voice from where she sat.
Twilight took several slow steps forward before sitting down at the opposite side of the table to Tactical. Her slight smile when the doors had opened had crashed into a disappointed scowl.
"Hello Tactical," she said, her voice just as cold as Tactical's.
"Twilight," she acknowledged. "A... pleasure to see you once again."
"The pleasure, is all mine I assure you," Twilight replied, voice dripping in sarcasm.
"This isn't a picnic for me either you know," Tactical hissed, loosing her formality. "You think I like being sent by my father as an errand dog? A mail-pony?"
"What's wrong with being a mail-pony?" Twilight asked, thinking of one grey-furred pegasus that may have been offended by that comment.
"It is beneath my station," Tactical replied, her voice sounding colder than Wrath's tomb.
"Uh-huh," Twilight grumbled. "Where's your brother then? I was supposed to be meeting Battle."
"The Commander," Tactical growled. "Left on some expedition somewhere a few weeks ago and hasn't been heard from since."
"What was the expedition?" Twilight asked.
"Classified Warhorse information," Tactical said far too quickly.
"They didn't tell you did they?" Twilight smirked. Tactical flushed scarlet in rage and embarrassment.
"So what if they didn't?" Tactical growled. Twilight rolled her eyes.
"So are we going to spend our time trading quips and insults or are we going to get down to some politics?" she asked.
"Oh believe me, nothing would please me more," Tactical muttered. "But I am not here to meet on political discussions for our two nations."
"Then why are you here?" Twilight demanded. "To waste my time?"
"I was sent here to inform you that until the Commander returns from his expedition," Tactical growled, "And when any business that he may have accumulated in his absence, both present and past, have been dealt with, these diplomatic summits shall have to be postponed."
Twilight's lips curled into a snide smile.
"King Veteran sent you to tell me this? You really are his mail pony."
Tactical snarled before turning on her heel. Twilight smile became more prominent as she withdrew a scroll from her pocket.
"Oh, Tactical?"
"Yes?" she hissed.
"I need you to give this to your brother, next time you see him," Twilight said, lifting up a tightly bound scroll, tied in red ribbon and sealed with a wad of golden wax. Tactical's face seethed as she took the letter.
"Consider it done," she growled, before leaving the room, flanked by her own Warhorse guards. Twilight's smile faded as she put her head in her hands, the small joy she had felt in mocking Tactical draining from under a sense of crushing disappointment. Battle hadn't turned up? He hadn't even been in Legion? Where was he then?
Battle had learnt many things in his training. His military skills were but one of them and considering the fact that his Cutie Mark meant he was naturally adept in the art of warfare, whatever branch it was, his training in that field was less intensive. Among other things he learnt world and Warhorse history, politics, geography, foreign languages, ballroom dancing (to his eternal shame something he was surprisingly adept at), how to read and speak the ancient tongue of Warhorse and astrology.
In his astrological studies he had learnt to read the stars to tell what time of year. What month it was.
If he was reading the constellations right, he was late. He had missed his diplomatic summit with Twilight. He sighed. He had hoped that this expedition would have been over much sooner, hoped he would have returned in time. But now Twilight was most likely listening to Tactical's ridiculous opinions, and he was stuck out here in the cold.
Battle let his head fall down onto his chest and rubbed one eye. He could only imagine how Twilight felt. Not only was he late, but she was being told by Tactical of all ponies...
He shook his head as he walked through the streets of Legion, his entourage following behind. They were tired and weary, but he could tell they were pleased to be back home. He had to admit it though that it did feel good to be back after the time they had spent in the north inside Wrath's tomb. It seemed just yesterday that he had walked up this street towards the military zone, with but a group of eight ponies beside him as he returned to Warhorse after his time in Equestria.
He still smiled at the memory of Tactical's face upon seeing him. It was an eternal source of happiness to him.
The few people who were still on the streets cleared out of Battle's way as he and the soldiers drew nearer. Even those who had clearly had a bit too much mead this evening, stumbled out of their path.
The gates to the military zone appeared in the distance. A cry went out and the gates quickly swung open as Battle approached. He stepped through and his group followed. The gates swung shut behind them and Battle turned to his soldiers.
"Dismissed!" he cried, smiling slightly. "Get some sleep you dog-eared bastards."
There was a sigh of relief as the Generals took charge of their respective soldiers. Battle turned on his heel and walked swiftly up to the tower of Equitem, taking the steps to the great bronze doors three at a time. They swung open to his touch as he swept inside. His father's sword-hand, a stallion by the name of Guard Post, walked up to his side as Battle strode through the tower's entrance hall.
"Welcome back to Legion Commander," Post said in his usual, clipped manner. "I trust and hope your expedition proved useful."
"I wish to speak with my father," Battle said quickly. "As soon as possible Guard, if not sooner."
"Where shall I say you will be meeting him?" Post asked.
"The usual chamber," Battle replied. "You know what my father likes. Tell him I shall meet him there in approximately half an hour. I need to make myself presentable."
"Of course Commander," Post said as they began up the long steps of the tower. Post paused as they began up different staircases. "Commander?"
"Yes?" Battle said, looking at Post expectantly.
"Should I awaken your sister as well?" Post asked tentatively. Battle bit his lip.
"I suppose... yes. This matter will concern even her... eventually." Battle muttered the last under his breath as he began taking the steps up the tower two at a time. He knew that, given the sheer size of the tower, there were incantations carved into the very marble, the stairs would take him only to the floor her wanted to be on. It was very old and complex magic that cut down vertical distances, something for which Battle could both love and loathe. Love in that it saved Battle time and loathe in that Battle had once tried to climb all the real stairs from top to bottom as a training exercise. In order for that to actually happen, Battle had had to disable the spells on an entire staircase, one that not many ponies used. That had nearly blown his head off.
He reached his chambers quickly and closed the doors swiftly behind him. He didn't use his room in the tower that often, preferring to sleep in the barracks with his troops. He was a soldier first and a Prince second in his own opinion. Still, he needed to use it now.
Battle pealed off her armour and set it on the mannequin in the corner. He stepped through a corned behind his bed and lit the candles with a quick glow from his horn. A few moments later Battle had a bath filled with steamy water. Battle closed the bathroom door behind him and stripped off his underclothes before sliding into the water.
The fire in the meeting chamber was roaring by the time Battle reached it, freshly washed and in clean clothes. His father and sister were already there. Veteran Centurian had taken his usual position in his favourite armchair, looking at the blazing flames in the grate. Tactical was slumped over a table, breathing lightly, clearly tired. She looked up blearily as Battle entered and she fixed him with a look of undisguised contempt.
"Back at last I see," she grumbled, pushing herself into a sitting position.
Veteran gave a growl and Tactical flinched. The King turned to face Battle in his chair, his face breaking into a slight smile.
"Hello my son," Veteran said.
"Father," Battle replied with respect, saluting his father.
"I trust your expedition yielded the results you were hoping for?"
Battle bit his lip and walked to the fire, taking his usual stance by leaning against it. He closed his eyes, remembering the time he had been told about Wrath's escape. It had been like being punched in the gut by an iron clad fist. But this? Being the bearer of bad news? It was like someone had that same iron coated hand clamped onto his heart. It was a thousand times worse.
"You did find how Wrath escaped?" Veteran prompted. Battle took a breath, inhaling smoke laced air from the fire. It calmed him slightly, put his mind back into its battle ready state.
"In a manner of speaking father," Battle muttered. Veteran frowned and Tactical sat upright, a strange look crossing her face. If either stallion had taken the time to look at her, they would have seen nervousness in her face. When she spoke however, she was quite calm.
"What does that mean exactly?" she asked.
"A decent question for once my girl," Veteran praised. "What do you mean my son?"
"Wrath didn't escape father," Battle said simply. Veteran opened his mouth to argue the contrary but Battle continued hastily, "He didn't escape. He was released."
The colour drained from Veteran's face.
"What?" he breathed.
Battle held out the ring Sky had discovered by the entrance to Wrath's tomb. Veteran got to his feet and picked the ring from Battle's hand. He examined it closely, before looking at Battle.
"Cultoribus de Peccatis," he said.
"I believe so," Battle confirmed.
"I don't believe this," Veteran muttered. "This secret cult has never been a threat before. How? How did they get their hands on such magic that they released Wrath?"
"They were smart too father," Battle said. "They waited for the Zenith of Wrath before they opened his tomb."
"How do we know Wrath didn't simply break free from his bonds?" Tactical asked. "I mean the enchantments are ancient."
"Ancient yes, but also still riddled with power," Veteran explained. "They still bind true even to this day. No the power of the Sins cannot break those spells from within. Battle is correct... someone must have let Wrath out."
Tactical bit her lip as Veteran handed Battle the ring back.
"We must find who leads this society and stop them," Veteran muttered.
"Father I believe they may already be planning to move again," Battle said. "They already knew where Wrath was buried. Who's to say they don't know where the other tombs are?"
"You're being paranoid," Tactical sighed.
"There is no such thing as paranoia when dealing with the Sins," Veteran replied. "But while you may be correct my son, we still have yet to find the next tomb of the Sins ourselves, and we're rapidly approaching the Zenith of Envy."
