> Rebirth of Harmony
>  by WanderingPhysicist
> --------------------------------------------------------------------------

> Easy as Apple Pie
> --------------------------------------------------------------------------

        Apple Pie is a decent, hard-working earth pony. He works at Sweet Apple Acres with his best friend, Apple Bloom. He has been working at Sweet Apple Acres for twelve years, ever since he and his aunt Blinkie helped restore the land. It has been just him and Apple Bloom for ten of those years. The second hardest part of all of those years was keeping his love of Apple Bloom a secret. The hardest part is living up to the legacy of Applejack.
        Apple Pie is named after the most famous member of the Apple Family, Applejack of Ponyville. She was the Element of Honesty and one of the heroes of all of Equestria. Almost two years before Apple Pie was born, Applejack gave her life defending Ponyville from alien invaders. Since Apple Pie was born with the same mane and coat colors as her, his mother Pinkie Pie named him after her lost friend. Having a long mane and a similar cutie mark (green apples instead of red) makes him look like a male version of Applejack. He thinks it helped with his friendship with Apple Bloom that she had a familiar face with which to work,really must tear her up inside.
        Apple Pie finishes his afternoon chores and starts putting his tools away in the barn. At the rate the farm has been regrowing, they might have to put up yet another barn. Apple Pie’s back aches just thinking about it. Unlike the large, red earth pony in all of Apple Bloom’s remaining family photos, Apple Pie is little undersized. Still, there are some benefits being his father’s son. Apple Pie laughs to himself.
        Apple Pie leaves the barn and heads to the house. It is not as big as the one in the photos, but it is big enough for just the two ponies. He pushes the door open and finds Apple Bloom sitting at the kitchen table. She has her head down, but she is facing the door. Apple Pie knows exactly what she was looking at. Beside the doorway is the only remaining relic of Applejack, her trusty hat. It was the only thing Apple Bloom did not allow to be buried with her sister. It still bears the laser scars from the invaders.
        Apple Pie sighs. ‘I know you are sick of hearing me say this almost every day for the past twelve years, but I really am sorry.’
        ‘What?’ Apple Bloom looks up and wipes the tears from her eyes. ‘No. That ain’t it. Ah was jus’ restin’. Ah had a long day is all.’
        Apple Pie sighs and shakes his head. ‘Okay... Anyway, what do you want for dinner? I’ll make anything you like.’ He puts on the biggest smile he can muster.

        A few days later, Apple Pie and Apple Bloom are taking a day off from work for their monthly ritual visiting the Ponyville Memorial. Apple Bloom used to insist on going alone but lately she needs more and more support getting back home. On the last few trips, she has even started crying before they even leave the farm. Today, she is carrying a bouquet of flowers as a distraction.
        The pair make the short journey from the edge of the farm to the memorial. The damage to Ponyville was so great that the whole city was converted to a giant memorial to all of the ponies lost that day. Though the memorial covers several square kilometers, Apple Bloom knows exactly where to go. She weaves her way past the smaller memorials and grave markers. They end up in an area dedicated to younger victims of the attack. Apple Pie always has a problem with this area. Apple Bloom stops in front of a specific pair of graves and sets down the flowers.
        Apple Bloom stares at the graves. Tears start landing on the markers. ‘We are the Cutie Mark Crusaders. On a quest to find out who we are. And we will never stop the journey. Not until we...’
        Apple Bloom starts openly sobbing over her friends’ graves. Other visitors look over at the commotion she is making. Apple Pie glares at them as he puts a foreleg over Apple Bloom’s shoulders. She leans against her friend and buries her head in his chest.
        ‘AB, we can come back tomorrow for the rest of the visit.’
        Apple Bloom chokes back the tears. ‘No. Ah am fine. Jus’ give me a moment.’
        Apple Bloom cries for a few moments more. She looks up and smiles at Apple Pie. She holds back her tears and nods. The pair start walking through the memorial again. Apple Pie looks at some of the grave markers as they pass. Carrot Top, vegetable vender. Berryshine Punch, free spirit. Octavia, royal musician. Colgate, brushie brushie. Wait. What?
        Apple Bloom stops at the central monument. Apple Pie and Apple Bloom look up at a large statues. Five statues stand over the resting places for the five fallen Elements of Harmony. A sixth spot is reserved for Apple Pie’s mother. As always, Apple Pie looks from Twilight Sparkle (few knew she was not truly dead, just changed) to Fluttershy to Rainbow Dash to Rarity before settling on Applejack. A white pegasus with blonde hair is standing in front of the Fluttershy statue. She smiles over at the new arrivals. Apple Bloom nods back from her sister’s statue. Apple Pie steps up next to Apple Bloom as she quietly mourns her sister.
        Apple Pie stares up at the statue of his namesake. He makes the same oath he makes every month. I wish I could do more. I wish I could be stronger. I want to protect Apple Bloom. I want to make her proud. I... I want to make you proud.

        Like every day after a visit to the memorial, Apple Bloom just stays in her room all day. Apple Pie takes the time to work the fields in his own special way. His heritage of being from both the most illustrious rock farming family in the New Lunar Republic and the son of the king gives him a deeper understanding of the planet and its composition as well as special magic to manipulate it.
        Apple Pie smiles as he finds a nice patch of earth near the fields. He plants his hooves and focuses his energy. He feels his magic flow through him and into the ground. He feels the texture and composition of the ground beneath him. He shifts a hoof. ‘Grow.’
        A wave of energy shoots forward causing the a row of earth to burst from the ground. It quickly settles back into place. One by one, little sprouts pop from the freshly tilled ground. Apple Pie smiles at his work. He shifts his weight and starts doing a complicated dance of hoof stomps, raised forelegs and fancier hoofwork than even his mother would have thought possible across the barren land. The earth bursts up across the field, settling in rows of slowly sprouting plants. As Apple Pie nears the end of the field, he notices a large rock sticking from the ground. He leaps up and lands in a crouched position beside the rock. The rock shoots from the ground and hovers in the air. Apple Pie slowly rears up on his hind legs, maintaining perfect balance, then quickly shoots forward and taps the rock. The rock is launched down the field and out of sight. Apple Pie breathes a heavy breath and turns back to the field. The ground starts settling and countless green sprouts stick from the ground. He bows to the field, but a sound catches his attention.
        Apple Pie turns to see Apple Bloom sitting at a window. She is clapping her hooves and has the biggest smile Apple Pie has seen in years. She waves the stallion to come inside and hops down from the window. Apple Pie gallops inside to see what she wants.
        Apple Bloom is just coming downstairs as Apple Pie enters the house. She still has the large grin on her face. Her hair is falling all over her face since she had not tied it up with her bow for the day. Apple Pie has never seen Apple Bloom with her hair down like this. She is so beautiful.
        ‘That was amazin’!’ Apple Bloom cheers. ‘Ah ain’t never seen anythin’ like that! How’d ya do it!’
        Apple Pie blushes. ‘Well, it is just something I figured out. I knew I had some magic from my dad. I just needed a way to properly channel it.’
        ‘It was really cool!’ Apple Bloom blushes. ‘Ya know, Ah used t’ do karate mahself. Black belt an’ everythin’.’
        ‘I know. I’ve seen your photos.’
        ‘Right.’ Apple Bloom pauses. ‘Hey, maybe ya can show me some more o’ yer moves tomorra.’
        ‘Yes! Anything for you!’
        Apple bloom giggles. ‘Great. Ah can’ wait t’...’
        A loud howl fills the house. Apple Pie spins around and looks for its source. Apple Bloom stares out of the house in shock.
        ‘They’re back.’ She mutters.
        ‘What is? Who?’
        ‘It has been almos’ twenty years, but they’re back.’
        ‘Still not...’
        ‘Zap apples!’
        ‘And... they howl?’
        ‘No! Don’ be daft.’ Apple Bloom scolds. ‘That is jus’ the first sign. The timberwolves are howlin’. That means the zap apples are comin’!’
        Apple Pie thinks. ‘I have only heard of those in legend.’
        ‘They’re the best thin’ ever! We have t’ go find them! ... Uh, sorry. We’ll have t’ put yer martial arts show off fer a bit.’
        ‘That is fine. As long as we get you those apples.’ Apple Pie smiles. He is really happy to see Apple Bloom so happy.
        ‘Great! Tomorra we head int’ the Everfree and the day after that we brin’ the zap apple back t’ the world!’
        Apple Pie gasps and backs away. ‘No. I can’t. I cannot go in there.’
        Apple Bloom sighs and shakes her head. ‘Y’all have been here fer a long time now. Ya have t’ be kiddin’ me that yer still scared o’ that place.’
        ‘S-so what if I am? It is full of monsters and other creatures.’
        ‘And Ah went in it all the time as a filly. It ain’t that bad!’
        ‘I’m sorry. I really am, but I just cannot.’
        Apple Bloom scowls. ‘Some Apple you are.’
        ‘What does that mean?’
        ‘Ya might have her name, but ya ain’t nowhere near as brave as her. Ya prance around all actin’ like yer one o’ the Apple Family, but yer a phony!’
        ‘You think I want to be named after her!’ Apple Pie stomps the floor, causing the ground to quake. ‘Everypony expects so much from me! They expect me to be this big damn hero! I just want to work here at the farm and live a peaceful life. If that means being scared of the Everfree, then so be it.’
        ‘Why d’ ya care so much? Ya and yer family jus’ showed up and helped, and that was nice. An’ Ah appreciate ya stickin’ ‘round, but Ah really don’ know why. Ah have t’ ask again, why d’ ya care so much?’
        Apple Pie blushes. ‘I... I have my reasons.’
        Apple Bloom snorts. ‘Fine. Jus’ stay with the farm then.’ She turns and marches upstairs. ‘An’ make sure Ah have a lunch ready fer me tomorra when Ah head out.’
        Apple Pie watches Apple Bloom leave. He kicks the ground again, causing a tree to fall outside. ‘I stay because I love you.’ He groans again and falls on the floor.

        The next morning, Apple Bloom is packing her saddlebags as she prepares to go in search of the zap apples. Apple Pie is standing to the side trying not to look too worried. He even made her a wonderful lunch for her search. Apple Bloom puts some rope and a torch in her pack and closes it shut.
        ‘There. All set.’
        ‘I hope you have everything you need.’
        Apple Bloom glares. ‘Which one of us has been in the forest before?’
        Apple Pie whines and looks away. Apple Bloom goes to the door.
        ‘Ah should be back fer dinner. Hope ya make somethin’ nice.’ She steps out. ‘Unless ya grow a pair an’ like camp food.’
        ‘Apple Bloom... be safe.’
        Apple Bloom pauses. She snorts and heads off to the forest. Apple Pie groans again. He looks at Applejack’s hat on the wall and turns away.
        ‘I’m sorry to you too.’

        The evening comes early as a storm comes over the area. Apple Pie is pacing in front of the dinner he prepared. He watches the rain as he waits for Apple Bloom to return. He sighs and sits at the table. Suddenly, there is a crash of lightning outside. Apple Pie turns and looks out of the window. He is moaning again when he hears a shriek followed by howls.
        ‘Apple Bloom!’
        Apple Pie quickly rushes to gather what he needs. He ties his mane back into a ponytail. He grabs a torch in his mouth. The only thing missing is... It hits him. He turns and looks at the hat hanging on the wall. He trots over to it.
        ‘This is for Apple Bloom. I know you you would approve.’
        Apple Pie flips the hat off of the wall and it lands on his head, the perfect fit. He puts his head down and charges out of the house towards the Everfree Forest.
        For Apple Bloom. For Apple Bloom. For Apple Bloom!
        Apple Pie seems covered in a protective light as he barrels forward.

        Apple Bloom is forced back against a lone zap apple tree. She is surrounded by a dozen fearsome wooden wolves. The wolves snap at the mare as she tries to think of a way out of the situation. Apple Bloom takes and breath and stands back on her hind legs. She strikes a defensive pose as her latent karate skill takes over. A wolf charges. Apple Bloom jumps and kicks it across the jaw. She lands by bringing a hoof down on another wolf. She quickly drops to the ground and leg-sweeps a charging wolf. A quick push off and a backflip dodges a pair of wolves that crash into each other head first. Apple Bloom kicks a leg back and hits another wolf before landing. She pants as she takes in her closing attackers.
        ‘Not good,’ Apple Bloom pants. ‘Ah need help. Ah need...’ She starts crying. ‘Ah need Big Macintosh. Ah need mah sister. Ah need...’
        An orange earth pony with a yellow mane tied back in a ponytail leaps in front of Apple Bloom. The pony adjusts the stetson on its head to keep it from being blown off by the storm. Apple Bloom stares at the pony in awe.
        ‘Appleja...’
        ‘Stay away from Apple Bloom!’ Apple Pie shouts.
        Apple Pie stomps the ground and a wall of earth rises before him. He pushes his forelegs forward slightly and the wall crashes through the wolves. A number of wolves dodge the attack and charge at their new target. Apple Pie quickly reacts. He pounds the ground in front of him, causing two pillars to shoot from the ground and launch the wolves deeper into the forest. He claps his front hooves together and creates a pair of earthen walls that sandwiches an attacking wolf. A large alpha wolf leaps far above Apple Pie’s defenses and lands with deadly accuracy on top of Apple Bloom. After a short roll across the ground, the wolf comes up the victor with Apple Bloom’s neck in its jaws. It growls to get Apple Pie to back off.
        ‘Apple Pie...’ Apple Bloom croaks. ‘Go. Don’ worry ‘bout me.’
        ‘No.’ Apple Pie stands his ground. ‘I will never leave you. I will never leave the pony I love!’
        ‘Apple Pie...’
        The wolf snarls and bites harder. Apple Bloom screams as blood starts flowing from her neck. Apple Pie shouts and pounds the ground. A massive stone pillar shoots up and launches the wolf skyward. Apple Bloom screams again as the fangs rip her skin as they are removed. Apple Pie quickly rushes over to his friend and lifts her on his back.
        ‘Don’t worry. I have you.’ Apple Pie soothes. ‘I’ll get you help right away.’
        Apple Bloom just nods and tries not to speak.
        ‘Hey. At least we know where to find the tree now.’ Apple Pie laughs as he admires the giant pillar sticking into the sky.

        Thanks to the large memorial, the surrounding service industry, the dangerous forest nearby and the number of NLR government workers to care for everything, the Ponyville area has some pretty decent medical facilities in case of emergencies. A pegasus doctor was virtually at the farmhouse after Apple Pie called for help. Luckily for Apple Bloom, her wounds were mostly superficial and the doctor had her quickly cleaned up and bandaged. After the doctor leaves, Apple Pie checks in on Apple Bloom. She is resting in her bed when Apple Pie looks in. She looks over and smiles.
        ‘Come on in. There is nopony Ah’d rather see right now.’
        Apple Pie enters the room and sits by the bed. Apple Bloom pats next to her and the stallion climbs up. Apple Bloom grabs Apple Pie in the biggest hug. She even gives him a kiss on the cheek.
        ‘Ah am so happy t’ see you right now. Ah don’ know where Ah’d be right now if it weren’ fer you.’
        ‘I’m sorry. I should have gone with you. I should have been there to watch your back.’
        ‘Hush. Ya were where ya need t’ be. Ah couldn’ be happier.’
        ‘Apple Bloom... I...’
        Apple Bloom leans up and kisses Apple Pie. ‘Me t’. Why do ya think Ah keep ya ‘round?’
        Apple Pie hugs Apple Bloom again. Apple Bloom sighs contently.
        ‘Y’all are the bravest, most loyal pony Ah ever knew.’
        A light shines around Apple Pie’s neck. A golden neck guard appears through the light. At the center of the adornment is an apple-shaped emerald matching Apple Pie’s cutie mark. Both ponies stare at the sudden appearance.
        ‘Well, that was unexpected.’ Apple Pie comments.

        A few days later, Apple Bloom has healed up enough to return to work. She is out at the orchard, but she is in a white karate gi and practicing her martial arts.
        ‘Ah’m waitin’ fer ya!’ She calls back to the house.
        Apple Pie comes downstairs from his room. He has a gi on as well. He stops for a moment to tie his belt. He looks up. Apple Bloom stares back through the door, smiling at him. He glances over at the wall. Hanging around Applejack’s hat is Apple Pie’s newly realized Element of Harmony. He smiles at each before galloping out the door.
        Outside, Apple Pie stands on his hind legs and bows to Apple Bloom. She bows in response. Apple Pie stands back in a fighting pose. Apple Bloom clears her throat.
        ‘Ain’t ya fergetting somethin’?’
        Apple Pie laughs. ‘Right.’
        Apple Pie goes over to his master and leans forward. He raises a hoof to block the reader and get some privacy. A loud kiss is heard.

> A Little Kindness
> --------------------------------------------------------------------------

        Prince Helios is starting his first day of high school. Once again, his parents enrolled him in a public school instead of a private school like all of the other Canterlot nobles. He does not mind the quality of education he receives at a public school. Nor does he mind mixing with all of the different varieties of ponies and other sentient beings. In fact, he really enjoys meeting the other species that live in the New Lunar Republic. What he cannot stand are all of the ponies that try to befriend him just because his parents are the king and queen.
        Normally, Helios would not mind all of the annoying social climbers because of his best friend Krile. Krile... She is not in any of his classes, but she could have had unicorn-specific classes that... No. Being an alicorn and in the same grade as her, Helios should have been in class with her. Ugh. Maybe she just had early morning music classes or something. Surely they will see each other at lunch.
        In the cafeteria at lunch time, all the other students stop and look as the tall, blue-grey alicorn enters the room. Slowly, they go back to what they were discussing -- or it would have seemed that way if Helios did not have strong hearing... or ears at all. He sighs and scans the room for a sky-blue unicorn with a golden-white mane.
        Krile is standing not too far from the entrance. She is chatting with some other ponies and even a zebra. One of the colts says something and she laughs. Helios growls and goes over to the group. Krile notices the approach and smiles. She waves her friend over. The others look at the approaching prince and make a fast exit. Krile frowns over the lost friends but still turns to Helios with a smile.
        ‘Afternoon, Helo!’ Krile greets.
        ‘I haven’t seen you all day. Where have you been?’
        Krile brushes off the bluntness. ‘Aw. Did you miss me?’
        Helios blushes. ‘No, it is not that. It’s just... We normally have all of our classes together. I thought we signed up for the same things.’
        Krile looks away from her friend. ‘Yeah... About that...’
        ‘Did you change your schedule without telling me?’
        ‘No, it is not that... I wasn’t the one who changed it...’
        ‘Was it your parents? One of your sisters?’
        ‘No! My parents love you! And Dinky and Sparkler think you’re great. It is just...’
        ‘What?’ Helios snaps.
        Krile back away. ‘You’re scaring me...’
        Helios takes a few deep breaths. ‘Sorry. But without you to keep me calm and make me laugh, all of the jerks who want to know the prince have been really getting to me today. I hate new schools. I just wish I could have gotten into my mom’s school...’
        ‘Actually... I sorta...’
        ‘What! You got into Luna’s Advanced Magic University! That is great! I never thought you had that much magical talent!’
        Krile looks away from her friend. ‘Actually, no... But I did get into another great school!’
        Helios raises an eyebrow.
        ‘I got into Octavia’s school! Isn’t that great!’ Krile jumps up and hugs Helios around the neck. ‘I get to learn music from the greatest musicians known to ponykind and even some from the other nations! I might even get to meet Octavia herself!’ She drops back to the ground. ‘Isn’t that great?’
        Helios frowns at his friend. ‘She’s dead you know. Died protecting my parents during the wedding.’
        ‘Helo... Come on. I thought you would be happy for me.’
        ‘Sorry. It is great that you got into the school founded in Octavia’s honor, but don’t get your hopes up to see her.’
        Krile starts crying. She glares up at her friend, barely containing her magic. ‘How dare you... How dare you! This is the greatest thing that has ever happened in my life! I get to follow my dreams and go to the best school for musicians on the planet, and you act like it is nothing! I have been wanting this for years! You had to have heard me talk about it!’
        ‘Krile... I...’
        ‘Shut up! Don’t you care about me at all? Sometimes all you ever seem to care about is getting away from us non-royals.’ Helios opens his mouth. ‘Don’t even try to deny it! I hear you talking about your mom’s school all the time. You know what? I did take the exam for that school too, and guess what? I scored higher than my father did.’
        ‘That’s...’
        ‘Yeah! The only pony to score higher than me is the pony who gave her body for your father. And you know what else? I. Turned. It. Down. I am a musician, not a wizard. I can become the next Octavia. I WILL become the next Octavia!’
        ‘But...’
        ‘She IS alive! I know it! I saw her! She was at the concert my family went to eight years ago. She is what got me into music! I thought you would have known that about me!’ She turns and storms away. ‘Goodbye, Helo!’
        Helios watches as Krile leaves. He reaches out towards her then just stops and stares at the ground. The students watching the show go back to their business. Behind Helios, a pegasus, bat pony and a griffin step up. The griffin puts a talon on Helios’ shoulder.
        ‘Tough break, bro.’
        ‘Yeah, there are plenty of fillies out there though,’ the bat pony says.
        ‘Better-looking ones too,’ the pegasus adds.
        Helios’ eye twitches.
        ‘Dude, that’s no way to talk to the prince,’ the bat pony says. ‘Sides a nerd like her probably does his homework for him or something. Why else keep somepony like her around?’
        Helios scowls.
        ‘Bet he dates models,’ the griffin comments.
        ‘Ya think?’
        ‘Totally. You know the ex-model Fleur has a kid. Bet he makes her whinny every night. And the daughter too.’
        ‘Hell’s yeah! Way to go prince!’
        The pegasus raises a high hoof. Helios turns and glares.
        ‘Oh, not the type to kiss and tell? That’s cool.’
        ‘What do you want?’ Helios asks.
        ‘Nothing, bro,’ the griffin replies. ‘Just chillin’.’
        ‘Can’t you chill somewhere else?’
        ‘Come on, bro. We can be friends.’
        ‘I doubt that. Now, if you’ll excuse me, I want to have lunch alone.’
        Helios turns to the cafeteria and walks away. The griffin and ponies scowl.
        ‘What? Are we not good enough for you?’ the bat pony asks.
        ‘Yeah, bro. Why leave us hangin’? We only want to be friends.’ The griffin calls.
        Helios sighs and keeps walking. The bat pony shakes his head and turns too.
        ‘Forget him. He’s just a big, spoiled prince.’
        Helios stops.
        ‘Looks like you struck a nerve, Storm Runner.’
        ‘What did you say?’ Helios growls.
        The pegasus and griffin step away from Storm Runner. Storm Runner turns to face the prince.
        ‘I called you a big, fat, spoiled brat. Got a problem, princy?’
        ‘You...’ Helios growls. He turns and faces Storm Runner. ‘Ponies like you...’
        ‘Ugh. Don’t tell me you’re into stallions.’
        ‘That’s not it. Ponies like you misjudge me. You think you can latch onto the prince and get all of the perks. You think I have special powers or something where I can get everything I want handed to me. You think everything comes easy to me because I am a prince. Well, it doesn’t! I study hard. I work where I can at the palace. I behave like a normal being of this planet! Just because I am a prince does not make me better than you!’
        The whole cafeteria is staring at the prince. A large circle has formed around him as everypony tries to get to safety. From the back of the cafeteria, Krile shakes her head at her friend. Teachers try to get through the crowd to Helios. The griffin and pegasus hide behind a wall as they watch Storm Runner. The offending bat pony stands his ground.
        ‘So you... are into dudes?’
        Helios’ eyes glow with magical energy and his horn flashes.

        Helios sits outside of the principal’s office. He has his head down and he groans to himself. The school staff rushes about and makes phone calls. Outside of the offices, students are going home early. Helios glances out a nearby window at the remaining half of the cafeteria. The door to the principal’s office opens, and an older unicorn escorts a young earth pony out.
        ‘Now, just be strong and stand up to the bullies. They won’t bother you if you’re tough,’ the unicorn says.
        The earth pony sighs and looks away. ‘Right...’
        ‘Now, run home.’ The principal looks over at Helios. ‘Be lucky you have an early day.’
        The earth pony nods and trots away. The principal nods into his office and turns around. Helios gets up and follows. He takes a seat opposite the principal.
        ‘It would be idiotic to ask if you know why you’re here.’
        ‘I will do everything in my power to fix this,’ Helios declares. ‘I’ll pay for all of the damages myself and even volunteer to personally rebuild the building. I will make this right!’
        The principal sighs. ‘You sound just like your father when I spoke with him. Personally, I might add.’
        Helios frowns. ‘What did he say?’
        The principal frowns. ‘In addition to what you said... This will be the last time I will see you.’
        ‘I thought as much.’
        ‘You’re a real bright colt. You never acted out before, but this incident... You could have killed somepony.’
        ‘I know. I am sorry. I acted without thinking. I will make it up to Storm Runner and his family. I will make it up to him...’
        ‘Son, I don’t know what sort of punishment you will be getting when you get home, but blowing up a school isn’t something that happens every day... except when the magic academies practice combustion spells.’ The principal shakes his head. ‘Anyway, you’re a good kid. You’re one of the kindest kids I have seen, and that is just going by your record. I hope everything works out for you.’
        Helios groans. ‘Me too...’
        ‘Hey! Your dad also said that he and your mother will be busy and won’t be able to talk to you until later. You have the rest of the day. Have some fun! Just not... too much fun.’
        The prince gets up, groans and leaves the office.

        Helios is at a video game shop. He is looking for a potential distraction for after his mother banishes him to live on the moon in one of the colonies or something like that. Thankfully, his father taught him all about replayability and... hmm. Is that the earth pony from earlier?
        Helios watches the light green earth pony walk up to counter. He gets a small stack of games from his saddlebags and sets them down. He sighs and slides them forward.
        ‘I would like to trade these and get the new Mare-io game.’
        The unicorn clerk stops chatting with a zebra clerk and comes over to the counter. He looks over the games and groans.
        ‘Not enough. Hope you got cash.’
        ‘Right.’ The earth pony gets out a membership card and a bag of bits. ‘I should have some credit there and enough extra in the bag.’
        The clerk scans the card and checks the bag of bits. ‘Still not enough.’
        ‘What! It should be. I checked out the trade prices for all of those games online before coming here. It has to be enough.’
        ‘What can I say, kid? Sorry. Maybe if you had some more games.’
        ‘But those are... Never mind.’
        Helios clears his throat and steps up. ‘May I be of some assistance?’
        The zebra looks over. ‘I would say that you could, but the news reports don’t say you should.’
        The clerk holds up his mobile and a shows a picture of Helios standing in the middle of the blown-out school. Helios growls and looks away.
        ‘Then let me purchase that Mare-io game instead,’ Helios snorts.
        ‘Don’t you own the game already?’ the unicorn asks. ‘Yeah. I remember seeing you and your dad signing autographs on launch day.’
        ‘Would your manager really like to know that you are turning down a sell?’
        The unicorn scowls. ‘I am the manager. ... Fine! Whatever.’ He gets the game and rings up. ‘How are you paying?’
        Helios levitates a membership card and a stack of bits over. ‘There should be about a quarter of the price on the card, and there is the rest.’
        The unicorn scans the card and takes the bits. He levitates the card back. Helios shakes his head.
        ‘Keep it. After today, I am never shopping here again. I’ll ask my dad not to as well.’
        Helios levitates all of the earth pony’s games back into the pony’s bag as well as the newly purchased game. He bows to the earth pony before trotting out of the store. The earth pony looks around before galloping after Helios. The unicorn groans and goes back to the zebra.
        ‘Whatevs. At least we made a sell.’
        The earth pony catches up with Helios as the alicorn is trotting down the street.
        ‘Wait! Uh, prince! Wait!’ the earth pony calls.
        Helios turns back and bows. The earth pony bows too.
        ‘May I help you?’ Helios asks.
        ‘You already did,’ the earth pony replies. ‘Why did you get the game for me?’
        ‘You wanted it, right?’
        ‘Yeah...’
        ‘Then I hope you like it. It is pretty fun.’
        ‘You didn’t have to do this for me.’
        Helios looks down at the earth pony. ‘Those were your favorite games, weren’t they?’
        The earth pony is surprised. ‘How did you know?’
        ‘I saw you at the counter and heard you talking with the clerk. You were reluctant to place the games on counter, and you said you looked up the price for the trade ins. You wanted to know it they were worth it.’
        ‘Yeah...’
        ‘The clerk wasn’t giving you a fair deal. They were bullying you for no reason. Just because you are a new resident of Canterlot does not mean anypony should bully you.’ Helios growls to himself. ‘I hate bullies.’
        ‘How... How did you know I am new in town?’
        ‘I used my parents’ spy network to find out all about you.’ Helios pauses as the earth pony’s eyes go wide. ‘Or I could tell that you’re from Baltimare by the sport team logo on your bag.’
        The earth pony winces. ‘Right. Go Orioles.’
        ‘By the way, you have great taste in games. I noticed when I put them in your bag.’
        ‘Thank you! I love the Ponysona series!’
        Helios smiles and nods. ‘Anyway, I have business to tend to, so if you’ll excuse me...’
        ‘Wait! Prince Helios. Will I ever run into you again?’
        Helios thinks and sighs. ‘Hm... Probably not at school, but...’ Helios levitates a card and writes on it. ‘Here is my personal mobile number and email address. If anypony ever gives you a hard time again, tell them you are a personal friend of mine and contact me if need be.’
        ‘Thanks! You are the nicest pony I have ever met!’
        ‘Also, I prefer it if my friends call me Helo. It is a little more... informal that way.’
        ‘Right. Thank you, Helo. I am Green Kerner.’
        Helios bows. ‘The pleasure is all mine, Green Kerner. I hope to see you around.’
        Green Kerner does not know how to respond so he bows too. ‘Yeah. Ditto.’
        Helios smiles and nods at his new friend and trots away.

        The prince trots down a hallway at one of the hospitals in Canterlot. He searching for one particular patient. At every room he looks into, he smiles and waves at the occupants before moving on. Eventually, he finds his target. He knows it is who he is looking for by the pair of upset-looking bat ponies sitting out front of the room. Helios sighs, lowers his head and approaches.
        ‘You have my condolences and my deepest apology.’
        The bat ponies stare at the prince trying to humble himself. After several silent moments, the female bat pony turns away. The male speaks.
        ‘Where do you get off blasting my son with your magic?’
        ‘Though my actions cannot be justified, I was having a horrible day. I just had a fight with my best friend, and your son was being pretty rude.’
        ‘Well, that does sound like Storm Runner,’ the dad shrugs.
        ‘You can’t seriously defend him!’ the mother shouts.
        ‘Come on, his griffin friend is all right, but I know it is his other friend that gives him all of those clop mags you find. Maybe getting blasted will give him time to realize the errors of his ways.’
        ‘That is your son you are talking about!’ The mother turns to Helios. ‘You better pay for this!’
        ‘I have already talked with the hospital administrator, and your bill will be sent to the palace for me to pay personally. Not one bit will come out of your pocket or public funds to pay for his care.’
        The mother is shocked. ‘Well, uh... Good!’
        ‘Told you the royals were all right,’ the dad mumbles.
        The mother turns and glares at the dad.
        ‘Um. May I see Storm Runner?’
        ‘He needs his rest,’ the mother states.
        ‘Sure, why not?’ the dad replies. He is instantly glared at again. ‘The prince is going to pay the bill! He should be allowed in at least once.’
        ‘Is that the prince?’ is called from the room.
        The mother turns away. The dad shrugs. Helios sighs and enters the room. Storm Runner is laying on the hospital bed. Since he had tried to shield himself with his right side, he right legs and wing are in casts and propped up. He tries to turn away from Helios.
        ‘Come to finish the job?’
        Helios’ horn glows and a light covers Storm Runner. ‘Multiple fractures on all of your right side and and three potentially bruised organs. This should be easy.’
        Storm Runner starts waving his left foreleg to reach the call button. A light shines on Helios’ horn and he touches it to the casts. Stormy Runner flips over and slams the call button with his right foreleg.
        ‘Wait a sec. That didn’t hurt.’
        ‘Well, duh.’ Helios rolls his eyes. ‘You put the pain relief spell over the healing spell. Anypony who has studied healing magic knows that.’
        The nurse enters the room. ‘Is everything all right?’
        ‘We’re good.’ Storm Runner waves with his casted foreleg.
        The nurse is confused, but he leaves anyway. Storm Runner settles down in the bed.
        ‘So, uh, thanks for healing me.’
        ‘No problem.’ Helios goes into his saddlebag and gets out a book. ‘Here. Got you this.’
        ‘The Adventures of Daring Do graphic novel? Thanks?’
        Helios looks around and leans in. ‘It looks fine, but there are some saucy pictures and even some full splash panel plot shots.’ Storm Runner blushes bright red. ‘Also, this.’ He magics the comic open. ‘I got it signed by the artist. Image Crystal was a friend of my dad’s back in Ponyville. His parents lived next door until...’
        Storm Runner closes the book and stares at Helios. ‘I guess we normal ponies forget how rough your family has had it.’ He winces. ‘I just remembered about your sister. Sorry.’
        ‘According to my father, she is safe in the universe she ended up in. She even goes to school with their version of Image.’
        Storm Runner looks away and frowns. ‘Sorry for teasing you earlier. I guess I don’t know what it is like being you and having to be in our world.’
        ‘It is fine. I overreacted. You weren’t really being such a jerk. I hope you can forgive me.’
        ‘Yeah. No prob.’
        ‘Thanks. Um. I have somewhere I...’
        ‘Yeah. Have fun. Sorry for the trouble.’
        Helios turns and starts trotting away. He stops.
        ‘One more thing.’
        ‘Name it.’
        ‘Find an earth pony named Green Kerner when you get back to school. He is new in town and could use some friends.’
        ‘Got it, prince.’
        The prince looks back. ‘Actually, call me Helo.’

        Krile sits in her room using her magic to play several string instruments at once while she uses her hooves to bow a cello. She finishes her song and returns the instruments to their stands and sighs. She hears hoof clapping coming from outside of her room. She growls and uses her magic to open the doors to her balcony. Helios steps into Krile’s room.
        ‘That was “The Art and Science of Wandering,” correct?’ Helios asks. ‘It is my father’s favorite classical piece. We have to hear it every time we go to a classical concert.’
        ‘I thought you didn’t like music from dead musicians.’
        ‘Krile...’
        ‘If you’re here to blow up the house, at least aim away from my room. I don’t want to lose my instruments.’
        ‘Krile. I am sorry. I should not have gotten upset with you like I did.’
        ‘And?’
        ‘And, I am really happy for your acceptance to the music academy. Maybe you will learn to play the rest of the orchestra.’
        ‘And?’
        ‘And, Octavia is alive and well. You are right about that since you are right about everything. You can say there is no such thing as the moon, and it would be true.’
        ‘And?’
        Helios groans. ‘And, we will discreetly remove my parents from power, and I will make you my queen, the true power behind the throne.’
        ‘Good.’ Krile nods. ‘How is that coming, by the way?’
        ‘Well, my dad keeps trying to abdicate, but your dad won’t let him.’
        Krile laughs. Helios sighs.
        ‘Anyway... Uh...’
        ‘Stop slouching.’
        Helios growls, and Krile giggles.
        ‘Actually... Since I don’t know what my parents will do to me as punishment, I want to ask you this now...’
        Krile blushes. ‘What?’
        ‘After whatever they make me do, would you like to go out with me? I have been meaning to ask for a long time really...’
        Krile jumps up and grabs Helios around the neck. ‘Of course I will! Took you long enough.’
        Helios blushes.
        ‘D’aww! About time you lovebirds got together.’
        The teenagers look over to see Krile’s older half-sister Dinky at the door.
        ‘Dinky! My room! Privacy!’ Krile shouts.
        Dinky giggles. ‘Sorry. I just wanted to tell you that mom just got home and wanted to talk with you about today. I guess that means your coltfriend has to go home too.’
        Both teenagers blush at the word ‘coltfriend.’ Dinky giggles again and starts trotting away.
        ‘Well, uh, I guess you better get going,’ Krile says.
        ‘Just one last thing before I go. In case I don’t get a chance any time soon.’
        Krile looks up at her friend and blushes. ‘What?’
        Helios quickly leans in and kisses Krile. There is a bright flash. The teenagers turn to see Dinky galloping away while levitating a camera.
        ‘Wait until Sparkler sees this!’ Dinky giggles.
        ‘Dinky!’ Krile shouts as she gallops after her sister.
        Helios laughs and leaves the way he entered.

        Later in the evening, the royal family is gathered in the family dining room. Queen Luna and King James Sparkle are sitting across from Helios. They have several large books in front of them. At another end of the table, Helios’ little sister, Princess Alba, is reading a stack of books of her own. Helios looks over the books as he tries to figure out what he is in for.
        ‘So, dear,’ Luna begins, ‘Do you wish to tell him or shall I?’
        ‘You’re not going to public school any more.’ James states. ‘None of the schools in Equestria Proper will take you, and I am not shipping you to another country... yet.’
        Luna sighs at her husband’s bluntness. ‘Yes, and besides, we don’t want to take you away from your little fillyfriend.’
        Helios is shocked. ‘Um. Thank you! Does that mean I can finally go to mom’s school!’
        ‘We’re not doing that either. It still seems unfair to me to allow you to enter when there are far more underprivileged unicorns that might not get the opportunity,’ Luna explains.
        ‘Oh... Then where are you...’
        ‘We’re taking you out of school.’ James interrupts.
        ‘Wait. What?’
        ‘You are far smarter and much better educated than you realize,’ Luna replies. ‘I am pretty certain you could get into any university if you tried hard enough. Your big sister...’
        Helios looks away. ‘Full Moon was much smarter than she let on. She held herself back so the rest of us wouldn’t look bad.’
        James reaches across the table and puts a hoof on Helios’ shoulder. ‘We know you miss her a lot. We all do.’
        The prince shakes away the sad thoughts. ‘You were going to tell me what I had to do as punishment for destroying the school?’
        ‘Ah right!’ His father slides over a stack of paper and a quill. ‘Since you are going to be out of school for the time being, we are going to put you to work.’
        Luna puts a hoof on the stack of books. ‘These are the listings of every agency in our government that have offices here in Canterlot. Big to small. We are going to go through each one. You will make a list of all of the ones that you are interested in, and we will try to find you an entry level position with one of those agencies.’
        Helios groans and slams his head into the stack of papers. James picks up a quill in his mouth.
        ‘Let’s get crackin’!’
        Luna glares over at James. ‘It has been twenty years. You have magic.’
        James turns his nose up. ‘Earth pony habits are hard to break.’
        Luna groans and shakes her head. She magically picks up a quill and opens a book at the same time.
…
        All the government agency listings have been processed. All three alicorns look beat from their research. At her end of the table, Alba is still happily reading her books. Helios writes a few more notes as he lays his head against the table. Luna finishes some notes of her own and sets down her quill. James spits his quill out.
        ‘I don’t care if she claws my eyes out and uses her fire magic on me, I am definitely getting a phoenix quill from Philomena one of these days.’
        Luna sighs. ‘Yes dear. Did you finish your list?’
        ‘Yes,’ both of Luna’s boys moan.
        ‘Good. James? Care to compare notes?’
        ‘We could get my office to do it. Lucas is a fast worker and very efficient.’
        ‘Someone there has to be. How many did you get?’
        ‘Oh, at least a hundred. You?’
        ‘About as many. There have to be more than a few overlaps though.’
        ‘Most certainly.’
        Helios stares at his parents. ‘What are you talking about?’
        ‘Oh. We made out lists of agencies too,’ Luna explains. ‘We took this time to compile all of the agencies that seem redundant and extra. They will all be put up for elimination at the budget meeting next month.’
        ‘What!’ Helios yells. The yell is enough to get Alba to look up from her book. The prince slams his hooves against the table. ‘You can’t just let all of those agencies go!’
        ‘It has to be done, son,’ Luna soothes. ‘They are a drain on the budget.’
        ‘But what about all the hard-working ponies and other beings who work at those agencies! You can’t just let them go! Some of them might have skills that could be used by other agencies. If they really are redundant, then they can be merged with minimal loss of skilled workers. The other agencies would have to take up the work load handled by the lost department. Having somepony who knows how to handle that kind of work would save more money than having to train or retrain another pony to do the same job. You can’t just get rid of all of those jobs!’
        Luna and James stare at their son. Slowly, they begin to crack and start giggling then laughing. Helios stares at his parents in shock. He slams his hooves down again, getting is sister to jump.
        ‘This isn’t funny! Ponies’ livelihoods are on the line!’
        ‘You’re right, dear.’ Luna sighs as she controls her laughing. ‘He does have your old temper.’
        ‘I know. We should have done this sooner.’ James calms down and looks at his son. ‘We know all of that already.’
        ‘Then..!’
        ‘Helios!’ Luna snaps. She shakes her head at her son. ‘When I was establishing this government all those centuries ago, a wise earth pony came to me and advised about the potential problems with bureaucracy. I enacted into law the exact system you suggested right now. We are glad that you show the same kindness that we did when we founded this government. You just need to be more familiar with its operation.’
        James smiles at his son. ‘It is really great that you care and are always thinking of your fellow pony.’
        Helios blushes from embarrassment. ‘Well, uh, I...’
        A golden light surrounds Helios’ neck. A large golden necklace forms with a large sun-shaped sunstone at the center. The three older alicorn stare in shock at the occurrence. Alba instantly flies into one of her books to look something up.
        ‘Well, that happened,’ James comments.
        ‘Is that...’ Luna wonders.
        ‘I’ve seen that before!’ Alba calls.
        Alba teleports over with her book levitated in front of her. She taps a page with her hoof. ‘See! Right here! It is an Element of Harmony!’ She turns and stares into the gem. ‘I am guessing Element of Kindness by the looks of it.’
        ‘But isn’t that...’ James turns to his wife.
        ‘This is big. Real big,’ Luna fears.