"Not strictly true father," Battle replied. Veteran looked at him sharply, a coy smile on his face.
"You know something." It wasn't a question.
Battle turned to the window. He walked to it and looked up into the starry sky.
"I know where the Kingdom of Envy is," Battle said hesitantly. "The location of the tomb itself eludes me but-"
"It matters not," Veteran said, smiling broadly. "We have but a single land to search now. You have narrowed our field considerably Battle."
"Where is the Kingdom of Envy then Battle?" Tactical asked.
Battle paused again before speaking. "I believe... it is Equestria."
Tactical frowned. "You think the Kingdom of Envy is in Equestria?"
"No I don't think the Kingdom of Envy is in Equestria, I know the Kingdom of Envy is Equestria," Battle corrected.
Veteran nodded slowly. "I see. How soon until we enter the Zenith of Envy?"
Battle's eyes scanned the stars quickly. Given the intricate patterns of stars that correlated to the time of year, it took Battle a moment to gather the necessary answer for his father.
"Twelve days," Battle said with dread turning to face Veteran. "At best we have thirteen, but it's only an estimate."
Veteran bit his lip. He sat in his chair and thought for a few moments before turning to Battle.
"I shall send foreword to Celestia that we will be supplying troops to consolidate our forces in preparation for Envy's arrival," he said. "You take as many ponies as you deem necessary with you and prepare a defence."
"Yes sir," Battle said, snapping to attention. Veteran seemed to struggle with some internal decision.
"Take your sister with you," he said at last.
Battle's eye twitched.
"May I ask why?" Battle asked stiffly.
"The thought had also crossed my mind," Tactical muttered.
"If Envy does escape it cane be fairly certain she will come here," Veteran replied. "The only reason Wrath didn't come to us was that we went out to meet him the first time, and the second-"
"He was after me," Battle supplied.
"Exactly," Veteran acknowledged. "If Envy does come for Legion I must know that you are safe, and that you will live to fight on."
Battle's eyes flickered to Tactical before sighing.
"As you command my King," Battle sighed. Veteran smiled warmly at Battle, gave a curt nod to Tactical and limped out of the room. Tactical sat upright and scowled at Battle.
"How long does the Zenith last?" Tactical snapped. "I need to know how long I must put up with Equestrian society."
"In which case I will not tell you," Battle retorted. "If you'll excuse me, I have an army to repair."
"Hold it!" Tactical called. "Before you go anywhere, your pen-friend gave me something addressed to you while I was in Equestria, wasting everypony's time."
She held out a scroll which Battle took from her. He unfurled the scroll and saw Twilight's familiar, slender handwriting. He smiled slightly as he began to read.
'Dear Prince Battle Ready of Warhorse, I, Princess Twilight Sparkle of Equestria, invite you to the Grand Galloping Gala. The Gala is a traditional royal ball that is attended by all classes of ponies, and is a traditional celebration of the construction of out most wonderful capital city of Canterlot. The Gala is held, as you can most probably tell, is held in the city which it celebrates, Canterlot, on the date of'
Battle had to peer in close to the paper to see the smudged date.
'This year in the spirit of friendship, Princess Celestia has allowed for nobilities from other nations to attend the Gala, and so I have extended my invitation out to you. Please find enclosed your golden entry ticket, without which, you will be unable to enter the Gala. I hope you will grace us with your presence.
Yours, Princess Twilight Sparkle
P.S. Please pleas please be there!'
Battle chuckled at Twilight's break in formality in the post script but took the ticket which had been at the bottom of the scroll and rolled up the parchment. By the time that was done, his smile was gone. He needed to get an army ready. He was setting out tomorrow.
Barron Invidebit looked up as the seventh person walked into the green lit room. He frowned slightly as he saw who it was.
"This meeting is for the Inner Sanctum cleric," he said, his voice harsh. "What purpose do you have in eavesdropping?"
"Nothing Barron," the cleric stammered quickly. "I have only been sent by the Madame in order to deliver a message. I have the seal permitting me entrance to this meeting."
He quickly held up a small, gold plate about the size of his palm. It was the thickness of two drachma and engraved with the symbol of the order. The open phoenix head, breathing flames upon the Tower of Equitem.
The Barron nodded in recognition of the seal. "Very well Cleric, what is the message?"
"The Madame, she said only this," the cleric said slowly. "'The heretic knows. The plan must advance.'"
The Barron's eyes widened slightly, and the other five people around the table shifted uncomfortably. After a few moments the Barron cleared his throat.
"Yes... thank you cleric, you may leave now."
The cleric bowed his head. "Hail to the Sins."
"Hail," the six repeated. When the door clicked shut, the Barron leaned over the table.
"So," he whispered darkly. "Our involvement with Wrath has been discovered. And the Prince moves to ensure we do not release our Lady Envy."
"We must go to the Kingdom," said one of the other seated figures.
"As if this was not obvious?" growled another.
"Silence," the Barron snapped. "As we are well aware the Zenith of Envy begins in less than a fortnight. And given the Madame's failure to attend it therefore falls to me to decide out course of action."
"While it may be your decision Barron," the second figure replied, "It does not give you the right to treat us as inferiors. We are equal in this council, and only the Madame has authority over us."
"Really? We are equal here, are we Sir Iram?" the Barron asked, his voice clipped.
Iram growled low in his throat.
"Because last I recalled the Madame said that you and the rest of your ilk could now be cast from the order without mourning. How sad it must be to know that you have dedicated your life to this order to a Sin that no longer holds any relevance."
Iram stood up, eyes flaring under his hood.
"How DARE you!?" he roared. "We have served this order since it was founded. The duties and honour to be Decemuir of Wrath has been handed down my family for generations, and I shall not have that throw aside because of you!"
"But you forget it is not his fault," the first speaker replied coolly. "You master is gone after all. Surely you did not think you would hold any power? The only reason you are here is that the Madame has yet to decide what to do with you and your subordinates."
Iram growled again and sat back down, his face heated in shame and hatred. The Barron smiled. He had never liked Iram, and now that his Sin had fallen, he would revel in his humiliation. He turned back to the other four valid Decemuir to discuss the matters of his own Sin.
"As it falls to me to decide our course of action," the Barron said, "I shall depart for the Kingdom immediately. Once there I shall collaborate with the branch of our order already there and make further preparations for the Zenith of Envy. When it reaches its peak, I shall open the Gates of Envy and Equestria shall fall."
"If, the Heretic doesn't stop you that is," said Iram darkly.
"The Heretic would have to find me first."
Battle leaned against the prow of the ship as it sailed from harbour at Century. Provided the weather was good, they would make port at Equestria by noon the following day. He looked up at the night sky and bit his lip. He knew that sailing at night was not the wisest of choices but he and his crew were well prepared for any scenario. He rolled his eyes slightly as he thought of his self-proclaimed 'first mate'.
Tactical had certainly not earned her sea-legs, despite numerous travels across the channel to Equestria. As a result, she had locked herself straight into her cabin as soon as they had raised anchor. Which of course left Battle and the rest of his crew to man the boat to Equestria. None of them minded as they knew that Tactical would most likely simply get in the way of things.
Battle's crew aside from Tactical consisted of his three Generals, his lead assassin and black operations soldier (and one of many close friends) the unicorn Merciless, two of Sky Blade's more bulky pegasus flyers, a stallion named Thunder Cracker and a mare named Jet Stream, and Juggernaut's right hand pony, Barricade, a stallion almost as butch as he was.
Of course right now the only person on deck was himself and Arson, who was manning the helm. Everyone else was down below, sleeping silently.
Twelve days. He had twelve days before the Zenith of Envy began. Twelve days to find the tomb of Envy and prevent the Cultoribus de Peccatis from opening it. A tall order to be sure. After all they would no doubt know where the tomb of Envy would be, and he would have but twelve days to search all of Equestria for the Sin.
Still despite this, Battle couldn't help but let a small smile come across his face. Equestria had become sort of a second home for him. True his heart would always be part of the Empire, and thus would always be drawn to great city of Legion, but the streets of Ponyville had generated their own charm and warmth and friendliness to them. It would be good to be back. To see the sights he had grown so familiar too in his time living in the Ponyville library.
"Must there always be a Sin involved for me to enjoy the rural beauty of Equestria?" Battle said to himself as they sailed ever nearer. He reached into an inner pocket and pulled out the letter Twilight had sent him, inviting him to the Grand Galloping Gala.
A formal gathering.
It wouldn't have been Battle's first pick for a first date but he and Twilight were both important monarchs for their respective countries. It wasn't as if they could go out to the movies whenever they liked or something like that.
He rubbed his eyes and yawned.
"Twilight..." He muttered so softly he wasn't sure if he had really spoken. A smile came across his face. It may not have been the circumstances they wanted, but Battle would at least get to stay a while in Equestria.
"This is Equestria?" Sky Blade asked as she stepped off of the gang plank.
"Yep," Battle said.
"Permission to set up a permanent outpost here sir?"
"Denied General. We have a job to do remember?"
"Yes sir," Sky sighed dejectedly.
"Can we get this over with?" Tactical growled.