> Twilight's Shadow
> --------------------------------------------------------------------------

        Princess Alba is the happiest pony in the New Lunar Republic. She has the most wonderful parents. She has the coolest siblings. She has access to all of the books in the world. And today is the best day of the whole month. Today is her monthly magic lesson with The Great and Powerful Trixie.
        Alba walks through the palace grounds. She levitates a dozen books with her as she looks for a place to read. She always likes a light reading session before her magic lessons. Instinctually, she makes her way to her favorite reading spot, the statue of Twilight Sparkle in the middle of the Royal Gardens.
        Twilight Sparkle is Alba’s favorite historical figure. As a young mare, Twilight Sparkle was assigned to arrange the Celestia Sun Festival in Ponyville. There, she subconsciously sought out and united a group of friends who became the Elements of Harmony. Together they had lots of fun and adventures. She even dated Alba’s father. They were going to be married. Then... Alba does not like the next part of the story. A lot of sad things happened. Twilight was dying. Daddy had turned into the monster Discord. To save both their lives, daddy transferred his soul from Discord to Twilight. Discord was sent away, never to be seen again. Daddy and Twilight become one, and now daddy is the new Twilight Sparkle. It all makes sense if you do not think about it too hard.
        Alba sets her books down and looks up at the statue. ‘Hi, Twilight! It is me again!’ the princess greets.
        Alba gives the statue a stern glare. She levitates her tiara off so she can use it as a mirror. After examining herself and the statue, she sighs and replaces the tiara.
        ‘I need a manecut,’ Alba growls.
        Alba, in her hero worship of Twilight Sparkle, has matched her appearance to Twilight’s as well as possible. It helps that Alba has similar mane and coat color. Sure, her coat is a deeper purple, and she lacks the pink streak in her mane that Twilight had, but she does her best. Her cutie mark is also a set of six-pointed stars.
        Alba sighs and levitates her first book. As soon as the book opens, a series of loud fireworks explode behind Alba.
        ‘Prepare for The Clever and Spectacular...’
        ‘Hi Gordie!’ Alba greets.
        ‘MOOOOOM!’ Gordie, a teal unicorn with a dark silver mane, cries. ‘She is cheating again!’
        Trixie laughs as she trots into the garden. ‘Now, Gordon. Calm down. You keep trying to surprise her with that entrance, but it never works.’
        Gordie pouts and trots over to his mom. Trixie trots over to Alba. She levitates off her hat, robe and saddlebag. Trixie’s crystal wand sticks out of her saddlebag. The wand is Trixie’s Element of Friendship. Trixie became the new Element of Friendship after Twilight died. Trixie turns to face the foals and clears her throat.
        ‘Alba, have you been practicing and not just studying?’
        ‘Yes, ma’am!’
        Trixie levitates a small pony figure from her bag. ‘Animophic spell. Go.’
        Alba focuses her magic and zaps the toy with a spell. The toy starts moving on its own. It looks around before letting out a loud ‘neigh’ and darting away. Gordie’s jaw drops. Trixie giggles.
        ‘Aww. It ran away.’ Alba frowns.
        ‘Very good, Alba.’ Trixie praises. ‘Don’t worry. If the guards don’t find it, it should revert to normal.’
        ‘That is no fair!’ Gordie protests. ‘She shouldn’t be able to do that.’
        Trixie raises an eyebrow and turns to Alba. ‘Invisibility?’
        Alba nods and focuses. Her horn starts glowing, but the spell backfires. Alba tumbles back as the spell explodes on her horn. Trixie helps the young filly back to her hooves.
        ‘See, Gordon, not every magic user has the same aptitude. ... And don’t you dare claim you haven’t mastered invisibility. I know how to count cookies, mister.’
        Gordie blushes and looks away. Trixie smiles and pats her son’s head.
        ‘Now, let’s begin today’s lesson.’

        Luna looks out her office window when she hears the laughter of foals from outside. She smiles out at the magic lesson taking place below her. Her assistant goes over and looks out as well.
        ‘The princess appears to be having fun,’ the assistant says.
        ‘Yes, she does.’ Luna sighs. She thinks for a moment. ‘Send for the new intern.’
        ‘You... mean your son?’
        ‘Just because he is my son and the prince does not exclude the fact that he is also our new intern.’ Luna grumbles. ‘Yes, send for Helios.’
        The assistant giggles at the queen and leaves to find Helios. Luna returns her attention to her daughter. Alba charges a spell, but her magic backfires and causes a large explosion. Guards quickly rush to investigate but find Alba, Trixie and Gordie laughing. Luna laughs from her vantage point. There is a knock on the door as Luna’s assistant returns with Helios.
        ‘You wanted to see me, boss?’ Helios asks.
        ‘Yes. May we speak in private?’ Luna replies.
        Luna’s assistant bows and leaves the office. Helios turns his head to the side.
        ‘Mom?’
        Luna motions Helios to the window. ‘What do you think?’
        Helios looks down and analyzes the magic lesson. ‘She is holding back. She is messing up on purpose to make Gordon feel better about not being as advanced as her but still better than most unicorns his age.’
        ‘Besides the obvious.’
        Helios shrugs. ‘I don’t know what you’re asking.’
        ‘Should we tell Trixie about your new toy?’
        Helios looks at his mother. ‘Duh. She has to know. I might not be the only pony with a new Element of Harmony. We don’t want her to be alarmed if hers disappears and ends up in somepony else’s hooves.’
        Luna nods. ‘Agreed. We’ll make room in my schedule. Go inform her of the meeting.’
        ‘Yes, ma’am’
        Helios turns. Before he can open the door, Luna magics it closed.
        ‘Wait. One more question.’
        ‘Yes?’
        ‘Why did you choose to work in my office? You could have gone anywhere and had a more important position.’
        ‘Well, I preferred to work for you or dad since you spend most of your time helping everypony, and I went with the office that, you know, actually does work.’
        Luna smiles. ‘Make sure to tell your father that later. I am sure he will be as proud of you as I am.’
    Helios smiles and nods.

        Trixie finishes up her magic lesson with the foals and gathers them in to the statue of Twilight Sparkle. The foals take a seat in front of their teacher.
        ‘Now, that is all for today. You both have come very far.’ Trixie smiles.
        Alba and Gordie smile as well.
        ‘Which story would you like to hear this time?’ Trixie ask.
        ‘OOO! OOO! The Ursa Minor battle!’ Alba cheers.
        Gordie groans. ‘Ugh. You always want to hear that story. Don’t you have it memorized by now?’
        ‘Yeah... but it is my favorite!’
        ‘It is okay Gordon.’ Trixie calms. ‘She doesn’t get to hear everything all the time like you do. We can give her a special treat.’
        Gordie sighs and settles in. Alba sits up taller in anticipation of the story. Trixie’s horn starts glowing as she readies to tell her story. Trixie’s magic starts creating illusions to match the story.
        ‘It was a warm autumn day when I arrived in Ponyville for the first time. I was to do a series of evening shows in the town square. I was performing my usual routine of simple illusions and metamorphic spells. The lovely Lady Rarity allowed me to perform some simple mane and tail color and shape change spells on her. The generous Miss Applejack performed some rope tricks which I assisted in. Even the courageous Rainbow Dash used her weather manipulation skills to aide in a few illusions. I ended the show with the tale of how the legendary Star Swirl the Bearded vanquished an Ursa Major.’ Trixie’s illusion even shows an illusory Trixie telling a story using her magic. ‘Now, it seems two young foals were taken in by my tale. While I was thanking my new friends after the show, those foals snuck out of town and into the Everfree Forest. There, they roused an Ursa Minor from its slumber. The fearsome beast chased the foals back to the seemingly defenseless town.’
        ‘This is my favorite part,’ Alba squeals.
        Trixie smiles at her student before continuing her story. ‘The Ursa Minor was in for a big surprise. One of the town’s residents was none other than Twilight Sparkle, the most powerful magic user in the whole New Lunar Republic. After hearing my tale, she was researching how Star Swirl had defeated the Ursa Major by himself. When the Ursa Minor arrived, Twilight was ready. She called upon my help to distract the beast while she readied a spell to return the Ursa to its slumber and send it back to the Everfree Forest. Just as my illusions were about to fade, Twilight’s spell was ready, and the beast was sent back to where it came. Twilight Sparkle was exhausted from energy she exerted, and I helped her back to her home. She thanked me for my small part in the battle. From that day forward, Twilight Sparkle and Trixie Lunamoon were the two best of friends and had many more exciting adventures together.’
        Trixie’s illusions fade as her story ends. She closes her eyes and sheds a tear in memory of her lost friend. Alba swoons for a moment after hearing her favorite story. Gordie stops playing with the grass under hoof as soon as the story is over. A royal guard approaches and whispers something into Trixie’s ear. Trixie nods and stands.
        ‘It seems I am summoned for some royal business. Gordon, will you be a dear and take my bag up to our suite?’
        ‘Yes, mom,’ Gordie replies while levitating Trixie’s bag to his back.
        The two unicorns trot away with the guard escorting them. Alba sulks for moment before looking for her books she brought with her. When the group reaches the pathway to the palace, Helios steps out of a doorway.
        ‘Trixie, my mother would like to speak with you if you are free,’ the prince reports.
        ‘Oh, sorry,’ Trixie replies. ‘I was summoned by the king already.’
        Helios growls, ‘Dang it, dad.’
        Alba hears the conversation and gallops up. ‘Oh! Maybe I can help!’
        Everypony looks at the young filly as she starts casting a spell. Suddenly, she disappears in a ball of purple magic. The entire party is shocked to see a pony as young as Alba casting teleportation magic. Moments later, Alba teleports back. She plops down on the stone walkway as her head spins.
        ‘Mommy would like to join daddy for your conversation if that’s okay.’ Alba says before completely collapsing.
        ‘Well, that would be my honor.’ Trixie replies. ‘Um... I guess you should inform your parents?’
    Helios lifts the drained Alba onto his back. ‘I’ll tell my mother to find you and father.’ The prince bows and trots away with his sister balanced between his wings.

        Trixie is meeting with the Queen and King in a small conference room. She is deep in thought.
        ‘To be perfectly honest, I wouldn’t be upset if I lost mine.’ Trixie says with a shrug. ‘I mean, it is not really much of a burden. I quite enjoy having it actually. It is just... Twilight and the others were just older than your oldest son when they got them. I just feel that it it right if they belong to a younger generation.’
        Luna nods. ‘Just as you thought, my love. Must be Twilight’s instincts at work within you.’
        James sighs. ‘What about the other part of my theory?’
        ‘Theory?’ Trixie asks.
        James groans and stands. ‘If the Elements are realigning themselves, they must have a reason to do so. I am just worried for our kids.’
        ‘You are right to worry,’ Trixie agrees. ‘Since I have a good feeling who the next Element of Friendship could be.’

        Alba wakes up the next morning with a huge grin on her face. Whenever Trixie comes to visit, she puts on a show for the local schools. That means that the palace gets a lot of visitors from the local schools. That means loads of foals Alba’s age for her to play with!
        Alba quickly washes up and grooms herself before her attendants notice she is awake. She sneaks to her guards’ post and makes a mad dash past them. She hurries down stairs, through hallways and under her waking brother. She skids to a stop in the main entrance hall right when a tour guide leads the first group of students into the palace. Alba takes a moment to fix her mane and put on her widest grin before greeting the students.
        The tour guide continues a speech she started outside. ‘... No touching of any of the artefacts. No going off the tour route. No talking to the guards. Do not bother any of the royals as they...’
        ‘HI!’ Alba calls out to the group as she trots up.
        ‘Princess Alba!’ The tour guide panics. ‘You should not be here!’
        Alba trots past the guide to the students. ‘Great to meet all of you! I can’t wait to get to know you all!’
        ‘Princess, stop!’
        Alba turns and glares. ‘Your tours are boring. I am here to make this one more fun. Don’t like it, tell my parents.’
        The tour guide growls and turns to find a guard. She comes face to face with the Queen and King. Luna looks impassive. James yawns.
        ‘I’m with Alba,’ the king yawns. ‘You’re fired. Tour over. Feel free to look around. I’ll be back in bed.’
        James tries to leave, but Luna and James’ personal assistant, Lucas, closes in and trap him. He groans and stands his ground. Luna steps forward.
        ‘Welcome to Canterlot Palace.’ Luna greets. ‘I hope you enjoy the tour and the show later.’ She smiles down at her daughter. ‘And be nice to our daughter, but do try to keep up with her. She has a lot of energy.’
        Alba smiles back at her mother. ‘Thank you.’
        Luna waves the group past. ‘Run along. We don’t want to keep the other groups waiting.’
        Alba gallops ahead. ‘Come on! You have to see the gardens! They are so cool!’
        All the students gallop after Alba. The tour guide and teachers try to keep up with the herd of foals stampeding through the palace. James yawns again and gets poked by Lucas.

        With Alba in the lead, the school group gets an inside view of the castle they never expected. They get an especially detailed tour of the royal library and statue garden. Most of the students are nervous or awed being in the presence of Alba, but her cheery and friendly attitude eases everypony into seeing her as one of the gang. She even brings the students snacks from the palace kitchen at lunch time. During Trixie’s magic show in the afternoon, Alba gets her new friends to be the most engaged and even volunteer to participate in the show. By the end of the day, Alba has tired herself out playing with her new friends. She barely has the energy to read two new books before falling asleep early.

        In a family room below the royal bedchambers, Luna, James, and Helios are chatting with Trixie. Trixie is examining Helios’ Element of Kindness closely.
        ‘The design is definitely more appealing than a fox,’ Trixie comments. ‘Have you spoken with Silver about it?’
        ‘We sent messages out to all of the other Elements after it appeared.’ James replies.
        ‘Most seemed surprised,’ Luna adds. ‘Blueblood and Derpy seemed to react calmly, though. I summoned them all so we can discuss the matter. It will be about a week, since Blueblood and Silver are away on business.’
        ‘Hmm... And Lyra?’ Trixie asks.
        ‘She is looking into magical surges like the one detected when the Element manifested,’ James explains. ‘If one of the members of the Republic detected anything, we should be finding out shortly. I have been meeting with ambassadors for the various nations. We’re... It is a little tricky right now.’
        Luna sighs. ‘We are bringing the ambassadors to the meeting once all of the Elements are in Canterlot. We don’t want to leave them out.’
        ‘We should tell the public,’ James says. ‘They have a right to know what is going on.’
        ‘Or it could cause a panic. They might think we lost six more great ponies. I keep telling you that not everything should be made public in these days,’ Luna warns.
        James snorts. ‘We founded this government on transparency and openness. That is why the people trust us so much. We can make a big public spectacle of the announcement. All of the former Elements, us, the head of the senate, and all of the ambassadors we can muster. Spike would love a giant public party.’
        ‘That’s because that is the only time when he can get dragon-sized portions.’ Luna groans.
        ‘I don’t know if it is my place to weigh in,’ Helios interrupts, ‘but I am on dad’s side. We should make some public announcement.’
        ‘And if we are having problems with the other nations, I have experience with goodwill tours,’ Trixie adds.
        Luna sighs. ‘Those are all good points. We will discuss them once everypony is back in Canterlot.
        The unicorn rises and bows. ‘Very well. There is one last thing I wish to do before I retire for the night.’
        Trixie levitates her wand from her saddlebag. The parents nod and allow Trixie to ascend to Alba’s bedchamber. Trixie enters and finds the young filly sleeping in her bed. Trixie smiles and sets the wand on a stand besides Alba’s bed before leaving to return to her guest room. Alba rolls over in her sleep. The wand glows brightly and morphs into a big crown thingy with a jewel in the shape of Alba’s cutie mark at the top. The young filly just smiles in her sleep as she looks forward to another fun day.

> Rebirth of Harmony
> --------------------------------------------------------------------------

        Apple Pie stands outside of the farm house. His hair is tied back. He wears his Element of Harmony and saddlebags in preparation for a trip. Apple Bloom loads his saddlebags with apples.
        ‘There. Now ya have plenty o’ supplies fer yer big adventure.’
        ‘Thank you, Apple Bloom,’ Apple Pie bows. ‘I don’t really know what my dad wants, but I am sure I’ll be back before we know it.’
        Apple Pie leans in to get one last kiss from his fillyfriend before his trip, but Apple Bloom backs away.
        ‘Hold on! Ya almost fergot somethin’ very important!’
        Apple Bloom gallops back into the house. Apple Pie huffs over the lost opportunity. Apple Bloom gallops back to Apple Pie. She carries Applejack’s hat in her mouth, and she has saddlebags of her own. She leans up and fits the hat on Apple Pie’s head.
        ‘There. Now yer really ready.’
        Apple Pie adjusts the hat. ‘Uh, thanks. What are your...’
        Apple Bloom blushes. ‘Oh. Well, that’s the important thin’ ya were fergettin’.’ She leans against Apple Pie and gives him a kiss. ‘Ah ain’t about t’ let ya go alone. Ah’m with ya every step of the way!’
        Apple Pie smiles. ‘Thank you, Apple Bloom. I love you.’
        ‘Ah love ya too, ya goofball.’ Apple Bloom starts galloping down the road. ‘Now let’s get t’ the capital and start havin’ us an adventure.’
        Apple Pie gallops after his fillyfriend. He notes that she has a gold-lined cape slightly sticking out of her pack.

        Luna and James greet the ambassadors as they arrive at the palace. Both bow at each arriving visitor. After the last arrival, James groans and looks down.
        ‘Why so ear...’
        ‘Don’t start.’ Luna growls. ‘You know we have to go all day with this. We meet with the ambassadors first, then the Elements in the afternoon after Silver gets in. We may even have to miss dinner if our special meeting goes long.’
        ‘... Can’t we bump the Elements to later? I want to be at the train station this afternoon.’
        ‘You and Pinkie both,’ Luna sighs then laughs. ‘Three out of four known magic surges. I knew we should have had more kids. We could have had all of the Elements.’
        Luna yelps in surprise as she is pushed away from her husband.
        ‘See! We could have had more! I’m ready!’
        James looks down to see a slightly faded pink pony grinning up at him. He leans down and kisses Pinkie.
        ‘Good to see you, Pinkie. Did you have a nice trip?’
        ‘I had a great trip! Thanks for asking.’
        ‘Actually, I was talking to the wife.’
        Luna picks herself up and glares down at Pinkie. She is overflowing with magical energies. ‘PINKIE!’
        ‘Oh. Hi, Luna. Didn’t see you there.’
        Luna pushes past. ‘If you’ll excuse us, we have a meeting to attend to. Come along, James.’
        James shrugs. ‘Sorry. Duty calls.’ He covers his mouth with his hoof. ‘Trixie should be distracted with a lesson if you hurry.’
        ‘Come along, James!’
        James and Pinkie giggle. James catches up to Luna, and they head to their meeting. Pinkie thinks for a moment before disappearing to have some fun.

        Trixie casts an illusion that awes a number of unicorn foals gathered in the palace gardens. Alba cheers the loudest of the group. Trixie bows and gets the group to settle.
        ‘Thank you. And for my next trick, I am going to summon a giant dragon.’
        Alba raises a hoof and waves it.
        Trixie laughs. ‘No, I don’t mean Ambassador Spike. He is busy right now.’ The foals groan. ‘But this one could even scare him.’
        Trixie charges a spell. She stands on her hind legs for effect. A five-meter-tall green dragon forms in the middle of the gardens. The foals cheer and gasp at the illusion. Trixie directs the dragon down and has it advance on the foals. The foals shriek and flee, except Alba. The dragon lunges forward and chomps her in it mouth. Alba screams at the top of her lungs. Trixie quickly drops the illusion and rushes to help, thinking she actually hurt the child. She stops and shrieks when she sees Alba in the jaws of a giant alligator.
        ‘Gummy!’ Alba cheers as she hugs the toothless reptile.
        ‘Pinkie!’ Trixie shouts
        From behind Trixie, Pinkie laughs and snorts. Trixie turns and glares at the pink troublemaker.
        ‘I got you good!’ Pinkie laughs. ‘You totally didn’t see that one coming.’
        ‘I thought the princess was it danger!’ Trixie shouts back.
        ‘Aw! It is just Gummy,’ Alba complains. She gently taps Gummy on the snout and the alligator lets her free. She turns to the other foals. ‘Come on! He’s safe!’
        ‘Stop!’ Trixie commands. ‘They aren’t as used to him as you are.’
        ‘AWWWW!’ Alba and Pinkie complain.
        Trixie sighs then smiles. ‘It is great to see you again, Pinkie.’
        Pinkie grabs Trixie in a hug. ‘I am so glad to see the (second) cutest, smartest, all-around best pony.’
        ‘Please don’t get sappy around the kids,’ Trixie whispers. ‘We have an image to maintain.’
        ‘Right.’ Pinkie breaks the hug and shakes Trixie’s hoof like a professional.
        ‘Aunt Pinkie Pie, you’re so crazy,’ Alba giggles.

        The meeting with the ambassadors are over. Luna sighs to herself as she straightens her papers. James lets out a groan as he stares at the ceiling. A silver unicorn taps James on the shoulder from behind.
        ‘Boss, remember your position,’ Lucas sighs.
        ‘That was the Royal Canterlot Groan,’ James explains. ‘It is something you mere mortals cannot fathom.’
        ‘It also means “no means I have a headache” when somepony else is in the mood,’ Luna grumbles.
        ‘I really did have a headache!’ James complains. ‘It was if an annoying unicorn and his incessant pestering wouldn’t stop for one moment.’ He pauses. ‘Now I know how Derpy must feel.’
        Lucas growls. ‘I will not have you talk about my wife like that.’
        ‘At least you don’t deny that you’re annoying.’
        ‘Well, I was going to say that you finished early and the train from Ponyville would be arriving in...’
        There is a bright blue flash as James teleports himself away.
…
        Pinkie paces beside a train platform. She keeps checking a watch as she looks down the tracks. A train finally pulls into the station. Pinkie runs from car to car, looking for a certain passenger. Then she sees something she was not expecting. An orange earth pony with a yellow ponytail and wearing a stetson steps off of the train. Pinkie’s eyes fill with tears as she dives through the crowds and tackles the pony is a hug.
        ‘Applejack!’
        ‘Not quite, but close,’ Apple Pie says as he returns the hug.
        ‘What?’ Pinkie stops for a moment to take her son in. She gives a shocked gasp. ‘You look just like her! You even have the same hat. I don’t know if I should be mad at the impression or happy to see you.’
        Apple Pie blushes and looks away. ‘It was Apple Bloom’s idea.’
        Apple Bloom steps forward. ‘Ah thought it’d be appropriate since he saved mah life and all. Ah am sure AJ would be proud o’ him.’
        Pinkie smiles up at her son. ‘Yes, I am sure she would be too.’
        There is a bright blue flash, and James is suddenly standing in the middle of the platform.
        ‘Is this the right place? I am more used to teleporting to the comic shop...’
        ‘Dad!’
        ‘Jimmy!’
        James gets tackled by both Apples as they simultaneously hug him.
        ‘It is great seeing both of you again. We have so much to catch up on. And not just your new... Is that what kids call “swag” these days?’
        ‘Are y’all sayin’ Ah’m jus’ arm candy t’ him?’ Apple Bloom glares.
        ‘More like the other way around.’
        Apple Pie huffs at the joke.
        ‘Hmm.... Is it too late to change your name? I think Arm Candy Pie sounds nice.’
        ‘Mom!’
        James laughs. ‘Okay. No more time to joke around. Pinkie and I have a meeting to get to.’
        ‘Right. About this.’ Apple Pie taps the Element of Harmony hanging around his neck.
        The group starts trotting out of the train station. An earth pony with a dark grey mane gallops past the group.
        ‘Take that to your little sister. She’ll tell you which it is,’ James suggests.
        Apple Pie laughs. ‘Alba really is trying to learn everything, isn’t she?’
        Apple Bloom laughs. ‘Take it t’ yer other sister and she might try eatin’ the apple.’
        Apple Pie groans. ‘Remembering Full Moon, I have to ask which other sister?’
        ‘Apple! Be nice.’ Pinkie scolds. ‘Full Moon is still missing, and Rainbow is not that... Well, maybe she is, but...’ She turns and glares at James. ‘You need to do something about your kids.’
        James gives his second Royal Canterlot Groan of the day.

        Back at the palace, the meeting of the former Elements of Harmony is underway.
        ‘We don’t think there is anything to be alarmed about,’ Luna says. ‘Several times throughout history, the Elements have appeared or realigned without incident.’
        ‘But they always appeared with a group of six friends,’ a white unicorn stallion says. ‘So far, this current batch seems like nepotism.’
        ‘Score one for Blueblood,’ James says as he and Blueblood air high hoof.
        A silver-maned pegasus snorts. ‘No offense to anypony else, but I am glad to be rid of mine. All of the attention was very unnerving.’
        ‘Says the pony who posed for Playcolt,’ A cream-colored earth pony snorts.
        ‘Like Lyra doesn’t have a copy,’ Silver Fox shoots back.
        Bon Bon looks away. ‘Actually, it is my copy...’
        Luna clears her throat. ‘I think we are getting off topic.’
        ‘Agree to disag... OUCH!’ James shouts as Luna kicks him.
        ‘Out of curiosity, who still has theirs?’ Trixie asks. ‘We know where three are, so who was the fourth?’
        Pinkie and Bon Bon put their necklaces on the table in front of them. Instead of looking at the necklaces, all eyes turn to Blueblood.
        Blueblood shrugs. ‘Mine disappeared months ago. I didn’t want to say anything to alarm anypony.’
        ‘But there are photos of you with your Element from just last week,’ Derpy says.
        ‘I had several replicas made. I figured between theft and “loaning” them to various groups in need of donations that I would need copies. The original always stayed back here.’
        ‘So the other one out there is Generosity,’ Luna says. ‘That just leaves Laughter and Honesty to go.’
        The group sits in silence.
        ‘Do we just wait for Lyra to tell us where the next one manifests?’ Bon Bon asks.
        ‘Actually, Trixie had a good idea the other night,’ James says.
        ‘I actually agree this time,’ Luna grumbles.
        James and Trixie air high hoof.
        Luna snorts. ‘After meeting with the ambassadors, they seemed to think it was a good idea to introduce the public of all nations to the new Elements., to assure them that they are just children and nothing sinister is at work.’
        ‘Do the other nations actually think we are trying to use the Elements as a weapon?’ Derpy asks.
        ‘The griffins always believed the Elements to be a weapon,’ a new voice states. ‘The dragons dislike the idea regular ponies, let alone alicorns, possessing magics that would rival their own. The sea ponies are worried that the tensions the realignment has caused will harm their oceans. Each nation has a reason to be uneasy.’
        Everypony looks around the room for the speaker. An earth pony dressed in white robes walks out of the shadows on its hind legs. The other ponies ease when they see who it is.
        ‘You always liked making an entrance, didn’t you?’ Luna sighs.
        Octavia throws the hood of her robe back. She takes off her purple sunglasses and looks around the room. ‘Sorry to alarm everypony. I know Lyra’s reports on the subject are thorough, but I thought you would like a hooves-on report of the situation.’ She turns to James. ‘It looks bad, but it can be reversed.’
        ‘I guess the idea for a goodwill tour is a go.’ James states.
        ‘Wonderful!’ Trixie cheers. ‘Would you mind watching Gordon for me while I am away?’
        ‘Wait. Why are you going?’ Bon Bon asks.
        ‘Which one of us here has the ability and knowledge to handle a mission like this? I think my expertise in traveling will be a boon.’
        ‘I will escort them as well.’ Octavia states. ‘They could use the extra security if both the prince and princess are going.’
        Luna pouts. ‘I don’t like the idea of sending my children out like this. It sounds dangerous.’
        ‘Dear Luna,’ Blueblood begins, ‘it is not like they will be alone. My work takes me all over the world. We are bound to cross paths. As are any of the others with their affairs. You have nothing to worry about.’
        Luna scowls, then nods. ‘Fine. We will begin preparations immediately and announce the trip tomorrow, but their first order of business should be finding the remaining Elements.’
        ‘We will not stop until they are found,’ Trixie assures.
        Everypony stands up and starts leaving the conference room. Octavia returns the sunglasses and waits until everypony has left. James steps up to her.
        ‘Octy. Thanks. This means a lot.’
        Octavia looks away. ‘I haven’t been that name in years. Stop calling me that.’
        ‘She would want you to be happy. You know that.’
        ‘I cannot be happy. They took her from me, and she is never coming back.’ She pauses. ‘I still perform. I haven’t completely given that up... yet.’
        ‘I know. You were wonderful at your show last month.’
        Octavia blushes. ‘You were there?’
        ‘You are the only one who performs that song correctly.’
        Octavia looks away. ‘James... Given you and Luna and Pinkie... If I had the ability to... be happy once more...’
        ‘You still have that ability. You just have to realize it yourself.’ James kisses Octavia on the forehead. ‘Plus, knowing who my kids look like, you’d have fun raising a little Scratch.’
        James follows the others out. Octavia sighs, replaces the cowl over her head and joins the others.

        Helios has brought Krile up to the royal residence while their parents are working. They are sitting together on a couch while watching a program.
        ‘Krile... You heard that I’ll be heading out on that goodwill tour, right?’ the prince asks.
        ‘I know. You’ll be gone for so long.’
        ‘Right. Maybe we should... do something special since we won’t be seeing each other for a while?’
        ‘What do you have in mind, Helo?’
        Helios blushes. ‘Well, uh, we should maybe get together later and, uh, have a special time together?’
        ‘I don’t know, Helo. What would our parents think?’
        ‘They don’t mind us dating. They shouldn’t mind us having a special moment together.’
        ‘In that case,’ Krile hops off the couch, ‘I should go and get ready. I wouldn’t want our special night together to be less than perfect.’ She starts trotting away. ‘Oh! And don’t think you’re getting sex.’
        ‘But that’s what I..!’
        Krile giggles. ‘I know. Nice try, though.’
        The unicorn trots away, giggling. Helios sighs and leans back on the couch. Laughter comes from the next room. Apple Pie trots out and sits in a nearby chair.
        ‘Swing and a miss there, little bro.’
        ‘Shut up.’ Helios scowls. ‘At least it didn’t take me twenty years to confess my love.’
        ‘Duh. I am five years older than you. Of course it would take you less time if we both confessed in the same month.’
        Both brothers growl at each other. Helios backs off first.
        ‘Want me to ask Dinky for embarrassing stories about Apple Bloom?’
        ‘Just wait for the trip,’ Apple Pie laughs. ‘I am sure she’ll share some with us.’
        ‘How come your fillyfriend gets to come?’
        ‘Because she is old enough to foalsit the rest of the group except for me and Trixie. Duh.’
        ‘The rest of us don’t need foalsitting,’ Helios snorts.
        ‘Right. And how many schools did you blow up to figure that one out?’
        Helios leaps up. ‘That was an accident!’
        Apple Pie laughs. ‘I know. You are never going to catch a break from me, though.’
        The younger brother groans and sits back down.

        It is the last meeting of the day for James and Luna. They are sitting in James’ office with a well-appointed griffin. The office door opens and a three-meter-tall, purple dragon ducks into the room. He gives a slight bow to the others.
        ‘Sorry I’m late,’ Spike says. ‘I usually meet with Luna. I am not used to this part of the palace.’
        ‘You know my doors are always open to you, Spike,’ James says.
        Spike takes a long look at James, particularly the mane matching the color and style of Twilight Sparkle’s mane. ‘I... still prefer Luna. Sorry.’
        ‘Can we get this over with?’ The griffin asks. ‘My superiors have been squawking at me all day about these meetings.’
        ‘That is why we called you here, Gilda,’ Luna says. ‘We have more private messages we would like you to liaise for us.’
        ‘Why just us?’ Spike asks.
        ‘The Griffin Empire and Draconia are the two most important allies we have in the NLR. This whole situation has shaken up world relations a bit. We want to personally assure both your governments that there is no hostile intention behind what appears to be nature taking its course.’
        ‘And why do you have to tell us that?’ Gilda replies. ‘We know that and have your back.’
        ‘Right.’ Spike agrees. ‘You know the two of us would do anything in our power to keep every nation at peace.’
        ‘We are just worried...’ Luna begins.
        ‘Listen,’ Gilda interrupts, ‘when Dash first introduced me to her friends, I thought you ponies were a bunch of lame-os, like the stories we tell back home, but you turned out to be pretty cool. I took this job because I know Dash would have wanted us all to be friends, griffins and ponies. I will do my best to uphold her legacy.’
        ‘Just by my living here, pony knowledge of dragons is greater than it ever has been. Twilight would want dragons and ponies to live in peace as well,’ Spike adds.
        ‘She would be really proud of you, Spike.’ James smiles at the once-puny dragon.
        ‘Don’t worry, guys,’ Gilda assures. ‘We got your back, and nothing can break our countries apart.’

        The next day, the new Elements of Harmony have gathered at the train station to begin their search for the remaining Elements and the goodwill tour across the New Lunar Republic. All of the former Elements of Harmony have joined the parents and friends in seeing the kids off. Alba gives her mother an extra tearful hug goodbye since it will be her first time away from her parents. Helios says his goodbyes to Krile, Storm Bullet, Green Kerner and all of his friends. Instead of giving one, Apple Pie gets the tearful hug from his mother while Apple Bloom giggles at her coltfriend. Trixie gives James (read: Lucas) all the instructions for taking care of her son while she is away. A disguised Octavia groans and checks her watch. The train whistle signals the passengers to finish boarding.
        ‘Finally,’ Octavia grumbles.
        The families break their hugs and start heading to the train.
        ‘Son! Take care of your little sister.’ James commands.
        ‘Yes, dad,’ Apple Pie and Helios moan.
        Pinkie giggles at the reaction.
        ‘AB, take care of my boys. They need it.’
        ‘Hey!’ Apple Pie and Helios complain.
        ‘Will do!’ Apple Bloom salutes.
        ‘Trixie!’ Luna calls. ‘Protect my darling child, okay?’
        ‘Don’t worry, mom. I’ll be safe,’ Helios calls back.
        ‘Him too!’ Luna adds.
        Helios snorts and stomps onto the train before he can be teased more. Apple Pie laughs and follows. Apple Bloom waves and joins them on the train. Alba gives her dad one last hug and gallops after her brothers.
        ‘Have a magical day!’ Trixie cheers as doves fly out from behind her.
        The gathered crowds clap at the trick. Trixie bows and boards the train. Octavia steps over to the group. She bows to James.
        ‘I’ll keep them safe.’
        Octavia leans up and kisses James’ cheek. She slips a note under his hoof when she backs away. She looks at Krile.
        ‘I hear you are a skilled musician.’ Octavia pulls her shades down slightly and winks. ‘Good. Need more of you.’
        Octavia marches on to the train right as the last whistle blows. The gathered crowd waves while the train pulls out of the station. James lifts the note and reads it. Krile realizes something.
        ‘Was that..?’
        Lucas and Derpy cut their kid off before she can finish her thought. Luna looks over at James.
        ‘What is that?’
        ‘Remember The Doctor’s first rule?’ James asks.
        ‘Right. The one about lying,’ Luna scowls.
        ‘Well.... I might have one that will make you and Pinkie a little mad...’
        ‘James! You didn’t!’
        James holds the note out. ‘If it makes you feel better, she kept a secret from me too.’

> All the Way Across the Sky
> --------------------------------------------------------------------------

        Rainbow Pie enjoys a good afternoon nap on a cloud. They are almost as good as morning naps, better than noontime naps, about equal to evening naps, but nowhere near as good as extended nighttime naps, or sleep as some ponies would call it.
        The pegasus and her cloud bed float over a wide plain, several hundred meters from the ground. She stirs a bit and rolls over, right off the edge of the cloud. Having learned from past experiences, the safety line tying her hind leg to the cloud comes into play instantly. Rainbow dangles from her cloud bed, upside down and still snoring away.
        The other pegasi in Rainbow’s weather control unit laugh at their coworker as she dangles from her cloud. The laughter is cut short when a light gold mare with a pale blue mane flies into the center of the group. Raindrops looks around for the source of the disruption, and the snoring quickly leads her to the source. She flies over and lands on the cloud.
        ‘Rainbow!’ Raindrops shouts down at her worker.
        Rainbow snorts and looks up at her boss. ‘Oh. Hi, Raindrops! How’s it going?’
        Raindrops growls and stomps. The cloud sends a bolt of lightning straight into Rainbow’s backside. The young pegasus shouts in pain and tries flying away. She ends up dragging the sparking cloud behind her. The other pegasi laugh at the panicking pegasus. Raindrops groans and facehoofs.

        Rainbow meets Raindrops in her boss’ office. The older pegasus stares at the younger one from behind her desk. The cyan pegasus yawns and scratches her rainbow-colored mane while she waits for her boss to speak. Raindrops sighs and picks up a folder from her desk.
        ‘What are we going to do with you, Rainbow?’
        ‘Nap time sounds good about now,’ Rainbow yawns.
        Raindrops snorts. ‘That wasn’t even the first time we caught you napping this week. It isn’t even Friday, and you have been caught napping on the job twelve times. Do you know how much trouble you would be in if I wasn’t your boss?’
        ‘Slap on the wrist and stern warning?’
        Raindrops shakes her head. ‘This is serious, Rainbow. If I wasn’t watching out for you, you would be looking for a new job right now. Instead, you will just be up for review.’ She sets down the folder. ‘Next Wednesday, you will be put through all of the basic skills needed to work for the weather service. If you don’t score perfectly, and I literally mean a perfect score, you will be fired. Do you understand?’
        ‘Yeah, yeah. I get it. Fly here, make rain, cloud... something,’ Rainbow groans.
        Raindrops growls. ‘It is that sort of attitude that might get you fired. I have tried everything with you. I tried morning duty. I tried late night duty. I even tried getting our crew assigned to your brother’s farm.’ She grimaces a little. ‘Thankfully, that didn’t fly. I would hate to think how many apple harvests you could have ruined... or eaten.’
        Rainbow drools. ‘AB grows such good apples.’
        Raindrops growls more. ‘Rainbow, I want to see you pass your review. I will personally be training you every day until your review.’
        ‘Aww!’
        ‘No complaining!’
        Rainbow winces at the yell. Raindrops takes a breath and calms down.
        ‘Sorry. I... I just want you to do good. We will meet here tomorrow morning. I want you there with bells on!’
        Rainbow salutes and marches out of the office. She thinks to herself about her situation. Then an idea hits her like a bolt from the blue. She screams as a lightning bolt really does hit her. She flies throughout the weather factory, trying to ditch the cloud that is still attached to her leg. The entire factory laughs at Rainbow’s antics.

        Raindrops yawns as she trots to her office the next morning. She holds a cup of coffee in one wing and rubs a sore muscle in her left hind leg. Her coworkers wave and greet her as she walks to her office. She notes the lack of Rainbow so far. She groans and sips her coffee as she enters her office. One glance into the room causes the coffee to hit the floor.
        Rainbow stands on Raindrops’ desk. She is dressed in a dark blue robe and pointed hat, both covered in stars and moons. Bells are sewn along the edge of the hat and robe. Rainbow has a hoof raised and her wings extended. A fake beard hangs from her face.
        ‘BEHOLD!’ Rainbow bellows. ‘The Great Rainbow Swirl the Bearded hath arrived!’
        Raindrops stares in shock.
        Rainbow giggles. ‘Like it? The robe is hoof-stitched.’ She fluffs the beard. ‘And I think got the beard genes from my dad.’
        Rainbow giggles and snorts at her joke. She searches Raindrops for any sign of approval, but the older pegasus just stares with her jaw on the floor. Rainbow’s eyes dart as she tries to think of something to say. She jingles the bells on her robe.
        ‘I.. I got the bells right, too.’
        Rainbow puts on her biggest smile and leans towards her boss.
        Raindrops looks down and scowls. She looks back up with tears in her eyes. ‘Get out.’ she snarls.
        Rainbow squeaks and disappears from the room. Raindrops slams the door behind her and wipes away her tears.

        Rainbow sits outside of Raindrops’ office like a sad puppy. She is still in her costume. She perks up and tries looking in the office every time anypony enters or exits. Any glance from Raindrops sends the worried pony back into hiding.
        At the end of the day, Raindrops is annoyed about the bearded cyan young mare poking her head in the doorway every few moments. She finishes her last meeting for the day. The familiar face pops in the doorway while her guest is leaving. Raindrops sighs.
        ‘Rainbow. Get in here.’
        Rainbow slowly trots into her boss’ office.
        ‘Rainbow, I want to talk with you. First, take off that costume.’
        Rainbow grabs the beard in a hoof and pulls it across her body. Somehow, the whole costume disappears into nothingness. Raindrops ignores the odd occurrence.
        ‘Rainbow, you know I used to live in Ponyville, right?’
        Rainbow nods enthusiastically.
        ‘Your costume today reminded me of a Luna Solstice Night when the late Twilight Sparkle wore a similar costume. You... awoke a number of memories of the times before the attack... Before the city was destroyed...’
        Rainbow looks down and frowns. ‘I am sorry. I didn’t know my costume had so many bad memories for you.’
        Raindrops shakes her head. ‘No. Those were good memories. Great memories. Happy memories. Do you know why I requested you for my crew? Why I picked you when you are a mediocre weather pegasus at best?’
        Rainbow shakes her head.
        ‘As soon as I saw your name, I was reminded of your mother.’ Raindrops smiles. ‘She is an amazing pony. She could make everypony smile just by trotting down the street. I thought that if I had you on my team that you could recreate those happy memories.’
        Rainbow whines. ‘I am sorry that I am a disappointment.’
        ‘Far from it! Every day is a joy to see you. Yes, you are frustrating when we under a crunch, and your bad habit of sleeping all day is very annoying, but I cannot think of a crew that has higher morale. You make us all laugh. You always bring tons of treats for everypony’s birthday. Not to mention your cloud art.’ Raindrops starts crying tears of joy. ‘Rainbow, if there is one pony who has ever lived up to both their namesake and their parent’s legacy, it is you! That is why I want to see you succeed. I don’t want you to ever get sad and lose your talent for making everypony laugh.’
        Rainbow tears up she is so happy. She dives across Raindrops’ desk and grabs her mentor in a giant hug. Raindrops smiles and returns the hug. Suddenly, a bright light shines between them. Rainbow leans back as the light solidifies around her neck. A golden necklace with a large diamond cloud at the center.
        ‘Is that..?’ Raindrops asks.
        Rainbow’s eye goes wide. She takes off flying through the factory to show her new Element of Harmony. She even flies through all of the cloud walls.
        ‘I AM AN ELEMENT OF HARMONY!’ Rainbow shouts as she flies throughout the factory and out into the city.
        At her desk, Raindrops laughs at Rainbow’s reaction. She watches the young pegasus flying around the city through the holes in the walls. She calmly picks up her desk phone and makes a call.

        Helios and Alba fly into Cloudsdale. They receive bows from everypony they fly past and bow and wave at everypony as they scan the city. Helios is levitating a phone to his ear.
        ‘I understand. Thank you.’ Helios hangs up. ‘That was Octavia. Lyra just reported that there was a large magic spike in the area. Hopefully, Rainbow will be willing to help us look for the potential Element after we see her.’
        Alba gets distracted by a large display of cloud candy. ‘Uh huh.’
        ‘Alba! This is important.’
        Alba looks up at her brother and pouts. ‘I know! I felt the magic surge too. We do have magic lightning rods built into our head after all.’
        Helios sighs. ‘Sorry. Let’s just find Rainbow. I’m sure she’ll put us at ease.’ He starts scanning the skies. ‘Now where would she be..?’
        ‘I AM AN ELEMENT OF HARMONY!’ a rainbow-colored streak shouts as it zig-zags through the city, bouncing off some buildings, flying through others.
        ‘Found her!’ Alba cheers.
        Helios groans and facehoofs.

        Rainbow has calmed down enough to meet with her half-siblings in her small apartment. The apartment barely contains the young adult pegasus, teenaged alicorn and their alicorn foal sister. Rainbow still has a huge grin on her face.
        ‘I guess you saved us an explanation about why we’re here,’ Helios says.
        Rainbow’s grin grows. ‘So awesome!’
        Helios sighs. ‘Rainbow, please. Be serious for once.’
        Rainbow drops her grin and makes the best ‘serious business’ face she can. Alba giggles at the funny face.
        ‘You look just like your mom,’ Alba giggles.
        ‘Anyway, Rainbow, since you now have a new bauble like the rest of us, will you be joining us as we tour the planet?’ Helios asks. ‘We don’t know how long it will take, but it is something our father has asked us to do.’
        ‘Oh! I totally forgot about that.’ Rainbow picks up her mobile and dials a number. ‘Hi! Raindrops! I am going on a quest with my brother, so... I quit! Bye!’
        Rainbow hangs up and smiles at her siblings. Helios holds his head in embarrassment. Alba giggles.
        ‘Don’t worry. I was about to be fired anyway,’ Rainbow assures. ‘Something about sleeping on the job. Either much or not enough. I think it was the latter.’
        ‘Alba...’ Helios sighs. ‘Go back and tell the others that Rainbow will be joining us. I’ll help her make sure everything is in order for her departure.’
        ‘But...’
        ‘Alba, you can teleport better than I can. Rainbow and I have a few things to arrange,’ -- he looks over at Rainbow -- ‘like a better resignation for one...’
        Alba sighs and gets up. ‘Fine. Don’t take too long, okay?’
        Alba charges her spell and disappears in purple flash.
        Rainbow looks at Helios. ‘So, how bad is it?’
        Helios sighs. ‘We really don’t know. Our mothers aren’t worried, but dad...’
        ‘Did... he cheat? Like with Full Moon?’
        Helios shakes his head. ‘No, it is just his gut feeling.’
        ‘And what does my mom say about gut feelings?’
        ‘I think that is why he is worried.’ Helios sighs. ‘Anyway, we have Trixie and Octavia on the trip with us. Everything is going to be fine.’
        Helios smiles. Rainbow giggles.
        You’re jealous that Apple gets to bring his fillyfriend, but you don’t.’
        ‘How the hell..? I mean! No!’
        Rainbow giggles again.
        ‘Let’s just pack your saddlebags and go,’ Helios growls.

        The rest of the Elements of Harmony and their mentors are gathered at a small way-station below Cloudsdale. Pegasi zip back and forth between the small village on the ground and the massive city in the sky. Trixie comforts a pouting Alba while they wait in a small park. Nearby, Apple Bloom and Apple Pie practice their martial arts. Octavia watches them from the shadows. Apple Pie tries to jump and kick using only his hind legs, but he stumbles on launch.
        ‘Dang it! I am never going to get that,’ Apple Pie grumbles.
        ‘Ah am sure y’all will get it,’ Apple Bloom says as she helps the young stallion up. ‘It just takes a little practice.’
        ‘Or you can think like your father,’ Octavia mumbles.
        ‘What was that?’ Apple Pie asks.
        Octavia sighs. ‘Think about it. Third law reaction. You can only push down with so much force in your current physical condition, but what if something a lot more massive could push up?’
        ‘You’re saying to use my powers to use the ground to push me up?’
        Octavia shrugs. ‘Or you can just condition yourself. Personally, I suggest both, but I am only trained in a dozen combat styles, so what do I know?’
        Apple Bloom trots over to the older mare and pokes her in the chest. ‘Hey! Which one of us is his sensei?’
        Octavia looks down at the hoof touching her then back up. Her intense glare can be seen through her purple sunglasses. The younger mare backs off a little.
        ‘Come on,’ Apple Pie moans. ‘We can all get alo...’
        Apple Pie stops mid-sentence as his ears flop, his knee twitches, and his eyes flutter. Apple Bloom and Octavia stare at the stallion.
        ‘Was that one of those things like your mom has?’ Octavia asks.
        ‘Yeah...’ Apple Pie thinks. ‘But that one means the sky is about to be graced by a beautiful rainbow...’
        A pair of shadows pass over head and loop around.
        ‘Look who I found!’ Helios calls as he and Rainbow land in the field.
        ‘I said “beautiful rainbow”!’ Apple Pie shouts at Fate.
        ‘Good to see you too, big brother,’ Rainbow giggles.
        Apple Pie and Rainbow trot over to each other and hug. The other members of the group trot over to greet their new arrival.
        ‘Great t’ see ya again, Rainbow!’ Apple Bloom cheers.
        ‘It is nice to see the family reunited,’ Trixie says.
        ‘Can we get going? Next train leaves soon,’ Octavia grumbles.
        The others glare at Octavia for ruining the happy moment. Another shadow flies past overhead.
        ‘Wait! Don’t leave without me!’ Raindrops lands near the group and catches her breath. ‘Phew! Thought I would miss you.’
        ‘Raindrops? What are you doing here?’ Rainbow asks.
        ‘Do you really think I could let you go off on an adventure alone?’
        Rainbow nods. ‘Yes.’
        Raindrops sighs. ‘Rainbow, you know you wouldn’t get far without me. You even forgot that you haven’t slept since this morning.’
        Rainbow gasps. ‘That’s right! I missed all of my scheduled naps and snack times!’
        Raindrops pushes a small cloud over. Rainbow instantly hops up and curls up. She is asleep in second.
        ‘Thanks for that. Really,’ Helios groans.
        ‘Oh, come on,’ Raindrops sighs. ‘Do any of you know how to wake her from one of her power naps?’
        Everypony shakes their head.
        ‘How about getting her to focus?’
        Everypony still shakes their head.
        ‘How about getting her to behave in public, something I am guessing you will need on your trip?’
        Everypony continues shaking their heads.
        ‘See. You need me. I have been able to make Rainbow a respectable member of the Cloudsdale weather crews.’
        Rainbow rolls off her cloud and falls to the ground. She does not wake.
        ‘Okay. I have made her a member of the Cloudsdale weather crews. The point is, you need me.’
        Octavia groans and trots away. ‘Whatever. We’re late for our train.’
        ‘I think she meant to say “welcome to the team”,’ Trixie says, shaking Raindrops’ hoof.
        ‘No, I didn’t!’ Octavia shouts back.
        The others greet and welcome Raindrops and follow Octavia to the train. Helios stops to help Raindrops put Rainbow back on her cloud.
        ‘Thank you for taking care of her all of these years,’ Helios says.
        Raindrops blushes. ‘Well, it was more like...’
        Helios smiles. ‘I was talking to her.’
        Raindrops smiles and looks away. Helios gives the cloud a push. He escorts the two pegasi to the train station.

> Sweet Razzleberry Soufflé
> --------------------------------------------------------------------------

        The Elements of Harmony and their mentors explore the city of Fillydelphia in the afternoon. Earlier, they had a meeting with the citizens of the city, but now they are searching for the next Element of Harmony. Trixie marches at the front of the group with Alba at her side. They are using their magic to detect the mysterious pony. The others trot behind them, with Raindrops flying and dragging a cloud with a sleeping Rainbow. Octavia trots at the back of the group.
        ‘Are you sure you don’t need any help with her?’ Helios asks Raindrops.
        The mare smiles and shakes her head. ‘It is no problem. I’ve had to drag her home before.’
        ‘She really sleeps a lot,’ Apple Bloom notes. ‘Ah don’ think she’s been awake for more than an hour this whole trip.’
        Raindrops laughs. ‘She did wear herself out the day she found her element. I almost never see her that energetic.’
        Apple Pie laughs. ‘She is a random one. You should have seen her as a foal. Mom was the only pony that could catch her at times. Auntie Inkie would scream so much if Rainbow got in her lab.’
        ‘Sorta makes me wonder how y’all can have the same mother,’ Apple Bloom comments.
        Apple Pie groans. ‘I know. Even worse when you compare all four of dad’s kids.’
        ‘Five,’ Helios snorts. ‘Why does everypony forget Full Moon?’
        ‘Sorry,’ Apple Pie mumbles. ‘We didn’t get to interact with her as much as you two did.’
        ‘Full Moon’s fate was preordained. Her loss could not be helped,’ Octavia calmly says.
        Helios stops and turns to Octavia. ‘Full Moon was our sister and never knew it! If I could change one thing about her fate, it would have been giving her the family she desired. How would you like to have lost somepony you cared for without telling them the truth or how you really felt about them?’
        Octavia stops. Everypony in the party stops too to see what she will do next. The mare removes her purple sunglasses and stares at Helios. She trots to the taller alicorn and glares into his eyes.
        ‘Say that again and I will not hesitate to leave you in a gutter, bleeding to death. I don’t care who you are, how much power you have or who your father is. I will fight through everypony here and finish you off,‘ Ocatvia threatens. Helios tries backing away, but the smaller pony pulls his face to hers. ‘Never say that again. Ever! Understood?’
        A cold sweat forms as Helios stares into the eyes of the pony in front of him. He cannot blink as he sees all of the horrors she witnessed the day of his father’s first wedding. The prince meekly nods. Octavia returns the sunglasses and trots back to the rear of the party. She does not even bother slapping the terrified prince with her mane or tail. The group starts breathing again.
        ‘I almost lost a brother, and it would have been his own fault,’ Alba sighs.
        ‘Ah guess Jimmy’s brains skips every other kid.’
        ‘I wasn’t worried,’ Raindrops says.
        ‘Ya weren’t?’
        ‘Nah. If something bad is going to happen, my fake leg starts acting up.’
        Rainbow snaps to attention. Bits of cloud falls from her ears. ‘What?!’
        Raindrops laughs. ‘You didn’t know, did you? I lost one of my legs in the attack. I have a biomechanical replacement. Works good as new, but I fly to rest it once in a while.’
        Rainbow opens her mouth to ask a question, but Raindrops shakes her head.
        ‘I’m not telling which one.’
        Rainbow flies her cloud forward and pokes Raindrops’ left hind leg. The older pegasus giggles. Apple Pie pokes his brother, getting him to snap out of his shock. The party makes their way down the street. It is relatively empty, allowing the the group to search without drawing too much attention. Trixie and Alba scan the buildings with their magic. Rainbow keeps poking Raindrops’ legs to get a reaction. Before Raindrops can yell at the younger pegasus, Rainbow’s head shoots up. She sniffs the air. A rainbow-colored streak disappears down the street.
        ‘Do we..?’ Alba asks.
        ‘Better not let her get lost,’ Trixie replies.
        The group gallops after Rainbow. They find her pressing her face against and licking the window outside of a bakery. Her older brother grabs her tail in his mouth and tries pulling her from window. Helios joins in trying to pull his sister with his magic. Alba laughs at her older siblings, but she stops and turns to Trixie.
        ‘I sense it too,’ Trixie says. ‘Seems Rainbow inadvertently led us to a clue.’
        The baker comes out of the back of the shop. He laughs at Rainbow’s display and waves the group inside. The large group enters the shop, except for Octavia who waits outside. Most of the ponies shuffle at the back of the shop. Trixie, Alba, and Rainbow trot up to the counter and greet the baker. He is a magenta unicorn with a slightly darker magenta mane. He smiles at the three ladies in front of him.
        ‘How can I help you?’ the baker asks.
        ‘One of everything and a big glass of milk!’ Rainbow replies.
        The baker laughs. The door behind him creaks open a crack. Alba notices somepony peeking out and waves. The door is quickly slammed shut. Alba frowns.
        ‘Sorry about that,’ the baker says. ‘My daughter is very shy. Now, what really brings the Elements of Harmony to my shop? I doubt all of you want to’ -- he magically pulls a pie from Rainbow -- ‘devour my shop whole.’
        ‘If you know who we are, then you know of our search for the remaining Elements,’ Trixie replies. ‘We have traced one to this area. Perhaps you might be of some assistance?’
        ‘Sorry. I don’t know if I can, beautiful,’ the baker replies.
        Trixie blushes. ‘Sorry, but Trixie is spoken for already.’
        The baker smiles. ‘I know. I have always had a soft spot in my heart for The Great and Powerful Trixie.’
        Trixie grins. ‘Oh, Trixie likes you, mister...’
        ‘Soufflé. Strawberry Soufflé.’
        ‘The handsome Mister Soufflé.’
        Strawberry rubs the back of his head. ‘Well, I wouldn’t go that far.’ He looks around the room. ‘Hey. Since you came all this way, I might as well treat you to some of my wares. It is the least I can do.’
        ‘We really couldn’t accept your generosity,’ Helios replies.
        ‘Tch! Of course you can. I still owe your mother for all she has done for me.’ Strawberry pokes his head into the back. ‘Razzleberry! I am going to need your help out here.’
        Strawberry comes around the counter. He sets up and dresses a few tables. He takes extra time to make sure everything is perfectly positioned according to proper etiquette. While the guests get seated, a young, light purple unicorn filly with a dark purple mane nervously comes out of the back of the shop. She looks around before she starts levitating the various wares to the counter for her father to serve. Her work done, she turns to leave but runs muzzle first into Alba.
        ‘Hi!’ the young alicorn greets.
        The unicorn screams and gallops straight into the door. Alba helps the other pony up.
        ‘Th-thank you... Bye!’
        Razzleberry quickly ducks into the back. Alba chases after her. Strawberry sighs as he serves his guests.
        ‘Really sorry about Razzleberry,’ he apologizes.
        ‘It is okay. Not everypony can be as outgoing as Alba,’ Helios says.
        ‘I can believe that,’ Strawberry replies. ‘She gets that from her mother, right?’
        ‘I guess so. Why do you keep mentioning our mom?’
        Strawberry smiles. ‘Back when I was still a colt about Razzleberry’s age, my mother was diagnosed with cancer. We could barely afford her treatment, but your mother stepped in and got us grant money to afford the best care in the Republic. She even came to visit us on occasion. That extra time with my mother was the greatest gift anypony has given me. I work every day to try and pay back the generosity she showed me.’
        ‘Ah know what ya mean,’ Apple Bloom says. ‘If it weren’t fer Jimmy and his family’ -- she nuzzles Apple Pie -- ‘especially one member o’ the family, Ah might not have had a home after the attack. They really do their best t’ look after us little ponies.’
        Strawberry laughs. ‘Probably why most of their kids are here.’ He looks at the group. ‘You really think the one you are looking for is here?’
        ‘Or at least in the area,’ Trixie replies. ‘You haven’t had any unusual magical manifestations recently?’
        ‘I might not be the best at magic, but something like that definitely didn’t happen anywhere near here. The worst thing I have seen recently has been some disappearing leftovers, but that is nothing to worry about.’
        ‘Leftovers?’ Apple Pie asks.
        ‘Just the day-old goods. Stuff that doesn’t sell. It really is no big deal.’
        Suddenly, a loud crash comes from the back of the bakery. Helios and Strawberry leap up to check on their sister and daughter respectively. They find the two fillies sitting on the floor, covered in flour and giggling like crazy. Razzleberry looks up at the ponies at the door.
        ‘Sorry about the mess, daddy,’ Razzleberry giggles. ‘I was showing the princess one of our tart recipes.’
        ‘Razzly is a great cook!’ Alba adds.
        The two older ponies sigh. Strawberry looks up with a quizzical look on his face.
        ‘Razzly?’
        Razzly blushes. ‘Th-the princess came up with it... Do you not like it?’
        Strawberry laughs. ‘It is perfect. Even more perfect if it make you happy.’
        Razzly smiles at her father. The two male ponies leave the fillies to their cooking and playing.
        ‘I have never seen her take to anypony so quickly,’ Strawberry comments.
        ‘Alba has a way with making new friends,’ Helios laughs.

        After the afternoon snack and buying several dozen kilograms of baked goods for Rainbow, the party makes their way back towards their hotel for the night. In a surprise move, Octavia breaks from the back of the pack and approaches Trixie.
        ‘The kid is likely the Element we are looking for,’ Octavia states.
        ‘I know!’ Alba chimes in. ‘She has the same aura that the rest of us have.’
        Trixie and Octavia look at the filly.
        ‘Why didn’t you say so earlier, dear?’ Trixie asks.
        ‘I thought you knew. That was why you were talking with her daddy, right?’
        Trixie and Octavia stop. They turn around and start trotting to the store.
        ‘Hotel’s this way,’ Raindrops says while pointing.
        ‘We left something back at the bakery,’ Trixie snorts.
        ‘More pie?’ Rainbow asks.
        ‘More important than that.’
        ‘More cake?’
        The two mares sigh and continue back to the bakery. Inside, Strawberry and Razzly are cleaning up. The family stops their work when they see the mares enter the store.
        ‘Let me guess, more cake and pie?’ Strawberry laughs.
        ‘Actually, we want to ask about something else,’ Trixie says.
        ‘Oh. Okay.’ Strawberry turns to Razzly. ‘This is grownup talk. Please go to your room.’
        Razzly nods and trots out of the room. Strawberry motions to a table and the adults sit.
        ‘Why did you lie to us?’ Trixie asks.
        Strawberry sighs. ‘You have a kid, right?’
        Trixie nods.
        ‘But you also have more of a family than just your kid too, right?’
        ‘Yeah...’
        ‘Razzly is all I have left. I was alone for a long time after losing my mother. When I found my wife, I was happy as can be. Then she left me and Razzly... I just don’t want another important lady in my life taken from me. She is all I have to remember her mother by.’
        ‘But she is one of...’
        Octavia puts a hoof on Trixie’s shoulder. ‘No. We are leaving. Thank you for your time, Mr Strawberry.’
        Octavia gets up, but Trixie remains seated.
        ‘I really think she would be better traveling with us. We have to reunite all of the Elements.’
        ‘Trixie, I understand his reasoning. I also highly sympathize with his feelings. I will not allow anypony to force him to give up his daughter, even us. And I will stop you if you try.’
        Trixie takes a deep breath and stands. ‘Okay. You win.’ She turns to Strawberry. ‘I am very sorry for bothering you like this. Trixie did not mean to upset you.’
        Strawberry shrugs. ‘Meh. I know where you are coming from with your mission. I am glad you see my side of things, too.’
        ‘We will be here for a couple days,’ Trixie says. ‘I know Alba would love to see her new friend some more.’
        ‘I welcome it.’ Strawberry smiles. ‘It makes me happy to see Razzleberry as happy as Alba made her today.’
        The ponies bow at each other. The mares leave the store, a little filly watching from her bedroom as they trot down the street.

        Alba happily flies across the city to visit Razzly again. She waves at everypony she passes, whether they are flying too or not. The young alicorn lands a few meters away from the bakery and trots the rest of the distance.
        ‘Hello, Mr Strawberry!’ Alba greets as she enters the shop. ‘Is Razzly free?’
        ‘Good Morning, Alba.’ Strawberry smiles. ‘She is finishing up some mixing. Go on back.’
        Alba trots to the back of the store. Razzly is not in the kitchen. She looks for the other filly and finds her entering the kitchen from a back entrance. The unicorn filly jumps in surprise at the visitor.
        ‘Hi, Razzly!’
        ‘A-Alba. You startled me.’
        ‘Sorry. What were you doing?’
        Razzly blushes. ‘Oh uh...’ She starts kicking the ground.
        Alba tilts her head to the side. ‘What is it? You can tell me.’
        ‘Well, uh...’ Razzly whines. ‘I, uh, I give away our old product without telling daddy...’
        ‘Shouldn’t ponies not want old bread and stuff?’
        ‘I, uh, use my, uh, magic to, um, freshen and sweeten the items...’
        ‘Cool! You have to show me that spell. Rainbow will love it.’
        ‘Um... I guess that is okay...’
        ‘Yay!’ Alba grabs the smaller filly in a hug. ‘Hey! What do you want to do today?’

        Outside Strawberry’s bakery, Alba gives her friend an extra long hug at the end of the day. The two fillies spent the whole day playing and running around the city. Strawberry watches them from the shop as he gets ready to close.
        ‘Thank you for a wonderful day, Razzly,’ Alba says after breaking the hug.
        ‘Y-yes. It has be fun.’ Razzly sighs. ‘I am sorry we won’t see each other more.’
        Alba frowns. ‘I know... I wish you could come on adventures with us, but your daddy loves you. That is more important.’
        ‘Yeah... I’ll miss you.’
        ‘I’ll miss you, too. You are definitely one of my favoritest friends ever!’
        Razzly looks down and squeaks. ‘We are friends?’
        ‘Of course we are, silly. We are great friends!’
        Razzly smiles. ‘I have never had a friend before...’ She looks up. ‘I am glad my first friend is the best I could hope for.’
        ‘You’re silly,’ Alba laughs. ‘You are the best friend anypony could hope for!’
        Razzly smiles wider and looks away in embarrassment. ‘I-I should go now. Daddy might need help.’
        ‘Okay. I’ll be sure to stop by tomorrow before we leave.’
        The friends wave to each other as Razzly enters the shop. Alba spreads her wings and takes off into the sky. No sooner than Alba reaches a good flying altitude, she hears a loud scream. She flies around and can see a pair of large stallions entering Strawberry’s shop. The princess dives down and lands a safe distance from the shop. She starts readying a magic spell to help the unicorns, but a hoof is placed on her shoulder. She looks up to see an earth pony in a white, hooded robe shake its head at her.
        Inside the shop, Strawberry faces the attackers. His horn is glowing and ready to strike back. The attackers, an earth pony larger than Helios and a pegasus, advance on the two unicorns.
        ‘All right, boys,’ Strawberry growls. ‘Leave now before it gets stormy in here.’
        ‘Ah come on,’ the pegasus says. ‘Your kid is always giving out free food. Why not give us free money, too?’
        ‘Ya don’t want us to hurt either of you, do ya now?’ the earth pony adds.
        ‘Razzly, get to the back and call the cops,’ Strawberry snorts. ‘It will be safe.’
        ‘D-daddy.’
        ‘Go!’
        Before Razzly can run, the pegasus leaps for Strawberry. The unicorn shoots the flier from the air with a magic bolt. The distraction was all the time the earth pony needed to charge over and buck the defender in the head. Strawberry shots into the wall from the kick, a pair of hoof marks on his face. The pegasus picks himself up and rounds the counter.
        ‘All right. Be a good filly and tell us where you hide the money.’
        Razzly shrinks as much as she can. She cannot move except to shake in fear. The pegasus takes a step towards the terrified filly. Suddenly, the front window shatters as the hooded pony bursts onto the scene. The earth pony stallion charges. The hooded pony jumps in the air, kicks him in the head with both hind legs and slams both forelegs on the larger stallion’s back. The hero kicks backwards after landing to knock the earth pony out.
        ‘Somepony playing hero is about to get hurt,’ the pegasus snorts then draws a knife from under his wing.
        The hooded pony stands on its hind legs and holds its forelegs to its side. A pair of blades appear from under the robe.
        ‘Try me.’
        The pegasus leaps over the counter. The defending pony retracts the blades, drops to the ground, draws a taser and shoves it into the lower half of the attacker. The attacking pegasus screams and drops mid-flight. The hooded pony shocks the unconscious flier once more for fun and good measure. The pony rounds the counter and holds a hoof to Razzly. The unicorn backs away.
        ‘It is safe!’ Alba calls as she gallops into the destroyed shop. ‘She is a friend.’
        Alba uses her magic to pull back Octavia’s hood. Razzly looks up at the earth pony then grabs her in a hug.
        ‘Sorry for scaring you,’ Octavia apologizes.
        Alba looks around the shop. ‘You sure made a mess in here,’ she growls.
        The princess uses her magic to start cleaning up the damage and repairing the window. Outside, Helios and Raindrops land and enter the shop.
        ‘Is everything okay?’ Helios asks.
        ‘I took care of the attackers,’ Octavia replies. ‘Let’s hope Trixie arrives before the police so she can make up a story about what happened.’
        ‘You did this all on your own?’ Raindrops asks.
        Octavia shrugs. ‘Most of it. I think Strawberry might have singed a couple of the pegasus’ hairs with a magic attack. I should get out of sight before the police arrive and start asking questions.’
        Octavia releases the scared unicorn and gives her a reassuring nuzzle. She slips out of the back of the shop. Helios uses a healing spell on Strawberry and wakes the unicorn.
        ‘Feels like I got hit by a train,’ Strawberry moans.
        ‘Try not to talk. I am still setting your jaw,’ Helios replies.
        ‘Screw that. Is Razzly okay?’
        ‘Daddy!’
        Razzly glomps her father in a hug. Strawberry sighs in relief and hugs his daughter.

        The police ponies load the two criminals into a wagon and pull them away. Inside the shop, Trixie sits with Strawberry while the alicorns and pegasus play with Razzly. The unicorn mare lets out a big sigh.
        ‘Trixie is sorry for all of the trouble we have caused.’
        Strawberry shakes his head. ‘No, I knew Razzly was giving away our leftovers. I was just denying to myself that something bad would come of it. If the rest of you hadn’t been here...’
        ‘Don’t think like that. You are a strong enough unicorn to defend your family and your way of life.’
        ‘Am I really?’ Strawberry sighs. ‘I could barely handle the one attacker. I’d be in the hospital now if it weren’t for the prince.’
        ‘Shush. You were defending Razzly. That is more important than anything.’
        ‘Yes... Defending her...’ Strawberry stares at the ground for several moments. He looks up with tears in his eyes. ‘This is the hardest thing I have ever had to say... but please protect her. Protect her to the best of your abilities. You need all of the Elements, and she is one of them. Promise me she will be safe!’
        Trixie pulls the sobbing parent in for a hug. ‘I assure you she will be fine. She will be with friends who care for her. Trixie promises with all of her heart and soul. ... Cross my heart, hope to fly, stick a cupcake in my eye.’
        Strawberry chokes back his tears. ‘Thank you.’
        Trixie gives Strawberry a quick kiss on the lips. ‘You know... if the ratio was reversed, Trixie would be quite happy to get to know you better.’
        Strawberry laughs. ‘Me too. Hey, do you have some time for autographs?’
        ‘Of course.’ Trixie stands. ‘Alba, will you help Razzly pack some things for the journey? I have to help her father with a few things.’
        The two fillies look up, surprised. They cheer as they gallop up to pack a bag for Razzly. Strawberry smiles and sighs as he watches his daughter go.

        In a darkened office, a chair faces away from a desk. A light flashes on the desk, joined by a beeping.
        ‘Activate,’ a voice says.
        A speaker activates on the desk. ‘Sire, they found the last known Element.’
        ‘Who is it?’
        ‘It is a young filly. About the princess’ age. We don’t think she is a threat.’
        ‘She has an Element of Harmony. How is she not a threat?’
        ‘Well, uh, sire, she is very shy. To a fault even.’
        A laugh is heard. ‘Do you know anything about seismology?’
        ‘Uh, sire?’
        ‘Faults are generally where cracks lay. Cracks that can lead to fissures.’ There is a pause. ‘Prepare a plan to exploit the newly found crack. Hopefully we can end this quest before it begins. Communications, off.’

> I Know You Know
> --------------------------------------------------------------------------

        Helios, Alba, Razzly and Trixie trot through Hoofington after their morning press conference and meet-and-greet with the citizens. The rest of the group is off exploring the city on their own. The magic users are trotting away from the college after having met with one of the professors. They enter an area with a number of small restaurants. A large group of ponies are gathered around one of the restaurants. The four ponies head over to check it out. The two taller ponies watch from the back while the young fillies poke through to get a better view.
        There is a police line around the outdoor dining area. Police ponies keep the crowd out and the suspects in. Walking around the dining area, a griffin is examining the diners while holding a talon to his head. He stops and turns his head slightly at one of the diners before moving on. Alba yawns at the show.
        The griffin stops and points at the pony he tilted his head at. ‘The thief is that pony right there. … Not you, ma’am, the pony behind you.’
        A nervous unicorn moves to the side to reveal a shocked earth pony.
        ‘Me? That is absurd.’
        ‘Absurd?’ The griffin laughs. ‘I sense you have been doing some gardening recently.’
        ‘Well, yes, that is my special talent.’
        ‘And the pair of wrenches on your flank are..?’
        The earth pony grimaces when his lie is caught. He tries running, but a bat pony lands in front of him and an unicorn levitates cuffs around his ankles.
        ‘Good work, Gusty,’ the bat pony congratulates.
        ‘All in a day’s work,’ the griffin replies. ‘Oh! And you’ll find the missing money buried in the field near his house along with the tools he used to break into the shop. You will note he has a whole new set of tools that he bought yesterday due to the receipt in his bag.’
        The unicorn levitates the receipt. ‘Amazing. how did you know that?’
        The griffin laughs. ‘Well, I am psychic.’
        The crowd cheers as the police escort the earth pony away. The griffin takes a few bows, as well as a pastry off of one of the diners’ plates. The crowd quickly disperses, leaving just the Elements and Trixie remaining. The griffin notices his new audience.
        ‘Quite a show you put on,’ Trixie compliments.
        ‘Is that The Great and Powerful Trixie giving me praise? I am honored.’ The griffin bows.
        Trixie laughs. ‘Good job catching the criminal. It is great seeing everypony putting their powers to good use.’
        ‘Yes, I have a terrible burden, but I do what I can.’
        The unicorn examines the griffin’s feathers closely. ‘I have travelled from one side of the map to the other, but I have never seen griffin feathers tipped with spots like these before.’
        The griffin poses dramatically. ‘Some say they are a sign of nobility. The rest just think they are rad.’
        Alba snorts. ‘You are far from noble. You are a fake.’
        ‘A fake? Hardly. I am Shaun Gusty. World famous psychic detective.’ Shaun stands proud and flares his wings out.
        ‘Well, I am Princess Alba, and I know there is no such thing as psychics.’
        Shaun holds a claw to his head. ‘I sense you don’t believe my powers.’
        ‘I just told you that!’
        ‘I also sense you just came from the campus.’
        ‘We have bags from the bookstore.’
        ‘You also highly doubt I can be any help in finding the Element of Honesty.’
        ‘Quit stating the obvious!’
        Trixie puts a hoof on Alba’s shoulder. ‘Alba, dear, calm down.’ She turns to Shaun. ‘We are really sorry. She is not normally like this.’
        ‘Yes, I get the psychic impression that she is normally a friendly soul. She is the one that got this little filly to come out of her shell.’
        Razzly squeaks and gallops behind Helios for protection. Alba scowls at Shaun.
        ‘Well, I’d love to stay and chat,’ Shaun says, ‘but I have to be off. The chief will probably want to thank me personally before asking for my help on another case.’
        Shaun spreads his wings and takes off. Alba prepares to chase after him, but her brother steps on her tail.
        ‘We have to stop him before he tricks more ponies!’ Alba protests.
        ‘It is not our place to judge how the creatures of this planet make their living,’ Helios replies. ‘We may not agree with his methods, but he is helping ponies.’
        Alba growls and looks away. Razzly slowly trots to her friend.
        ‘It-it is okay. He is not hurting anypony.’
        ‘That doesn’t make it right to lie about having powers,’ Alba snorts.
        ‘Every magician has their secrets,’ Trixie notes. ‘Just forget about him. You don’t want it to ruin your day.’
        Alba look down and kicks the pavement. She casts a spell to remove the cracks she caused. The others sigh and trot away. Alba looks in the direction Shaun flew before catching up with her friends.

        Late at night, Shaun is flying around the the city. He circles around a building before flying towards the roof. The griffin readies his talons and paws for landing and drifts down.
        ‘I wouldn’t do that if I were you.’
        Shaun turns to see Helios floating beside him. The blue-grey alicorn pushes a cloud over for the fliers to land on.
        ‘Not only are there cameras in the building, but there are cameras on the entrances as well,’ the prince warns.
        ‘Good catch.’
        ‘Just head back to your hotel. When you get back, you will find a folder with what you have to say to the police to convince them of your target’s guilt.’ Helios shrugs. ‘Might make you look like a real psychic too.’
        The griffin examines the prince. ‘Why are you telling me all of this?’
        The alicorn levitates a small bag of bits. ‘That should be about double your normal consulting fee. After putting on a show for the police, lay low tomorrow so Alba doesn’t bother you. We’ll be gone soon enough.’
        ‘Are you trying to bribe me to leave town?’
        Helios sighs. ‘Sorry if I am rude, but Alba is set on disproving you. I don’t want you to lose your profession, even if it is misleading.’
        Shaun holds his talon by his head. ‘I sensed you would say that.’
        ‘No. Just no,’ the prince groans. ‘I don’t know what you know about my family, but we are all geniuses. Not even bragging. I saw through your little trick quickly, but I thought it was a pretty clever way to distract everypony from your observational skills and deductive reasoning.’
        ‘Uh... thank you?’
        ‘If Alba wasn’t likely to find out, I’d recommend you ask Trixie for some pointers in refining your act.’
        ‘I’ve been doing this for longer than you have been an Element. My act is perfect.’
        ‘You scrunch your beak a little and turn your head when you see a clue.’
        Shaun’s eyes dart. ‘That’s not true.’
        Helios sighs and shakes his head. ‘Just take it easy and lay low tomorrow.’
        The prince flaps his wings and flies back to his hotel. Shaun looks at the building, shrugs and flies back to his hotel.