"This is not a simple arrive, talk a bit, leave Tactical," Battle replied. "You know why we're here and Celetia is expecting us at Canterlot before the day's end."
"That could be indefinite given she chooses when the day ends," Tactical grumbled.
"Get on the damn train."
"There's a word missing there," Tactical muttered as the group walked through the beach town the had moored at.
"Oh yes how silly of me," Battle gasped in mock realisation. "I meant to say; 'Get on the damn train now.'"
Juggernaut couldn't help but laugh as Tactical's face burned in shame.
"Oh come on, it was a joke," Battle sighed. "Are you going to be angry with me for the whole time we're in Equestria?"
"Are you going to relive your claim on the throne?"
"No."
"Then yes I'm going to be angry with you forever how long we're here."
Battle rolled his eyes as they approached the train station. As they reached the ticket booth Battle patted down his pockets, nose wrinkled in frustration.
"Oh come on I know I brought it with me," he grumbled,
"What?" Tactical sighed.
"Bag o' bits."
"I beg your pardon?"
"My bag of bits," Battle repeated. "The currency here in Equestria."
Tactical stared at him.
"You're going to pay for a ticket?"
"No."
"Oh you have sense then."
"More so than you considering I'm paying for all of us."
Tactical looked at him incredulously. "We are royalty for buck's sake! Why should we pay for a ticket?"
Battle looked at her with an expression that simple screamed 'Are you serious?'
"I'm paying for tickets because while we are taking the train, we do not have to. We're using this means of transportation for the sake of time and convenience. So, seeing as we are using this public system for our own benefit, I figured we may as well support the economic growth of Equestria while we're here. Aha! Got you ya little bastard!"
Battle withdrew a leather pouch about the size of his fist. He opened it up and tipped the contents into his hand as he approached the booth. He glanced back at his fellows.
"We all know what our jobs are?" he asked. They nodded, Tactical sighing dejectedly as she did. Battle ignored her and purchased the tickets for himself and his fellows. He handed each one out to their intended recipient. When Sky received hers however, a small frown flickered across her face. A look which did not escape Battle. "Something the matter Sky?"
"I should be coming with you sir," she mumbled. "You should be protected at all times."
Battle raised a sceptical eyebrow. "Sky, I'm in Equestria. Not only that, I'll still have some of the best soldiers Warhorse has to keep my back and, to top it all off, have you forgotten what I'm capable of?"
"No sir," Sky replied quickly.
"Then you'll know I'm well protected," Battle replied.
"It's not that," Sky sighed. Battle smiled as the penny dropped.
"Look I know you think you deserve a better position but I need someone I trust to do this job Sky," Battle explained. "I'm trusting you with something I feel is just as important as what we're doing in Canterlot."
"Babysitting?" Sky grumbled. Then she gasped in pain.
"I am not a baby," said a small voice.
Battle looked down with an admonishing stare.
"Blueprint," he said sternly. The young colt standing there bowed his head in slight shame under Battle's gaze. He scratched the back of his head, brushing his black mane, navy blue eyes shining with innocence and intelligence. Battle's expression softened as he saw the smudge of food at the edge of his mouth, staining his pale grey fur. He knelt down and licked his thumb before wiping the mark clean.
"First of all, don't kick my general," Battle said, leaning on one knee. "Secondly, I know you aren't a baby, it's an expression. And finally, keep food in your mouth, 'kay?"
"'Kay," Blueprint agreed. Battle smiled and ruffled the young colt's hair.
"Now, you be a good boy while you're in Ponyville and behave for Sky until I'm back from Canterlot. Okay li'l bro?"
"Yes Battle," Blueprint sighed, eyes rolling but smiling nonetheless. Battle straightened up and looked at Sky.
"I need someone to keep him out of trouble," Battle reiterated. "And out of you three you're the only one he'll behave for." His eyes turned to Merciless. "And the only one who won't encourage him."
Juggernaut blushed and rubbed the back of his head. A whistle sounded across the station and a cry went out.
"That's your train," Battle said. "Hop to it General."
"Yes sir," Sky said, picking Blueprint up under the armpits and lifting him a few inches off the ground before she flew down the station and disappeared from sight.
"I don't see why father made us bring him," Tactical muttered.
"The same reason he made me bring you," Battle snapped. "And besides out of the two of you, in a crisis Blueprint is more useful than you so I'd keep quiet if I were you sis."
Tactical stuck her tongue out as the group made their way to their own train. Arson itched his shoulder, the fingers of his other hand resting against each other, ready ignite should something happen. Battle knew he wan't doing it on purpose. It was training. Indeed, every one of Battle's group seemed to be even more wary. Battle knew that was partially his fault. He had insisted everyone was dressed in civilian clothing, and that any weapons they did bring were to be discrete. In short, his troops were feeling exposed.
Battle of course wasn't. He had lived in Equestria for several months during his self imposed exile, and during that time he had learnt that the only threats were the ones he had brought with him. The only thing Battle had to worry about now was the Sin that was about to be reawakened and the mad cult that worshipped it and no doubt hated his guts.
Another day at the office.
The ride to Canterlot had been a comfortable one. For Battle at least. Merciless had been patrolling up and down the train since it had left the station, his eyes glowering at each passenger as if he expected one of them to pull a knife on him. Juggernaut had received some very bizarre stares from the others ponies in the carriage, causing him to squirm uncomfortably. Due to a lack of seating, Arson had been forced to sit next to Tactical, an arrangement clearly neither of them were happy about. The other soldiers were restless. Being in unfamiliar territory was always nerve-racking for a soldier, no matter who they were.
This was not unfamiliar territory for Battle however. He smiled as he remembered his first time to Equestria...
Battle tugged at the chain-mail that clung to his neck. This formal armour was perhaps the most irratating of any he was ever forced to wear. Why his father insisted on it during his diplomatic summits he would never know. Still he could see the meaning behind this particular visit. This was the first time that he would attend a summit with an Equestrian ruler. In previous years his father and the Equestrian ruler Princess Celestia would discuss these matters. However with Battle having turned eighteen barely a month prior, Veteran Centurian believed it to be high time for Battle to become involved in some more mature issues.
While Battle would have much preferred to have spent this time with his fellow soldiers and pushing them through their paces he could see the reasoning in his father's logic. If Battle was going to be king one day, he would have to act like it. He hoped he would make a good first impression on the rulers of Equestria.
The door opened and Battle got to his feet in respect as a herald stepped through and stood by the door.
"Announcing, princess Celestia of Equestria!" he called as a tall, elegant alicorn stepped through, her white fur and wings practically radiating their own light, her long, prismatic mane and tail flowing like water. She smiled as she saw Battle and inclined her head. Battle returned the gesture, snapping to attention as he did so.
"Thank you gentlemen, that will be all," Celestia said to her entourage. the guards nodded and stepped back out of the room, the door swinging shut behind them.
"A pleasure to meet you at last Celestia," Battle said as he and Celestia sat at opposite ends of the table. "I have heard many things from my father about you."
"I was just about to say the same thing," Celestia replied. "Your father speaks very highly of you, though he did not mention you were quite so young."
"Why thank you," Battle said, inclining his head. "You don't look bad yourself."
Celestia gave a small chuckle.
"I understand also," Battle said slowly, "That this year is this thousandth anniversary of the Summer Sun Celebration?"
"Why yes it is," Celestia replied. "Your father told you?"
"Yes," Battle answered. "I believe he attended the ceremony one year?"
"He was the guest of honour four years ago."
"I would sincerely wish to see such a momentous occasion," Battle sighed. "Unfortunately whenever I try and attend something manages to come up. Some uprising or cry for help that will take me away from Legion for a few months and by the time I return the day has passed."
"The opposite to my own dear student," Celestia commented. "Whenever I try and persuade her to leave that library of hers she delves in deeper into those books."
"My father mentioned you had a pupil," Battle said, raising and eyebrow.
"Twilight Sparkle yes. A gifted unicorn, though a bit of a social recluse if I do say so myself. Hopefully one day I shall make a change to such behaviours."
Battle raised an eyebrow. "You have a plan for her?"
"Of course. I have never met a unicorn with such raw power. I expect great things from Twilight Sparkle."
Battle smiled. "That I do not doubt."
"Wake up idiot!"
Battle opened an eye as Tactical smacked him around the back of his head. The blow was weak, and even if it had been stronger, Battle knew no strike of his sister's would cause him any harm. Still it had been sufficient to wake him from his light slumber.
His blue eyes flickered over to the window and saw that they had arrived in Canterlot.
"Must've been asleep longer than I thought," he mumbled, pushing himself to his feet. He noted most of the people in the carriage had already disembarked and he, Tactical and Arson were the only ones left.
"The others have gone on ahead to make sure the platform is safe," Arson explained.
"Merciless' orders?"
"Yes sir."
"Fair enough," Battle shrugged as the three of them stepped from the train to the platform.
"It's an interesting place Canterlot," Arson commented. "Sort of... relaxed."
"I thought the same when I came here for the first time," Battle nodded. "Equestria is a more laid back place."
"Comes with the years of peace I assume," Arson said as the three joined the other members of their party.