        Shaun walks through Hoofington, looking for something to do for the day. He is not used to having a day off, but he wants to avoid a meddlesome alicorn filly if can. He finds a nice restaurant and decides to stop for lunch.
        ‘Sensing something good to eat there, or did the spirits tell you that there will be plenty of saps for you to scam here?’
        Shaun groans when he hears the dreaded alicorn trot up beside him. Alba glares up at the griffin.
        ‘I am taking the day off,’ Shaun complains. ‘Can’t I have a moment of peace?’
        ‘You are not going to con another pony while I am around,’ the princess huffs. ‘I will expose your scam.’
        Shaun facetalons. ‘I am going to get some food. You hungry?’
        The filly glares at the griffin. Shaun sighs and enters the restaurant. He and Alba order meals. They sit together so Alba can keep a close eye on her prey. The griffin groans and looks around the room. An entering pegasus catches his eye. The pegasus has a hood covering his face. A bulge is seen under his wing. Shaun catches sight of a leather strap, confirming his fear. He grabs Alba and pulls her under the table.
        ‘Stay down,’ the griffin hisses.
        Before Alba can reply, the pegasus raises his wing, revealing a wing-mounted gun. ‘Everypony down! This is a robbery!’ He fires a warning shot to scare the crowd. ‘J-Just give me all your money, and I’ll be on my way.’
        The pegasus goes to the counter and starts emptying the registers. He waves his weapon at anypony he sees trying to escape. Alba struggles under Shaun.
        ‘Let me up. I can end this.’
        ‘It is safer to just let this pass. It will be all over soon.’
        ‘What? Are you an expert on robbing ponies now? I know you didn’t read his mind.’
        Alba forces herself free. She trots over to the pegasus robber. The robber spins and aims his weapon at the princess. She calmly stares at her attacker.
        ‘W-what are you doing? Get down and drop your bits.’
        Alba raises an eyebrow. ‘Really? That is it. Please just surrender now before anypony gets hurt. You’ll face far fewer charges if this ends now.’
        ‘What? Who are you?’
        Alba stands as tall as she can and summons a magical aura around herself. ‘I am Alba of Equestria, Princess of the Twilight, second in line for the New Lunar Republic, and I will not stand to let you harm one of my fellow ponies!’
        Shaun facetalons as Alba hands the robber the perfect hostage. Right on cue, a pair of police pegasi land outside of the restaurant. The robber grabs Alba under his foreleg and presses his weapon to her head. Shaun notices something when Alba is snatched. The alicorn is more annoyed than scared. More police ponies arrive on the scene.
        ‘Thank you to whoever called the police,’ Alba says to the crowd. ‘Hopefully, they will help end this soon.’
        ‘This is the Hoofington PD! Surrender now,’ the leader officer calls.
        ‘I would do that if I were you,’ the princess grumbles. She turns towards the officers. ‘Great response time! I’ll see to it that you receive a commendation.’
        ‘Shut up,’ the robber growls. He turns towards the surrounding officers. ‘I have the princess in here! If you don’t want her hurt, you will listen to my demands!’
        Alba groans. ‘If you want money, you are going to need your lawyer or funeral after my daddy hears about this. Just surrender. It is the best solution.’
        ‘Shut up, you brat!’
        ‘I can teleport us out there right now! I am giving you the chance to do the right thing!’
        The pegasus tries slapping Alba with his free hoof, but she dodges. Her horn catches his hood and reveals his face briefly. Shaun notices something that causes him to stand.
        ‘Doing this will not help them!’ Shaun calls to the robber.
        The thief stops fighting with Alba and looks at the new interloper. ‘What was that?’
        ‘Your family member in the hospital. If you get arrested, you will not be able to help them. Tell us how to find the ponies that you borrowed money from, and we will help you bring them in.’
        ‘Who, who are you?’
        Shaun holds a talon to his head. ‘I see it clearly. Your family member was ill. The treatment was expensive. You didn’t have the money to afford it so you went to a loan shark. You couldn’t repay them when they came to collect, so they beat you. Your family member is still sick, right?’
        The pegasus starts trembling. ‘My son... He has a disease that has no scientific cure. There are few unicorns in the republic that can cure him. It... It was getting tight paying for the treatments. I had to do something!’
        ‘What is your son’s name?’ Alba ask.
        ‘Bright Sky. Why do you care?’
        The princess sighs and levitates her mobile to her ear. ‘Hi, Helios? I need you to get to the local hospital and find a patient named Bright Sky for me. See if you can help him.’ She pauses while Helios replies, taking a moment to yawn. ‘That is all well and good, but you are better at healing magic and mom doesn’t know about those graphic novels dad’s friend Image gave you.’ She smiles. ‘Thanks! I owe you one!’
        ‘What did you do?’ the pegasus worries.
        The princess sighs. ‘I asked my brother to see if he knows a spell to help your son. He’ll know what to do. Now, if you’ll release me, let me see if I can help you out of your mess.’ The robber lets her go. She adjusts her mane and tiara. ‘Thank you. Now wait here and don’t do anything stupid.’
        Alba holds her head high and trots out of the restaurant. Shaun walks over to the pegasus.
        ‘Don’t worry. I sense she knows what she is doing.’

        The police finish taking a statement from Shaun after the incident is resolved. He gets ready to fly away when a purple aura catches his tail. He looks back as Alba approaches.
        ‘The pegasus had a hospital visitors anklet on the leg he grabbed me with,’ Alba states. ‘It was the color for the ICU. He had bruises and lacerations on his face and underside from getting beat up. He also was missing a money pouch, something you would definitely have when going out to eat.’
        ‘Did he now?’
        ‘Don’t play stupid with me! That is how you do it. You notice little details like that and recall them when they are relevant.’
        ‘And the tear streaks?’
        Alba looks away. ‘Trixie was yelling at me for what I did today...’
        ‘In the end, you helped his son and tipped the police to a small-time crime ring. You did good in the end.’ Shaun hold his talon up. ‘I sense the criminals will be brought to justice.’
        ‘If we weren’t leaving in the morning, I would expose you.’
        ‘You have the evidence to do so right now. Why not?’
        Alba stands her ground and growls.
        Shaun extends a talon. ‘We make a good team, princess. If you could get past your skepticism, I am sure we could be great friends.’
        Alba glares at the talon, but she extends a hoof and shakes it anyway. she turns and trots away with her head held high.
        ‘Tell your brother to lay off thinking about his girlfriend for a day,’ Shaun shouts after the filly. ‘You don’t want him growing hair on his hoof.’
        Alba spins around. ‘What was that?!’
        Shaun laughs to himself and flies away. Alba readies for takeoff, but a light blue aura catches her. Trixie trots up to once more scold the filly.

> The Iron Pony - Preliminaries
> --------------------------------------------------------------------------

        The Elements and their mentors ride the train to Manehatten. They have rented out an entire passenger car for themselves. In the front, Trixie and Raindrops check in with the authorities in Canterlot. Alba is trying to teach Razzleberry a new spell. Rainbow sleeps on a cloud that is somehow relatively stationary. In the back, Octavia either naps or watches the others under her hooded robe. Apple Bloom and Helios stare at Apple Pie while he appears to be doing some sort of meditation. The earth pony taps his hooves on the floor of the carriage. He stops and shakes his head.
        ‘No,’ the young stallion snorts. ‘I just don’t sense anything.’
        ‘Come on,’ Helios encourages. ‘You can move rocks and dirt. Technically speaking, Metal is just distilled rock.’
        Apple Pie closes his eyes and takes a deep breath. He kicks the carriage, getting the attention of everypony not watching already. After a few seconds, he shakes his head again.
        ‘I can feel a few crystals here and there, but I have nothing yet.’
        ‘Ah! Ya jus’ need more practice,’ Apple Bloom cheers. ‘Ah know ya can do it.’
        ‘Yeah. You’ll never be an iron pony with that attitude.’
        ‘Iron...’ Apple Pie gives his brother a confused look. ‘Uh... Oh! I think I get it. AB is more of the comic geek. I only went to those movies to be with her...’
        Apple Pie blushes at the revelation. Apple Bloom giggles at her coltfriend.
        ‘Ah think he means the poster behind ya, AP.’
        The stallion turns behind him. There is a large poster advertising upcoming events in Manehatten. One half is for a concert by a musician named Synth Tech. The other is for The Iron Pony Competition. Apple Pie starts reading the poster.
        ‘Ah remember the time mah sis and Rainbow Dash put on a smaller version o’ one o’ those,’ Apple Bloom says. ‘Sis would have won if they followed all the rules o’ the real thing.’
        ‘Ponies actually do this sort of thing?’ Apple Pie asks.
        ‘Ah’ll have ya know that the Apple Family are proud rodeo ponies. Ah’ll be enterin’ jus’ t’ try mah hoof at it. Ah might not do as good as AJ, but it’ll be fun.’
        ‘You two should totally enter,’ Alba suggests. ‘You compete about everything. Why not make it official?’
        ‘I don’t know...’ Apple Pie groans. ‘I don’t really like competing except in team events. Sort of feels against my element to go against somepony.’
        ‘And I am far too kind to not let everypony go ahead of me,’ Helios states. ‘It is just not in my nature to compete.’
        ‘Are y’all competing t’ be the least competitive?’
        ‘I’m totally winning,’ the brothers say in unison.
        ‘Ah agree with yer sister. Y’all should enter. Maybe then it’d shut ya up.’
        The brothers look at each other and snort.

        A long line of entrants wait to join The Iron Pony Competition. Ponies of all tribes, sizes, and genders, as well as a number of other species from around the world, wait to get their shot at glory. Apple Bloom finishes giving her information to the receptionist, takes her entry form and moves to a new line.
        ‘Next!’ the unicorn receptionist calls.
        Apple Pie and Helios push to be the next in line. The receptionist looks at the two ponies.
        ‘Aren’t you..?’
        ‘He is. I’m not,’ Helios replies.
        Apple Pie groans. ‘Yes, we’re Elements of Harmony.’
        ‘And you want to enter?’
        ‘Unless this is the line for Metallica,’ the alicorn grins.
        The earth pony takes a deep breath. ‘We would like the chance to compete, yes.’
        ‘Uh... I’ll have to check with my manager...’
        Before the unicorn can turn away, Helios clears his throat to get her attention. ‘Quick question: how far do you want this to go?’
        ‘What?’
        ‘Well, your adverts state “all ponies welcome”. While my case is a bit dodgy, despite me being all ponies’ -- Apple Pie groans -- ‘his case is a lot simpler. Just tell me how high of a court you want this to go to, and I’ll ask my parents to see what they can do.’
        The receptionist stares at the brothers. Helios has a smug grin. Apple Pie shrugs and adjusts his hat. Apple Bloom giggles from her line. The unicorn sighs and levitates her pen.
        ‘Fine. The nice one first.’ Helios steps forward. ‘Guess again.’
        The earth pony laughs as his younger brother steps back.
        ‘Okay. Full name?’
        ‘Apple Bradbury Pie.’
        ‘Age?’
        ‘Nineteen.’
        ‘Special talent?’
        ‘Apple farmer.’
        ‘Hometown or organization you will be competing in representation of?’
        Apple Pie thinks. ‘I will be competing for Sweet Apple Acres.’
        Apple Bloom smiles to herself.
        ‘Very good. Move to the next line for weighing and measuring.’ She waves the earth pony aside and the alicorn forward. ‘Okay, pretty boy. Your turn.’ She starts scanning the application. ‘Uh, I’ll just put down “all of the above” for tribe. It is Prince Helios, right?’
        ‘Actually, my full title is Helios of Equestria, Prince of the Daylight.’ A light shines behind the prince as he holds his head high.
        The unicorn grumbles as she tries to fit the whole title on the form. ‘Age?’
        ‘Fourteen.’
        ‘You’re tall for fourteen. Special talent?’
        ‘Sharing kindness. It is an easy feat.’
        ‘Hometown, etcetera?’
        Helios thinks. ‘Hmm... The Elements of Harmony.’
        The receptionist groans and writes down the response. She gives the prince his paper and directs him to the next line.
        ‘Next! Full name?’
        ‘Rainbow Asimov Pie!’
        Apple Pie, Helios and Apple Bloom spin around to see Rainbow at the reception table.
        ‘Age?’
        ‘Eighteen!’
        ‘Special talent?’
        ‘Making everypony HAPPY!’
        The receptionist groans and writes. When she looks back up, Rainbow’s smiling face is in hers. She cannot help but laugh. ‘Hometown or organization you will be competing in representation of?’
        ‘Oh!’ Rainbow starts searching her saddlebags. She gets out a pink slip of paper. ‘Weather Crew C!’
        The unicorn stares at the color of the paper. ‘They must be really proud of you.’
        ‘You bet!’
        The receptionist waves the pegasus away. She joins her brothers in line. She smiles at her siblings.
        ‘Are you ready to rock this?’
        ‘What are you doing here?’ Apple Pie gapes.
        ‘Yeah. This isn’t a napping competition,’ Helios laughs.
        Rainbow snorts. ‘I am just as athletic as the rest of you. Besides, this is all about having fun, and I am all about fun! I love fun things!’
        ‘Ah’m sure y’all will do fine,’ Apple Bloom smiles.
        ‘Thank you!’ The pegasus smiles in return then sticks her tongue at her brothers.
        The stallions roll their eyes and turn back to the line.

        After being weighed and measured, the ponies find themselves on the field of a large sports complex. Every pony is being tested to see if they meet the minimum physical requirements to compete in the grueling competition. The four ponies survey the field before joining the other entrants at the first exam.
        The ponies have to lift a metal bar. Electromagnets under the station allow the testers to measure the applied force. If the lifter passes the minimum, they are allowed to move on. Apple Bloom steps up to the station. She hooks her front hooves under the bar and lifts as hard as she can, ending up standing on her hind legs. The tester marks the young mare’s application, and she moves on.
        Helios whispers to Apple Pie, ‘Twenty bits if you use your powers to launch the bar into the air.’
        ‘That would be cheating,’ the older brother snorts as he steps up to the test.
        The young stallion hooks his front hooves under the bar and lifts just like Apple Bloom. The tester marks his application, and he moves on. He turns back to see Helios easily lift the bar with just his snout. The other brother snorts and turns to see the next test. Rainbow steps up to the bar. She stares at it for several moments.
        ‘Can I lift with my wings?’ she asks.
        ‘However you are most comfortable.’
        ‘Most comfortable...’
        Rainbow leans down and takes the bar in her mouth. The other ponies watching laugh at the odd strategy. With a quick jerk upwards, the pegasus throws the bar high into the air. There is a spark from under the station due to the electric field generated from the lift. Rainbow watches the bar, smirks and holds her wings up to catch it. The bar lands several meters behind the pony, nearly impaling one of the other entrants. The embarrassed pegasus smiles, takes her application and moves to the next station.
        The next test has the entrants breathe into a device to measure lung capacity. Several panting failed entrants are laying near the station. Apple Bloom gets her mark and moves on. Apple Pie and Helios step up to different stations and begin their test at the same time. The test runs smoothly up until there is a loud pop from Helios’ station.
        The prince gives an embarrassed grin and backs away. ‘Uh, I’ll pay for that,’ he says as he quickly grabs his application and moves on.
        Apple Pie laughs at his brother and follows. He turns back when he hears coughing.
        ‘Tastes like somepony’s spit!’ Rainbow complains.
        The tester groans and points her to the next station. She joins the others as they watch a pony get tennis balls shot at him. He dodges or blocks several, only to take one to the forehead. A couple more similar misses ends the test and a nurse helps the pony to the sidelines.
        Apple Bloom laughs and steps into the line of fire. Years of apple farming has taught her how to dodge speeding objects perfectly. She ends her test by whipping the last ball back towards the tester. Apple Pie’s test goes equally well. He and his fillyfriend high hoof from the sidelines. Helios steps up to the station. His horn glows, and he becomes surrounded in a translucent purple shield.
        ‘Sorry, son. This is agility testing. No magic.’
        ‘Ah man.’ The prince lowers his shield. He dodges most of the shots, but he slips towards the end of the test. He uses his horn to bat away most of the balls, but one impales itself on his horn. While recovering from the shock, several more balls get impaled on his horn as well. Apple Pie roars with laughter from his vantage point. The testers confer then return Helios’ application to him.
        ‘You were within the limit. You passed.’
        The alicorn takes his application and joins his brother and Apple Bloom. He levitates the balls from his horn and into a nearby bin. A loud snort lowers Apple Pie’s laughter to barely contained snickering.
        Rainbow steps into the firing line and takes an active stance. The first ball appears to hit her, but her body disappears and reappears beside where she was standing. The rest of the test goes the same way with the balls only hitting her afterimage. With the test done, she joins her comrades on sidelines. Apple Bloom thinks she sees lightning bolts sticking out of the cloud on Rainbow’s cutie mark.
…
        Several hours and a couple of tests later, the large number of entrants has been narrowed down to several dozen. Almost every species in the world is represented, including some young dragons. The contestants are randomly assigned numbers and organized for their first competitions. Apple Pie, Apple Bloom and Helios scan the boards for their names. Rainbow sleeps on a cloud she has found.
        ‘Eight groups and four of us. Plenty of room for us to all get in the finals,’ Helios comments.
        ‘Ah’m jus’ worried ‘bout the preliminary round. Ah ain’t sure Ah will make it.’
        ‘We just need to make it to the top of the bracket,’ Apple Pie says. ‘Then we are practically in the finals.’
        ‘Hmm. If Ah have t’ go against any of ya, Ah’m quittin’ right now.’
        Apple Pie nuzzles Apple Bloom. ‘You’ll do fine... but I am totally winning.’
        ‘You mean totally winning the losers,’ Helios goads.
        ‘That doesn’t make any sense.’
        ‘Your face doesn’t make any sense.’
        ‘I so wish I was an only child,’ Apple Pie moans.
        A cyan hoof connects with the back of Apple Pie’s head. Rainbow yawns and stretches as she wakes from her nap. She looks at her brothers once she is up. Apple Pie scowls and rubs the back of his head.
        ‘Did I miss my bracket?’ the sleepy pegasus asks.
        ‘No, you should try kicking again,’ Helios laughs.
        ‘Correction: I don’t wish I was an only child,’ Apple Pie says. His siblings smile and nod. ‘I would still want Full Moon and Alba.’
        A blue-grey hoof to the leg and another cyan hoof to the back tell Apple Pie what the others think of his correction. Apple Bloom giggles at her sore coltfriend.
        ‘Y’all are jus’ like mah friends when we were young. We were always bickerin’ ‘bout somethin’.’
        The three younger ponies snort at the older one. She keeps laughing and turns back to the boards. After a couple moments, she sees her name get placed in a bracket. The other three get their names placed in different brackets, much to their relief. They get their numbers from the organizers and head to their hotel.

        ‘What do you mean, nopony is coming tomorrow?!’ Helios exclaims.
        The rest of the group looks at the upset prince. Apple Pie and Apple Bloom look annoyed as well. Rainbow is sleeping again.
        ‘We never said we wouldn’t come,’ Alba sighs. ‘We just want to do other things too. Miss Raindrops is going to take me and Razzly to see the city! Won’t that be fun?’
        ‘Y-yes,’ Razzly stutters.
        ‘I definitely want to see if anypony can keep up with Rainbow, so we’ll be by in the evening,’ Raindrops explains.
        ‘What do you mean, watch Rainbow?’ Apple Pie is confused. ‘We’re the athletes... and he’s a prince.’
        Raindrops laughs. ‘Oh, you’ll see.’
        The teens groan again.
        ‘I am sorry as well that I cannot join you,’ Trixie says. ‘I haven’t been back in so long and I wish to see my mother. I will definitely come out if one of you make the finals.’
        ‘What do you mean “if”!’ the brothers shout.
        Octavia shakes her head. ‘I’ll check out your show in the morning and afternoon, but I have an engagement for the evening.’
        ‘Hot date?’ Trixie teases.
        ‘Hardly. I have a ticket for the Synth Tech show.’
        Rainbow instantly wakes up. ‘Dude! Can I come? I totally love him! I would have his foals!’
        Apple Pie shakes his head at his sister. ‘I never took you for one who would like that sort of music, Octavia.’
        ‘He perfectly blends electronic and orchestral music, and his original compositions have been compared to my own in terms of form and quality. To be compared to such a talented musician is an honor for me.’
        ‘At least one of the performers we are traveling with is humble,’ Raindrops laughs.
        ‘Trixie cannot help it if Trixie is the best magician in the world. It is Trixie’s burden to bear.’
        Everypony groans at the unicorn.
        ‘Uh... I have to take care of something... Bye!’ Rainbow blurts out before flying away.
        Apple Pie groans. ‘Yeah. Definitely want to be an only child... except you, Alba.

        The next morning, the competitors arrive at the stadium bright and early, with Helios pulling his sister’s cloud. There is a light crowd for the early rounds of the competition, but still hundreds of ponies and other species in the audience. Apple Pie wakes his sister and they split to go to their brackets. As soon as everypony has arrived and is organized, the organizers step to a microphone.
        ‘Welcome to The Iron Pony Competition!’ the lead organizer greets. The crowd cheers in response. ‘Today are the preliminary rounds. Each of you will be tested in a series of events and scored based on your performance. The top two competitors for each bracket will then face off individually as an introduction to what is to come tomorrow. There are eight brackets, so I wish all of you the best of luck. One of you will be the next Iron Pony!’
        The competitors cheer then follow their brackets to their first competitions. Apple Bloom’s bracket is lead to a large tank of water for swimming events. Helios’ bracket is led to an area cleared for various dexterity events. Apple Pie is led to an area set up for a number of jumping events. Rainbow is led to an area for running events. The pegasus yawns and stretches while the judge explains the events to the group.
        ‘The first event will be a simple 100m dash. Since we know pegasi, griffins and other creatures have various ways of getting boosts, not to mention those with longer gaits than a normal pony, we have special equations that will balance your times and give you a score reflecting your performance. Okay! First up is...’
        Rainbow waits for her turn. She chats a bit with the other competitors until she is called. She takes her position next to the other ponies and strikes a running posture. She feels a tingle from her cutie mark as her competitive side takes over. The judge fires a starting pistol, and the racers take off. Rainbow is done before she knows it, leaving a rainbow-colored trail behind her. The judges and competitors stare in shock. The judges huddle to discuss the results Rainbow trots off to the side to await her next event. One of the judges gallops to the lead organizer.
        ‘Excuse me, we have an announcement to make.’
        The competitors stop around the field.
        ‘Even after adjusting for tribe, it appears that one of the competitors has set a new world record for the 100m dash. Everypony congratulate Miss Rainbow Pie on her accomplishment.’
        Everypony stomps or claps in celebration of the accomplishment. Rainbow smiles and waves to everypony. Rainbow’s family stares with jaws dropped. Helios even drops the horseshoe he was about to throw for his competition. In the stands, Octavia smirks, knowing the show just got interesting.
…
        ‘Rainbow Pie has set a new world record for the 400m dash!’
…
        ‘Rainbow Pie has set a new world record for the 110m hurdles! And without using her wings!’
…
        ‘Rainbow Pie has set a new world record for the wingless high jump!’
…
        ‘Rainbow Pie has set a new world record for the wingless long jump!’
…
        ‘Rainbow Pie has set a new world record for the hammer throw! … Can we get some paramedics to the stands please?’
…
        ‘Rainbow Pie has set a new world record for the football kick!’


        ‘We know this is getting old, but Rainbow Pie has set a new record in the 200m freestyle!’
        The crowd cheers. In the front rows, Alba, Razzly and Raindrops stomp extra loud for their friend. From their areas, Helios, Apple Pie and Apple Bloom stare in shock. Throughout the day, Rainbow has set records in almost every event on the field. The other three have scored enough points to make it to their final match of the day, but Rainbow was heading into her match with a perfect score. Apple Bloom even confirmed her suspicion. Rainbow’s cutie mark did change.
        The announcer comes on again. ‘This score gives Rainbow Pie a perfect score, a first in Iron Pony history. She broke the previous record set by former Iron Pony Champion and Wonderbolt, the late Rainbow Dash.’
        The crowd cheers even more for the pegasus who is currently drinking from the water tank. The judges nudge her. She looks up and waves to the crowd.
        Rainbow turns to a judge. ‘So, uh, do I need to pee in a cup or something for drug testing?’
        ‘You’ve checked out already,’ the judge replies, shaking his head.
        ‘Then which way to the little filly’s room?’
        The judge points, and Rainbow flies off as fast as she can. The organizers start clearing the main stage for the last competition to see who will make it into the finals. The three friends start heading towards the stage for their match.
        ‘Rainbow’s puttin’ on a pretty good show,’ Apple Bloom says.
        The two males mumble in agreement.
        ‘Ah fer one didn’ expect her t’ be breakin’ so many records.’
        ‘Or any at all...’ Apple Pie mumbles.
        ‘Did y’all know her cutie mark could change like that?’
        ‘Whose cutie mark change like what?’ a chipper voice asks.
        The trio look to see Rainbow trotting alongside them. They look back, but her cutie mark is the normal cloud they are familiar with.
        ‘Ah thought Ah saw yer cutie mark get lightning bolts like Rainbow Dash,’ Apple Bloom replies.
        ‘That’s weird.’ Rainbow thinks for a moment. ‘Back in Cloudsdale, some of my friends would say my cutie mark would look like a bunch of balloons during my parties.’
        ‘Cutie marks cannot change,’ Helios states. ‘There hasn’t been a case before, and there is no way anypony could have more than one cutie mark.’
        ‘Ah guess that means our little Rainbow is special.’
        Rainbow smiles at her friend.
        ‘ “Special” is an understatement,’ Apple Pie grumbles.
        A swift cyan blur strikes the young stallion’s underside. He drops to the ground clutching the sore spot between his hind legs.
        ‘You didn’t want foals, right, Apple Bloom?’ Rainbow grins.
        A tapping is heard over the speakers. ‘Excuse me. We are ready to begin the final matches of the preliminaries,’ an official says. ‘Will competitors Helios and Snowflake come to the stage?’
        ‘Yeah!’ a buff, white pegasus shouts.
        The pegasus charges the stage as the prince calmly trots to face his competitor.
        ‘These final challenges will consist of two of the events from the finals,’ the official states. ‘Competitors will compete in either hoof wrestling or tug-of-war. The winner of each round will advance to the finals.’
        The official steps back. A table is placed between the contestants. Snowflake slams a foreleg on the table and waits for his challenger. Helios sits and wraps his hoof around Snowflake’s. A whistle is blown. There is a loud crash as Snowflake is thrown from the stage. The alicorn quickly rushes to help the large pegasus up.
        ‘Are you okay?’ the prince asks.
        ‘Yeah?’ Snowflake replies before stumbling away.
        Helios grimaces before heading back to the stage.
…
        A length of rope is placed between Apple Bloom and a zebra. Both take an end in their mouth and pull the rope taut. The whistle is blown, and the competitors start pulling. The zebra get a quick lead, but Apple Bloom digs in.
        Just like brother... Apple Bloom thinks.
        The young mare backs away, slowly pulling her challenger. The rope is tugged sharply, shaking the mare’s balance a little.
        No, you didn’t! She growls.
        Apple Bloom jerks her head back, and the zebra topples over the center line. The young mare drops the rope and stretches her jaw a bit.
        ‘You may have won, but your hopes are almost gone,’ the zebra taunts.
        Apple Bloom snorts. ‘Ah didn’ know rhyme could whine. Ah beat y’all just fine.’
        ‘You dare mock me?! My native tongue is my specialty.’
        ‘Your tongue I dare not mock, though my skills ain’t just fancy talk. Ah would really hate t’ bore ya, but Ah learned from the best, mah friend Zecora.’
        ‘I will give you bruises of black and purple. They will, uh... I am... You...’
        Apple Bloom smirks. ‘Ah really did not mean to add t’ the show, so now Ah think we should go. And so ya know the mare who sent ya t’ yer doom, her name is the great Apple Bloom.’ The young mare trots toward the winner area. She looks back. ‘Earth ponies,’ she says smoothly.
…
        Apple Pie’s tug-of-war against another earth pony is dead even. They are both digging into the ground deep. The young stallion looks around for any sign of encouragement. He hears the cheers from Apple Bloom and Helios. He glances off stage and sees Rainbow smiling at him. He scans the stadium to find the brackets. Some quick maths reveals that he could face his sister as early as the second round depending on which event she gets. Apple Pie snorts, plants his hooves and gives the rope a sharp tug. His competitor is sent flying past him. He drops the rope and pants. The crowd cheers the effort. Helios narrows his gaze as he watches his brother wave.
…
        Rainbow is the last pony called. She prances up to the stage. Across from her stands a three-meter-tall red dragon. He looks down at the tiny pony. She looks up and smiles.
        ‘Hi!’ Rainbow greets.
        The dragon turns. ‘Forfeit. I am not stupid enough to challenge her.’
        The crowd boos as the dragon walks off stage. Rainbow shrugs and hops over to her friends. Apple Pie checks the standings. None of them are facing each other. Yet.
        ‘Let’s hear it for our finalists!’ the announcer calls.
        The crowd stomps in support of the group on stage. The eight competitors smile and wave. Helios looks at his brother. Apple Pie looks back. They nod and look at their sister. She waves as hard as she can at all of her supporters. The brothers sigh and begin to plan on how to defeat their her.

> The Iron Pony - Finals
> --------------------------------------------------------------------------

        ‘This sucks,’ Helios whines as the group trots back to the hotel. He and Apple Pie are hanging back from the others. ‘How could we lose to her? I am the epitome of pony evolution and you are practically built for this sort of thing. She... She...’
        ‘She is Rainbow,’ Apple Pie groans.
        ‘Hey! Who wants to have a big cake and ice cream party?’ the energetic pegasus cheers.
        ‘Sure!’ Alba chimes in. ‘That’s a great way to celebrate all of your awards.’
        ‘Oh yeah. That, too.’
        The two young stallions sigh and trot after the rest of the group.

        The celebration greets Octavia as she returns from her concert. Razzly has amassed a pile of sweets for the four celebrants. Rainbow and Alba dig in, but Apple Pie and Helios barely snack. Apple Bloom relates the day to Trixie and Raindrops. The former idol sighs and goes to her room.
        ‘I’m not drunk enough for this...’ Octavia moans.
        ‘Ta~vi~’ Trixie sings. ‘How was your concert?’
        The grey mare groans. ‘It was amazing, stupendous, a sublime feeling of joy washing over my very soul. I was one with creation for brief moments. Other blathering where words fail me.’
        ‘Was Synth super sexy?’ Rainbow asks between mouthfuls of cake.
        ‘I don’t look at him that way. Now, if you’ll excuse me, I need some aspirin and sleep.’
        ‘Don’t ya wanna hear how we did?’ Apple Bloom calls.
        Octavia scans the room, analyzing all four competitors. ‘Congratulations on your records, Rainbow. Apple, you cheated and should feel bad. Helios, you would have done better if you were more focused. And you better go back and pay for that tart you “borrowed” from the stadium vendor, Alba.’
        The assassin turns her nose up and trots away.
        ‘How does she know all that?’ Alba gapes.
        Raindrops scrolls through her mobile. ‘Amazing what some ponies post on the internet these days...’
…
        Octavia wakes in the middle of the night. She trots out to the balcony. She watches the city for a moment before turning back. She sees Helios standing on a nearby balcony.
        ‘Shouldn’t you be sleeping before your big day tomorrow?’
        ‘What? Oh. Hey, Octavia. What are you doing up?’
        ‘I could ask you the same.’
        The prince looks away. ‘I can’t sleep. It is this whole competition thing.’
        ‘It is not in your nature to fight other ponies. You only entered because your brother did. Now, you are doubting yourself because Rainbow is having fun and winning. There is no shame in dropping out.’
        ‘What? No! Well, except for some of that Rainbow stuff, but the rest isn’t true.’
        Octavia shrugs and turns away. ‘If you say so.’
        ‘Hey, uh, Octavia. Wait a sec.’
        The mare huffs, ‘Yes?’
        ‘Um, your robe. You always wear it. Why?’
        Octavia adjusts her sunglasses. ‘Let’s just say there was a time I was so depressed that I physically mutilated myself to express the psychological mutilation that I had felt.’
        ‘I am sorry you felt driven to do that. I know it is too late but if there is anything I can do to help...’
        Octavia smiles. ‘Thank you, Helios. That is why I love your family so much.’
        The mare trots back into her room, leaving the prince to think. She sighs and goes to see if there is any leftover cake. Apple Pie has beaten her to her goal.
        ‘Want some?’ the young farmer offers. ‘Still plenty to go around.’
        ‘Thank you.’ Octavia sits and takes the cake. ‘Feeling inadequate compared to your little sister, eh?’
        Apple chokes on his cake. ‘What?’
        ‘Isn’t that why you cheated?’
        ‘I didn’t...’
        ‘It is written all over your face. Just figured that was the most obvious reason.’
        Apple whines and looks away. ‘She just... I am supposed to be the athlete in the family. She was always the funny, lazy one.’
        ‘And the fact she is named after Rainbow Dash?’
        ‘I should be happy for her, but I really wanted to win.’
        ‘Now you’re the one that sounds like Rainbow Dash.’ Octavia finishes her cake and gets up. ‘Both of you are Elements of Loyalty. Think about that. I look forward to seeing you at the competition in the morning. Goodnight, Apple.’
        Octavia leaves Apple to eat his cake. The young stallion sits back and thinks while he eats.

        Triumphant music and roaring crowds greet the eight competitors as they trot onto the field. In the front row, Alba screams for her siblings. Raindrops, Trixie and Razzly are more subdued with their cheering. Octavia quietly watches the field.
        Apple Bloom, Rainbow and the other competitors wave to the crowds. Apple Bloom wears a gold-lined cape with a crest of a yellow pony on a blue field on it. Apple and Helios are deep in thought and barely acknowledge the onlookers. Both glance over at Octavia. She nods and waves a churro. They take deep breaths as they trot onto a stage.
        ‘Welcome, everypony, to the finals for this year’s Iron Pony Competition!’ the lead organizer announces.
        The crowd stomps in support of the group on stage.
        ‘Let’s meet our finalists!’ The announcer goes to Apple Bloom. ‘Representing the Cutie Mark Crusaders, Apple Bloom!’ Apple Bloom waves as the announcer moves on. ‘Next, we have Apple Pie from Sweet Apple Acres!’
        While the crowd cheers, Apple leans over. ‘You never said you weren’t representing the farm.’
        ‘Ah never said Ah would. Sides, mah friends would be smilin’ down on me fer this.’ Apple Bloom frowns. ‘Cuz too if she weren’ outa town.’
        Apple shakes his head. ‘Shame she couldn’t make it.’
        Before Apple Bloom can reply, the crowd stomps and cheers. Several chant for Rainbow. The pegasus smiles, yawns and waves. The announcer moves to the next competitor. He jumps in shock when he sees Helios. The prince smiles.
        ‘Yes, well,’ the announcer coughs. ‘Our next competitor is Prince Helios of the Elements of Harmony.’
        Alba screams extra loud for her brother, rivaling the rest of the audience.
        ‘Sorry, ladies. I have a fillyfriend,’ Helios laughs.
        Apple rolls his eyes. Rainbow giggles at her brothers. The announcer moves on to the rest of the competitors.

        With the finalists introduced to the crowds, they set up for the first round of the finals. A pair of organizers lay out ropes for tug-of-war while another sets a table in the middle of the stage. The competitors wait at the back of the stage.
        ‘For the first round, we will be finishing the last elimination round,’ the announcer states. ‘To start, we will have the final hoof wrestling competitions. Apple Pie, Large Fuji, you’re up.’
        Apple Bloom gives the stallions a confused look as they go to the table. Apple sits across from the large, red stallion. ‘Ready?’
        ‘Eeyup.’
        The two stallion lock hooves. Both strain as they try to get the advantage. Apple glances around for support. Apple Bloom cheers for him. Rainbow scratches her ear with her hind legs. He looks at the audience. Alba, Raindrops and Trixie cheer for their favorite. Octavia calmly reaches over the barrier and picks up some dirt. She holds it up. Apple flexes and starts forcing the other stallion’s hoof down. Large Fuji strains to regain ground. The younger stallion smirks, presses his hind hooves into the ground and taps into the earth below him. Octavia pours out the dirt. Apple’s eyes go wide. His foreleg goes limp and gets pinned.
        ‘Oh! Stunning upset!’
        The competitors stand and shake hooves. Apple grips the other stallion tightly. ‘Go easy on my little sister next round, okay?’
        Large Fuji winces. ‘Eeyup.’
…
        Helios and a tan pegasus pull their rope as hard as they can. Rainbow cheers from the stage while Apple Pie sits with Apple Bloom as she ices her sore hoof after her loss. The pegasus flies as hard as she can to get any leverage against the prince. He calmly trots forward, dragging his opponent with him. The pegasus makes one last push with her wings and jerks Helios’ head back. He growls and snaps forward, sending the pegasus tumbling offstage. The prince gasps and gallops over to help.
        ‘I am so sorry!’ Helios apologizes, charging a healing spell. ‘Let me help you.’
        The pegasus takes an offered hoof. ‘Thanks. I am fine. Just a little dizzy. I think they want you onstage.’
        Helios shakes his head. ‘Are you sure you’re fine?’
        The pegasus nods and laughs. The prince sighs and returns to the stage. He notices Octavia smiling. Helios takes a deep breath as he listens to the announcer speak.