"It's lazy you mean," Tactical grunted.
"Because you're one to talk about hard work," Battle snorted with a derisive laugh.
"To the castle then?" Tactical growled. "I don't want to be standing here all day waiting for the escort."
"The escort is already here," Battle replied, nodding to two ponies coming down the platform, raising his hand to wave in greeting.
Shining Armour was walking towards them, dressed in the silver and golden plated armour of the Crystal Empire. beside him, was another pony. A tall pegasus with pale green fur and feathers, dressed in the purple and golden armour that marked her as Captain of the Canterlot Royal Guard.
"Passed the torch on at last eh Shining?" Battle said, stepped to great his friend with a shake of hands.
"It seemed the best choice yeah," Shining replied, smiling back, before turning to his replacement. "This is Captain Daisy Cutter."
"A pleasure to make your acquaintance Captain," Battle said, stretching his hand out to the mare.
"Likewise your majesty," she replied, her voice cool and sharp, but her yellowish eyes wide in awe and admiration. Battle noted her Cutie Mark was a white shield with a pair of folded yellow wings over it. Shining on the other hand, noted the severe lack of soldiers.
"This your army?" he asked.
"The advanced guard," Battle corrected. "More shall be arriving within the week depending on our meeting." He looked around. "But this is not the best talk for now is it?"
"Yes of course," Shining replied nodding. "To the castle?"
Applebloom bounced up and down over and over again as she and the other Cutie Mark Crusaders ran down the high street a good thirty or so paces ahead of Applejack, who was smiling as the three fillies raced down the road to the station.
"I can't believe Babs' is back in town again!" Applebloom cried, her eyes sparkling in joy. "I can't believe how long it's been since the Apple family reunion!"
"I can't wait to hear how the Manehatten branch of the Cutie Mark Crusaders is doing!" Scootaloo exclaimed, just as excited.
"Maybe Babs has already found her Cutie Mark!?" Sweetie Belle suggested. It was not the first time this idea had been suggested, and only spurred the three girls to run faster towards the station in excited glee.
Applejack laughed as she began to jog after them. She knew what sort of trouble those girls might get up to if left alone for amount of time.
She caught up with them at the station just as the train pulled up to the platform, Applebloom and the others bouncing on the balls of their feet, waiting for Babs to emerge from the carriage. She smiled and waited a few feet behind the three fillies.
The doors to the train opened. A few doors down from where the three were stood, an orange furred filly with maroon hair that covered one eye stepped onto the platform. Applebloom was the one to spot her first.
"Babs!" she cried and rushed to embrace her cousin. "I missed ya cousin!"
"You too!" Babs replied, wrapping her arms around the other filly. "You ain't my favourite cousin for nothing you know?"
Applebloom smiled and the two walked over to the other Cutie Mark Crusaders. The four filly's began speaking excitedly as the approached Applejack, who was watching with a smile. Her eyes however wandered around the platform. She didn't recognise anypony else at first. Then she spotted the pale blue pegasus with neon blonde mane and grey brown eyes. As if to confirm her suspicions the pony turned her head to look around, and Applejack caught sight of her Cutie Mark: two crossed daggers on a cloud.
"No way..." she whispered under her breath.
For a few moments Sky Blade didn't see her. When she did however, she looked just as surprised as Applejack felt. Sky composed herself faster of course and approahced the farm pony.
"I was wondering why Ponyville," she said as she neared.
"Yeah," Applejack croaked. Sky cocked her head.
"Something wrong AJ?"
"Yer darn right there's somethin' wrong!" Applejack hissed at her. "What the hay are you doin' in Equestria?"
"Would you believe tourism?" Sky shrugged.
"Not funny."
"It could be true for all you know. Why are you assuming Warhorse brings bad tidings with it?"
"Because the last I heard, you an' Battle an' a whole bunch o' other Warhorse ponies were outta town."
"Tactical wasn't supposed to say that!" piped up a small voice from below wait height. Applejack looked down and saw the small unicorn colt standing there. He clung to Sky's leg at the look he was given. "Dad said that Tactical was to tell Miss Twilight Battle was sick."
Applejack looked at Sky.
"Battle expected Tactical to lie for him?"
"No the Commander didn't issue that order," Sky explained. "He was expecting us to return in time for his meeting with Twilight. As I understand it King Veteran wanted Tactical to concoct a possible bend of the truth that would less distressing to you here in Equestria. Missing in action sounds far worse than bed ridden does it not?"
"I guess," Applejack shrugged. She looked down at the colt. "Who's the small fry?"
"I'm not small!" Blueprint cried.
"This is Prince Blueprint of Warhorse," Sky explained coolly. "Battle's younger brother."
Applejack's eyes widened as she looked down at Blueprint, who stood up a little straighter, a proud look on his face. A black face, devoid of Cutie Mark.
"He's a sweet little guy ain't he?" Applejack asked, ruffling Blueprint's hair. His proud face become one of bashfulness and looked up at Applejack with sweet eyes. Applejack looked to Sky. "Is he here?"
Sky sighed. "Can we talk about this some place else?"
"Do I have to come too?" Blueprint sighed. "I only like this kind of talk when big bro is doing it."
Sky bit her lip.
"Ya'll can't let him go out by himself?" Applejack asked, raising an eyebrow.
"It was the Commander's orders for me to keep an eye on him," Sky explained. Applejack nodded before she turned to Applebloom.
"Applebloom, come 'ere for a second!" she said. The young filly looked up from her conversation with her friends before she walked over to her sister.
"What's up sis?"
"Applebloom, this here is Blueprint," Applejack said, gesturing to the grey furred foal. "He's new in Ponyville so he doesn't have any friends here."
Applebloom looked at Blueprint, who smiled sheepishly at her. Applebloom stared hard for a moment before her face split into a wide grin.
"You ain't got your Cutie Mark either!" she cried, pointing at Blueprint's blank cheek.
"Oh... yeah," Blueprint muttered scratching the back of his head.
Appelbloom's smile widened as she grabbed Blueprint's hand and pulled him towards the other Cutie Mark Crusaders, talking rapidly.
"Applebloom'll take good care o' him," Applejack explained. "Now. Why are ya'll here in Equestria?"
"And this is the Cutie Mark Crusader Clubhouse!" Applbloom exclaimed proudly. "It was mah sister Applejack's clubhouse when she was a li'l filly but I fixed 'er up good so we could use it."
Blueprint looked at the clubhouse and smiled.
"~Cooooool~" he whistled in appreciation.
"Aw it ain't all that," Applebloom said blushed scuffing her feet as she and the other clambered inside.
"It really is," Blueprint insisted looking around. "This place looks amazing." He sat down on one of the mast and looked around smiling. "So what do you do here then?"
"Normally this is where we come up with plans on how we get our Cutie Marks," Scootaloo explained.
"We're the last ponies in our class at school to get our Cutie Marks," Sweetie Belle elaborated. Blueprint frowned.
"Why's that so bad? I mean, doesn't that mean it'll be more special when you do get your Cutie Marks?"
"If we get them," Applebloom pouted. "We've tried everything we can think of."
the four fillies sat there for a few moments. Blueprint raised and eyebrow before he got to his feet and grabbed a sheet of blank paper from the floor. He picked up a handful of pencils and set down cross legged on the floor. The girls looked at him but they remained quite as Blueprint began to quickly sketch something on his sheet of paper. After about five minutes of waiting he set the pencils down again and showed them his work.
A green gemstone, so perfectly drawn, highlighted and cast in shadows that the Cutie Mark Crusaders believed it was real for a moment. The Barion cut green gem was clear and shone with some brilliant internal light that refracted and danced and splintered, creating intricate and beautiful patterns within themselves.
"That's beautiful!" Sweetie Belle exclaimed.
"Awesome!" Scootaloo agreed.
"I ain't never seen a pony draw like that!" Applebloom praised.
"You said it cous," Babs breathed.
"It's the Eye of Equitem," Blueprint explained. "Where I come from it is a symbol of hope. As long as the Eye is lit, there is always some hope left."
"Why show it to us?" Sweetie Belle asked. Blueprint looked at her and smiled.
"Because you looked like you could do with some hope."
"Well that's mighty kind of you Blue," Applebloom said smiling, "You don't mind if Ah call you Blue do you?"
"I kind of like it actually," Blueprint admitted, smiling back at Applebloom. "Better than what big bro calls me anyway."
"What's your brother call you?" Scootaloo asked.
"Squirt," Blueprint said, then he paused. "Still better then what he calls big sis."
"What's he call your sister?" Babs asked, Blueprint shyed away.
"Uh dad doesn't like it when I say words like that."
"We won't tell," Scootaloo promised. "Besides I know most of 'em anyway."
"Me too!" Applebloom piped up. "Applejack likes to use 'em when she' bucking apples when she thinks Ah can't hear her."
Blueprint smiled slightly before leaning in conspiratorially. "Bro likes to call big sis... a useless bitch."
The foals started tittering madly at the taboo of such forbidden language. When they calmed down, Sweetie Belle took a look at Blueprint's drawing again.
"Maybe you'll get your Cutie Mark in drawing?" she suggested.