        Rainbow dances around Large Fuji singing ‘I win!’ after their wrestling match. The large stallion lays unconscious as the officials tend to him. Helios looks at his opponent, an athletic-looking earth pony, and takes a deep breath. Large Fuji is helped from the field, and the ring is cleaned up.
        ‘What an exciting match!’ the announcer declares. ‘The petite, young Rainbow used her speed and agility to easily triumph over the hulking Fuji. Will we see an equally impressive show between Prince Helios and Mountain Mocha?’
        The crowd cheers. Helios takes some deep breaths as he goes to the ring.
        ‘You ever do any fighting?’ Mountain asks.
        ‘Not unless you count Tekken,’ the prince replies.
        ‘Hmm. Don’t worry. I’ll avoid your horn. That is just a dirty tactic.’
        ‘Can you avoid the groin too? I would sorta like to be a father some day.’
        Mountain laughs. ‘You’re a good kid. Just go easy with any alicorn strength you have.’
        ‘R-right.’
        The competitors take their positions.
        ‘Come on, Helios!’ Alba shouts. ‘Prove you’re not a wuss!’
        The young prince groans. Apple laughs from the sidelines. A whistle is blown. Helios and Mountain circle the ring, waiting for the other to make the first move. Mountain lunges, but Helios dodges. The older pony tries a few more moves, but Helios avoids each of them. Mountain charges to tackle the prince, but the alicorn raises a leg and holds his attacker off. He shakes his head.
        ‘I can’t do this.’
        ‘Sure you can!’ Apple calls. ‘You blew up a school. One punch and it is over.’
        Helios seethes. ‘No. I can’t. I can’t hurt somepony for my own gain. I quit.’
        The crowd jeers as Helios trots off field. The prince does his best to ignore everypony. He is tackled from behind.
        ‘My little brother is so noble!’ Rainbow sobs. ‘You are such a good pony. I am going to be sad not facing you in the finals.’
        Helios smiles. ‘Thanks, Rainbow.’
        ‘Of course, I would have kicked your flank from here to Los Arion, but that is another story.’
        Helios frowns. ‘Thanks, Rainbow.’
        The young mare giggles as she joins the others on the sidelines. They go to meet with the rest of the group while the organizers set up for the final round.

        Rainbow and Mountain Mocha return to the field for the final round. Both contestants are rested and ready for anything. The crowds cheer for the finalists. A large cloud sits in the middle of the field, blocking what the organizers have planned.
        ‘Welcome to the final round of the Iron Pony Competition!’
        The crowds cheer and stomp even louder.
        ‘The contestants have been pushed to their physical limits. They have fought against each other all day. Now, they must face one last challenge: The Eliminator!’
        Pegasi blow the cloud away. Everypony marvels at a giant multi-stage obstacle course. There is a rope swing over a pit of mud, large cargo net climb leading to a zip-line, a small maze, hurdles of varying height, swinging foam-covered logs over a balance beam, and a ramp with reverse-running treadmills. Octavia nods in approval.
        Rainbow looks up from preening her wings. ‘What? Did I miss something?’
        Organizers usher the ponies to the starting line.
        ‘Contestants, ready?’
        Rainbow and Mountain crouch, readying themselves for their race. ‘Ready!’
        ‘Audience, ready?’
        The audience cheers. An official raises a green flag. As soon as the flag reaches its peak, Rainbow stands up. She looks back, sniffing the air.
        ‘What is she doing?’ Trixie wonders.
        Raindrops sniffs and smiles. ‘Oh. She might lose this.’
        ‘What? No!’ Alba shouts. ‘You can do it, Rainbow!’
        ‘GO!’ the official yells, dropping the flag.
        Mountain takes off running, climbing the treadmills as best he can. Rainbow looks at the ramp and back over her shoulder. She dances around, not knowing what to do. She screams. She scrambles up the treadmill and darts across the balance beam. She takes a flying leap over the hurdles and grabs the rope swing. A rainbow-colored streak passes Mountain in the maze. Rainbow only slows down when she gets her hoof caught in the cargo net. She grabs the zip-line in her mouth and flips to the ground when she dismounts. Rainbow dashes for the finish line as fast as she can. She trips and gets tangled in the finish line. An organizer helps her up.
        ‘Congratulations, Rainbow Pie! You are the new Ir-’
        ‘Churros!’
        Rainbow shoots from the stadium and chases a vendor down the street. The organizers stare in shock. Mountain screams in surprise as he gets stuck in the cargo net and hangs upside down. Apple laughs as he approaches the announcer.
        ‘Sorry,’ the young stallion apologizes. ‘She has been that way since she could fly at a month old.’ He looks at the trophy the officials had prepared. ‘So... About the trophy...’

        Apple and Helios admire Rainbow’s trophy in their hotel room.
        ‘The right pony won it,’ Helios states.
        ‘Yeah. She really did.’
        ‘Though, if I didn’t drop out, I would have won.’
        ‘Ha! Like I would have let you.’
        The brothers bicker. Alba groans and turns to the others. Razzly is talking with Trixie.
        ‘A-and we’re going to need ice cream and at least three pies and...’
        Trixie smiles and holds up a hoof. ‘Calm down. I remember what you wanted last night. You can always come with me if you want to get the right things.’
        Razzly squeaks and backs away. Trixie laughs and pats her on the back.
        Octavia sighs. ‘Are you sure we are going to need all of that again?’
        Raindrops laughs. ‘Well, she is going to need something to eat once she is done with her snack.’
        Rainbow sits on a pile of churros, stuffing them into her face. ‘This. Is the. Best. Day. Ever.’

> Who Do You Think I Am?
> --------------------------------------------------------------------------

        Apple Bloom, Raindrops and Octavia lounge backstage at a town hall. The Elements and Trixie are meeting with the press and a large crowd of Trottingham. A curtain parts. Razzly trots backstage, clutching her chest.
        ‘Are you okay?’ Apple Bloom asks.
        Razzly nods, panting.
        ‘Nervous being in front of so many ponies,’ Octavia notes.
        The filly nods. ‘Y-yeah.’
        ‘Come on. I’ll take you back to the hotel.’
        Octavia puts a hoof around the filly and leads her away.

        Back at the hotel, Octavia sits with Razzly. The filly sips a drink, frowning.
        ‘It is okay,’ Octavia assures. ‘Stage fright happens to all of us. I was scared my first time performing in public.’
        ‘It... It isn’t just public speaking. I can’t stand the attention being an Element of Harmony brings me. When I am out with Alba, she gets all the attention because she is also a princess, but when it is just me...’
        ‘You are naturally shy. It is understandable.’
        ‘I am a burden to the team... If I could quit, I would to save them the hassle of dealing with me.’
        Octavia laughs. ‘What burden? You are a valued friend to us all. Element or not, Alba would love you just the same.’
        ‘Alba is a good friend...’ Razzly looks up. ‘You were shy too?’
        ‘Scared, not shy. There’s a big difference.’
        Razzly frowns. ‘Oh.’
        ‘But... I can teach you some techniques that will give you more confidence. The principles should be the same.’
        The filly smiles and nods. The door opens, and Trixie leads everypony inside.
        ‘We’re back~!’ the performer sings.
        Alba gallops into the room and hugs Razzly. ‘There you are!’ she cries. ‘I was so worried about you!’
        ‘I-it is okay. I-I was just here with Octavia.’
        ‘I’m sorry we ignored you. We should have been nicer.’
        ‘I-it’s fine. Really.’
        ‘You sure?’
        Razzly nods.
        ‘Great! Trixie knows a great place in town, and we’re all going to dinner.’
        The other filly looks away.
        ‘Razzly and I were planning on staying in and having room service,’ Octavia says.
        ‘Grilled portobello the size of your head,’ Trixie casually mentions.
        Octavia’s eyes go wide behind her sunglasses. She shakes her head. ‘N-no. I’m staying here with Razzly.’
        ‘Go ahead,’ Razzly says, smiling. ‘I wouldn’t want you to hold back on my account. Besides, Alba will be here with me.’
        ‘I am never leaving you again,’ the princess huffs.
        ‘What about our training?’ Octavia asks.
        ‘W-we can work on it tomorrow.’
        Octavia smiles. ‘It is a deal.’
        The mare gets up and joins the others. They wave and leave.
        ‘What deal?’ Alba asks.
        Razzly smiles weakly and tells her friend about the conversation.

        Razzly opens her mouth, but no sound comes out. She squeaks and looks away. Octavia sighs and shakes her head.
        ‘It is okay,’ Alba assures. ‘You’ll get it.’
        ‘At this rate, it will be by the time you turn eighteen,’ Octavia grumbles.
        ‘I’m sorry,’ Razzly whispers.
        ‘Just start at a volume you are fine with,’ the mare advises. ‘You don’t have to be forceful right off the bat.’
        Razzly nods. She takes a deep breath and exhales, ‘My name is Razzly. N-n-n-ni-ni...’
        The unicorn squeaks and clams up. Alba claps.
        ‘Much better,’ Octavia compliments. ‘We’ll keep working on just this phrase. Remember, believe in the you who believes in yourself.’
        Razzly giggles and nods. There is a knock on the door before Trixie enters.
        ‘One usually waits for a reply,’ Octavia snorts.
        Trixie scoffs. ‘This is important. Have you seen the news today?’
        ‘We’re in Trottingham,’ the other mare moans. ‘Most of that is tabloid tripe owned by Mardock.’
        Trixie levitates the paper in front of her. ‘At a recent event hosted by the Elements of Harmony, one member of the group was conspicuously absent. The Element of Generosity, one Razzleberry Souffle, was seen slipping offstage early and never returned. Generosity must not mean giving time to the public. When asked for comment, the group’s manager [The Great and Powerful Duchess] Trixie Lunamoon simply responded that Razzleberry is shy.’ She lowers the paper. ‘It goes on like this for another paragraph.’
        ‘Was the title really necessary?’ Octavia sighs.
        ‘How dare they say that about Razzly!’ Alba yells. ‘They should be ashamed of themselves!’
        ‘It is just a tabloid. Nopony believes those.’
        ‘This is the city’s biggest paper,’ Trixie replies. ‘It is their most reputable.’
        Octavia tilts her head. ‘Why does it have a Page Three spread on Milky Way then?’
        ‘Listen, this is a big deal. It hurts the group as a whole.’
        ‘We’re going to be moving on soon. It won’t matter when we reach the next city.’
        ‘It is still a very mean thing to say,’ Alba huffs. ‘Right, Razzly?’
        The others look. Razzly has pulled a blanket off the bed and is wrapped up, sobbing.

        By the middle of the night, Alba has coaxed Razzly out of hiding. The young unicorn is still upset about what was written about her. There is a knock on the door before Trixie enters.
        ‘You know she is upset and you still barge in?’ Octavia grumbles, stepping from a shadow.
        ‘This is important,’ Trixie huffs. ‘I was able to contact the author of that article. I explained to him how much it upset dear Razzly and asked for an apology.’
        ‘He better have given one,’ Alba snorts.
        ‘Not exactly. It seems that Rarity was quite popular in Trottingham back in the day, so the town developed a soft spot for the Element of Generosity. He would only issue an apology if Razzly would grant him a short interview.’
        ‘H-h-how short?’ the scared filly asks.
        ‘I don’t really know, but he understands your situation and will keep it simple.’
        Octavia scowls. ‘You agreed to allowing Razzly to be interviewed by one of these Trottingham tabloid hounds?’
        ‘I’ll be there to make sure it doesn’t get out of hoof.’
        ‘And I’ll be there to slit his throat when he starts asking obscene questions! Which will probably be at the start of the interview!’
        ‘Just because you have had trouble with the tabloids in the past doesn’t mean everypony has.’
        ‘I never had trouble with them because I avoided them because they are a plague!’
        ‘The reason you avoided them is sitting on your face.’
        Octavia gasps and touches her sunglasses. She growls and charges forward with her hidden blades out. Trixie calmly keeps the attacker at bay with her magic.
        ‘St-st-stop it!’ Razzly squeaks. ‘I’ll do the interview. Just stop fighting...’
        Octavia retracts her blades. ‘Sorry. I overreacted.’
        ‘We can help you with you assertiveness training the rest of the night,’ Trixie offers.
        ‘Th-thank you. I-I’d like all the help I can get.’ The filly’s stomach growls. ‘I also missed dinner...’
        ‘We’ll have something brought to you right away,’ Trixie laughs.
        Razzly nods. She leans against Alba and takes a few deep breaths.
        ‘Don’t worry, Razzly,’ her friend assures. ‘Everything is going to be fine.’

        Trixie escorts a reporter into the hotel room. Most of the group is out for the day, allowing Razzly to be interviewed in peace. Octavia lurks in the shadows, watching the reporter.
        ‘As you can see, we travel in luxury, but we do spend as much time seeing the cities we travel and meeting everypony we can,’ Trixie explains.
        ‘Which is why you, the princess and the Element of Generosity are all staying in today,’ the reporter retorts.
        The performer scowls. ‘We are here to support our friend. We don’t want a repeat the harsh reporting you did.’
        ‘Well, seeing how you, not she, greeted me, the odds of that happening are really low this time.’
        ‘How hard is it to understand that these sorts of meetings are uncomfortable for her? It doesn’t speak ill of her that she is shy. You wouldn’t have judged Fluttershy for her apprehension, so please do the same for dear Razzly.’
        ‘But Fluttershy wouldn’t have needed a separate interview since she wouldn't have ducked out of the first meeting.’
        Trixie sneers at the reporter. ‘Fluttershy was a good friend. Do not talk as if you knew her.’
        The reporter sighs. ‘Can I please speak to Miss Souffle?’
        Alba comes out of her bedroom. ‘Razzly will be here in a moment. She’s having a slight panic attack.’
        ‘Great. An Element who panics at the thought of a friendly interview. How is she going to hold up if she is called on to use her Element in an actual situation?’
        ‘Razzly is doing the best she can!’ Alba snaps. ‘She’s young and away from her family for the first time. Of course she is scared.’
        ‘There are a lot scarier things out there than me. I cleared my schedule for this meeting but if it is not going to happen, I will be justified for what I end up writing.’
        The reporter turns to leave. The bedroom door creaks open. Razzly stands in the doorway. Her eyes are closed, and she is breathing heavily.
        ‘W-w-w-who th-the h-h-h-hell d-d-do y-you th-think I-I am!’ the filly yells. Razzly nearly falls, her legs are shaking so much.
        The reporter smiles, calmly goes to a table and sits. ‘From where I sit, I think you are the bravest filly I have ever met.’
        Razzly smiles weakly and trots to the table to begin her interview.

        Dark figures stand behind a barrier. A beam shoots past and destroys a metal plate in front of them.
        ‘And that was only quarter power?’ a figure asks.
        ‘Yes, sir. We have had a hard time adapting the technology to our own.’
        ‘How long until full power?’
        ‘Uh, well...’
        A door opens behind the figures. An envelope is given to the lead figure.
        The figure laughs. ‘It seems we have found a crack worth exploiting. See if more can be found. They all have weaknesses, even if they try hiding them.’ The form leans back. ‘Looks like the two of you have a lot of results to get and soon.’
        Two surprised squawks are heard as the subordinates get back to work.

> Cadance Times
> --------------------------------------------------------------------------

        The Elements of Harmony sit at the head of a table with a number of officials. They are on a large stage in the middle of a festival. All around them, couples celebrate their love. The singles of the town try to woo the objects of their affection. The Elements pay little attention to the festival as they enjoy their midday meal.
        ‘Thank you so much for visiting our humble town during our small festival,’ the mayor says. ‘It is truly a honor to have all of you here.’
        ‘It is our pleasure,’ Trixie replies. ‘We are lucky to be in the area to enjoy your celebration.’
        ‘What is this festival for anyway?’ Alba asks.
        The mayor laughs. ‘It is only our most famous event: Cadance Times.’
        ‘What is that?’ Razzly squeaks.
        ‘Princess Cadance was Twilight Sparkle’s sister-in-law,’ Alba explains. ‘She and her husband Shining Armor were at the wedding. After Shining fell protecting Ponyville, Princess Cadance returned to the Crystal Empire and rules in solitude.’
        Razzly frowns. ‘Oh. That is so sad.’
        ‘It is not that dramatic,’ the mayor huffs. ‘Princess Cadance still spreads love and joy wherever she goes. This holiday is in recognition of all the hard work she does making sure everypony loves each other.’
        ‘We all know why the holiday exists,’ Trixie interrupts. ‘We just don’t know why it is such a big deal here.’
        ‘Ah!’ The mayor laughs. ‘This, my dear Elements, is the town where the pegasus known as Cadance grew up before she became the princess known as Cadance. There is mysterious love magic everywhere. If a couple kisses before sundown during the Cadance Times festival, then they are destined to be together forever.’
        ‘That’s so sweet,’ Razzly coos.
        ‘What proof do you have that it is true?’ Alba asks.
        ‘My wife and I have been together since we kissed countless years ago.’
        ‘Got anything better than that?’
        ‘Alba! This is a sweet tradition. Don’t ruin it,’ Trixie scolds.
        ‘Alba does have a point,’ Helios interjects. ‘Any unicorn with a working horn can tell there is no more magic in the town than anywhere else. Do you have any solid magical or scientific evidence to back up your claim?’
        The mayor snorts. ‘Just ask any couple in town. We all know the legend, and we have all kissed our mate on this day. You will not find any happy couple that hasn’t followed through with the tradition.’
        Helios stands. ‘That sounds like a challenge to me.’
        ‘I’m with you,’ Alba adds, joining her brother.
        The two royals gallop off to investigate.
        Apple Pie slides closer to Apple Bloom. ‘So, uh, AB...’
        ‘Hey! They got funnel cake over there!’
        Apple Bloom trots off to enjoy the festival. Apple Pie sighs and follows. Raindrops laughs.
        ‘I’m glad Rainbow isn’t awake for this,’ the pegasus comments.
        Beside Raindrops, Rainbow lays on the table. The younger pegasus extends her tongue, trying to eat the meal in front of her.
        ‘Why is that?’ Trixie replies.
        ‘Back in Cloudsdale, she was the hottest catch. I remember fillies and colts lined up just to give her a card every Hearts and Hooves Day.’
        ‘Too bad she isn’t taken already. Looks like the natives have picked up on her relationship status.’
        Trixie nods towards the foot of the stage. A large group of young ponies have gathered to watch Rainbow sloppily lick her plate. Raindrops laughs, getting Rainbow’s attention. The older pegasus points. Rainbow sits up and slowly takes in all the fillies and colts giving her attention as she licks her face clean.
        ‘Uh… What is this about?’
        Raindrops leans over and whispers an explanation.
        The young mare’s eyes go wide with surprise. ‘Oh.’ She looks at the gathered ponies. ‘Uh, well, uh… I’m, er… What’s that!’
        Rainbow points in a random direction and dashes off. Her admirers chase after her.
        Raindrops laughs as she returns to her meal. ‘Just like in Cloudsdale.’

        Rainbow gallops through the streets as fast as she can. A mob of earth ponies and unicorns chase after her while a squadron of pegasi fly overhead.
        ‘Why does this happen every year!’ the Element of Laughter laments.
        Rainbow dashes down an alley, but a group of ponies is waiting for her. She screams and darts away. Everywhere she turns, there are ponies in her path. The pegasus tries a number of Iron Pony-esque maneuvers, but she is trapped. Rainbow ducks down another alley. She looks back to watch for pursuers and gets pulled aside, behind a sewer grate. Her admirers gallop past. The young mare is released and immediately goes on guard, lightning appearing in her clouds.
        A green pegasus stallion about Rainbow’s age trots away. He looks back. ‘Come with me if you want to live.’
        Rainbow drops her guard, her clouds changing to rainbow balloons, and holds back a laugh. ‘Live with me if you want to… Hey! Whoa! Almost said the exact wrong thing, especially around this crowd.’ She gets on guard again. ‘Who are you and how much do I have to beat you to keep my lips pure?’
        The young stallion groans and rolls his eyes. ‘First of all, I am not into fillies. Or mares for that matter. Second,’ -- he turns around and extends a hoof -- ‘my name is Lucky Heart. It is a pleasure to meet you, Rainbow Pie.’
        Rainbow nervously takes the hoof then shakes it vigorously. ‘Hi! Great to meet you! I’m Rainbow Pie, but you knew that already.’ She releases the sore hoof. ‘So, why’d you pull me in here? Is this where you take all your first dates?’
        ‘I saw you being chased and wanted you to be safe. That is no way to treat anypony, especially an Element of Harmony.’
        Rainbow bats a hoof. ‘Ah! I get this every Hearts and Hooves or whatever. I just needed room to Sonic Rainboom my way out of the mess.’
        Lucky Heart raises an eyebrow. ‘You can do a Sonic Rainboom?’
        ‘Well, not really, but I ate a lot of beans for lunch.’
        ‘And everypony is hot for you why?’
        Rainbow poses. ‘Because I’m cute!’
        The young stallion moans. ‘Right. Whatever. I hate this holiday. I’ll share some of my good hiding spots with you. Just promise not to do anything crazy.’
        Rainbow yawns. ‘As long as we get to the first one soon. It is almost nap time.’
        ‘Tourists,’ Lucky Heart huffs as he leads his guest away.

        Apple Pie follows Apple Bloom as she trots through the festival. The young stallion carries a number of prizes and souvenirs for his love.
        ‘Um, Apple Bloom, I was wondering if you would like to...’
        ‘Hey! Check it out!’ The young mare goes to a stall. ‘Ah bet ya’d be great at rin’ toss.’
        Apple Pie sighs and sets down his load so he can play the game. Nearby, Helios and Alba interview a couple of ponies.
        ‘And how long have you been together?’ Helios asks.
        ‘Five years,’ the mare replies. ‘Four married.’
        ‘And you kissed during this festival before you got married?’ the prince follows up.
        The stallion laughs and kisses his wife. ‘Of course we did.’
        Alba nods. ‘Uh, huh. And did you see anypony before your husband?’
        ‘I don’t see how that is relevant,’ the stallion snorts.
        ‘Sir, this is a detailed scientific investigation,’ Helios states. ‘We need only the best, most accurate data.’
        ‘Well… I did have a coltfriend before I met my husband...’
        ‘What!?’
        Helios writes something down. ‘Did you kiss him during this festival too?’
        The mare blushes. ‘I-is that important?’
        ‘Crucial,’ Alba replies.
        The mare glances away. ‘Yes… I did.’
        ‘WHAT?!’
        Helios and Alba bow. ‘Thank you for your time!’
        The siblings trot away. The couple starts arguing about the wife’s past.
        ‘Looks like we have some good data,’ Alba notes.
        ‘Very good,’ Helios agrees. ‘Let’s check the hall of records and see if we can get anything else.’
        The siblings gallop away. The ring toss vendor places a giant plush alicorn on Apple Pie’s back.
        ‘Do Ah have t’ worry ‘bout Princess Cadance tryin’ t’ steal ya from me?’ Apple Bloom snickers.
        The young stallion groans as he reclaims all the other prizes and follows her to the next stall.

        Lucky Heart leads Rainbow through the streets. They are being cautious, since crowds chasing them have spread out to search. Rainbow prances behind her guide as she takes in the town.
        ‘This is a great place. You grew up here?’ Rainbow asks.
        ‘Born and raised.’
        ‘So, you weren’t raised by wolves or whatever like Aunty Princess?’
        ‘What?’ Lucky Heart thinks. ‘Oh. You mean how Cadance was raised by earth ponies. No. My parents are pegasi too.’
        ‘Neato! My mom is an earth pony, but my dad has wings.’
        ‘And a horn too.’
        Rainbow blushes. ‘Well, he’s my dad, so I never look down there.’
        Lucky Heart stops and facehoofs. ‘I walked right into that one.’
        ‘Watch out!’
        ‘Huh?’
        Lucky Heart trots right into somepony.
        ‘Looks like you walked into that one too,’ Rainbow laughs.
        ‘Miss Rainbow!’ the new pony cheers, smiling at the mare.
        ‘Uh… The pegasus you are looking for is in another castle.’
        ‘Come on. One little kiss.’
        Lucky Heart steps between Rainbow and her admirer. ‘Give it a rest. She isn’t interested in you.’
        ‘Oh, like she would like you? You’re half the stallion I am. What could she ever get from you that I can’t give her double?’
        The green pegasus smirks. ‘An escape route.’
        The other pony looks. All that is left behind Lucky Heart is a small cloud formation in the shape of Rainbow. The pony growls and gallops away to begin the search anew.
        Rainbow pokes her head out of the cloud. ‘Is it safe?’
        ‘For now.’
        The young mare shakes the cloud off her. ‘Great! Where to next?’
        ‘I think I know a place. Follow me.’
        ‘Awesome! Let’s roll!’
        Lucky Heart leads Rainbow away. She rubs against him as they trot. He blushes and tries not to glance at her as he smiles.

        Alba levitates a file in front of her. She jots notes as she reads.
        ‘Found another divorce,’ Helios reports.
        ‘At this rate, they will be slightly higher than the national average,’ his sister replies. ‘We really need to publish this data.’
        The prince laughs. ‘Disproving a silly tradition with no scientific basis. Dad would be so proud of us.’
        The siblings laugh and continue their research.

        Lucky Heart sighs contentedly as he finally relaxes after running around with Rainbow all day. He moans as he is poked in the side.
        ‘Hey, hey!’ Rainbow strokes her mane. ‘Timotei! Timotei!’
        ‘What?’
        The young mare scowls. ‘I knew I should have hung out with your brother Blue Clover or Green Tuna.’
        Lucky Heart groans. ‘I don’t even like that cereal.’
        Rainbow gasps. ‘But it is marshmallows! For breakfast! The only thing better would be candy!’
        ‘You’re a really weird filly, you know that?’
        The young mare lets out a loud, long yawn. ‘Is it nap time yet? Also, when is second lunch? Or are we skipping that and going straight to first dinner?’
        ‘Wait here,’ Lucky Heart huffs. ‘I’ll get you something.’
        ‘And extra fries too.’
        The young stallion rolls his eyes and spreads his wings. Rainbow blows a kiss. Lucky Heart tries to hide his smile as he flies away.

        Helios and Alba smile proudly as they present Trixie with a thirty-page report detailing all the data disproving the myth about Cadance Times, complete with historic marriage and divorce rates extending back from before the princess was born.
        ‘Pretty impressive, right?’ Helios brags.
        ‘We really should submit it to a journal,’ Alba suggests.
        Trixie flips through the report. She rolls it up and hits both royals over the head with it. ‘You two have to be the most unromantic ponies since Rainbow Dash, and she courted Soarin’ by kicking a lightning bolt at him as a romantic gesture!’
        ‘But the data...’ Alba whimpers.
        Trixie hits the princess again. She points around her. All over town, couples are watching the sunset together and slipping in their last kisses before the day ends.
        ‘Oh… Sorry.’
        Trixie sighs. ‘Let’s go back to the hotel. You can explain to Razzy why you didn’t play with her all day.’
        The unicorn puts the paper away as she leads the royals away. A hoof pulls the paper from Trixie’s saddlebag.
        ‘I think their dad might like this...’ Octavia comments as she seals up the report for mailing.

        Apple Bloom sits on a hill watching the sun go down. Apple Pie trudges up behind her, setting down all the prizes he won for Apple Bloom over the course of the day.
        ‘Apple Bloom, can I ask you something?’ the young stallion pants.
        Apple Bloom kisses him and smiles. ‘What is it?’
        Apple Pie sighs, laughs and shakes his head. ‘Never mind. Let’s just watch the sunset together.’
        The mare leans against her stallion. ‘Like Ah need some stupid tradition t’ tell me Ah’ll be with ya ‘til the end o’ the universe.’
        Apple Pie laughs and kisses Apple Bloom again. They enjoy the sunset together.

        Rainbow and Lucky Heart finish their meal in their hiding spot. The sun slowly sets.
        ‘You know, except for the chasing and the running and the sewer and the flying, this was a pretty good day,’ Rainbow comments.
        ‘Yeah. It was pretty nice.’
        ‘I’m glad I got to spend it with you.’
        ‘Me t-’
        ‘Liar.’
        Lucky Heart is shocked. ‘What?’
        Rainbow goes over to the young stallion. ‘You lied to me, but I don’t mind.’ She leans in and whispers. ‘I know you’re not into stallions.’
        The young stallion blushes and sweats. ‘I, uh, well, um. What I mean to say was...’
        Rainbow kisses Lucky Heart right as the sun goes down. ‘I know. I like you too.’ She stretches her wings. ‘Well, I better get back to the hotel. It is almost time for dinner, and I’m starved!’ She waves. ‘See ya around, liar.’
        Lucky Heart watches Rainbow fly away. ‘Yeah. See ya.’ He smiles and laughs. ‘I’m destined to be with her until I die? I’m the luckiest stallion to ever live!’


> I’ve Heard It Both Ways
> --------------------------------------------------------------------------

        The Elements board a train after their most recent stop. Trixie and Raindrops say goodbye to the mayor.
        ‘We had a wonderful time in your city,’ Raindrops thanks.
        ‘It was our pleasure,’ the mayor replies. ‘We are so glad we were able to recover in time.’
        ‘Oh? What happened?’ Trixie asks.
        The mayor looks sheepish. ‘Well, we had an incident where the funds for our welcome committee were stolen. Thankfully, a wandering psychic was able to find them.’
        In the train, ponies screams as Alba gallops to the nearest window.
        ‘Was the so-called “psychic” a young griffin with red spots on his feathers?’ the princess demands.
        ‘Why, yes. He was.’
        ‘Did he say where he was going next?’

        Shaun Gusty takes several bows as a group of ponies applaud him. ‘Please. Please. You are too kind. I don’t deserve this.’
        ‘That is an understatement if I have ever heard one,’ Alba snorts, storming on the scene. ‘What is going on here?’
        Everypony turns their attention to the princess. Most of the gathered ponies are in police uniforms. Trixie rolls her eyes as she enters the police station behind her charge.
        Shaun puts a wing around Alba. ‘We were just celebrating another successful case. I was able to help catch a Diamond Dog gang selling counterfeit griffin and Neighponese artefacts. Really helped save the local museum a bundle of money and a lot of embarrassment.’
        ‘Likely story. You probably set up the whole thing,’ Alba accuses, forcing herself free.
        ‘Um, Shaun showed up after the artefacts started coming to town,’ a pegasus officer interrupts. ‘According to our experts, you would have to have grown up in the imperial palace in Eagleland to have the knowledge that Shaun was able to divine.’
        Shaun smiles smugly. ‘So, unless you really want to stroke my ego and call me “Prince Shaun of the Griffin Empire”, I think even you can agree in my mystical powers.’
        Alba snorts and marches away. Trixie tries catching the princess.
        ‘What? No stroking?’ Shaun asks. ‘Come on. Just one little “prince” will be fine.’
        ‘I’ll find something to expose you!’ Alba shouts before slamming the station door behind her.
        ‘She won’t stroke me, but she wants to expose me. I haven’t had this many missed signals since my last girlfriend.’
…
        ‘Alba, was it really necessary to come all this way just to argue with Shaun again?’ Trixie asks.
        ‘He is a liar and con artist,’ Alba accuses. ‘We have to stop him before he swindles another pony.’
        ‘Alba… You’re taking this grudge a little too far. Maybe you should let it go. There are lots of beings in the world just like him. I mean, remember when that self-help guru Iron Will got busted a few months ago for stealing excerpts from other authors’ books? Just trust in the system and everything will go fine.’
        ‘The system is too slow! I am justice now!’
        Alba spreads her wings and flies off to stalk Shaun.
        ‘Oh geez,’ Trixie groans. ‘I have to get her parents to clear this one before it gets too far out of hoof.’
        The unicorn sighs as she gets out her mobile.

        A trio of Diamond Dogs lurk behind a building. They are beat-up and covered in bandages. One is licking his wounds.
        ‘Stupid griffin,’ a large Diamond Dog grumbles. ‘Ruined all our plans.’
        ‘Maybe we should have just imported from Inucheon...’ a small one replies.
        ‘At least we aren’t in jail with the others...’ a fluffy one moans.
        ‘We could have run a hot dog stand...’ the small one mutters.
        ‘Tofu dog or real meat?’
        ‘We’re in pony country. What do you think?’
        ‘I miss real meat...’
        The small and fluffy Diamond Dogs groan in unison.
        ‘Idiots...’ the large one growls.
        A sound from around the corner catches the large Diamond Dog’s attention. He peeks out and sees a group of ponies. Raindrops pulls Rainbow behind her on a cloud while she and Razzly trot down the street. The mare and filly have ice cream cones.
        ‘I want ice cream too,’ Fluffy moans.
        ‘Shut up!’ Large hisses. ‘Don’t you recognize them?’
        ‘They look like regular ponies to me,’ Small replies.
        ‘Regular ponies with ice cream,’ Fluffy adds.
        ‘Morons! Those are Elements of Harmony! Their king and queen would pay handsomely to get them back...’
        ‘Back from where?’
        ‘Shut up and follow me.’
        The large Diamond Dog burrows into the the street. The others shrug and follow.
        ‘Very good choice in shop, Razzly,’ Raindrops compliments.
        ‘My aunt Lemon used to teach me all about ice cream when she visited us,’ Razzly replies. ‘That includes how to tell if an ice cream shop is a good one.’
        ‘Well, I’ll have to thank her if we ever meet.’
        Suddenly, the ground rumbles beneath the ponies. Razzy screams as the large Diamond Dog bursts from the pavement and grabs her. The small Diamond Dog knocks Raindrops back before she can react. Rainbow sleeps on her cloud. Prey in paw, the Diamond Dogs flee back underground. Octavia lands on the street right as the holes are filled in.
        ‘Damn it. Lost them,’ Octavia curses. ‘Once they’re underground, you can never track them.’ She feels the ground. ‘Get back to the hotel. I’ll see what I can do here.’
        Raindrops groans and rubs her head. Octavia gallops off before the pegasus can react.
        Rainbow yawns and stretches. ‘Somepony said something about ice cream?’

        ‘YOU LOST RAZZLY!’
        Alba’s scream shakes the hotel room. Trixie’s and Helios’ magic can barely hold the filly back from attacking Raindrops.
        ‘Alba, calm down,’ Trixie says. ‘Octavia, Apple Pie and Apple Bloom are out looking for her, and the police are on high alert. We’ll find her.’
        ‘But she let Razzly get foalnapped!’ the princess screams. ‘She should pay with her blood!’
        ‘Screaming about it and threatening Raindrops won’t do any good,’ Trixie scolds. ‘She and Rainbow were just leaving to help search.’
        ‘Th-that’s right,’ Raindrops stutters. ‘I want to make up for losing her on my watch.’
        ‘Do I have to?’ Rainbow complains.
        ‘If you don’t, I’ll vaporize Cloudsdale and Lucky Heart from here,’ Alba snarls.
        A rainbow streak leaves the room to search the city. Raindrops quickly follows Rainbow from the room.
        ‘I’m going too!’ Alba declares. ‘I can’t leave my friend out there all alone and defenceless.’
        ‘You’re staying right here, missy,’ Trixie states.
        ‘What?!’
        ‘You are too young and hot-headed to be out there right now. We need you here, if not to coordinate the rest of us, then to just cool yourself down.’ She puts a hoof on Alba’s shoulder. ‘No good will come from you wanting to destroy the city to find one pony right now.’
        Alba sits, tears in her eyes. ‘I just want Razzly back.’
        ‘Don’t worry, little sis,’ Helios assures. ‘We’ll find her.’
        ‘At any cost,’ Trixie adds.
        The older ponies leave to join the search. Alba stares at the ground, crying. She looks up.
        ‘At any cost...’ She grimaces. ‘This is the worst cost I can think of.’
…
        A door opens.
        ‘I need your help,’ Alba states plainly.
        A large smile creeps across Shaun’s beak. ‘What was that?’
        ‘I said I need your help.’
        Shaun dances giddily. ‘Sorry. Can’t hear you. Dancing.’
        Alba wraps a magical grip around the griffin’s neck and pulls him down to her. ‘Listen. I don’t like you, but I am out of other options. Now, I need you to stop acting like a complete nitwit and help me!’
        ‘How about acting like an incomplete nitwit?’
        ‘ARG! Just do what I say, and I’ll let you off this time.’
        ‘Aren’t you a little young for that?’
        ‘What?’
        ‘Oh, right. You weren’t there for the joke earlier.’
        Alba growls. Her wings spread, and a purple aura surroundings her eyes.
        ‘Okay! Okay! Calm down, princess.’ Shaun backs away. ‘What do you need my help finding?’
        ‘Some Diamond Dogs took Razzly. I heard you mention them earlier.’
        Shaun raises a talon to his temple. ‘A large one, a small one and a fluffy one?’
        ‘Yes, I saw them on the wanted board too.’
        ‘I’m sensing they will want a ransom and safe passage out of the New Lunar Republic.’
        ‘Duh. That would be a logical thing to ask for.’
        ‘I also sense they aren’t in any of the hideouts the police know about.’
        ‘Then what about the ones they don’t know about?’

        The Diamond Dogs set Razzly in the middle of an abandoned dry cleaner. The bound and gagged filly looks at her captors, terrified.
        ‘This is your home for now,’ Large says. ‘Get comfortable.’
        ‘Hopefully, your king and queen will pay out soon, and you can go back to saving the world.’
        The Diamond Dogs laugh. The fluffy one pops up from the hole.
        ‘Ransom note delivered!’ Fluffy reports.
        ‘Good. Now, little filly, do you have anything to say?’ Large asks, removing Razzly’s gag.
        The filly look at her captors. Tears build up and she starts wailing as loud as she can. The Diamond Dogs cover their ears to block the noise.
        ‘What is this! Stop crying!’ Large demands.
        Razzly cries even louder.
        ‘What can we do to stop the crying!’
        ‘Ice cream!’ Razzly screams.
        ‘Yes, you are!’ Fluffy replies.
        ‘No! She wants ice cream!’ Small shouts.
        ‘Yes, you are too now!’
        The large one slaps the others in the back of the head. ‘Get her something sweet to eat! Go!’
        The others salute and leap into the hole. The large Diamond Dog replaces the gag, but he still has to cover his ears to block Razzly’s screams.

        Alba follows Shaun as they fly over the city.
        ‘What are we looking for?’ the princess asks.
        ‘I’ll know it when I sense it.’
        ‘Or you can tell me so I know what to look for too.’
        Shaun stops and turns to the princess. ‘You don’t believe that I’m really psychic, do you?’
        ‘Honestly? I would have an easier time accepting you as the last Element of Harmony than believing you are some sort of clairvoyant.’
        ‘Your brother clops before bed.’
        Alba rolls her eyes. ‘Which? The one who is too scared to make a move on his fillyfriend, or the one who finally got a fillyfriend and is overcome by his hormones? I’ve heard them both.’
        ‘Your friend we’re looking for wishes that Trixie was her real mom.’
        ‘Yeah. So do I. She would be a great mother for Razzly.’
        Shaun closes his eyes and focuses. ‘Your father has a hoof in the end of the world.’
        Alba shrugs. ‘Knowing him, that seems about right.’
        Shaun tilts his head. ‘No wait. That wasn’t a hoof. What was it?’
        ‘Can we get on with this farce?’ the princess hisses. ‘I want to save my friend.’
        ‘I’m on it.’
        Shaun raises his talons to his temples and looks around. He tilts his head when he notices something.
        ‘Look! A couple centimeter depression running parallel to the roadway!’ Alba points out. ‘Do you see that?’
        The griffin avoids eye contact. ‘Maybe. No. Who couldn’t?’ Something catches his eye. ‘Your friend has a sweet tooth, does she not?’
        ‘Uh, yeah. Her special talent is baking.’
        ‘I am sensing that we should head...’
        ‘Oh! I see a line going from a cake store heading west! I bet they are that way!’
        Shaun frowns. ‘You just love taking the piss out of everything I am going to say, don’t you?’
        Alba smirks and raises a hoof to her temple. ‘I sense you don’t like being challenged.’
        The princess flies away laughing. Shaun huffs and follows.
…
        Shaun and Alba land outside of a boarded-up building. The pair case the perimeter and find an unblocked window. Shaun leans up to peek inside. Alba climbs up some debris to look inside, but she slips and crashes into a garbage bin. Shaun covers a laugh.
        ‘I guess they have it,’ the griffin snorts.
        ‘What?’ Alba snaps back.
        ‘Princess Alba in a can.’
        ‘I am going to kill you when I am free.’
        Shaun laughs and pulls the princess free. ‘There are only two of them in there, but I saw your friend. We can take them if we...’
        Alba slips through an unlocked door.
        ‘If we are sneaky...’
        Shaun chases after the princess. They slink closer to watch the foalnappers. Alba casts a spell to protect their ears from Razzly’s crying.
        ‘Where is he!’ Large shouts.
        ‘He should be back soon! The cake she wanted was across town!’
        ‘He better hurry!’
        The Diamond Dogs turn away. In front of Razzly is a table full of sweets. She stops crying for a moment to eat some ice cream before she screams again. Alba cannot hold back a snort of laughter. The princess charges a spell on her horn. A light purple aura appears around Razzly’s horn.
        ‘Razzly, we’ll get you out of here,’ Alba says via their link.
        Razzly shakes her head and screams louder.
        ‘Don’t worry. I’m strong enough to take them.’
        ‘But what about my cake?’ Razzly whines.
        ‘We’re getting your damn..!’ Large snaps, turning around. ‘What do we have here?’
        The large Diamond Dog shoves the small one. The small one turns then burrows into the ground. He pops up behind Alba and Shaun. Razzly stops her screaming as the Diamond Dogs trap the rescuers.
        ‘We have a purple pony princess now,’ Large cackles. ‘I think our demands have gone up.’
        ‘Not quite.’
        The Diamond Dogs look to see Octavia holding her hidden blade to the fluffy Diamond Dog’s throat.
        ‘Let Razzly free and back off or this one is going to be a short hair real quick.’
        ‘Did he at least bring my cake?’ Razzly asks.