"Big bro thought the same," Blueprint sighed. "But so far I don't have anything. He said I'll get my Cutie Mark when the time is right. My special talent is drawing, but it's not going to be art. I can feel it."
"I wish I knew what mah special talent was gonna be," Applejack lamented.
"You really don't," Blueprint muttered. "I hate knowing what my talent will be like but not being able to figure out what it'll be. It's so frustrating!"
He sagged slightly, ears drooping as he looked at the drawing of the Eye of Equitem. His eyes were filled with such sadness and frustration.
"Maybe we can help you out!" Babs exclaimed. "We could ask Miss Twilight about different kinds of drawing and try each one out!"
"Great idea Babs!" Applebloom exclaimed, before another, brighter look appeared in her eyes. "Maybe we could all get our Cutie Marks in research!"
"Yeah!" Sweetie Belle cried.
The four Cutie Mark Crusaders put their hands one on top of the other, before throwing them into the air.
"Cutie Mark Crusader Researchers! Yay!" the cried as one. In a flurry of movement, they each donned a maroon cape with golden silk lining. On each cape was a dark blue shield with three egg yellow ponies on it.
Applejack had decided to discuss whatever Sky had to say over some coffee at a local cafe. Avoiding Sugar Cube Corner was a good move on her part as well, as Pinkie Pie was sure to announce the arrival of a Warhorse General to anyone who would listen. No Applejack needed to speak to Sky privately for the time being. Maybe once she'd got answers from her, she could bring the issues to Twilight.
No matter how hard Sky tried to play innocent, Applejack could tell she was lying.
"Do you frequent this coffee house a lot?" Sky asked as they sat down at an outside table.
Applejack shook her head. "Ah leave that kind of thing to Rarity," she explained. "She's the one to drink at one of these places."
Sky nodded in understanding. the waited came to their table and the two mares placed their orders. The waited nodded, twirled his snooty moustache and stalked back off to inform the stallion behind the counter of their requests.
Applejack looked at Sky, arms folded. Sky looked back her hands resting patiently on the table top.
"How long do I gotta wait for you ta give me a straight answer?" she asked after five minutes of uncomfortable silence.
"Do you wanna know what my first chapter of training as an officer was?" Sky said casually.
"The silent treatment?" Applejack sighed.
"Resistance to torture," Sky replied just as casually. "Anything you can think to throw at me AJ I will shrug off because that's what I'm trained to do. Any form of interrogation you care to try will be ineffective so if you're getting any answers, it'll be on my terms."
Appeljack scowled.
"Don't I deserve to know something at least?" Applejack growled. "I helped ya'll fight Wrath remember?"
"Indeed you did," Sky acknowledged. "But unfortunately neither you or your friends are officers in the Warhorse army. I don't even think you have a rank."
"Doesn't anything we did at that tomb count for something!" Applejack hissed. "I mean, come on! You're in Equestria, which means something's going on! And I know you aren't here just lookin' out for Battle. Twilight said he wouldn't be coming for any diplomacy for a while."
Sky's face was stoic, but there was a glimmer of uncertainty in her eyes. For a few moments she said nothing.
"Envy," she muttered quietly.
"Wha?"
"Envy!" Sky hissed, louder. "The Commander is preparing for the arrival of Envy."
Applejack raised an eyebrow, but felt a shiver run up her spine and and icy grip clasped at her heart. She hadn't felt like this since she had first stepped into the tomb of Wrath. The waiter arrived and set down two cups on their table. Sky took her cappuccino, and stirred the contents with a spoon gently, before knocking back a small mouthful. Applejack picked up her own cup with a slightly trembling hand and took a sip of black coffee. She set it back down with a more stable hand before looking at Sky.
"What?"
Sky looked even more uncomfortable, before leaning in conspiratorially.
"The Commander doesn't want me to speak of this but you are right you deserve to know," Sky explained. "He wanted to tell you all when he returns from Canterlot but you have pressed me, and I feel I must answer."
"Why do I feel like what you're telling me is real bad news?" Applejack muttered gloomily.
"Because it is," Sky sighed. "You know Wrath was one of seven beings, one of seven Sins?"
"Sweet Celestia," Applejack breathed. "You ain't tellin' me what I think you're tellin' me?"
"Another Sin is rising Applejack," Sky continued brutally, looking into her murky cup. "And it pains me to tell you that we think it was buried somewhere here, in Equestria."
Applejack dropped her head into one hand in despair. She didn't know how the other girls had been affected by the battle with the forces of Wrath, but Applejack still woke up in the middle of the night in the throws of some recent nightmare. Indeed, Applejack had awoken in such a manner only that morning, sitting bolt upright in the darkness of her room, drenched in cold sweat, her mind reeling with memories of the battle on the ice fields and the cold glare of Wrath's eyes, the glint of metal and the stench of blood.
Even thinking about it now brought a chill to her heart.
"So..." Applejack said at last, her throat dry. "Ya'll think that there's another Sin here in Equestria?"
"Yes," Sky said simply.
"And is this one as bad as Wrath?" Applejack asked.
Sky mulled the question over, her mouth twisting as though tasting something unpleasant. After a few minutes she took another sip of her drink. She swilled that around in her mouth as she thought of an answer before she set the cup back down.
"I don't know," she said quietly. "The accounts of the Sins from the time of their first appearance are sketchy at best. We only know how bad Wrath was because he was released."
"He what?" Applejack spat a mouthful of coffee at the ground before she looked back up at Sky. "Say that again."
Sky put her head in her hands before she sighed.
"I can't believe I just said that," she murmured. She drew in a deep breath through her nose and sat up. "Yes, you heard right. Wrath was released; set free by a mad cult who worship the Sins as Gods. The Commander believes that they're here now, in Equestria, and are already preparing to set the next Sin free, which is why we're here. To find and stop them and, failing that, prepare a defence if Envy is released."
Applejack nodded dumbly, before draining the remains of her coffee.
"Ah just hope he ain't as bad as Wrath."
"She."
"Wut?"
"In all accounts Envy was described as being female," Sky explained. "As for being as bad as Wrath I have to say again we just don't know. However, looking at Equestria, I'd say she may not have had too much of an influence in Equestria's weather patterns."
"Beg pardon?" Applejack said blankly.
"Remember the domain Wrath had conquered?" Sky reminded. "It was not always the barren icy wasteland Wrath had turned it into. It was a thriving and pleasant country, much like Equestria. Even after Wrath was entombed, his power still froze the lands around him. But look here. The weather in Equestria has been the same ever since Ponies first settled here."
"Ah guess your right," Applejack muttered. She sighed. "Why Equestria though? And why now?"
"We are approaching the time of Zenith of Envy. That's why it's happening now," Sky replied. "This is the time in which Envy was born, and the star of her birth will be a beacon of power to her, making her strong enough to break through the barriers on the inside of her prison, while her followers will break open the outer seals to let her loose."
"I got it," Applejack sighed. "End of Equestria type thing, lot's of pony-folk in danger. I get the picture."
"Good to know you understand where we stand," Sky replied.
"I do have one question though," Applejack said as Sky took a sip of her cappuccino.
"Oh yes?"
"Why're you down here in Ponyville while the other Generals are up at Canterlot?"
Sky bit her lip in frustration. "The Commander wished me to watch over his younger brother. He thought that this smaller town would be a better place for Blueprint to spend his time in Equestria than the hustle and bustle of Canterlot. Therefore a guardian was supplied. I can certainly say it's an honour to be considered the only one suitable to be guarding a Prince... and yet..."
"Ya'll wanna be doing something important?" Applejack finished.
"Yes," Sky whispered. "I know the Commander is fully capable of organising our forces without me, but I feel I can be of more help up in Canterlot than down here... babysitting."
"Sounds to me sugar cube that you think Battle's tried to get rid o' ya'll," Applejack said.
"Yes," Sky whispered. "A foolish idea I know. The Commander values all three of his Generals in the highest esteem, and has been my friend for many years. I merely wish I was up there, helping him."
"You ain't up in Canterlot sugar-cube because Battle has a job he thinks is even more important than attending some stuffy ol' meeting'," Applejack reassured. "Protectin' his kin."
Sky smiled.
"Thank you for your words," Sky smiled. "Are you sure you're the Element of Honesty and not Kindness?"
Applejack chuckled. "Honest words ain't often kind, but they're always true."
Sky smiled again before a small look of realisation came across her face.
"I don't suppose the Element of Honesty would consider paying for a cappuccino?" she chuckled embarrassedly. "I... uh... that is to say the Commander didn't finance me with any local currency."
Applejack looked at Sky, before she let out a short guffaw of laughter. "All right sugar cube. Jus' this once ya hear?"
"Just this once," Sky said. She allowed her gaze to wander toward the skies. The bright clear sky looking pleasant and cool. It seemed to suggest that nothing could possibly go wrong. How Sky wished that such a thing were true.
Battle and Shining Armour strode up the spiral steps to the council chamber, taking them two at a time. Behind them, Daisy Cutter and Arson came at a more leisurely pace, Juggernaut and Tactical bringing up the rear. The Merciless and the others of the guard remained in the courtyard, practising manoeuvres, training with the Canterlot guard.
The two unicorns stepped into the chamber and Battle saluted. "Celestia."
The white alicorn turned from the window she was staring out of to look at Battle with a kind and sincere smile as always.
"My dear Battle. So good to see you again after all this time," she said smiling. "I wish it could be under better circumstances."
"Join the club we've got jackets," Battle replied sighing, pulling out his favourite chair from the table and sitting upon it. Shining sat down beside him as Celestia took a seat on the opposite side of the round table. A few moments later Luna stepped from the shadows and sat by her sister. Daisy Cutter and Battle's two Generals through the doorway and took seats by their respective monarchs. Tactical walked in last, sitting as far away as she could from anyone else.
"I assume what your father has already written to me in his last letter still stands true?" Celestia asked.
"It is unfortunately," Battle confirmed. Daisy Cutter cleared her throat.
"Forgive me for asking Princess Celestia, Prince Battle-"
"Commander if you don't mind," Battle corrected. "It's a personal thing. I'm only a Prince for public relations."
"Commander Battle then," Daisy Cutter remedied, "Forgive me, but what exactly are we dealing with here?"
Battle shot a sideways glance at Shining Armour before answering. "How long have you been a member of the Royal Guard Captain?"
"Almost as long as the Prince," Daisy answered, confused.
"I see," Battle nodded. "So I assume you were left in charge of the guard in Canterlot when Princess Twilight Sparkle was kidnapped just over half a year ago?"
"Yes sir."
"And none of the other guards have informed you of what occurred during the battle to rescue Twilight?"
"Here we go," Tactical muttered under her breath.
"I have heard stories sir," Daisy Cutter blushed. "But, from what I've heard..."
"Go on Captain," Battle prompted. "We're all friends here, better to speak your mind."
"The things I've heard can't be real," Daisy snorted smiling. "I mean, a half pony, half dragon beast the size of the castle? Commanding a legion of monstrous creatures? It's the stuff of fairy tale."
Battle's lips twitched into a smile themselves. "It's good to get this straightened out at the beginning Captain. That way you think us all gibbering lunatics."
Daisy Cutter frowned. "Are you telling me this beast existed? Impossible. It's nothing more than a tale surely."
"Fairy tales all start somewhere Captain," Battle rebuked. "And Warhorse has some frightful bedtime stories we like to tell little foals. Like the story of how Warhorse was founded by seven mighty warriors, who turned themselves into creatures of absolute and perfect destruction. Seven creatures who darkest and most powerful evils became their one defining characteristic and gave their new names to the Seven Deadly Sins. Wrath, Envy, Greed, Lust, Sloth, Gluttony and Pride. The beast you have heard described by some of the Canterlot guard is the Sin of Wrath."
Daisy Cutter turned to Shining Armour for support.
"I can vouch for Commander Battle's words Captain," Shining said. "I was there myself. I saw the creature he describes."
"I see," Daisy said softly. "But... what does that have to do with our current situation."
"I mentioned Seven warriors," Battle reminded. "Wrath may have fallen but the other six live still. Imprisoned yes, but that could all change. Within a matter of weeks if we aren't careful."
"What Battle means Captain," Celestia said softly. "Is that we are dealing with a group of ponies unknown to us who wish to release one of the seven Sins from their prison here, in Equestria."
"Right," Daisy Cutter breathed. "So... how bad is this Sin?"
"Envy?" Battle tapped the table with one finger. "That's the distressing part. I don't know. The only way I knew of how dangerous Wrath could be was with first hand experience. With Envy though? I have no idea."
"I see," Daisy muttered.
"Is there anyway we may identify the members of this cult you mentioned?" Luna asked, leaning forward.
Battle tossed something small and silver across the table towards her. "That is the ring all the members of the Cultoribus de Peccatis wear," he explained as Luna examined it. "I doubt they'd be stupid enough to walk around with it on their fingers all the time but it's the best we have right now, until we actually catch one of them."
"It is a small lead, but given what you have presented us with any lead is a good one," Luna muttered.
"Of course finding the followers of Envy is all well and good," Battle said, "But it won't do us any good unless we chop off the head of the dragon."
"Which means?" Daisy said slowly.
"We find the Tomb of Envy and make sure they'll never be able to open it," Arson said.
"Do we have any idea where it is though?" Shining asked.
"We have no idea," Battle admitted, blushing slightly.
"At least we know it to be in Equestria," Tactical muttered darkly. "Shouldn't be so hard searching an entire kingdom."
Battle scowled at her.
"What? It's called being honest," she said, shrugging her shoulders as Battle rolled his eyes.
"Can we get a map in here?" Battle sighed, closing his eyes and pinching the bridge of his nose. Tactical rolled her eyes in return and her horn glowed bronze, before throwing her hand out. A three dimensional map of Equestria appeared on the table, covering the entire table and providing a birds-eye view of the entire kingdom.
"Your welcome," Tactical said sarcastically.
"Can we put the personal dispute aside please?" Battle snapped. "There is a kingdom to save here."
Tactical stuck her tongue out but said nothing. Battle rolled his eyes silently but stood up and looked over the map. Shining Armour followed his example, and Celestia watched the two stallions carefully.
"I think we need to work in a grid search," Shining Armour muttered. "After all we don't know exactly where Envy was buried."
"Yes," Battle agreed. "For all we know he may be buried under Canterlot and we'd never know." He looked up at Celestia. "And yes I accept the invitation to the Gala." She smiled, before s serious touch returned to her expression.
"So where should we start our search from?" Shining asked.
"Tact, can you put a grid on this?" Battled asked. Instantly a grid appeared on the map. "Okay, now highlight segments that contain land governed by Equestrian rule." All the appropriated squares glowed with bronze light.
"I recommend starting here," Daisy Cutter said, pointing to an uppermost left square. "That way we can work our way down and across the kingdom."
"Good plan," Battle muttered. He seemed to mull something else over.
"Problem?" Celestia asked.
"We can't have all our troops in one location," Battle replied. "We need to have them spread in a fashion that has an equal reach over all of Equestria, so say if we had maybe four de-facto headquarters across the country?"
"Are you sure it's a good plan to spread our forces out?" Shining asked. "This is a Sin we are talking about."
"Believe me I know," Battle sighed. "But we need to have our troops arranged in a fashion that means all of Equestria is easily and quickly accessible for our troops, even if it is not all of them."
Arson nodded but didn't speak, he was busy examining the map.
"Three locations you say sir?" he asked.
"At the least," Battle replied.
"They cannot be near civilisation," Luna said, looking to Celestia. "No doubt a large military presence would upset our subjects."
"Agreed," Celestia said. "Do you think you will be able to find a suitable locations that will suit Battle's and indeed your own military's needs Prince Shining?"
"Yes ma'am," Shining Armour saluted.
"Then get to it," Celestia said, before turning to Battle. "I shall leave informing the Element Bearers to you Battle."
"That's code for Twilight's gonna chew me out, isn't it?"
"Oh for Victorium's sake!" Battle cried. "At fucking ease!"
Arson and Merciless looked embarrassedly at their feet, scratching the back of their heads as they waited on the platform. A scorch mark on the ground indicated where a blast of fire had struck the concrete slab. In the middle of the ring of ashes was a web of cracks where something had sunk into the ground. Namely, Merciless' throwing knife. The two unicorns had reacted the way only two soldiers on edge could to a sudden noise. Shoot first ask questions never. Battle however found this annoyingly amusing.
"Listen you two, the only thing that's going to kill me, is having to put up with this nag while we're in Ponyville," Battle reminded the two jumpy Generals, jerking a thumb at Tactical to reaffirm who the 'nag' was.Tactical gave an indignant snort but said nothing.
"Apologies Commander," Merciless said blushing slightly.
"Agreed," Arson murmured.
Battle sighed and put his face into his hand.
"Just.... calm down and.... don't touch anything, okay boys?" he asked calmly.
"I don't know why you dragged me to Ponyville," Tactical sighed.
"Because father asked me to keep an eye on you and Blueprint," Battle snapped.
"Then why not leave me in Canterlot?"
"Because I wouldn't wish that fate on anyone, least of all Celestia," Battle replied. "Now, where the Homucidium is Sky?"
"Do you want us to recover the General sir?" Arson asked. Battle gave him a worn look.
"the last thing I need is you two running around Ponyville trying to murder anything that moves," Battle replied. "Come on. I'll show you around. And keep your cool. 'Kay? Nothing here is gonna try and kill us okay?"
Battle stepped down into Ponyville from the station and looked around, allowing the geography of the small town to return to him. He smiled as he recognised a few faces here and there, walking around doing their daily business as the normally did. A couple of them clearly remember Battle too, for they waved in greeting. Battle felt his smile grow larger when he saw a particular mare walk up to him, smiling with familiarity.
"I haven't seen you in ages!" exclaimed Nurse Redheart as she drew near, spreading her arms as she made to hug him.
"I've been busy!" Battle called back, embracing Redheart in a friendly hug, patting her gently on the back.
"We were busy too you know?" Redheart pointed out. "We had to find a new guard to work the night shift. The one we got now doesn't have to spend half his nights running after the patients thank Celestia."