        Alba and Razzly wait with Shaun in the police station as the officers lock up the Diamond Dogs. The three eat the leftover treats Razzly had gathered.
        ‘So you weren’t really scared?’ Alba asks.
        ‘Nope!’ Razzly replies. She rubs against her friend. ‘I knew you would save me.’
        ‘I knew that too,’ Shaun adds.
        ‘Shut up,’ Alba hisses. She frowns and looks up at the griffin. ‘Thanks for your help.’
        ‘I knew when I saw you again that we would have another adventure together. Call it psychic intuition.’
        ‘Call it the princess screwing up.’
        The group turns. Alba flinches when she see a very angry Trixie standing next to an upset Helios behind her.
        ‘Cake?’ the princess offers.
        Trixie frowns as she trots past the filly. She extends a hoof to Shaun. ‘Thanks for your help. Every time we run into you, something exciting happens.’
        Shaun shakes Trixie’s hoof. ‘Honestly, I have a lot of fun.’ He leans close and whispers. ‘I sense Alba has a crush on me.’
        ‘I DO NOT!’ Alba screams, getting everypony’s attention.
        ‘Alba, wait outside.’
        The filly frowns and marches out under her brother’s gaze. Razzly follows, levitating her treats with her.
        Trixie bows. ‘Until we meet again, Mr Shaun.’
        The unicorn follows her charges and starts scolding Alba.
        Shaun holds a talon to his temple. ‘Oh, I am sure we will see each other again soon enough.’

> Children of Celestia - Part 1
> --------------------------------------------------------------------------

        Trixie and Raindrops lead the Elements down a road. Alba and Razzly follow close behind. The princess looks upset. Apple Pie, Apple Bloom and Octavia stay in the back and chat. Rainbow and Helios fly above the others.
        ‘Why do we have to walk?’ the princess complains.
        ‘Thanks to your little detour, princess,’ Trixie replies, ‘we are relatively close to our next stop. Besides, I think we can use the exercise to work off all those sweets.’
        Alba frowns and kicks at the dirt.
        ‘Ah, cheer up, sis,’ Helios says. ‘You’ll see your boyfriend again sometime.’
        The princess shoots a bolt of magic at her brother. He screams and flies ahead. Alba flies after him, shooting more magic.
        ‘Alba! Get back here before you hurt somepony!’ Trixie yells.
        Raindrops chases after the siblings. Helios pulls some complicated maneuvers to barely avoid getting hit. The weather pony darts above them, gathers a cloud and stomps hard. The burst of lightning startles the royals. Alba is so surprised, she loses control of her wings and falls.
        ‘Got you!’
        An opal aura surrounds the princess, and she is lowered to the ground. Her friends rush over to see her. A trio of ponies, two unicorns and a pegasus, trot up as well.
        ‘You have to be a little more careful, princess,’ a young amber unicorn mare with a vivid crimson and yellow mane comments.
        ‘Thank you. I owe you,’ Alba replies.
        A older white unicorn mare with a flowing pink mane trots up to Trixie and bows. ‘We did not intend to make such a dramatic introduction, but we could not sit back when we saw the princess in peril.’
        ‘What about the prince who almost got lightning up his plot?’ Helios asks.
        ‘He probably had it coming,’ Apple Pie taunts.
        ‘We are grateful for your assistance, but we really should be going,’ Octavia states.
        ‘Agreed.’ Trixie nods. ‘It was a pleasure meeting you, Miss...’
        ‘I am Sunburst Shimmer,’ the white unicorn introduces. ‘These are my daughters Corona and Sunset.’
        ‘I’m Corona,’ the amber unicorn says. She motions to a light blue pegasus filly with a pink mane. ‘This is Sunset.’
        ‘Nice to meet you, Miss Shimmer.’ Trixie bows. ‘We really must be going. If you are traveling the same direction as us, you are welcome to join.’
        ‘We are indeed traveling with you,’ Sunburst replies. ‘We could use your protection. For you see,’ -- she looks at Helios and Alba -- ‘we are your cousins. We are the last Children of Celestia.’
        Helios stares blankly. ‘Come again?’
        Alba is confused. ‘Our dead aunt? What?’
        ‘There is a rest stop nearby,’ Sunburst explains. ‘We can tell you more there, but we must hurry. There are those who wish to harm us… and likely you as well.’
        Everypony gasps in shock.
        ‘Dun dun dun!’
        Everypony glares at Rainbow.
        ‘What? I thought it was funny,’ the pegasus defends.

        At the nearby rest stop, Trixie, Helios and Alba sit at a table with Sunburst, Corona and Sunset. Apple Pie and Apple Bloom listen in on their conversation. Raindrops, Rainbow and Razzly get snacks from the rest stop’s snack shack. Octavia paces with her mobile out.
        ‘Right: Sunburst, Corona and Sunset Shimmer,’ Octavia says. ‘Anything you have on them. They claim to be related to the queen. Good luck.’
        Octavia joins the others at the table.
        ‘Tattling on us, are we?’ Trixie asks.
        ‘Just informing Lyra of our condition. If they are who they say they are, then she should have records on them.’
        ‘You have reason to doubt us?’ Sunburst asks.
        ‘As somepony who shouldn’t be alive herself,’ Octavia states, ‘I am more inclined than others to believe you are the children of a princess who died over a thousand years ago.’
        Corona rolls her eyes. ‘Grandchildren is more accurate, Miss Dead Pony.’
        ‘Octavia might be willing to believe you, but I still have my doubts,’ Trixie says. ‘It is hard to imagine Princess Celestia having foals.’
        Alba frowns. ‘The records are hidden in the archives, and those were almost lost in the civil war, but it is true. Celestia had a son.’
        ‘What?!’ Helios snaps his attention to his sister. ‘Why didn’t mom ever tell us this?’
        ‘Probably because she believed her nephew and his family killed in the civil war,’ Sunburst replies. ‘My great-grandfather did not fall so easily. Instead, he used the attack on his home to take our family underground, out of the public spotlight. My grandmother, my mother and I, we all did our best to keep ourselves hidden.’
        ‘Then why emerge now?’ Trixie asks.
        Sunburst frowns. ‘Five years ago, our home was attacked. My husband was killed protecting us. We escaped and went even deeper into hiding, but this last year, our pursuers have been extremely aggressive. We have not had time to settle for more than a few days before we have to leave. Needless to say, it has been hard on my foals.’
        ‘I would imagine. But why come to us? Why not head straight to Canterlot?’
        ‘We were, but we heard you were in the area and wanted to warn you as well. The group after us is targeting you as well.’
        ‘How do you know that?’
        Sunburst nods to Corona. The young mare looks at Helios and Alba and says, ‘The night they attacked our home, I heard them talking about how they wouldn’t have to target Full Moon anymore.’
        Helios leaps up. ‘They were after Full Moon!’
        ‘Calm down, Helios,’ Trixie soothes. ‘She is safe in the other Equestria.’ She turns to Sunburst. ‘Unfortunately, Canterlot is in the opposite direction of our next destination. We are expected in the Griffin Empire.’
        ‘They’re the ones who killed our father and are chasing us,’ Corona snarls.
        ‘Settle down, Corona,’ Sunburst huffs. ‘We don’t know who is after us. You are too quick to jump to conclusions. You have to learn to be more patient.’
        ‘There were claw marks on his body. No other creature could have done it.’
        ‘Actually, there are several clawed creatures that live in Equestria alone,’ Sunset speaks up. ‘Countless more in other nations.’
        ‘Sunset… I know what I sa-’
        ‘She’s right,’ Alba agrees. ‘They are all listed in the creature compendiums in the royal library.’
        ‘You get to read at the royal library?’ Sunset gapes.
        Sunburst laughs. ‘Sunset is a bit of a bookworm. She always reads every book she can find on our travels.’
        Alba nods. ‘I’ve read almost all the books in the library. I plan to be as great as Twilight Sparkle when I grow up.’
        Sunset tilts her head. ‘Who?’
        A dark blue aura surrounds Alba and holds her back before she can attack the other filly. Helios laughs nervously. ‘You’ll have to ask our mom, uh, your cousin, whatever, about her when you get to Canterlot. … Just not our dad. He’s a little touchy on the subject.’
        Sunburst looks around. ‘Can we get going? I am a little nervous staying in one spot for so long.’
        Octavia scans the area. ‘I agree. The sooner we reach the port, the better. I want to be on the ship as soon as possible.’
        ‘We’re going on a boat?!’ Alba and Corona exclaim.
        The princess frowns and looks sick. The unicorn claps giddily.
        ‘A ship?’ Sunburst asks.
        Trixie stands. ‘Airship, actually. Duke Blueblood and Ambassador Gilda are meeting us.’
        ‘Yes!’ the princess cheers.
        ‘Flying...’ Corona groans.
        ‘What’s wrong with flying?’ Sunset growls.
        ‘We should be going now!’ Octavia hisses. ‘I’m getting a bad feeling about this place.’ She starts rallying the others. ‘Apple Pie, I want you in the back. Send shockwaves behind us to trip up any followers. Apple Bloom, stay close to Razzly and Sunset. Raindrops, Rainbow, Helios, take to the sky. Watch for anything in all directions. I’ll lead with Trixie. Alba, stay with Sunburst and Corona. Have a shield spell ready. Let’s move!’
        ‘Why are we taking orders from her?’ Corona scoffs.
        Octavia marches over to the young mare. ‘You know those things that destroyed Ponyville before you were a speck of DNA in your father’s sack? I killed ten of them before I got a better weapon than just my blade. We follow my orders until I say it is safe.’
        ‘Don’t worry, Corona,’ Sunburst assures. ‘Everything is going to be fine.’
        The group forms up as Octavia directed. The assassin takes the lead.
        ‘Do you really think something is going to happen?’ Trixie asks.
        ‘Do you think something won’t happen?’
        The group travels in silence for several minutes.
        Apple Pie looks down at Sunset. ‘Are you really our cousins?’
        ‘Um, not your cousins,’ Sunset replies. ‘We’re related to their mother, not your father.’
        ‘That means anything we do together is perfectly fine, handsome,’ Corona adds.
        ‘Y’all want a busted skull?’ Apple Bloom asks. Corona shakes her head. ‘Then keep yer hooves off mah coltfriend.’
        Corona nods understandingly, trying not to laugh.

        Later in the afternoon, the group arrives at a seaside town. On the ocean, boats use the harbor while airships land on the water. The group waits at an inn near the seafront. Octavia remains on high alert and patrols the lounge while the others rest.
        Trixie talks on her mobile. ‘Right. That is too bad. We’ll be waiting for you. Please hurry. Octavia is paranoid, but I think she is justified for once.’ She hangs up and joins Sunburst and Raindrops at a table. ‘Blueblood got delayed with some of his charity work. He’ll be arriving tomorrow at the soonest.’
        ‘Tell him to pawn it off onto Fancy Pants and or send him instead,’ Octavia grumbles, passing the table. ‘The sooner we are in the air the better.’
        ‘If it were that simple, do you think he wouldn’t have done that already?’ Trixie shakes her head. ‘We just have to wait here for the night. It is not too long.’
        Octavia wanders off. ‘Any time is too long when somepony is out to kill you.’
        At another table, Helios and Alba sit with their cousins. Their older siblings and Razzly sit nearby.
        ‘I still can’t wrap my head around how we could have lost a whole side of our family for a thousand years,’ Helios wonders.
        ‘Not that surprising,’ Alba replies. ‘There was the civil war, the attack from the Nightmares and countless other threats. A thousand years is a long time. Losing a few ponies is understandable.’
        ‘But...’
        ‘Especially if we are trying to stay lost,’ Corona adds. ‘We just lived in our own little corner of the world until five years ago.’
        ‘Why didn’t you ever try reuniting with us?’ Helios asks. ‘I am sure mom would have welcomed you back.’
        Corona rolls her eyes. ‘Right, and have all that royal pomp and attention directed towards us? No thanks. There would have been nuts calling for some “Solar Empire” with us in charge. And could you have seen me as a princess? Ugh. that is the last thing I would want.’
        ‘Royal library,’ Sunset swoons.
        Corona laughs. ‘Okay. There might be some benefits.’
        ‘Must have really sucked travelling a lot,’ Apple Pie comments.
        ‘Pfft,’ Rainbow snorts. ‘You get used to it. You just wussed out early while I stayed with mom until I was old enough to live on my own.’
        ‘Says the mare who was almost fired from her first job, which she got only a year ago.’
        ‘That paycheque was pink because they wanted me to remember our mother!’
        ‘We did travel to a lot of interesting places while we were running,’ Corona replies. ‘A couple years ago, we staying in the Crystal Empire for a few months.’
        Sunset shimmers. ‘That library was so amazing.’
        ‘Did you see Aunt Cadance while you were there?’ Alba asks.
        ‘We weren’t there very long,’ Corona sighs. ‘There weren’t any of the festivals she normally attended. I did see Regent Sombra in the market once.’
        Alba giggles. ‘She’s so nice. She always gives me and Helios crystal candy when we see her.’
        ‘That’s t’ bad ya didn’ see the princess,’ Apple Bloom states. ‘She was so nice when she’d visit Ponyville when Ah was younger. AJ spoke so highly o’ her too.’
        ‘Did you ever live in Fillydelphia?’ Razzly asks.
        Corona shakes her head. ‘I don’t think we ever considered living there.’
        ‘Oh...’ Razzly frowns. ‘It is a nice city though...’
        ‘Maybe once Aunt Luna helps stop whoever is chasing us you can show us around,’ Corona replies.
        Razzly smiles and nods. The younger ponies continue sharing stories while the adults make plans for the night.

        A dark figure sits a desk, tapping a talon on the hardwood surface. A light flashes on the desk, and the figure presses a button.
        ‘This better be good news, or I’ll have you plucked.’
        `We’ve finally caught up to them, but they seem to be with the Elements of Harmony.`
        ‘And that is a problem how? Doesn’t the old saying go: “killing two birds with one stone”?’
        `S-s-si-`
        ‘I think you can handle the operation. Report back when it is done.’
        `But the Elements! They have bodyguards! Not just Trixie!`
        ‘There is a supply ship in the harbor with enough explosives to level the town. Quite easy to write off as a terrorist attack, wouldn’t you say?’
        `I… I understand. We’ll report back when it is done.`
        ‘Very good.’
        The figure presses the button again. It taps its talon once more before pressing the button again.
        ‘Ms Wagecent, prepare to inform the ambassador to the New Lunar Republic that she might be working overtime real soon.’
        The figure cackles as he leans back in his seat.
        `Do you want me to include the evil laughter, too?`
        The figure squawks and slams a fist into the button.

        Trixie gets up from her bed. She checks on Alba and Razzly in a nearby bed. The princess snuggles her friend. Trixie smiles and goes to use the washroom. She returns, drying her hooves. Her horn flashes, and she slams a black-clad, winged figure into a wall.
        ‘Girls! Get your brothers and get out!’ Trixie shouts. She turns to the figure. ‘I have something to take care of.’
        Alba groans as she looks up. ‘What?’
        ‘Alba! Go!’
        The princess squeaks and teleports herself and Razzly away.
        ‘Now, what to do with you?’
        ‘It is too late,’ the assassin replies. ‘We have rigged the building to blow no matter what. Even if you stop that, we have failsafes.’
        There is a snap as Trixie drops the assassin. ‘Damn. Octavia?’
        The pony stands in the doorway. ‘The prince and princess are safe outside. Seeing them flee, the other guests are evacuating as well.’
        ‘And the bomb?’
        ‘I can try disarming it, but you and the other unicorns should surround the building with a shield spell.’
        Trixie takes a deep breath. ‘Better get started.’
        The ponies gallop from the room. Octavia heads down the hall, to the stairs. Trixie heads to a nearby room. She pounds the door.
        ‘Sunburst! Corona! Sunset!’
        There is a crash from just beyond the door.
        ‘Sunburst!’
        Inside the room, another assassin has a firearm aimed at the three ponies. Sunburst stands in front of her daughters, her eyes glowing and mane sparking embers.
        ‘You’re not going anywhere,’ the assassin threatens. ‘Even if I die, I’ll take you with me.’
        ‘You will not harm my daughters,’ Sunburst growls.
        ‘Ha! Unless you get out of here in the next few minutes, this whole place, and possibly the whole block, will be leveled.’
        ‘Few minutes… Trixie! Get out of here! Protect everypony!’
        ‘Mom. What are you going to..?’ Sunset asks.
        ‘I’m sorry, Sunset, Corona...’ Sunburst apologizes. ‘Be strong for me.’
        A bright flash emanates from Sunbursts horn. Outside of the inn, a number of ponies appear on the street. A barrier surrounds the inn.
        ‘Mom! Mom!’ Corona calls.
        Trixie looks around. ‘What’s going on? What happened?’
        ‘I think somepony teleported us all out of the inn,’ Octavia reports. ‘Somepony with a lot of magic.’
        ‘Where’s Helios and Alba?’
        ‘It wasn’t us,’ Helios replies.
        ‘Who’s missing?’
        ‘MOM!’ Corona screams.
        Explosions start filling the inn, with the barrier holding against the blasts. Once the blasts reach an upper floor, the barrier falls and the debris explodes out. The unicorns in the crowd use their magic to shield themselves.
        ‘Get a head count!’ Trixie orders. ‘Now!’
        Octavia, Helios and Apple Pie start polling the ponies. Rainbow and Raindrops fly above, doing their own count.
        Sunset tugs her sister’s leg. ‘Corona, where’s mom? Corona.’
        ‘Those bastards,’ the unicorn seethes, tears streaming down her face. ‘First they take dad, now mom. I’ll never forgive them!’
        Corona’s horn bursts with energy, and the unicorn is surrounded by a shell of light. A blood red creature with bat wings and a flaming mane and tail flies from the shell. It looks over the town. It spots a ship in the harbor turning toward the town and gaining speed.
        ‘You,’ Corona growls. ‘You took my family from me.’
        The changed Corona flies out over the water. She starts charging a spell on her horn.
        ‘I have a message for you and your emperor: don’t mess with Shimmer.’
        Corona aims her horn and prepares to fire.

> Children of Celestia - Part 2
> --------------------------------------------------------------------------

        A powerful aura surrounds Corona’s horn as she aims it at the oncoming ship.
        ‘This is for my mother.’
        Corona fires the magical blast. The massive beam of energy cuts across the harbor, spraying up water as it rips a path to the ship. The beam tears through the ship, setting off the explosives inside and blowing the ship to pieces. Corona pants as her power fades from her. A dozen pegasus and bat pony guards surround the transformed unicorn.
        ‘Um, please surrender and come to land, uh, ma’am,’ a pegasus officer says.
        Corona faints as her power completely fades, and she reverts back to normal. She falls towards the sea. A magenta aura surrounds her.
        ‘Got you!’ Alba calls.
        Corona smiles faintly as she passes out.

        Corona wakes to a loud humming in her skull. She looks around the room and spots a cloud outside of her window. The unicorn moans and falls back into her bed.
        ‘I hate flying.’
        ‘You never like the things I like.’
        Corona turns her head. Sunset is sitting beside her. The younger sister smiles and gives her older sister a hug.
        ‘Where are we?’
        ‘Duke Blueblood’s airship,’ Sunset replies. ‘It arrived not long after you passed out. We fled as quickly as we could before the authorities could get to you.’
        ‘I blew up a ship...’
        ‘A ship apparently filled with explosives,’ a new voice says.
        The sisters turn to see Blueblood standing at the door. Helios and Alba stand behind the duke.
        ‘Early reports show that the ship you destroyed was carrying military-grade explosives in addition to the listed cargo,’ Blueblood explains. ‘Some are saying you averted a potential massacre.’ He averts his gaze. ‘Though most of them are on this ship...’
        Alba pushes into the room and joins her cousins. ‘How are you doing?’
        ‘I lost my mother and lost control of myself,’ Corona replies. ‘How do you think I am doing?’
        ‘If it makes you feel any better, the ponies after you probably won’t be targeting you any more,’ Helios says.
        The three young mares on the bed glare at the prince until he flees in fear for his life.
        Corona frowns. ‘I miss mom...’
        Sunset starts crying. ‘Me too.’
        The sister hug and cry together. Alba and Blueblood leave them to mourn.

        A pair of griffins in suits stand before a desk. Both sweat nervously as they watch the figure on the other side.
        ‘You send your best operatives, and I give you a ship filled with the best explosives in the Empire, and all you have to show for it is a hotel in desperate need of renovations and a crater that completed their harbor deepening project two years ahead of schedule!’ a black griffin with red-tipped feathers shouts from behind his desk.
        ‘W-we did kill one of them,’ one of the suited griffins replies.
        ‘Oh, you killed one. Just great. Too bad it wasn’t the one in all those YouTube videos that was shown ripping a hole in the ocean!’ He turns away. ‘Probably going to have the sea ponies tear me a new cloaca for “disturbing” their habitats.’
        ‘Technically, we don’t have cloaca since that would be in the lion half of our body. Though rectum would apply regardless of eagle or lion half.’
        The black griffin turns back. ‘Which one of you said that?’
        Both of the other griffins point at the other. The black griffin snorts and rolls his eyes.
        ‘If it is any consolation, the prince was spotted in that area recently.’
        The black griffin takes a deep breath. ‘He was?’
        ‘Y-yes. Stopping the destruction of the town likely saved his life, too.’
        The black griffin snorts. ‘He does have a way of weaseling out of things.’ He takes another deep breath. ‘Very well. Prepare for their arrival. The red carpet will be rolled out. We can use it to roll up their bodies before we dump them in the ocean.’
        The other griffins shuffle uncomfortably. ‘Y-yes sir.’
        The griffins bow and take their leave.
        ‘Celestia’s kids, Luna’s kids and now the prince.’ The black griffin rubs his temples. ‘Some days, I don’t know why I killed my way into this job.’

        Corona sits in the mess hall, as far from the windows as possible. Sunset brings her sister a plate of food.
        ‘Not every day that the little sister takes care of the big sister, is it?’ the pegasus giggles.
        ‘Once we’re off this flying death trap, things will go back to normal,’ Corona snorts, levitating a sandwich. She takes a bite, then frowns. ‘Whatever normal is now...’
        ‘Don’t worry, Corona,’ Sunset assures. ‘We have always found a way before.’ She smiles. ‘And we have more family now. We have Alba and Helios. When we get to Canterlot, Aunt Luna will be happy to see us.’
        Corona smiles weakly. ‘You sound just like mom.’
        A door opens. Alba trots in followed by Helios and Razzly.
        ‘Told you they were here,’ Alba declares.
        The new arrivals join their cousins. Razzly looks at Corona and Sunset for a moment then gets up and goes to the kitchen.
        ‘What are you doing here?’ Corona asks.
        ‘What? We can’t try to cheer our cousins up?’ Alba replies.
        ‘Isn’t that the goal of your sister?’ Sunset counters. ‘You know, Laughter.’
        ‘And Kindness and Friendship aren’t good enough for Sunset Shimmer?’ Helios frowns. ‘I’m hurt.’
        Corona laughs. ‘Thanks. You are making me feel better.’
        ‘Here,’ Razzly says as she returns. She sets a bowl strawberries in whipped cream on the table. ‘This is for your fear of flying.’
        ‘W-what are you talking about?’ Corona stammers.
        ‘You are acting like me when I am scared of something,’ Razzly replies. ‘You mentioned not liking flying the other day, so...’
        The older unicorn smiles. ‘Okay. Thank you.’ She levitates a strawberry.
        ‘No! Without your magic!’ The younger unicorn blushes and looks down. ‘You have to try to eat the berry, but not the topping without using your magic...’
        Corona stares at the bowl. ‘This food is becoming problematic.’
        The others laugh as Corona tries eating the fruit. The unicorn growls and splats dollops of whipped cream on everypony’s face.
        ‘I never saw that solution before,’ Razzly laughs.
        Sunset wipes her face clean. ‘You’re so silly, sis. Just like your birthday last year...’
        ‘When mom took us to that ice cream parlor...’
        The sisters moan and stare at the fruit.
        ‘So, uh, well, um, why are you scared of flying?’ Helios blurts out.
        Alba gives her brother an upset look. ‘Be nice.’
        ‘It’s okay,’ Corona replies. She looks up and smiles. ‘Back before we lost dad, we had a tree house at our home. One night, Sunset and I were camping out. There was a big storm that night, so our parents called us back inside. As I was climbing down, the wind got under me and lifted me off the ladder. I broke my leg in the fall...’
        ‘Ouchy...’ Alba comments.
        ‘Just the feeling of freefall scares me. I don’t know how pegasi can stand that feeling.’
        Helios bursts out laughing.
        ‘Don’t tease her!’ Alba scolds. ‘She was really scared.’
        ‘It is not that,’ Helios chortles. ‘I was just remembering the first time you tried flying.’
        The princess glares. ‘You wouldn’t dare...’
        ‘See, Alba had read a book all about flying,’ Helios begins, putting a hoof on his sister. ‘She thought she knew everything about it. She called everyone over to the edge of the palace garden, spread her wings and jumped.’
        Sunset facehoofs. ‘Oh, geez.’
        ‘Mom and dad freaked and dove after her. She was flapping her wings wildly. It was so funny to see. After our parents caught her, they sat her down and explained how she wasn’t ready to fly yet. She kept whining and whining about it, so they eventually had the royal guards teach her.’
        ‘Now, I am the best flyer and that story will never get repeated again if my brother values his continued existence on this planet,’ Alba snaps.
        ‘How old were you when you tried that?’ Sunset asks.
        Alba kicks her seat. ‘Three.’
        ‘You were reading and flying at three!’ the pegasus gapes.
        Corona rolls her eyes. ‘Oh, please. You had memorized Carts and Trains and Things that Go by that age, even if you you were starting on more advanced books. You were a pretty smart foal yourself.’
        ‘Yeah, well, that was only a few years ago.’
        ‘Considering how you were telling mom about the very grownup books you were reading while in the Crystal Empire, you grew up pretty fast.’
        Alba gasps ‘We never asked how old you were! What if it is almost your birthday!’
        Corona shakes her head. ‘Not for a while. I just turned sixteen in April, and Sunset will turn eleven in October.’
        Alba gasps again and hugs Sunset. ‘We’re the same age! Well, I’m older since I was born in March, but close enough! We’re going to have to have a big party for you.’
        ‘I-I’ll even get dad to make a cake,’ Razzly offers. ‘He knows a lot of great recipes...’
        ‘Th-thanks,’ Sunset replies. ‘I haven’t had a real birthday in...’
        Corona hugs her sister. ‘We always had real birthdays. We just get to spend them with more friends and family now.’
        ‘But… Mom...’
        ‘Mom would be happy for us to be able to spend time with everypony. We should focus on that now.’
        ‘You’re right, Corona.’ Sunset looks at the others and smiles. ‘I look forward to whatever you plan.’ She looks at the bowl of strawberries in melted whipped cream. ‘I think we’re going to need more of these...’
        ‘I’ll get some right away!’ Alba offers as she gallops away.

        Razzly trots through the airship. She finds Sunset sitting on the deck, watching the clouds go by. The unicorn approaches the pegasus.
        ‘There you are,’ Razzly greets. ‘We’ve been invited to a fancy dinner with Blueblood and the ambassador. Everypony’s been looking for you.’
        Sunset looks up and wipes away some tears. ‘Sorry. I just needed some time alone. I didn’t mean to make everypony worry.’
        ‘It’s all right. I understand.’
        Sunset frowns. ‘Do you really?’
        Razzly nods. ‘I don’t have a mother either.’
        ‘You don’t?’
        ‘She left us when I was really young. It has always been me and my dad until I met Alba.’
        ‘But you still had a father. I barely remember mine...’
        ‘I’m sorry. I forgot about that. But you have all of us now. I know we’re not real family, but it has felt better than real family knowing Alba and Trixie.’
        Sunset smiles weakly and nods. ‘I’ll just have to get to know you better then.’
        The fillies return to the ship. They navigate their way to a stateroom. Corona and Alba wait outside with the rest of their friends.
        ‘There you are,’ Corona scolds. ‘I was worried sick.’
        ‘Sorry, Corona,’ Sunset apologizes. ‘I just needed to be alone for a bit.’
        The older sister frowns. ‘You could have just told me that. I understand. You didn’t have to hide from me in the Zone of Certain Death.’
        Sunset facehoofs. ‘The deck of an airship is specifically designed to keep passengers on, not let them fall off. If you weren’t so scared of just looking at the airship manuals I found...’
        Corona coughs, interrupting her sister. ‘Anyway! It is best not to keep our host waiting.’
        The others laugh as they enter the stateroom. They sit at the table. Blueblood enters, talking with Ambassador Gilda. Corona bolts up from her seat.
        ‘What is she doing here?’ the young mare accuses.
        ‘Calm down,’ Helios hisses. ‘She is the ambassador, and we are headed to the Empire. She is going to be our guide.’
        ‘I thought we were headed to Canterlot.’
        ‘I will be taking you there immediately after we drop the Elements off,’ Blueblood replies.
        Gilda approaches the upset unicorn. Corona backs up, shielding Sunset and readying a spell.
        ‘Griffins killed our parents,’ Corona growls. ‘I recommend backing off before I feel tempted to get some revenge.’
        Gilda stops and bows to the ponies. ‘I am sorry for your losses,’ she apologizes. ‘The fact that my own kind would wish to harm ponies, especially ones of your lineage, disgusts me no end. I will do everything in my power to find the griffins who ordered the attack on your family and bring them to justice.’
        Corona stares at Gilda for a moment then looks around. ‘Either she is a better actor than Silver Fox, or she is your missing Element of Honesty.’ She bows. ‘I shouldn’t have judged your whole species for the acts of a small subset of them. I am sorry too.’
        ‘Thank you for the compliments,’ the griffin replies. She goes to her seat. ‘And no need to apologize. I would feel the same if I were in your position.’
        Corona nods and retakes her seat.
        Blueblood takes a deep breath. ‘Well, now that we have that out of the way, shall we begin our meal?’

        Late night. In the hold of the airship, Corona uses her magic to easily move crates of supplies around. She does not even stop her training as somepony approaches.
        ‘From what I’ve seen, you can do a lot better than this,’ Trixie comments.
        ‘You shouldn’t have seen that,’ the younger mare replies. She sets down a crate. ‘Our mother taught us that we have massive power inside of us due to our relationship to Celestia. Sadly, I tapped into that the other day.’
        Trixie shakes her head. ‘Every magic user has the means to tap into dark magics. Those just combined with your natural talents, resulting in what you became.’
        ‘That monster...’
        ‘We all have monsters in us. Yours just got loose for a short bit.’
        Corona takes a deep breath and sits down. ‘Have you ever lost control like that?’
        Trixie sighs. ‘Not like that, no. I was pretty distraught when I found out Twilight Sparkle died during her wedding. I wished I had been there to help her. Like I could have done something. I even stopped performing for a while.’
        ‘I find that hard to believe.’
        ‘It is true. I needed a Great and Powerful vacation.’ Trixie smirks. ‘Much like you seem to be doing here.’
        ‘Yeah… Got to distract the mind somehow.’
        The older unicorn nods. ‘While I was rejuvenating myself, I found a wonderful stallion to help me through it.’
        Corona frowns. ‘Like I am going to find somepony to fall in love with if I am hiding in the palace...’
        ‘I don’t know. Maybe you will meet a handsome pegasus guard.’
        Both mares pause for a moment and burst out laughing.
        ‘Yeah, right!’ Corona laughs. ‘Some “kind and friendly” yellow pegasus who just happens to instantly be so into me despite having just met me. Yeah. That doesn’t scream creeper at all. He’d probably arrange certain events just for the “chance” encounters running into me.’
        ‘Not to mention that all the other mares in Canterlot don’t turn his head in times of need, but the smart, cute granddaughter of Celestia just happens to get all his attention for every minor thing that happens to her,’ Trixie adds.
        The unicorns laugh together for a few more moments before calming down.
        ‘Thanks,’ Corona says. ‘I haven’t had a laugh that good in a long time.’
        ‘The Great and Powerful Trixie never fails to entertain.’ Trixie yawns. ‘We still have a while until we arrive. Let’s get some sleep.’
        The unicorns leave the hold.
        ‘Right. My sister is probably worried about me.’
        ‘Or she is cuddling with her cousin and Razzly.’
        Corona smiles. ‘It is great seeing her finally have some friends. We never stopped long enough to get attached to anypony. Hopefully, that will be the normal now.’
        Trixie smiles as well. ‘A lot of things are going to be a new normal, for the better too.’

        Alba and Razzly enter the mess hall. Everypony is gathered around the kitchen. Apple Pie notices the new arrivals and waves them over.
        ‘What is going on?’ Alba asks.
        ‘Corona and Sunset have claimed the kitchen for the Solar Empire,’ Apple replies.
        A peeled orange flies out of the kitchen and hits Apple.
        ‘That wasn’t funny the first time,’ Corona scolds.
        ‘We’re making you a “thank you” meal,’ Sunset chirps, flitting past with a bowl.
        Razzly pushes through the gathered ponies. ‘What are you making?’
        ‘All sorts of things,’ Sunset replies, landing.
        ‘Everything our mother taught us to make,’ Corona adds. ‘Just a small gift for helping us since we won’t be seeing you for a while after you are dropped off.’
        ‘Are you sure you don’t need any help?’ Apple asks. ‘AB and I are pretty good cooks and would love to help you.’
        ‘Don’t worry,’ Corona replies.
        ‘We have everything under control,’ Sunset adds.
        Razzly stares into the kitchen in horror. ‘The cake is on fire.’
        The sisters look. Corona yells and casts a freeze spell. She glares at her sister.
        ‘What?’ Sunset defends. ‘The book said twenty minutes at 175°, I figured it would only take ten at twice that. It is theoretically sound.’
        Corona shakes her head. ‘We’ll have to ask Aunt Luna if we can get more practical lessons for you.’
        ‘Just don’t burn down the castle,’ Alba snickers.
        A pot on the stove bursts into flames.
        ‘Okay. That wasn’t me,’ Sunset states.
        The sisters rush to put out the fires.

        The black griffin paces in his office. A light tan, female griffin holds a note pad and watches the other griffin.
        ‘Snipers on the roofs?’ the black griffin says.
        ‘They are arriving by air. They would spot them.’
        ‘Mining the harbor?’
        ‘There are too many boats out there already, and we would risk killing the ambassador.’
        ‘Poison in the..?’
        ‘Too late. The chefs at the palace are already working on the welcome dinner.’
        ‘Well, is there any way we can kill them?’
        The female griffin checks her pad. ‘Not subtly, no.’
        The black griffin slumps into his chair. ‘Damn. They can live. For now.’ He looks at a nearby clock. ‘Damn. They’re almost here. Guess I better get ready.’

        Corona and Sunset watch the airship landing from their cabin. Corona scowls.
        ‘Don’t worry, Corona,’ Sunset assures. ‘Everything is going to be fine.’
        ‘I don’t trust them,’ the unicorn snorts. ‘I know the griffins are up to something. Somepony in that country was after us, and they didn’t seem to mind killing them either.’
        ‘But, they are the Elements of Harmony. We’re just regular ponies.’
        ‘We’re Children of Celestia, Sunset. No matter how hard we try to be normal, we are still special.’
        Sunset frowns. ‘I wish I were an unicorn too. Then I would know what it feels like to have special powers inside me.’
        ‘Between your genius brain and being able to fly forever, how do you not know what special powers feel like?’
        Sunset giggles. ‘Yeah. I am smarter than you.’
        ‘I wouldn’t go that far.’
        ‘You’d go further? Glad we agree.’
        ‘Why, you...’
        Corona playfully bumps her sister. Sunset bumps her back. They laugh for a moment, but Sunset frowns.
        ‘Corona… I know this sounds bad, but...’
        Corona hugs her sister. ‘I know. We haven’t had this much fun in years as we have had this past day. I wish mom was here to share it too.’
        Sunset returns the hug. ‘Me too. I hope Aunt Luna is nice.’
        ‘If she is anything like our cousins, we’ll feel right at home.’

        Gilda leads the Elements of Harmony down a ramp to a dock. Griffins of all ages watch from every vantage point as the ponies disembark on their first visit to a new country. Razzly hides behind Trixie to escape all the stares. Rainbow yawns and gets nudged by Raindrops to keep her from falling asleep. Apple Pie blushes and pulls his hat down as he waves to the griffins, getting a laugh from Apple Bloom. Helios and Alba follow Gilda up a flight of stairs. At the top, a black griffin with red-tipped feathers wearing a robe and a crown bows to the guests.
        ‘Welcome to the Griffin Empire,’ the emperor greets. ‘I am Emperor Mordred. Your visit honors our humble nation.’
        The prince and princess return the bow. Mordred smiles to cover a sneer as he takes in the ponies before him.