"Ah, you found out about that did you?" Battle asked.
"That we did," Redheart said. "Still can't be helped, though you did leave quite a mess for us to clean up." She finally noticed Battle's company. "And who are these charming gentlecolts?"
"This is my best buddy Arson," Battle introduced his General, clapping a hand on the red stallions shoulder. "My good friend Merciless." He clapped the other stallion on the shoulder. "And my sister Tactical."
"Nice to meet you all," Redheart said, throwing a few nervous glances at Merciless.
"Ah you don't need to worry about him," Battle said tousling Merciless' hair a bit. "He's a big softie. Although, he has got one heck of an itchy trigger finger of late." He flashed a knowing grin at Merciless who bowed his head slightly.
"I see," Redheart said softly, before she brightened again and held out her hand to each of them in turn. "Pleased to meet all of you, I'm Redheart. I'm a nurse at Ponyville General Hospital."
"Nice to meet you ma'am," Merciless said, smiling, shaking the proffered hand.
"Likewise," Arson agreed, following Merciless' example.
When tactical was offered the hand, she looked at it for a few moments before rolling her eyes and giving it a limp shake. "Charmed," she muttered.
"Don't mind her," Battle said. "It's not that she doesn't like you. It's that she hates everypony."
"I see," Redheart said, turning back to Battle. "Well, I've still got things to do, but if you ever want to chat you know my lunch-breaks."
"See you 'round," Battle said smiling.
"Bye Battle! Bye boys!" She gave a flirtatious wink to Arson and Merciless. There was silence for a few moments.
"Do you just find these people on the street and you take pity on them?" Tactical asked.
"Shut up and let's go find Sky," Battle sighed stepped down the high-street...
...
... And was thrown to the ground by a flying tackle hug from a pink blur.
"Ohmygoshohmygoshohmygosh!" came the cried from the excited mare. "You're actually here! I knew my Pinkie Sense wasn't wrong!"
Battle looked down into a frizzled curly pink mane practically shoved straight into his snout. He smiled as he returned the hug.
"Nice to see you two Pinkie," Battle said. In an instant Pinkie was on her feet and helped Battle to his feet.
"Why didn't you tell us you were coming?" Pinkie asked as Battle dusted his sleeve off. Before Battle could answer, Pinkie's eyes sparkled as she gasped in realisation. "Wait wait don't tell me I can guess... Oh oh you were planning a surprise party!"
"I wish Pink's," Battle scratched the back of his head. "You haven't seen Sky anywhere have you?"
"Oh oh I know this one! I'll go get her for you!" And with that Pinkie was away.
Battle watched her zoom away, smiling slightly. Arson stepped up next to him and looked sideways at his Commander.
"No wonder we beat Wrath when she moves like that," he said.
"Aye," Battle agreed
"We're just meeting your friends left and right aren't we?" Tactical muttered with disdain. Battle ignored her. When Battle didn't say or do anything for a few moments Tactical cleared her throat. Still Battle did nothing. Tactical frowned. "Are we going to find Sky then?" she demanded.
"Sky will be brought to us," Battle replied simply.
"How?" Arson asked. "Not the pink mare surely?"
"You clearly underestimate the power that is Pinkie Pie," Battle smirked. He checked his wrist, before remembering he didn't wear a watch. He looked back up the high-street and smiled. "Right on time."
Pinkie, or at least some pink blur, was racing back up the street like a pink tornado. Battle took a well judged step back before Pinkie stopped a yard in front of him and Arson, two figures sent sprawling at their feet, one of them being Arson's general, the other being another familiar Ponyville face: Applejack. Battle smiled and looked at Pinkie.
"Thank you Pinkie."
"No problem," Pinkie beamed. "Gotta run! Need to help back at Sugar Cube Corner!"
And then she was gone, leaving a trail of dusk in her wake. Battle smiled before helping Sky to her feet as Applejack had already pushed herself to her own and was already dusting herself off.
"What in tarnation was that girl thinkin'?" Applejack muttered to herself.
"Hey Applejack," Battle said as Sky began to dust herself off as well, embarrassed at being dragged across Ponyville by Pinkie.
"Hey Battle," Applejack said without much attention. Then she did a double-take looking up at Battle with surprise. Battle smiled.
"Nice to see you too," Battle said at Applejack's shocked expression. Applejack shook her head before she smiled and spread her arms wide. Battle repeated the gesture and the two embrace.
"Nice to see ya'll again partner!" Applejack cried.
"And you!" Battle said. "Have you been pumpin' iron? You're a lot bigger than I remember."
Applejack blushed as the two parted.
"I may have put on an extra bit of muscle yeah," Applejack admitted. Battle patter her shoulder.
"You remember Arson and Merciless don't you Applejack?" Battle asked. Tactical coughed and Battle rolled his eyes. "And my sister."
"Yep," Applejack confirmed, tipping her signature Stetson to the unicorns. "Nice to see ya'll again. And nice to meet another member of your family B."
"B?" Battle said, raising an eyebrow, before shrugging it off and saying, "I take it you've met Blueprint then?"
"Cute li'l fellar with the family eyes? He's not hard to miss," Applejack admitted.
"Speaking of Blueprint," Battle said turning to Sky. "Where did you leave my brother?"
"Our brother," Tactical reminded.
"Yeah yeah whatever where is he Sky?" Battle asked, waving Tactical away. Sky opened her mouth but Applejack cut her off.
"Ah left her with Applebloom," Applejack explained. "She'll see the li'l guy right don't you worry."
Battle cocked his head. "You left Blueprint with Applebloom?"
"Yeah?" Applejack said slowly.
"Any idea where they'd go?"
Twilight slid one last book into place in her library and smiled. A quill and scroll floated up to her and she grasped both, before checking off one last entry on her check list for the morning.
"That's the last thing for now," she said to herself, double checking her list. "Books have been dusted, shelves have been cleaned, library sanitised from top to bottom, branches trimmed, leaves plucked and books reorganised. All ahead of schedule."
She smiled to herself again as he scroll and quill disappeared in a flash of light and stepped down from her position on the ladder. She dusted her skirt off from imaginary dirt and looked around the library. It took her a full thirty seconds to sit down behind the desk bored. She checked her 'to do' list for the rest of the day. She had a full hour's free time to do whatever she wanted to do. The only trouble was, Twilight didn't know what she could do that would occupy her time for a whole hour.
"I suppose I could always read," Twilight said to herself. Her horn glowed faintly and a book floated down off of a shelf and onto her desk. For perhaps the hundredth time she flipped open the cover to Daring Do and the Sapphire Stone and began to read.
Or at least she would have done had the door to the library not swung open at that exact moment to reveal three excited filly's and a bemused looking colt.
"Howdy Miss Twilight!" Applebloom announced as she and the other Crusaders raced into the library, bouncing off of every available surface.
"Oh, hello girls," Twilight said smiling weakly. "What can I do for the Cutie Mark Crusaders today then?"
"We're looking for a book on different kinds of drawing!" Sweetie Belle exclaimed. Twilight blinked.
"Drawing?" she asked, surprised that the Crusaders would be interested in such a... safe past time.
"Yeah, drawing!" Scootaloo confirmed. Twilight smiled, pleased that for once the three young fillies wouldn't wreck her perfectly tidied library. Still, she felt she had to ask.
"Why drawing girls specifically?" Twilight said slowly.
Applebloom bounded over to the colt they had dragged in with them, wrapped her arm around his shoulders and pulled him over to Twilight.
"And who's this?" Twilight asked.
"Blueprint ma'am," he muttered quietly.
"He just came to Ponyville today!" Applebloom cried.
"And he doesn't have his Cutie Mark either!" Scootaloo added.
"But he thinks his Cutie Mark might be something to do with drawing!" Sweetie Belle finished. "Look!"
She lifted up the drawing of the Eye of Equitem for Twilight to see. The alicorn took the drawing and examined it, her eyes and mouth going wide at the beauty of the drawing she was currently presented with.
"You drew this?" she asked the young colt, starring at him. He blushed and nodded. Twilight smiled in awe and looked at the drawing again. "What's your name?"
"I'm Blueprint," he said softly, hands behind his back and scuffing his feet on the floor.
"Nice to meet you Blueprint," Twilight said. "I'm Twilight Sparkle."
"Oh I know," Blueprint said looking up at Twilight, smiling broadly. Twilight blinked, confused. "My brother talks about you a lot," Blueprint explained. "He thinks fondly of you."
"Does he now?" Twilight was still getting used to the idea of being the fantasies of half of Equestria, especially since her disastrous attempt at a relationship with the guard Flash Sentry a few months after she had become a princess. The idea that this little colt's brother had spoken about her was a touch off putting.
"Yeah!" Blueprint said excitedly. "Big brother used to talk about you a lot before he went away. Still does actually.."
Twilight smiled nervously but then her eyes fell upon the colt's. They were a deep, innocent, navy blue. A very familiar shade of navy blue. Twilight's nervous smile was replaced by a more relaxed and flattered one. She knew those eyes.
"And how is Battle these days?" she asked, smiling.The Cutie Mark Crusaders looked confused, while Blueprint's smile widened.