> Inside the Griffin Empire
> --------------------------------------------------------------------------

        The other ponies trot up beside their royals and bow to Mordred as well.
        ‘It is our honor to visit the Empire,’ Helios replies.
        ‘Don’t sound too rehearsed,’ Alba says, rolling her eyes. ‘It is great to meet you, Emperor Mordred. Our mother has told us about you.’
        ‘All good, I hope,’ the griffin replies.
        ‘If there was any bad, she wouldn’t have let us come here.’
        Mordred chuckles. ‘That is good to know.’ The emperor looks at the Elements. ‘Wasn’t there another in your group?’
        Trixie looks back. Octavia is missing. ‘I don’t think so,’ the unicorn replies. ‘You might have seen a crew member who returned to the ship.’
        ‘Hmm. Possibly.’ Mordred motions to a pair of electric carriages. ‘Shall we be off to the capitol?’
        Mordred goes to a carriage and a guard gets the door for him. The ponies tentatively follow. Guards get the doors for the ponies approaching the second carriage. Once all the passengers are on board, the carriages drive away.
        Alba goes to the front of her carriage to see how it works and talk to the driver. Trixie laughs as she comforts Razzly beside her. Mordred watches the ponies silently.
        ‘Impressive vehicle you have here,’ Helios comments.
        ‘Hmm. Whereas you ponies have great technology as well, you are still more reliant on magic,’ Mordred explains. ‘We griffins take pride in our technological prowess.’
        ‘Pretty surprising too,’ Trixie states. ‘You are surrounded by a number of ancient and highly traditional countries.’
        ‘Deerope is a close ally. Our trade agreements help both our nations thrive.’
        ‘Not just them, but the Zebra lands to the south, Thestrals to the North and Sea Ponies all around the oceans. You have a very rich land,’ Helios compliments.
        ‘We’re no Equestria, but we do what we can.’
        ‘It is not just Equestria that makes the NLR great,’ the prince counters. ‘It is all the members of the republic. Each one reinforces the others.’
        Mordred rolls his eyes. ‘Yes. Many interconnected snowflakes.’
        ‘Technically, that is just one giant snowflake,’ Alba says from the front of the carriage.
        The griffin sighs and settles in for the ride.

        From their cabin, Corona and Sunset watch their cousins ride away. Corona maintains a hateful glare on the emperor until he is out of view. The airship’s engines come to life, and the vessel lifts off.
        ‘Next stop: Canterlot!’ Sunset cheers.
        ‘It will be good to be as far away from here as possible,’ Corona snorts.
        ‘Technically, that would be on the opposite side of the world. But good luck finding a good library out there.’
        ‘There is more to life than studying, Sunset Shimmer,’ her big sister states. ‘You have to take time to make friends and have relationships.’
        The younger sister sticks out her tongue. ‘Eww! Relationships!’
        The unicorn laughs at her sister’s reaction. There is a knock on the door. Blueblood looks in.
        ‘Am I interrupting something?’ the duke asks.
        ‘Not at all,’ Corona replies. ‘How can we help you?’
        The stallion levitates a letter to the young mare. ‘This was found with some of the supplies we loaded back at the Republic. I think it has been there since we picked you up. It has your name on it.’
        Corona opens the letter. Her eyes go wide in terror as she reads. ‘We have to turn around! Now!’
        ‘Why? What is wrong?’
        ‘We need to get this message to the others. They are in danger!’
        ‘I’ll see if we can land again, but it will take time to get clearance from the griffins.’
        ‘Time we don’t have.’
        Corona rushes to the window. She squints as she tries to make out the figures below. She spots a white form on the rooftops. She charges as spell and the letter disappears.
        The young unicorn falls back, panting. ‘Hope that gets to them in time.’
        ‘Should we continue trying to land?’ Blueblood asks.
        ‘Miss Octavia should be able to handle it,’ Corona replies. ‘But if the NLR has any ships in the area, tell them to be on alert.’
        ‘What did the letter say?’ Sunset says.
        ‘Let’s just say our cousins are closer to the enemy than they should be.’

        The carriages pull up in front of a large castle. Attendants get the doors for the passengers. The arrivals gather around the vehicles while the red carpet is brought out.
        Rainbow yawns and stretches her wings. ‘Are we in the Empire yet?’
        Apple Pie shakes his head disapprovingly at his sister. Raindrops and Gilda exit their carriage, chatting.
        ‘He sounds like he was a very nice ruler. I wish I could have met him,’ Raindrops comments.
        Gilda nods. ‘It is a shame you cannot.’
        ‘Talking behind my back,’ Mordred says, sneering.
        Gilda frowns and looks away. ‘Raindrops was just asking about your predecessors. I’m sorry.’
        The emperor glares at the ambassador.
        ‘I was wondering about them too,’ Apple Pie says. ‘For such an amazing country with a very rich history, you have surprisingly few monuments and public art projects.’
        ‘They are currently down for renovation,’ Mordred explains. ‘New ones are under production.’
        ‘They’ve been like that for years...’ Gilda mutters.
        ‘What was that, ambassador?’
        ‘Nothing! Sorry, sire.’
        Mordred snorts and turns to his guests. ‘We have made accommodations for you to stay at the castle. Servants will show you to your rooms. Be sure to stay in the eastern wing of the castle, lest you wander too far into the military’s portion.’
        ‘You have a military outpost in your castle?’ Helios asks.
        ‘You can never be too safe protecting national interests.’ The emperor motions towards the castle. ‘If you’ll join me inside...’
        The ponies follow Mordred inside. Trixie looks warily at castle but smiles when she sees a figure in white slip inside.

        Trixie trots through the guest wing of the castle. Rainbow rests before dinner in her room. Alba and Razzly gallop between their rooms. Helios tries catching his sister and her friend before they cause too much trouble. Trixie laughs at the young ponies as she enters her room. She takes in her accommodations and sighs.
        ‘You better be cuddlier than you look,’ the unicorn comments.
        ‘Vinyl never complained,’ Octavia replies, laying on Trixie’s bed, reading a letter.
        ‘I noticed you are keeping yourself unnoticed.’
        ‘We’re in enemy territory. Best not to show all our cards just yet.’
        Trixie rolls her eyes as she sits on the bed. ‘Must you think in such absolutist terms,’ she huffs. ‘What are you reading?’
        Octavia reads. ‘Ms Shimmer. Please get this to the Elements of Harmony. The emperor is NOT your friend. He killed the king. He is the one trying to kill you. He wants to kill the Elements. Please trust me. Signed, the prince.’
        Trixie takes the letter. ‘The prince? Shouldn’t we have met him by now?’
        ‘I didn’t know Mordred had a son.’ Octavia gets out her mobile. ‘Time to check with Lyra.’
        ‘Did you trace for bugs?’
        ‘Dropped them all out the window before any of you got to your rooms.’
        ‘What about signal monitoring devices?’
        ‘Not against a mobile made by the king. The room is safe. Trust me.’
        Trixie shakes her head. ‘I do trust you, but I think we should see if this prince really does exist before we jump to conclusions.’
        Octavia groans and puts away her mobile. ‘Fine. I’ll gather some intel before calling for confirmation.’ She flips her hood up. ‘The chefs better be making something good when I interrogate them.’
        ‘Careful not to grab from the wrong plate.’
        ‘Right. Don’t want to eat from one of yours if I want to live.’
        Trixie growls. Octavia laughs and relaxes.

        The guests are led to a dining hall. Mordred and Gilda greet the ponies as they arrive. A light orange unicorn mare with a curly yellow mane is already seated at the table. She is tapping away at a tablet. The guests take their seats around the table. The emperor bows and takes his seat.
        ‘I hope you are enjoying the castle so far,’ Mordred asks.
        ‘It is very lovely,’ Trixie replies.
        ‘A little cold,’ Helios adds.
        ‘Helios, be nice,’ Alba scolds. She smiles at the emperor. ‘You have a lovely castle.’
        ‘Still a little barren in the art department,’ Apple Pie comments.
        Mordred glares at the earth pony.
        ‘Apple, you be nice too,’ Alba huffs.
        ‘Sorry,’ her older brother apologizes, ‘but I have seen images of griffin art. It is quite wonderful. I would have expected the walls of the castle to be adorned with the best works in the Empire.’
        ‘They have been put in storage for safekeeping,’ Mordred explains. ‘They belong to the public, and thus a proper display should be made for them.’
        Gilda drinks a glass of wine. ‘Yeah. That is coming along smoothly.’
        The emperor growls. He takes a deep breath. ‘Anyway, the maids have told me how nice it is having you visit.’ He laughs and raises his glass in toast toward Alba and Razzly. ‘They quite enjoy hearing youngsters playing in the halls again.’
        Alba smiles and sticks her tongue at Helios.
        ‘Out of curiosity, how long ago was the last time?’ Trixie asks.
        Mordred coughs a bit as he drinks. He takes a long sip of his drink. ‘It was a few years ago. Before the crown prince was sent away for schooling.’
        Helios looks confused. ‘You have a son? I never heard of the Empire having a prince in my lifetime.’
        ‘He has been kept hidden to protect him.’
        ‘After what happened to the last prince, that is no surprise,’ Gilda comments.
        ‘Hold your tongue, ambassador,’ Mordred growls.
        Gilda snorts and looks away.
        ‘What happened to the last prince?’ Helios asks.
        ‘It is not proper dinner conversation,’ the emperor hisses.
        The prince backs away. ‘Sorry.’
        ‘No, no. It is not your fault the subject came up,’ Mordred replies. ‘Such topics always bring out curiosity in others. Now, if we are ready to din...’
        ‘Excuse me,’ Raindrops interrupts. ‘I don’t mean to be rude, but who is your other guest?’
        The strange unicorn cackles as she keeps working at her tablet.
        ‘Her?’ Mordred looks at the unicorn. ‘She is our new head scientist at the research center in the castle. I hope you don’t mind me making her feel welcome while entertaining you.’
        ‘Not at all,’ Trixie responds. She turns to the other unicorn. ‘May I ask your name?’
        ‘You may,’ the strange unicorn laughs.
        ‘What is your name?’ Trixie huffs.
        The strange mare smiles. ‘I’m Dr Morgan. Formerly of Canterlot University. I did some work in Trottingham too and in Manehatten with Skybound.’
        ‘Interesting. I wonder why I never heard of you before.’
        ‘I kept a low profile. I don’t like the spotlight too much.’ Morgan cackles.
        Trixie sighs and sips her drink, using the magic lifting the glass to disguise sending a message on her mobile.

        Octavia sighs as she checks her mobile. She shakes her head and pulls her hood over her head. The mare kicks a door open. She grabs the first griffin she can reach and extends a hidden blade under his throat.
        ‘Okay. Nopony do anything stupid or we’re adding roast chicken to the menu!’
        The other chefs stare at the intruder.
        ‘Are you here to kill the emperor?’ one chef asks.
        ‘We’re finally free!’ another squeals to a cohort.
        Octavia looks at the chefs and releases her captive. ‘You are going to cooperate with me?’
        ‘Well, I might overcook your entree,’ the former captive grumbles, ‘but anything to get this country back to what it once was.’
        The assassin stabs a roll from a passing tray. ‘This might be easier than I thought.’
…
        Octavia sits in the kitchen chatting with the chefs. She snacks on bits of the meals they are preparing.
        ‘How do you know Mordred did what he did?’ the assassin asks.
        The head chef sighs. ‘We don’t really. The police and military investigated, but found no proof of foul play after a couple years.’
        ‘It just seems very convenient that Uther and his sons all died relatively close together,’ another chef adds.
        ‘Sounds to me like Arthur’s death fighting raiders is the truest loss,’ Octavia comments.
        ‘Arthur and raiders. Gawain and Lance fighting pirates. Great ways to cover up an assassination.’
        The pony laughs. ‘Very true.’ She lifts a bowl of soup. ‘What about Mordred’s heir? All of us are just hearing about him.’
        The head chef shakes his head. ‘Barely any of us know about him.’
        ‘Is he really away at school?’
        ‘Ha! That’s his best lie. The prince has been missing for over a year. I don’t think his spies even know where the prince went.’
        Octavia finishes her soup. ‘I’m surprised Mordred isn’t trying for a new heir.’
        The griffins start laughing.
        ‘Good luck with that,’ the head chef replies. ‘He had to hunt for a suitable griffin of noble birth for this last one. Doubt anyone in the Empire would give up their child so readily.’
        ‘Are you saying he’s..?’
        The chef nods. ‘Mordred cannot have children.’
        ‘Hmm. This is getting really interesting.’

        Mordred and his guests enjoy dessert together. The griffin watches the ponies warily. Gilda has left early to attend to personal business. Apple Pie and Apple Bloom chat together about their meal. Alba helps Razzly analyze the treat so Razzly can try making it some time. Morgan keeps working while levitating her dessert. Trixie keeps using her magic to mask her mobile use. She keeps glancing down to check messages. Rainbow lets out a big yawn and lays on the table.
        Raindrops laughs. ‘Looks like I should be getting her back to her room.’
        ‘Agreed,’ Trixie states. ‘We have all had a long day and should be getting some rest.’
        ‘Probably just Rainbow being...’ Raindrops begins. Trixie shakes her head. ‘Being very tired from this long day,’ the pegasus finishes. ‘We should probably be getting some rest if we are going to explore tomorrow.’
        Mordred nods in agreement. ‘That seems like a good idea. Miss Rainbow makes a good case for you as well. We will see you in the morning.’
        The ponies rise, bow and head off together. Once they are all gone, Mordred turns to Morgan.
        ‘Well, what do you think?’ the griffin asks.
        ‘I think we need a bigger test chamber,’ the unicorn replies, levitating the remains of the other desserts before servants can clean up. ‘If the energy output from the last test it anything to go by, then we might be punching holes in the walls if we try scaling up any higher.’
        ‘Thank you for informing me, but I meant about our guests.’
        ‘Get me one of their Elements and I can power one of your cannons forever.’
        ‘And on a personal level?’
        ‘They have personalities? I barely noticed them.’
        ‘Charming as always. Remind me why I keep you around.’
        ‘One, because nopony else is psychotic enough to do what you need done for your military ambitions. And two, because nopony is psychotic enough to do what you need done to your body on a nightly basis.’ Morgan gets up, levitating one last dessert with her. ‘I’m going to take a shower. I expect you to be prone and ready for me when I get to your chambers later.’
        Mordred grabs the pony by the throat. ‘You forget who the master is in this relationship.’
        Morgan smiles and magically breaks his grip. ‘I love it when you get aggressive. Makes me so hot.’ She kisses his beak. ‘See you when I am good and ready.’
        Morgan trots away cackling. Mordred grumbles and finishes his dessert. He shoots an angry glare at the servants who were watching him a moment ago.

        Trixie heads back to her room after putting Razzly to bed. The tired unicorn flops down and groans as she stretches out.
        ‘Get anything good?’ Trixie asks.
        ‘The pasta was a little al dente for my liking, but still enjoyable’ Octavia replies. ‘Oh, and they have a far better selection than the emperor was willing to share with you tonight.’
        ‘I meant about the prince, Morgan, anything else but the food...’
        ‘The warning is worth heeding. According to the staff, they believe Mordred killed the last king and seized the throne for himself.’
        ‘I thought Uther died grieving for his lost sons.’
        ‘I’m going off rumors. You want facts, get Lyra and her spies in here. My organization only works the Empire if there is a threat to the Republic.’
        ‘Okay. Okay,’ Trixie sighs. ‘You can tell me everything you got while we go to sleep.’
        The unicorn uses her magic to turn off the light. She turns it back on a second later. Octavia has her pinned to bed and is licking her cheek.
        ‘What are you doing?’ Trixie demands.
        Octavia smirks. ‘Sorry. It has been a long time since I shared a bed with an unicorn mare. I guess I was just going on instinct.’
        ‘I appreciate the affection, but I do not swing that way.’
        Octavia’s grin grows. ‘That is what Vinyl used to say… for the first few nights.’
        Trixie exhales, levitates the earth pony aside and rolls over. ‘Just share your information with me and if one hoof goes where it doesn’t belong, Raindrops won’t be the only one with a prosthetic leg.’
        Trixie turns off the light again. Octavia laughs, settles in and tells Trixie the intel she gathered.

> Tales from the Griffin Empire
> --------------------------------------------------------------------------

Tale of Two Apples

        Apple Pie and Apple Bloom trot around the outskirts of the griffin capital. After a day seeing all the attractions in the city, the farmers wanted to see where the griffins’ food supply comes from. The earth ponies inspect some of the farms. After a short walk, the come upon the next farm. Out front, a well-dressed griffin with bodyguards is talking with a young couple.
        ‘You’re overdue on your payments,’ the well-dressed griffin says. ‘Right now, the only way to break even would be to sell your land.’
        ‘We just planted last week,’ the male farmer replies. ‘You can’t harvest in a week.’
        ‘You’ve been on this plot for months now. That is plenty of time to have grown something.’
        ‘The land here was crap!’ the female farmer argues. ‘We had to work all this time to make the land workable.’
        ‘That is not my problem.’ The fancy griffin sighs. ‘Listen, you’d make more selling to me than you would working the land. You’d have enough to establish yourself somewhere else.’
        ‘You son of a...’
        The male farmer holds back his wife as the bodyguards shield their employer.
        ‘Listen, I am trying to be civil,’ the well-dressed griffin snorts. ‘I’ll give you some time to consider my offer, but I expect an answer by sundown.’
        The griffin flies away with his guards. The farmer holds back his wife from throwing a rock.
        Apple Bloom nudges her coltfriend. ‘Ya should totally help ‘em with yer powers.’
        ‘I don’t know...’ Apple Pie hems. ‘This doesn’t seem like any of our business...’
        ‘Apple Pie! Ah’m ashamed o’ ya! Yer the Element o’ Loyalty. Ya should be loyal t’ anypony in need, even if the pony is a griffin.’
        The young stallion groans and trots over. ‘So, uh, can I be of any service?’
        The female farmer glares at the pony. ‘Gonna give us a ton of money?’ she demands.
        ‘Sorry about her,’ the other farmer apologizes. ‘We’ve been a little on edge getting our farm off the ground.’
        ‘Then we’re the ponies t’ help ya!’ Apple Bloom states. ‘We run Sweet Apple Acres in Ponyville.’
        ‘Isn’t Ponyville a hole in the ground?’ the female asks.
        Apple Pie blocks Apple Bloom from attacking. ‘We did a lot of work to get our farm back to normal.’
        ‘That is pretty impressive. I’m Patrick. This is Risa. Nice to meet you,’ Pat greets.
        ‘Hi,’ Risa grunts. ‘You gonna give us money?’
        Apple Pie rolls his eyes. ‘My name is Apple Pie. She is Apple Bloom. And...’
        ‘Money?’
        The stallion growls and kicks the ground. A small quake causes a line of disturbed dirt to shoot towards Risa. She flies up in shock, but a flower appears where she was standing.
        Apple Pie smirks. ‘And I can do that.’
        The griffins stare at the flower then look at the stallion. ‘You’re hired!’

        By the late afternoon, Apple Pie and Apple Bloom have helped Patrick and Risa with their farm. The stallion uses his powers to work the field and cause their plants to sprout. The mare gives the farmers cultivation tips and techniques. Shadows pass overhead as the well-dressed griffin returns. He looks at the operation disdainfully.
        ‘Have you considered my offer?’
        Risa glares at the griffin. ‘You can take offer and shove it up your cloaca’
        ‘Technically, you don’t have cloaca since that would be in the lion half of our body,’ Apple Pie corrects. ‘Though rectum would apply regardless of eagle or lion half.’ Everyone gives the stallion a confused or disgusted look. ‘What? That is the scientifically accurate terminology.’
        The well-dressed griffin rolls his eyes and takes a piece of paper from a pocket. ‘Unfortunately, the bank agrees with me. If you are not going to sign to me, I have been authorized to buy your land and your debt. Since you are not selling directly to me, that leaves you with little more than you have now.’
        ‘Why, you dirty bastard!’ Risa yells, leaping the other griffin.
        The guards move to protect their boss. Apple Pie kicks the ground. A soil wall blocks the griffins from fighting.
        ‘If I may intervene?’ the stallion says.
        ‘You already have,’ the fancy griffin grumbles.
        Apple Pie takes a breath. ‘I am going to have to thank my sister for dragging me to the library last night… Anyway! According to griffin law, land claims cannot be completed until after harvest of any sprouted plants.’
        ‘Court rulings have stated that you need more than budded sprouts to remain on the land.’
        ‘Very well, but...’ The stallion slides his forelegs across the ground. All around the edge of the farm, trees shoot out of the ground. ‘As you can see, they have a whole apple orchard to attend too.’ He looks at the trees. ‘Unfortunately for your plans, the trees are a little young, but well within the guidelines, so it might be a few years before their first harvest. Come back then.’
        The well-dressed griffin growls and flares his wings. ‘You haven’t heard the last of me!’
        The griffin and his cohorts fly away. The ponies and farmers cheer.
        ‘Thank you so much,’ Pat says, shaking Apple Pie’s hoof.
        ‘Great job, Mr Pie,’ Risa adds.
        The stallion laughs sheepishly. ‘I’m just a pony, you know.’





Razzly’s Story

        Razzly quietly eats breakfast with Alba and Trixie in the griffin castle. Alba finishes and gets up.
        ‘I’m going to the library,’ the princess says. ‘Wanna come, Razzly?’
        The unicorn nods and starts getting up.
        Trixie frowns. ‘The library again? This is three days in a row.’
        ‘There are a lot of books! I have barely started on the non-pony section back home so this is a great time to see their side of history.’
        ‘That is good, but do you think your friend really wants to spend another day looking at books?’
        ‘It is okay, Tr-’ Razzly begins.
        ‘You’re right, Trixie,’ Alba interrupts. ‘Razzly should do what she wants, not what I want.’ She smiles. ‘Have fun!’
        Alba trots off before Razzly can reply. The unicorn sighs and looks at the remains of her meal.
        Trixie turns to the younger unicorn, smiling. ‘So, what do you want to do today?’

        In the city, Trixie trots alongside Razzly as the filly ponders what to do. They pass by a shopping district. Razzly stops and looks back.
        ‘Miss Trixie, are you pondering what I am pondering?’
        ‘Try to take over the world?’ Trixie sighs. ‘I’ve looked into it. It is a lot harder than you think.’
        ‘No, silly,’ Razzly laughs. ‘Why don’t we make a bunch of desserts for everypony? It would be a great way to thank the emperor for letting us visit.’
        Trixie smiles. ‘I am sure he would appreciate it.’ Her mobile rings. ‘Oh. Give me a moment. I have to take this.’
        ‘I’ll start looking for ingredients.’
        ‘Be safe.’ She levitates her mobile to her ear. ‘Lyra? What’s the good news?’
        Razzly nods and gallops back to the shopping district. She starts looking in the shops for potential ingredients. After checking one shop, she accidentally runs into a griffin.
        Razzly looks away, scared. ‘Sorry. I should have been paying more attention.’
        The griffin stares down at her.
        ‘Well, uh, excuse me!’
        Razzly gallops to the next shop. The griffin motions to some friends, and they start following the pony. After a couple stops, they stop her as she leaves a shop.
        ‘Where are you going in such a hurry?’ the lead griffin asks.
        ‘I, uh, am making a gift for my friends. I need to find ingredients for baking.’
        ‘Oh! Why didn’t you say so? The baking supply shop is right over there.’ He points.
        ‘Thank you,’ Razzly whispers as she tries to slip past.
        ‘Where are you going? Don’t you want our help?’
        ‘N-no th-thanks. I-I-I n-need t-to find...’
        ‘No need to be scared, little filly. We’re very nice griffins.’
        ‘Wh-who d-d-do y-you th-think I-I-I am?’
        The griffin smirks. ‘I think you are one of those special ponies visiting and would fetch a high price for your safety.’
        The griffin reaches for Razzly. Before she can scream, a bolt of magic catches the griffin in the chest. The others look to see Trixie charging another spell on her horn. Razzly scrambles to her protector.
        ‘Anypony else want a piece of this?’ Trixie growls.
        The griffins pick up their leader and fly away.
        Trixie looks down at Razzly, frowning. ‘You should have waited for me.’
        Razzly looks up, tears in her eyes. She grabs Trixie in a hug and sobs. ‘Please don’t be mad at me! I didn’t mean to run so far away! I only wanted to find ingredients to make treats for everypony!’ She looks up again and forces back a sob. ‘Don’t hate me… mommy...’
        Trixie sighs and hugs Razzly. ‘I don’t hate you. Nopony could ever hate you. I am just upset because you really worried me.’ She laughs slightly. ‘You called me “mommy” by accident.’
        ‘I did? I’m sorry...’
        ‘It is okay, dear. It is very sweet that you think of me that way.’ She levitates the filly to her back. ‘Now, let’s get shopping. And if we see anymore scary things, just hug me and I’ll protect you.’
        Razzly smiles and hugs Trixie. ‘You’re better than… You’d make a great mommy, Miss Trixie.’
        Trixie laughs again. ‘You don’t have to keep calling us by a title. We’re your friends.’
        ‘Right. Sorry, Trix-my.’
        Trixie laughs to herself and shakes her head. She trots off with her passenger, ready for some shopping.





A Touch of Kindness

        Helios trots through the griffin capital. The prince feels as though he is being watched, and not just by all the griffins on the street. He hides his uneasiness by window shopping for gifts. The young stallion stops in front of a shop and looks impressed.
        Helios enters a music shop. He looks at all the griffin instruments. The shopkeeper watches his patron. The prince notices an instrument above the counter and approaches, awestruck.
        ‘You like that?’ the shopkeeper asks. ‘It is an antique griffin sitar. It is over two hundred years old.’
        ‘It is very impressive,’ Helios comments. ‘Can I see it?’
        The griffin brings down the instrument. ‘Careful. It is very delicate. It is not designed to be played by pony hooves or magic.’
        Helios examines the sitar. ‘That is okay. My fillyfriend is a musician. I think she would love having a piece like this in her collection.’ He looks up. ‘Is it authentic?’
        The griffin nods. ‘It is truly an antique. I’ve had it checked with independent appraisers who would be willing to certify their assessments.’
        ‘That is good enough for me.’ The prince gets out his mobile. ‘If I give you an address, can you ship it to Canterlot for me?’
        ‘Of course,’ the shopkeeper replies. ‘Let me take it to the back to wrap it.’
        Helios smiles. ‘Take your time.’
        The shopkeeper takes the sitar to the back of the shop.
        ‘Krille will love that.’
        ‘If she doesn’t break it right away,’ Octavia comments, stepping out of a shadow.
        ‘Oh, she is careful. She would take great care before she would even attempt to play it.’ The prince smiles at the assassin. ‘She aims to be a better musician than you.’
        ‘She has competition.’
        Helios gives Octavia a questioning look before turning away. The ponies stand in silence for a moment.
        ‘Anypony else besides you following me?’ Helios asks.
        Octavia pauses for several seconds. ‘No. It is safe out there.’
        The prince rolls his eyes. ‘At least you are proving you are definitely not the Element of Honesty.’
        ‘Of course I am not,’ the shopkeeper says, returning with some paperwork. ‘I am a griffin, not a pony, after all.’
        ‘No, I meant...’ Helios looks around. He is the only one in the shop. ‘Never mind.’
        After completing his purchase, Helios continues his shopping. He spends the next couple hours getting gifts for all his friends and family, including two of every interesting book: one for his sister, one for his cousin Sunset Shimmer. Once his shopping is complete, Helios is ready to relax. He sees a zoo and decides to check it out, wondering what sorts of creatures he will see.
        The exhibits near the entrance feature common animals, local bears and large cats. Some cages have animals from Zebra lands. The first exotic animal Helios sees is a large enclosure filled with parasprites. A group of young griffins make a game of matching similarly-colored parasprites. The prince laughs. An older griffin wearing safari gear and sporting scars on his face and wings comes over.
        ‘Prince Helios,’ the griffin greets. ‘You should have told us you were coming. We would have prepared a special tour.’
        ‘There is no need to treat me special,’ the prince replies. ‘I prefer a more unrehearsed response.’
        The warden laughs. ‘Well, at least allow me to accompany you on the rest of your visit. I can give you the inside scoop.’
        Helios nods and continues his tour. He and the warden come to a large enclosure containing a forest. Glowing red eyes stare out at the visitors. A pair of timberwolves rush the bars, snarling, before turning back and returning to hiding. The griffins gasp in awe and exhilaration at the scare.
        Helios frowns. ‘It is a little dangerous keeping timberwolves in captivity. What if one runs into the bars and enough of its pieces end up outside, allowing it to reconstitute out of the cage?’
        The warden shakes his head. ‘There is no risk of that. The bars are electrified, and we have a force field to catch anything passing either direction.’
        ‘A force field? Really?’
        ‘It may not be magical in nature, but it still gets the job done.’ The griffin moves on. ‘Come. There is more to see.’
        They stop by a case with cockatrices flying about.
        ‘Is it safe caging them like this? What if they lock their gaze on a guest?’ Helios asks.
        ‘Mirrored surface on their side. All they see is a pretty lizard-bird thing on their side.’
        The prince gives the cockatrices one last look before moving on. He stops at a seemingly empty cage.
        ‘Out for repairs?’
        The warden smiles. ‘Actually, this is our prize exhibit. Come see.’
        The griffin nears the cage. There is a loud hiss as a changeling rushes the bars before being repulsed by a force field. The changeling falls back and watches the shocked pony and smug griffin.
        ‘What the hell!’ Helios gapes. ‘You are keeping an intelligent creature captive!’
        ‘Oh, please. Changelings are no more intelligent than the timberwolves we saw.’
        ‘They can speak and have societies!’
        ‘Bees have societies, and parrots can mimic speech. That doesn’t make them intelligent.’
        Helios goes to the cage. ‘That’s horrible. He looks malnourished.’
        ‘That is the safest way to contain it.’ The warden approaches and stares smugly at the changeling. ‘Keep it fed enough so it doesn’t get sick, and never show it any positive emotions. Keeps it alive but without enough energy to change. There is no better way to control these monsters other than extermination.’
        ‘They are not monsters...’ Helios reaches out but is blocked by the force field. ‘I am so sorry.’
        The changeling slowly approaches, sniffs the prince then leaps back, hissing.
        ‘Hmpf,’ the warden snorts. ‘I can see what you are trying to do, but the creature is too primitive to understand. Come. We have much more to see.’
        ‘I think I have seen enough,’ Helios mutters, spreading his wings. He looks into the cage. ‘I will be back.’
        The prince flies away, disgusted.





Rainbow’s Day Out

        Rainbow yawns as she wakes up. She looks out the window at a beautiful day in the Griffin Empire. The pegasus immediately rolls over and falls back to sleep. Raindrops looks into the room. She sees the sleeping young mare and sighs. She trots to the bed and nudges her friend.
        ‘Rainbow. Time to get up.’
        Rainbow grumbles and covers her head with a pillow.
        ‘Rainbow! Get up!’
        The young pegasus groans and sits up. ‘Time for dessert?’
        Raindrops shakes her head. ‘Rainbow, it is morning.’
        Rainbow flops over. ‘Wake me when it is time for dessert.’
        ‘You can have all the dessert you want if you get up.’
        The young mare thinks. ‘My gut says this is a trick, but my gut is also hungry.’
        ‘If you get up and follow me, I’ll show you how to get all the dessert you can eat.’
        Rainbow ponders the offer then slowly pulls herself out of bed.
        ‘Excellent!’ Raindrops cheers. She gets out a brush. ‘First thing you have to do is brush your coat and mane’
        Rainbow moans when she realizes the trick.

        Rainbow putts around on a cloud, having been convinced by Raindrops to get out and see the new country. The older mare follows behind, making sure the younger pegasus actually does something.
        The young mare mopes on her cloud as she flies around looking for something to do. She yawns out of boredom. She stops mid-yawn and her ears twitch. Rainbow flies to the source of the sound and sees a group of young griffins playing a game. They throw a ball around with their wings, talons and tail and trying to score goals in a pair of nets. A stereo blares music for everyone to hear. The pegasus flies down in the middle of the game. The griffins stare at the pony.
        ‘Hi!’ Rainbow greets. ‘Is that the new Synth Tech album?’
        ‘Good ears,’ a light grey griffin replies. ‘How’d you know?’
        ‘Oh, I’m a huge fan. I’d dump my sorta coltfriend to have Synth’s foals.’
        The griffins laughs.
        ‘What’s so funny?’
        ‘Nothing. Just haven’t seen a diehard fan like you.’
        ‘Hmpf!’ Rainbow snorts. ‘I know everything about him. Ask me anything.’
        The griffins huddle for a second. A tan female breaks out.
        ‘Um, what hoof does he use for..?’ she asks, blushing.
        ‘Right,’ the pegasus states.
        The tan griffin turns redder. ‘How do you kn-?’
        ‘Well, when I do that, I use my left since my right side is my dominant side and I use that for browsing and the like,’ Rainbow replies. ‘If you watch carefully, you can tell that Synth’s dominant side is his left, though he is generally ambidextrous. I figure since I am a righty and use my left, then he uses his right since he is a lefty.’
        The griffins stare in shock.
        ‘Though to be fair, my only other data point is from a couple years ago when I was visiting my big brother and his fillyfriend, and I caught him doing that. I didn’t think I would ever sleep again, but I had a big apple pie sandwich and that put me right to sleep.’ She pauses for a moment. ‘That was almost dirty since my brother is named Apple Pie.’ 
        The griffins remain frozen.
        Rainbow thinks. ‘Although, Synth could use his magic since he is a unicorn...’
        The light grey griffin coughs to break the embarrassment. ‘Well, uh, would you like to join our game?’
        ‘I don’t know… I am the Iron Pony after all...’
        The griffins surround Rainbow. Raindrops gets ready to leap from her perch in case things get violent.
        ‘I knew you looked familiar.’ ‘You’re an Iron Pony?’ ‘That is so cool!’ ‘Can I have your autograph?’
        Rainbow laughs humbly. ‘How about I join you, but I’ll go easy so we can all have fun. Okay?’
        The griffins nod and start explaining their game to their guest. Raindrops calms down, laughs and flies off.

        A while later. The game in winding down, but Rainbow is still going. The griffins slowly stop playing.
        Rainbow stops as well and frowns. ‘Sorry. Was I playing too hard?’
        ‘No way,’ the light grey griffin replies. ‘You weren’t. Totally not what we would expect from an Iron Pony.’
        ‘Yeah. I thought you would have pounded us into the ground,’ the tan griffin adds.
        ‘I didn’t want you to not have any fun...’ Rainbow pouts.
        ‘Can you at least show us one cool move?’
        The other griffins voice their agreement.
        Rainbow sighs and looks around. She spots the player with the ball. ‘You take a shot, but I’ll be the one making the goal in the opposite net.’
        The griffin shrugs. He lines up his shot and whips the ball with his tail. Rainbow dashes to intercept the shot, headers the ball up, flies after it and delivers a powerful bicycle kick. The ball shoots into the goal and embeds itself in the ground. The young griffins stare in awe as the pegasus lands.
        ‘So, uh, sorry for ruining the game...’ Rainbow apologizes.
        The griffins surround their new friend cheering.
        ‘That was amazing!’
        ‘Can you show us how to do that!’
        ‘I am so into you right now!’
        Rainbow smiles and laughs, embarrassed. ‘Hey, uh, how about we try this game I know from Cloudsdale? It might be fun for us all.’
        The griffins cheer in agreement. Rainbow spreads her wings and flies into the clouds with the griffins following.

        Near sundown. A couple older griffins are looking for their children. They are wandering in a field, calling their names. Raindrops trots up.
        ‘Little trouble finding the young ones,’ the pegasus jokes.
        ‘You have kids of your own?’ one of the mothers asks.
        ‘Yeah, but I have worse than that to foalsit.’ Raindrops scans the clouds. ‘I think I can help.’ She clears her throat. ‘Rainbow. We have churros.’
        There is a burst from overhead, and a rainbow streak shoots towards the pegasus. Raindrops calmly holds out the sugary treat. Rainbow comes to a halt instantly, staring at the snack. Overhead, the young griffins have to catch their fall as they are knocked from their perches. The parents round up their children.
        ‘Were you a good filly today?’ Raindrops asks.
        ‘Yes, Raindrops,’ Rainbow replies.
        ‘Did you have fun with your new friends?’
        ‘Yes!’
        ‘What do you say?’
        Rainbow flies above her friend. ‘I had a lot of fun today!’ she shouts, waving. ‘I can’t wait until next time!’
        The griffins wave back as they leave. Raindrops tosses the snack in the air. The other pegasus catches it in her mouth.
        Raindrops laughs as she joins her friend in the air. ‘Let’s get back to the castle. I bet you want a nap before dinner.’
        Rainbow smiles and nods, her mouth full of churro. The pegasi fly back to the castle together.





Alba’s Amazing Adventure

        After spending the day researching the Griffin Empire, Alba trots out of the castle library, waving at the librarian. She levitates a couple books with her as she returns to her room. The filly princess smiles and greets all the guards and servants she passes. The griffins respond kindly to the friendly princess. Alba turns a corner, stops and frowns.
        Down the hall, Morgan is barking orders at a group of griffin scientists. The unicorn continually berates them as she reads reports on her tablet.
        ‘Morgan! Hi!’ Alba calls to the other pony.
        The unicorn looks back, rolls her eyes and turns away. She bats her hoof to shoo the princess away as she leaves. Alba narrows her eyes and growls but continues on to her room.
        The princess smiles to herself as she enters her suite, excited to read the books she checked out. Before she can completely cross the threshold, a talon grabs her over her muzzle and pulls her aside. The door is slammed behind her. Alba uses a burst of magic to free herself. She turns to face her attacker, a spell ready on her horn.
        ‘Did you have to be so violent, princess?’ Shaun gripes, shaking the excess magic from his talon.
        ‘Shaun?!’ The magic surrounding Alba’s horn grows. ‘What are you doing here?’
        The griffin smiles and poses gallantly. ‘I am here to rescue you.’ He drops his pose and grabs Alba’s hoof. ‘Seriously, call the others. My partners and I are getting you out of here.’
        ‘What are you talking about?’
        Shaun looks into Alba’s eyes. ‘Alba, your life is in danger. Please come with me to save the Elements of Harmony.’

> Shaun and Alba Save the Elements of Harmony
> --------------------------------------------------------------------------

        Alba stares back at Shaun incredulously. ‘Really?’ She pulls her hoof free. ‘Thank you, but whatever “psychic vision” led you here is unneeded and obviously false. Please leave before I call the security.’
        ‘This is the truth!’ Shaun shouts. ‘Mordred killed the King Uther and his sons, and he is trying to kill you too!’
        ‘I find that kind of hard to believe.’
        Shaun takes Alba’s hoof again. ‘Please, Alba. I am telling you the honest truth. You have to believe me. Your life is in danger.’
        Alba glances away. ‘Shaun… After everything you have done, pretending to have fake powers, I don’t know if I can believe you. I don’t think there is anything you can say or do to convince me.’
        A bright glow surrounds Shaun’s neck. He and Alba back away from each other as the glow materializes into a golden necklace with a jewel feather in the center. Alba stares at the newly-formed Element of Honesty, gaping.
        ‘Well, I didn’t see that coming,’ Shaun comments.
        Alba faints.