"Big bro said you were smart," he said quickly. "He's been acting all serious ever since he got back from his expedition though. Something about the ice planes. I wasn't listening."
"I see," Twilight muttered, a small shiver running up her spine. She didn't remember the ice planes. But she remember what lay at their heart. The Tomb of Wrath. Her prison for an unknowable amount of time, where she had been trapped in a cocoon of darkness and fear. It was not a pleasant experience.
"So, a book on drawing," Twilight said suddenly, forcing a smile back onto her face. "Let me have a look."
After a few moments of searching she had set Blueprint and the other Crusaders down with a decent stack of books Twilight sat behind her desk and began to think. Only a few days ago had Tactical been in Equestria to tell her that Battle had undergone an expedition that had taken him away from Warhorse. An expedition she had now just found out had been to the ice planes north of the Empire, no doubt to the Tomb of Wrath itself. And not only that, Battle's younger brother, someone she had heard of but never met, was now in Equestria. Why? Was he here by himself? Or was Battle himself here?
Twilight sighed and set her head in her hands, not noticing the door open. She did however notice the cry of surprise from Applebloom.
"Applejack!"
Twilight didn't look up, merely pressing her head further into her hands and thinking. Until she heard Blueprint cry out.
"Battle!"
Twilight's hands slipped and she nearly head-butted the table before she looked up as Blueprint raced at his older brother, who knelt down and picked Blueprint up under the armpits and lifted him into the air.
"I haven't been gone that long have I Blue?" he chuckled, flicking Blueprint on the nose. Blueprint's response was to attempt to bite Battle's finger. Battle smirked and set his brother down again before noticed the pile of books. "Apparently I've been gone long enough for Twilight to set you homework," he muttered. He looked up at Twilight and smiled warmly. Twilight got to her feet and walked slowly around the desk before running at Battle and wrapping her arms around his neck.
"It's so good to see you again!" she cried.
"And you!" Battle chuckled, squeezing Twilight tightly. The remained like that for a few moments before a noise behind Battle reminded them they had company.
"Do you mind not showing your affection in such a sickening fashion?" Tactical asked, her voice clipped and filled with the air of one who was about to be sick. "Especially when we have such serious matters to discuss?"
Battle set Twilight down and gave Tactical the look only an older sibling can when annoyed with their younger family. Tactical, responded with the reverse. Battle sighed and turned back to Twilight.
"So that's where we stand," Battle finished before taking a sip of his coffee.
Twilight and the other Element Bearers sat around Twilight's kitchen table, looking at Battle as he stood there. From in the library proper they could hear Sky, Arson and Merciless try to deal with the Cutie Mark Crusaders and Blueprint, however they weren't listening. it felt like a lead weight had been dropped on all of them.
Twilight broke the silence.
"A Sin?" she said slowly. Battle nodded. "Here? In Equestria?" Another nod. Twilight let out a steady breath. Dash scratched the back of her head.
"When?" she asked simply. Battle closed his eyes.
"The Zenith of Envy will begin within the next week," Battle explained.
"A week to prepare for the end of Equestria huh?" Dash asked slumping back in her chair.
"Just because the Zenith of Envy begins in the next week, does not mean Envy will rise at the same time," Battle said slowly. "Our enemies will need time to prepare. One week is not enough time to prepare I think."
"Can you be certain of that darling?" Rarity asked.
"I know the incantations that are used on the tombs of the Sins," Battle answered. "I did seal Wrath's tomb did I not?"
"Albeit unsuccessfully," Tactical reminded. Battle gave her a scathing look, before turning back to the others.
"The point is, those enchantments are extremely powerful. It would take an enormous amount of magical energy to break them."
"How do you know they won't get that sort of energy within a week?" Twilight asked.
"You don't come across that kind of magic reserve in one week," Battle explained. "And you certainly can't build one in that time either."
"And by magic reserve's you're talking about a gemstone filled to the brim with unicorn magic yes?" Rarity asked.
"More or less," Battle nodded. "The type of energy reserve we're talking about would necessitate a gem about the size of the library, or some enchanted artefact capable of storing about say... one point twenty one giga joules of energy."
"One point twwenty one giga joules!?" Pinkie cried. "Great Scott!"
"I know, this is heavy," Battle agreed sombrely. Tactical raised an eyebrow. Battle cleared his throat. "Anyway, it's only an estimate, and I don't think they'd be able to gather even half a giga joule in a week."
"So by what your saying, they'll be done in roughly four," Twilight said slowly.
"If they wish to release Envy as soon as they can then yes it most likely will take them four weeks to gather the necessary energy to break open Envy's tomb," Battle confirmed. "However having said that..."
"What?" Tactical said, raising an eyebrow.
"The Cultoribus de Peccatis has already shown great cunning by dancing around in the shadows without our notice for this long," he said, almost to himself. "They know where Envy is buried, and they know we do not. So... perhaps maybe..."
"What are you thinking?" Twilight asked, leaning in.
"Perhaps they will wait?" Battle said. "Wait for the right moment to release Envy?"
"Why would they wait?" Applejack asked. "Ah mean, the longer they wait, the bigger the chance we'll catch up to them 'll be."
"I agree," Tactical said. "Why would they wait?"
"Because even a Zenith has its peak," Battle said. "My guess is that Envy will be release at the time of which her power will be greatest, and sweep Equestria clean."
"And when will her power be at its greatest?" Twilight said. Battle made a face that looked like he was sucking on the mother of all lemons. "When?" Twilight repeated.
Battle mumbled something into his hand.
"Even I have to say, what?" Fluttershy asked.
Battle repeated himself, louder. Rarity's eyed widened in horror.
"But, that's the night of the gala!" she exclaimed.
"Tell me about it," Battle said, holding up his ticket to the said gala. "I was looking forward to going. Thank you by the way Miss Sparkle for that."
"You actually got the letter?" Twilight said, surprised. Tactical cleared her throat and Battle chuckled. Twilight blushes slightly before she cleared her throat and spoke again, "Anyway, I'm assuming that Princess Celestia knows that Envy will be at her most powerful that night?"
"That she does," Battle confirmed. "She knows. We are already working on a solution as we speak, which includes finding three suitable locations for base camps across Equestria."
"Will that be enough?" Twilight asked.
"It's the best we can do for now."
Baran Invidebit stepped down the mineshaft, holding the torch high above his head, casting ring of flickering orange light around himself and his guide. He didn't exactly trust the creature that led him down the earthen passageway, but he rationalized that any ally of the Sins deserved some modicum of trust. Under normally circumstances, he wouldn't trust his guide as far as he could throw him.
The shiny black carapace of the changeling's exoskeleton gleamed with a foul perversion of flesh. Against popular belief, the holes that bored through a changeling's body were not smooth, and they were not perfect. It was as if great chunks of flesh had been torn straight from their body, revealing the sticky blackness of their internal organs. The translucent, bluish insect wings were folded neatly across its back, though they still buzzed at random intervals. The twisted horn on its forehead glowed with green fire to light the way, and its long, carnivorous fangs dripped with some kind of sizzling secretion. It's silver blue eyes gave no indication of what the creature thought. If could have a thought independent of its queen.
"How much further?" Invidebit asked suddenly. The changeling's wings buzzed angrily at the sudden sound, before they settled back into their previous position.
"Close," it said simply, its voice dry and harsh, like a snake slithering on gravel, making it difficult for Invidebit to tell if it were male or female. "We close. Soon arrive."
"I see," Invidebit muttered, deciding it would be best not to mention the changeling had already said this several times before.
They walked in silence for, what seemed to Invidebit, hours. The pony and the changeling in orange and green light. It seemed like the passageway would never end.
However, just as he was about to ask again when they would reach the bottom, the passageway opened out into a large cavern. Invidebit stopped in his tracks as he took in the vastness of where he stood.
A huge cave, with walls of roughly hewn stone and a floor of bedrock. Many holes in the walls led off to tunnels that would take the walker (or flyer) back to the surface. Changelings and ponies alike worked with pickaxe and magic to chip away stone from the walls, making the space even larger. A few flying creatures were working on creating an angled passageway, one that would allow light to pass into the chamber at just the right moment.
However the jewel of the cavern stood on the far side. Half buried under rock was a doorway for a giant. A doorway made of a gleaming black wood, carved with intricate symbols in bone and an evil golden metal. Large golden chains stretched over the doorway. Painted on the door in vibrant green colours was a grasping hand.
Invidebit's eyes widened and his mouth spread in a stupid grin as he realised he now stood before the Gates of Envy.
To everyone who has favorited this story I apologise. It's not that I don't want to continue with Battle Ready. I do. It's just... not like this. I know I can be so much more with my writing and I feel that what I have created in Battle Ready and Battle Ready Envy is just a touch too childish. So I'm going to fix it. As of this moment I will be rewriting Battle Ready into (drumroll please) ....
Battle Ready: The Rising of Sin
So yeah Battle Ready is getting a rewrite as will Battle Ready Envy, which will be retitled
Battle Ready: Haunted
So yeah, you have those to look forward to guys. You WILL see Battle again.