        Mordred meets with Morgan in her laboratory. The unicorn has a shoulder-mounted rifle on her back. The weapon uses a backpack power source for an odd-looking laser.
        ‘As you can see, I had a hard time adapting a power supply for these alien weapons,’ Morgan explains. ‘The bulk of the weapon is the power cell and energy converter. Due to the energy requirements, you can only get a dozen shots at low power or a single shot at full power before having to replace the power cell.’
        ‘Seems like a bit of a waste,’ Mordred complains. ‘Especially with all the resources I have given you.’
        ‘Did I mention the lowest setting was enough to kill every of the subjects you provided me in one shot?’
        ‘Every of the subjects?’
        Morgan aims the rifle at the griffin. ‘Care to test it out?’
        ‘’Don’t joke about such things,’ Mordred scoffs. ‘What was this higher setting you mentioned?’
        ‘Should be enough to destroy a house.’ Morgan grins evilly. ‘You should see what the big guns can do.’
        ‘Big guns?’
        ‘Did you think hooking one of these alien toys to a backpack was my first thought? Ha! The first successful prototype was attaching it to an airship reactor. That was the closest thing to getting max energy output from one of these things.’
        Mordred thinks. ‘The question then becomes whether we should start issuing them for personal or airship deployment. I only stole so many before the NLR closed off the Ponyville site to us.’
        ‘Questions for another time.’ Morgen levitates the weapon from her back. She trots over and runs a hoof down Mordred’s cheek. ‘I believe a celebration is in order.’
        ‘Maybe soon.’ Mordred turns away. ‘First, we must deal with the Elements.’
        ‘Give them to me. They’ll make great target practice. Bonus points for hitting the little one.’
        The emperor smiles. ‘That would make a fun game. I’ll think about that for our after-dinner entertainment.’
        Mordred starts to leave, but a magical band catches his hind leg. ‘You will honor our deal once they are eliminated, right?’ Morgan asks.
        ‘Of course. Once I am assured your end is fully delivered, meaning once we have a pile of royal corpses.’
        Morgan releases the emperor, and he leaves. The unicorn growls, and her eyes flash green for a second. ‘I’ll give you a royal corpse to think about...’

        ‘Alba? Alba? Are you okay?’
        The princess moans and opens her eyes. Shaun is staring down at her. His new Element of Honesty gleams in the light.
        ‘Nope. Still a nightmare,’ Alba groans.
        Shaun extends a talon. ‘Nightmare or not, I will get you out of here. I swear as Crown Prince of the Griffin Empire.’
        Alba bats away the talon and stands. ‘Geez. Making up stories again.’
        ‘I think you can believe me.’
        ‘Why in the world would I believe you?’
        Shaun taps his Element.
        ‘Oh yeah. … So you’re a prince and the Element of Honesty?’
        The griffin nods. ‘That looks like the size of it.’
        ‘Oh. Okay.’ Alba faints again.
        Shaun groans and tries waking the princess.

        Razzly works in the kitchen with the cooking staff, making all her treats. Trixie stands to one side watching. Octavia slips into the room and joins her friend.
        ‘You can take the pony from the bakery...’ Octavia comments.
        ‘Let’s just hope her final product is as sweet as her,’ Trixie adds. She pauses a beat. ‘Did you get a call from Lyra as well?’
        ‘It confirmed one of my suspicions. Now, I really want to get into the military side of the castle.’
        ‘Yeah. Because that won’t end in death.’
        Octavia snorts. ‘We have to find out who this “Morgan” is. If she doesn’t exist in any pony records, especially Lyra’s, her very presence is disturbing.’
        ‘Well, given how we aren’t friends with changeling hives and the laws they have against them here...’
        ‘It would be suicide to have a changeling in the castle.’ Octavia rolls her eyes. ‘I’m going to check on the others. Be ready for anything.’
        ‘Aren’t I always?’
        ‘Trixie!’ Razzly calls from across the kitchen.
        The older unicorn crosses the room while Octavia disappears. ‘What is it, Razzly?’
        The filly levitates a heart-shaped tart. ‘Here! I made this one special for you!’
        Trixie smiles and tries a bite. ‘Thank you, dear. It is lovely.’
        Razzly smiles happily and goes back to work.

        Helios, Apple Pie, Apple Bloom and Raindrops sit in a lounge sharing stories about their day.
        Apple Pie laughs. ‘That’s Rainbow for us. Always starting a random game of cloudball.’
        ‘I bet I could take her,’ Helios states.
        ‘Geez,’ his older brother moans. ‘Just ‘cause you have wings it doesn’t mean you can keep up with her.’
        ‘She only won Iron Pony because I quit.’
        ‘That’s a matter of opin-’ Apple Pie’s back legs twitch, causing him to kick the couch from under himself and Apple Bloom. ‘Uh, oh.’
        ‘What was that?’ Raindrops asks.
        ‘It was my Pie Sense,’ the earth pony replies, standing.
        ‘What does that one mean?’ Apple Bloom follows up.
        Before Apple Pie can answer, a door opens and somepony comes in.
        Rainbow yawns. ‘Which one of you is delivering earth-shattering news that caused me kick my bed into pieces?’
        Apple Bloom’s eye twitches. ‘Seriously. Kickin’ legs means earth-shatterin’ news? Glad we still have a home aftet the night ya get yer Element and we confessed to each other.’
        ‘To be fair, I did beat up those timberwolves pretty badly. Doesn’t that count?’
        ‘Then yer concussion could be blamed on yer brother gettin’ his Element too.’
        Apple Pie puts a hoof on Apple Bloom’s shoulder and seriously states, ‘A lot of things can be blamed on my brother.’
        ‘I hate you,’ Helios grumbles.
        Another door opens. The lounge occupants gasp in shock when Shaun enters carrying Alba.
        ‘Okay. Maybe you guys will listen to me,’ the griffin huffs.
        Rainbow reaches out and taps Shaun’s Element. ‘It is real!’
        Apple Pie’s and Rainbow’s tails shake. Helios faints.
        Shaun facetalons. ‘I definitely saw that one coming.’
…
        The ponies listen as Shaun explains himself. Helios and Alba are revived and listen incredulously. The princess glares at the Element of Honesty, as if trying to will it to somepony else.
        Raindrops holds a hoof up, stopping Shaun. ‘Wait. You’re saying Emperor Mordred killed the previous king and his sons when he came to power?’
        Shaun nods. ‘Not to sound insulting, but you are old enough to have heard the news of their deaths.’
        ‘He does have a point,’ Octavia says, entering the room. ‘All the older griffins and guards I have talked with believe the king and princes were murdered as well.’ She glances at Shaun’s Element. ‘Not to mention, that makes a good argument on his behalf.’
        ‘Okay. Fine,’ Alba snorts. ‘Say we believe you. How do we get out without alerting the guards?’
        ‘Same way I got out the first time.’ Shaun crosses the room and presses in a stone into the wall. A door slides open. ‘Secret passageway.’
        ‘Makes sense, but won’t they notice we are gone?’
        ‘Not if you are still here.’
        ‘Huh?’
        Shaun looks into the passage and motions to somepony. A changeling wearing a crystal necklace steps out of the darkness. Helios and Alba charge spells. Octavia goes on guard. Apple Pie shields Apple Bloom.
        Rainbow looks around confused. ‘Are we supposed to be scared?’
        Apple Pie shouts. ‘Sis, I know you’re an idiot, but...’
        The pegasus kicks her brother in the head. ‘You’re the dummy if you think changelings are scary.’ She smiles at the changeling. ‘I met one once when my cloud drifted too far off course. He traded directions home for candy. … Actually, I gave him the candy before asking for directions. He was very nice.’
        The changeling smiles back at the pegasus, showing his fangs.
        Helios drops his spell. ‘Sorry. I was just caught off guard.’
        Alba looks at her brother and nods. ‘I’ll trust you too.’ She turns her attention to Shaun. ‘But you are still on thin ice with me.’
        Octavia rolls her eyes. ‘That’s our Princess of Friendship. Trust the changeling, not the griffin.’
        ‘I trust griffins. I don’t trust Shaun.’
        The griffin prince groans. ‘Good enough for me. Come on.’
        ‘Wait. What about..?’
        ‘Who want’s fresh cookies?’ Razzly asks, entering the room with Trixie.
        The new arrivals notice the crowded room. Razzly takes one look at the changeling and screams at the top of her lungs.
        Trixie magically covers the filly’s mouth. ‘Let me guess: run?’
        The others nod. Shaun motions them into the secret passage. The ponies and griffin file past the changelings exiting the wall. Each are wearing crystal necklaces.
        ‘Get out at the first sign of trouble,’ Shaun advises.
        A changeling takes the griffin’s form. ‘This isn’t our first rodeo.’
        ‘You mean “ro-day-o”.’
        ‘I’ve heard it both ways.’
        Both Shauns laugh. The changeling shifts form to become Helios. The passage is closed. Guards fly into the room. They see Razzly sitting on the floor sobbing with Trixie and Alba comforting her. Rainbow naps on a couch next to Raindrops. Helios and Apple Pie hoof wrestle while Apple Bloom watches.
        ‘Is everything okay in here?’ a guard asks.
        ‘It is okay,’ “Trixie” answers. ‘Razzly saw a large bug and spilled her cookies.’
        The guard sighs. ‘Okay. Sorry for intruding.’ He looks around nervously. ‘Is it okay if I have one?’
        Trixie levitates a cookie to the guard. The griffins leave the ‘ponies’ to their business.

        Shaun leads the ponies through the hidden passages. The griffin explains his plans to Trixie and Octavia. Razzly has calmed down after hearing the situation. Alba grumbles to herself.
        Trixie sighs. ‘This is an unfortunate turn of events. I prefer not fleeing a country in the middle of the night.’
        ‘Technically, it is twilight,’ Shaun points out. ‘So, you’re not fleeing in the middle of the night.’
        ‘True-che.’
        ‘This is bull crap!’ Alba snorts. ‘We have no proof that Emperor Mordred has done anything wrong. For all we know, this is another of Shaun’s tricks.’
        ‘Alba, Shaun has helped us out before,’ Razzly argues. ‘He saved me when I was foalnaped.’
        ‘And he helped you when you got yourself taken hostage,’ Helios adds.
        ‘But, but, he lies about having powers!’ Alba counters.
        ‘Alba, hush,’ Trixie scolds. ‘Shaun, how do you know about these passages?’
        ‘I used them last time I fled the castle.’
        ‘Why did you do that?’
        The griffin takes a deep breath. ‘My parents were low-level royals. When I was young, they disappeared on a business trip to Deerope. Mordred took me in and said he would raise me as if I were his own son.’ He snorts. ‘As you probably know, a little money can uncover any secret. I bribed enough of my tutors to uncover the truth. I found enough soldiers still loyal to King Uther to help me get the right contacts, and I used the old switcheroo to make it out of the castle and to the Republic.’
        ‘Do you still have a list of your old contacts?’ Octavia asks. ‘Our spies could really use the boost.’
        ‘Probably a trick to uncover...’ Alba mumbles.
        Octavia stops and turns back to the filly. ‘Alba, shut it. He’s the Element of Honesty. You’re currently the Element of Irrational Distrust.’
        ‘But!’ The princess forces down her urge to argue. ‘Sorry. … Can I ask a serious question?’
        ‘Go ahead,’ Trixie sighs.
        ‘What about our stuff? Are we just going to leave it here?’
        ‘She does have a point,’ Apple Pie agrees. ‘Assuming the changelings eventually escape themselves, it would be weird if our stuff stayed behind or got stolen.’
        ‘You want to turn back now? In the middle of our escape?’ Helios questions.
        ‘It makes sense,’ Trixie admits. ‘I doubt the Queen would want to wire us money to get home before we explain why we fled the Griffin Empire in the middle of the night with their prince.’
        ‘Again, it is barely dusk,’ Shaun corrects. ‘Anyway,’ he huffs, ‘these passages connect to all the guest rooms. It shouldn’t take too long to go back.’
        ‘I’ll handle it,’ Octavia volunteers. ‘Just tell me where the meeting point is.’
        Shaun thinks. ‘We’ll wait in the marketplace near the docks.’
        ‘A little public, don’t you think?’
        ‘We should be safe. The changelings should buy us enough time.’
        Octavia nods and pulls her hood up. ‘Be safe. And if anything happens to the Elements, I’ll kill you.’
        Shaun salutes. ‘Roger. Five of the six Elements dies, you’ll kill the last one.’
        ‘Don’t get smart with me.’
        ‘Good to have somepony on my side now...’ Alba mumbles.
        Octavia snorts as she forces her way through the group to head back to their rooms. Shaun motions and continues leading them out.

        The Elements dine at a small cafe. Trixie, Shaun and Raindrops watch the other patrons. They see a pair of soldiers walk in front of the cafe, but they do not stop to search. Those on watch breathe a sigh of relief and return to their meals.
        ‘Somethin’s been buggin’ me since we left the castle,’ Apple Bloom states. ‘If ya knew we were in danger, why didn’ ya try savin’ us sooner?’
        ‘The changelings needed time to study your mannerisms in order to better replace you,’ Shaun explains. ‘Any sooner and Mordred would have known something was up.’
        ‘So wait… You studied us for three days, and the conclusion was that I’m a whiny crybaby!?’ Razzly exclaims.
        ‘Shh! It was just how they saw you.’ Shaun looks away while drinking. ‘But if the horseshoe fits...’
        The filly snorts at the griffin before turning away. The soldiers cross back in front of the cafe. They stop and put a talon to the side of their helmet. They stop a passing griffin for questioning. A number of saddlebags are dropped on the group’s tables.
        ‘Time to go,’ Octavia states.
        The ponies retrieve their gear as Octavia clears a path out the back of the cafe.
        ‘Did something happen?’ Trixie asks.
        ‘Nothing too bad,’ Octavia answers. ‘I hope you weren’t close friends with all the changelings.’
        ‘What happened?’ Shaun grunts.

        Mordred wipes blood from his sword before placing it back in its scabbard. Soldiers replace their weapons as well. Morgan calmly eats her dinner despite three changeling corpses on the table. Servants watch in horror at the scene before them.
        ‘Where are they!’ Mordred bellows. ‘Where are those damn ponies! Why are these monsters here!’
        ‘Perhaps the changelings ate them,’ Morgan offers.
        ‘That is not funny!’ The emperor grabs a soldier. ‘Search the palace! Find the ponies and the changelings! I want them brought to me in irons!’
        ‘That might not work,’ the unicorn sighs.
        ‘Then what do you suggest?’
        ‘For starters, the changelings took the form of famous Wonderbolts. I doubt you could catch them if they can even match half of Rainbow Dash’s speed,’ Morgen notes. ‘As for the ponies, what would it say to the international community if they are pulled from a nice dinner on the town and paraded around the kingdom as prisoners? I suggest kindly escorting them back to the castle and dealing with them privately.’
        Mordred think, growling slightly. ‘Well! You heard her!’ he roars at the soldiers. ‘Bring them to me! … Politely!’
        The soldiers salute and fly away with the orders. Mordred roars again and storms away. The servants nervously start cleaning up the dining hall.
        Morgan holds up her dish. ‘May I have seconds?’

        Octavia and Shaun lead the others through the back alleys. Trixie and Alba use illusions to mask their presence. The group reaches a harbor. Soldiers patrol the docks.
        ‘Hope you can swim,’ Shaun jokes.
        ‘Funny,’ Alba huffs. ‘What’s the real plan?’
        ‘Make it to the boat I rented and get far enough out to sea to meet up with my sea pony contact.’
        ‘Sea ponies?!’ the princess happily exclaims.
        ‘Wait. Do we really have to know how to swim?’ Rainbow asks.
        ‘How do we get to the boat?’ Trixie follows up.
        ‘Who’s your contact?’ Alba begs.
        Shaun answers. ‘Not unless you know how already. I have no idea. And, Princess Tempest.’
        ‘Tempest is so fun!’ the princess squeals.
        ‘Do you know her?’ Razzly asks.
        Alba nods. ‘She used to serve as an ambassador to Canterlot. When I wanted singing lessons, she volunteered to teach me. It was so fun!’
        ‘You haven’t been reunited yet,’ Trixie warns. She turns to Octavia. ‘Any plans?’
        ‘Depends on how high a body count you want?’
        ‘Zero, preferably,’ Shaun replies.
        ‘If we can maintain the illusions you have be casting, we could make it,’ Helios says.
        Trixie shakes her head. ‘Not likely, even with this much light.’
        ‘Wait, where’s AP?’ Apple Bloom speaks up.
        ‘Rainbow is missing too,’ Raindrops reports.
        Octavia looks and growls when she sees Apple Pie approaching the soldiers.
        ‘Excuse me. We’re looking for a way out of the empire,’ the young stallion tells the soldiers. ‘Can you help us?’
        The guards level their weapons on Apple Pie. The young stallion stomps the ground causing a quake. The docks around him collapse, leaving him standing on a pillar. The griffins take to the air as they face their target. A rainbow streak darts past, slamming the soldiers in the head. Rainbow lifts her brother back to solid ground. Both Pies’ tails shake right before the soldiers fall into the ocean.
        ‘Got them!’ Rainbow cheers.
        Octavia holds her head. Trixie shakes hers. Their younger siblings and Razzly laugh at their older siblings.
        Shaun rolls his eyes. ‘Wonderful. This way.’
        The griffin leads the others down the dock.
        Raindrops flies alongside Rainbow, taking a moment to smack the younger pegasus in the back of the head. ‘Good job. It shouldn’t be too long before they find us.’
        ‘Don’t blame me. It was idiot’s idea.’
        Apple Pie nods. ‘You heard her. It was her idea.’
        The older mare groans as the siblings start fighting.

        Mordred paces in his throne room. Morgan lounges on the throne. A soldier enters and salutes.
        ‘Just spit it out,’ the emperor hisses.
        ‘R-right. There was a disturbance in the harbor. When a patrol reached the area, they found another patrol in the water and saw a bubbled craft disappear under the water.’
        ‘Damn sea ponies,’ Mordred growls. ‘They are always a thorn in my side.’
        ‘Only because of what we dump in the oceans,’ Morgan states. ‘Bunch of whiners, if you ask me.’
        ‘I didn’t.’
        ‘Um, sire,’ the soldier speaks up.
        ‘What now?’
        ‘Th-ther patrol said they saw a griffin on the escaping boat. A griffin with red-spotted feathers.’
        ‘The prince! He aided those miserable ponies!’ The emperor lets out a roar that shakes the room. ‘I should never have arranged for his adoption! He is the greatest pest this nation has ever seen. I’ll have him strung up with those damn Elements.’
        ‘That sort of fatherly love is exactly why he cares so much for you and your plans,’ Morgan comments.
        ‘And you are being such a big help right now. Take her away and force her to do something useful. I believe the latrines are in need of attention.’
        Before the guard can take a step, Morgen gets up. Her eyes flash green for a second. ‘You don’t want to do that.’
        Mordred holds his head as a headache sets in. ‘No. I don’t. Let her stay.’
        ‘Good. Now, are you thinking what I am thinking?’
        ‘Tell me.’
        ‘The prince aiding the Elements helps us. The Elements “kidnaped” the prince, right?’
        ‘It… It does seem that way,’ Mordred agrees. ‘We can say they did that, no matter the truth.’
        ‘Right. What else?’
        ‘Release a statement: The Elements of Harmony kidnaped the prince and unleashed a horde of changelings within the palace with the express intent of my murder.’
        ‘Maybe not that far. The changelings were no threat to us, but those dastardly Elements...’
        Mordred nods, wincing at his headache. ‘That will give our useless ambassador something to do. We demand the return of our beloved prince. Failure to comply will be considered an act of war.’
        ‘Good.’ Morgan nods and looks at the soldier. ‘You heard him. The Elements kidnaped the prince and wish to start a war. I think a press conference is in order. I think our “ally” should be released from his prison as well. Teach those meddling sea ponies a thing or two as well.’
        ‘Right…’ the emperor moans. ‘Inform the navy of their orders.’ He glares at the soldier. ‘Go!’
        The soldier squawks and flies off. Mordred groans and holds his head. A bit of blood drops from his beak.
        ‘Another headache, dear king?’
        The emperor nods.
        Morgan smiles and a green glow surrounds her horn. ‘Good… Just leave everything to me...’

> Rebirth of Harmony 2: Electric Boogaloo
> --------------------------------------------------------------------------

        A pair of armored sea ponies float outside of an unassuming cave. One yawns out of boredom.
        ‘This sucks,’ the guard moans. ‘Why are we stuck here?’
        ‘We have a very important duty,’ the other guard replies. ‘If we don’t stand guard...’
        ‘Yes, yes, yes. If this guard is wavered for one moment, then an unspeakable evil will be set free.’
        ‘You remember the last time he was free.’
        ‘Of course I do. Saved the world from alien invasion.’ He slumps back and rests his spear on his shoulder. ‘Deserves a freaking medal.’
        ‘That wasn’t him. He was still under guard at the time.’
        ‘Not the crazy time traveler theory...’
        ‘Hey. The land pony king came out about it. It is all true.’
        ‘Whatever.’ The bored guard stretches. ‘They could have at least given us a hour off to see the Elements when they visited. Heard they added a griffin to the group.’
        ‘They were just passing through. No big deal.’
        ‘What? You don’t want an autograph too?’
        Before the guard can answer, a pair of lights appear in the distance. The guards ready their spears. Once the source comes into focus, the guards relax.
        ‘Just a sub,’ the bored guard comments. ‘Pony sub.’
        ‘Old model,’ the other guard notes. ‘What’s it doing out here? It is not time for a changing of the guard.’
        The guards swim over. A pulse of electricity surrounds the sub, arcing to the sea ponies. The vehicle continues forward, leaving the dead bodies behind them. The sub enters the cave, pulsing more electricity as more sea ponies swim out to investigate. The craft surfaces in a large moon pool surrounded by guards. Unicorns ready spells as earth ponies and pegasi aim rifles at the sub. A hatch opens, and an automatic rifle starts firing at the ponies. The unicorns shield their allies as they return fire. Behind the craft, a pair of griffins in black slip out another hatch. They make their way around the firefight and deeper into the cavern.
        ‘Just got to wake the monster who lives here and it will all be over,’ a griffin states.
        ‘All over for who?’
        ‘No, the other one.’
        The griffins round a corner and see their target. A statue of a strange beast sits in the center of a room, surrounded by more New Lunar Republic guards with their weapons ready. The beast has a long scaly body, a horse’s head with deer antlers, a manticore’s paw, a griffin claw and one long tooth. It is sitting in a pose of remorse.
        ‘Just have to cause a little chaos...’
        The griffins draw pistols from under their wings, fly into the room and start firing. In the confusion of the battle, none of the ponies notice Discord breaking free of his stone prison.

        The Elements of Harmony trot down an empty stretch of road. The ponies are tired after their quick escape from the Griffin Empire. On the other hoof, the griffin in the party marches proudly with is Element of Honesty hanging from his neck.
        ‘Don’t be too cocky, Shaun,’ Alba huffs. ‘You have a lot more responsibility now that you are an Element of Harmony.’
        ‘Responsi-what?’
        ‘Now, Shaun, Alba, please start getting along,’ Trixie gently scolds. ‘We took an awful risk leaving the Griffin Empire like we did. We’re lucky that there isn’t a big stir so far.’
        Octavia nods. ‘Hiding with the sea ponies,’ -- she grimaces -- ‘and Lord Gugu’s ear splitting singing, was a good first step. These back roads are a nice touch as well.’
        ‘Well, it is the quickest way to the nearest train line. Though, I want to delay the berating Luna will give us as much as anypony.’
        ‘Mom isn’t that bad,’ Alba retorts.
        ‘That’s because you only get punished by dad,’ Helios counters. ‘He is much more lenient.’
        ‘Says the pony who was never banned from the library for three hours. THREE. HOURS!’
        ‘You just have to be perfect, like me!’ Rainbow cheers. ‘I messed up all the time back in Cloudsdale and never got in trouble.’
        Raindrops facehoofs. ‘You were in trouble all the time. You got fired right before this journey.’
        ‘I got what now?’
        ‘We’re a team now,’ Apple Pie states. ‘We’ll face Aunt Luna as a team.’
        A slow clap is heard from all around the group. The ponies get on guard and look for the source.
        ‘A team. What a quaint notion. We’ll have to do something about that.’
        ‘Who’s there!’ Trixie shouts. ‘Show yourself!’
        There is a flash of light, and Discord appears in front of the group.
        Shaun squawks and hides behind Razzly. ‘Demon! Demon trying to eat my soul!’
        Discord scowls. ‘Annoying bird. I am the Great Discord!’
        ‘Discord?’ Raindrops scratches her head, confused. ‘Isn’t he dead?’
        Rainbow flies over to Discord and pokes him. ‘Nope. Not dead.’
        Alba steps in front of Razzly and Shaun, levitating her crown to her head. ‘He should be trapped in stone at the bottom of the sea.’
        Rainbow bonks Discord on the head. ‘Nope. Not stone.’ She pauses. ‘Wait!’ She sniffs Discord. ‘Not stoned either.’
        Discord bats the pegasus away. ‘Will you knock that off?’
        A purple, star-shaped bolt of magic shoots past Discord. ‘What do you want, Discord?’
        ‘I want you to reseal me. I’ve been a very bad boy and need to be punished,’ The Lord of Chaos replies.
        ‘Oh.’ The princess is surprised for a moment then starts charging her magic again. ‘That can be arranged.’
        Helios fastens his Element tightly around his neck. ‘How did you get free anyway?’
        ‘A kind birdy, or several, did it. They completely destroyed the cave and everypony in it. You’re going to have to find a new place to put me. Might I suggest asking your father to take me to the nearest black hole? I know I would agree to that.’
        ‘You might, but dad is not like that,’ Apple Pie snorts, his Element shining.
        ‘I AM your father.’
        ‘Our father is a kind pony,’ Rainbow retorts, her Element catching the sun. ‘And our mom is a fun pony. And their mom is a very serious pony. And I don’t know about Razzly’s mom, but her dad is a great baker. That is all I need to know’ -- her stomach growls -- ‘except for when the next batch of whatever he is making is coming because I am starved.’
        ‘A bird...’ Shauns glares at Discord. ‘Why would a griffin free you?’
        ‘Probably because he knows I won’t let you seal me that easily,’ Discord answers.
        ‘You were just surrendering,’ Alba states.
        ‘Oh, you are a smart one, Alba dear. You know that is not how things are done.’ Discord snaps his talons. Trixie, Raindrops, Octavia (who was leaping at Discord from behind with her blades drawn) and Apple Bloom disappear. ‘First, I remove outside interference.’ He snaps his talons again. Day turns to night. ‘Then, I set the battlefield to my wishes.’ He snaps his talons. The Elements disappear, leaving only Discord and Alba. ‘Last, I set the rules. And if you break the rules… Well, the Daleks and Celestia know what happens when I get upset.’
        Alba snarls up at Discord. ‘I am not scared of you.’
        ‘Good. Because I am not the one you should be afraid of. You have somepony else you should be fighting instead.’
        ‘Are you saying the griffins are a bigger threat than you?’
        Discord laughs. ‘Them? They are nothing.’ He tweeks Alba’s horn. ‘Your youngest brother could wipe them off the map, and he has the weakest magic of all your father’s children, including the musician.’
        ‘Musician? What are you trying to pull?’
        Discord lifts Alba up by the back of her neck. ‘I’d say your leg, but I have you by the neck right now.’
        ‘If you are going to kill me, do it already. If what I heard when spying on my dad is right, I’ll regenerate and then you’ll pay.’
        ‘Not much of an Element of Friendship you are.’ Discord takes Alba’s crown. ‘The last pony to properly wield this toy was much better at it. … And much more beautiful...’ He growls and drops both pony and crown. ‘Why do you have to look like her! Damn it! Your dad knew this would happen! I always know! I always cheat!’ He roars. He turns away and seethes for a moment before calmly turning back and running his paw through his hair. ‘Anyway. As I was saying, you have a bigger enemy than me.’
        Alba replaces her crown. ‘Can we get on with it? I’m getting bored.’ She fakes a yawn.
        ‘Don’t worry. To beat me,’ -- he snaps his talons. A flash surrounds Alba. When it dies, she is laying on a comfy chair and facing the stars -- ‘all you have to do is sit there. When you see it, you will be let go.’
        ‘See what?’
        ‘You’re smarter than me. Smarter than your parents. You’ll see it. You’ll know what it means. You’ll know that they have been lying to you your whole life and that my darling Rei-chan was the lucky one of you for escaping what you will going through.’
        The princess looks away. ‘What are you..?’
        ‘Watch the bucking skies or I will snap your neck right now!’ Discord roars.
        Alba rolls her eyes and settles in. ‘Fine. Whatever. Can I at least get a drink if I am going to be here a while?’
        ‘One of your friends should be around soon enough. You can order them around, not me, princess.’
        Discord teleports away. Alba sighs and starts making up a game to keep her mind occupied.

        Shaun appears on the edge of a cliff. He looks around and sighs. ‘You know I have wings, right?’
        Discord sits on Shaun’s back. ‘I know, you know, you’re not telling the truth.’
        ‘What?’
        The passenger hops off the griffin. ‘I know, you know, you don’t have any proof.’
        ‘Riddles were never my strong suit.’
        ‘Your “psychic powers”. I’m calling you out. Or did you not sense that?’
        ‘Please. My pitiful griffin mind versus your powerful intellect? I’d be better off trying to read a rock.’
        Discord leans in close. ‘I was a statue for over a thousand years. I was a rock.’
        ‘And now you’re not!’ Shaun backs away slowly. ‘See how things work out in the end? Now, if you’ll only let me free...’
        Discord scowls. ‘You have to pass my test first.’
        ‘Well, I don’t really have proper testing materials. Pens, paper, scantron... protractor...’
        ‘This test is much simpler. All you have to do is admit you don’t have psychic powers.’
        ‘But, I am psychic.’
        ‘Admit you don’t have powers, and I’ll let you live to see your friends again.’
        Shaun frowns and thinks. A crafty grin crosses his beak. ‘You’re right. I don’t have powers. I only have telepathy. That is a power, not multiple powers.’
        Discord laughs. ‘Very tricky of you. I like that.’
        ‘Well, I am psychic.’
        Discord snaps his talons. A pair of doors appear. ‘Prove it.’
        ‘Huh?’
        Discord circles around the doors. ‘One contains a path to your friends. The other has a fire-breathing cross between a crab and an hydra. Choose wisely.’
        Discord disappears in a puff of smoke. Shaun stares at the doors and ponders his next move.

        Apple Pie appears in the middle of a barn. He immediately starts taking in his surroundings.
        ‘Jus’ like home, ain’t it,’ Discord says, appearing dressed as a farmer.
        ‘Let me guess, you want me to plow your fields?’
        ‘Close.’ Discord snaps his talons. The barn is filled with attractive mares. ‘I want you to plow their fields.’
        Apple Pie backs into a mare as another one shoves her plot in his face. ‘Excuse me?’
        ‘You heard me, Element of Loyalty. All you have to is spill a little seed, and you’ll be back with your darling Apple Bloom.’
        ‘You want me to cheat on Apple Bloom?’ He pushes a mare away. ‘Will you point that somewhere else!’
        ‘That is one way of looking at it. Ta!’
        Discord teleports away, leaving Apple Pie to resist temptation.

        ‘Now, Razzly my dear, your challenge is to...’
        Razzly lets out a loud sob.
        Discord covers his ears. ‘Razzly, this is serious. Please calm...’
        ‘I want Alba!’
        ‘If you listen to me, I’ll...’
        ‘Give her back!’ the filly wails. ‘I want Alba back!’
        ‘Just take part in my games and...’
        Razzly starts hitting Discord in the leg. ‘Where is Alba! What are you doing to her, you big meanie!’
        ‘I am trying to tell...’
        ‘Alba! Give back Alba!’
        Discord lifts Razzly by the back of her neck. ‘Shut up! What will it take to shut you up!’
        The small unicorn starts kicking her captor in the face as she flails. ‘Take me to Alba! I want to see Alba!’
        ‘Fine! If it will shut you up!’ Discord snaps his talons, teleporting them to where he left Alba. He drops Razzly. ‘There! Are you happy!’
        Razzly wipes her tears and edges towards her friend. She nods meekly.
        ‘Good,’ Discord huffs. ‘Now, as I was saying, the goal of this game is for you to make it back to your friends.’
        ‘Done!’ the filly cheers.
        ‘What? How can you be done? I haven’t even started the game yet.’ Discord looks over. Alba leans over from her watch to barely nuzzle Razzly. ‘Oh, you dirty cheater...’
        Razzly smirks. ‘Just who the hell do you think I am? I may be weak and fearful, but Trixie, Octavia and Alba have made me stronger.’
        Discord smiles proudly. ‘That you are. Keep your friend company.’ He looks up at the stars. ‘She’s going to need it.’

        Helios wanders in a field. He has not seen anypony since Discord sent him there. He sighs and looks around. His ears twitch when he hears a sound in the distance. He follows the noise and finds Discord sitting with his back to him. The creature appears to be crying.
        ‘Are you okay?’ Helios asks.
        ‘Kindness… You’re Kindness.’
        ‘That’s right...’
        ‘Why? Why Kindness?’
        ‘I don’t...’
        ‘She wasn’t doing anything aggressive. She was trying to live up to her nature, and they killed her. They murdered her!’
        ‘Are you talking about..?’
        ‘Fluttershy! They brutally murdered Fluttershy when all she was doing was trying to save her animals! I should have wiped them out for that alone! She was the kindest, sweetest, gentlest...’ Discord holds his head and sobs. ‘I still loved her… Twilight knew. Me and Shy… It sickens me to think about what they did to her... To our little Relm in the works...’
        ‘Discord… I’m sorry...’
        Discord straightens up and composes himself. He turns to the prince. ‘Since you are the new Kindness, I have a test worthy of Fluttershy herself.’ He holds out his paw. A small white rabbit appears. ‘All you have to do is catch and bop this bunny.’
        ‘That it?’
        ‘It won’t be easy.’ Discord sets the bunny down. ‘Go easy on him, okay?’
        Helios rolls his eyes. ‘Duh. It is just a rabbit.’
        Discord stands up and smirks. ‘I was talking to Angel.’
        Discord teleports away. Helios looks down at Angel. The bunny sticks his tongue out at the prince, makes a rude gesture and runs off.
        ‘Well, I don’t know what I was expecting...’

        Apple Pie stands as still as he can and forces his eyes shut. He shudders as all the mares surrounding him bump and grind against him. Pegasi mares circle his head.
        ‘Just got to resist...’ the stallion mutters. He jumps slightly. ‘Don’t touch that!’
        ‘Sorry, sexy. It is just so...’
        ‘Shut it!’
        Apple Pie opens his eyes and looks around for an escape. Everywhere he looks he sees mares trying to entice him. He stomps the ground slightly in frustration. A rattle catches his ears. He looks again and sees a bucket on a shelf. ‘Apple Seeds’ is written on it in big letters.
        ‘Oh, that is just nasty.’
        ‘Thank you, sexy.’
        Apple Pie grunts and focuses. He sends a pulse of energy into the ground. The shaking causes the shelf to collapse, spilling the seeds across the ground. The barn and mares instantly disappear in a puff of smoke.
        ‘That was a dirty play.’
        ‘AP?’
        The stallion turns. Apple Bloom is staring at him, a blush on her cheeks.
        ‘Apple Bloom?’
        ‘Ah know yer glad t’ see me, but jus’ not that glad.’
        Apple Pie looks down. He blushes and tries covering himself. ‘Sorry! It was part of Discord’s plot. He wanted me to cheat on you.’
        ‘Did ya?’
        ‘No! Never! You’re the only one for me!’
        ‘Good, ‘cause if that is how ya are after, Ah love t’ see ya befer...’ She realizes what she said instantly blushes brighter. ‘Ah mean!’
        ‘N-n-no. It is okay. I’ll try getting rid of it.’
        ‘Ah can help...’
        ‘AB?’
        Apple Bloom’s embarrassment reaches maximum. ‘Well, uh, Ah know this ain’t the time, but Ah have been meanin’ t’... Ya know… Ah’ve wanted t’ fool ‘round with ya fer a while now...’
        ‘App-’
        Apple Pie is cut off as Apple Bloom kisses him. ‘So, uh, want mah help?
        ‘Apple Bloom, I love you. Of cour-’ A thought strikes. ‘Wait. What if this is another trick?’
        ‘What?’
        ‘Discord. What if he is tricking me again? Are you the real you? How can I know for sure?’
        Apple Bloom slaps her coltfriend. ‘Ya idiot! O’ course Ah’m me!’ She kisses him again. ‘Now, are we gonna buck until ya beg fer mercy or am Ah gonna have t’ beat it out o’ ya?’
        ‘Meep.’

        Rainbow Pie sleeps on a cloud.
        Discord stares down at her. ‘Wake up, Rainbow.’
        The young mare grumbles and bats a hoof.
        ‘Rainbow! It is time for you to face my test.’
        ‘Noo~!’ she moans as she rolls to her back, letting her tail fall off the side of the cloud.
        Discord recoils in horror and covers his eyes. ‘I am virtually your father! I do not want to see your mare bits on display!’
        Rainbow groans and rolls to her side, covering herself.
        ‘Better,’ Discord huffs. ‘Now… Wake up!’
        The pegasus growls as she sits up. ‘Is it time for churros?’
        ‘No, it is not time for churros.’ Discord turns away. ‘It is time for you to be tested. I will be putting you through all your paces. You will begging for mercy when I’m d-’ He turns back to find Rainbow eating. ‘What are you eating?’
        Rainbow takes a bite. ‘Churro.’ She holds out a hoof. ‘Want one?’
        ‘Sure...’
        ‘Here you… Wait. You’re a big meanie.’ She takes a bite, chews and spits it out. ‘That’s all you get. Meanie.’
        ‘And you just rushed off to get those now?’
        Rainbow nods. ‘The best bakery in the area is all the way in the Crystal Empire, but I’ll settle for getting them fresh if it is closer.’
        Discord snorts. He snaps his talons. A recreation of the Iron Pony Eliminator appears behind him, with some minor changes: a rope swing over a pit of lava, an electrified cargo net, a zip-line through fire, a small maze filled with basilisks, razor wire hurdles of varying height, razor-sharp pendulums over a balance beam, and a sandpaper ramp with reverse-running treadmills. There is even a bear in a ring at the finish line, waiting for a wrestling opponent. Discord nods at handiwork. ‘As you can see, this will be no easy feat.’
        Rainbow snores as she sleeps on her cloud.
        ‘Rainbow, wake up!’ Discord screams.
        ‘More churros?’ the pegasus yawns.
        ‘Oh, you think you’re so funny. Well, then. New test.’ He snaps his talons. The obstacle course is replaced by a comedy club filled will copies of Discord. ‘Make me laugh.’
        Rainbow looks around and steps up to the mic. ‘A horse walks into a bar and says “ouch”.’
        A cough is heard in the audience.
        ‘Did you hear the one about my father and the egg beater? … Because I haven’t.’
        Shuffling is heard as some of the Discords leave.
        ‘What’s the deal with airline food? And do any of you have any? I’m pretty hungry.’
        Discord grumbles and gets up. ‘You’re on thin ice.’
        ‘No, I’m on a stage in front of some ponies who have no taste in stand-up comedy.’
        ‘You have one last chance, or I’m going to bring the bear back for dinner.’
        Rainbow thinks. ‘Knock, knock.’
        Discord rolls his eyes. ‘Who’s there?’
        ‘Doctor.’
        ‘Doctor who?’
        ‘Exactly.’
        Discord glares at the pony. He gives a slight chuckle. Slowly the chuckle turns into roaring laughter. He pats Rainbow on the back. ‘That’s a good one. I’m going to have to remember it if I ever see Theta again.’
        ‘Churro?’ the pegasus offers, eating.
        ‘When did you get those?’
        ‘Just now. I told you I was hungry.’
        Discord shakes his head. ‘You’re going to need that spirit if you are going to help your friends with what you have ahead of you.’ He snaps his talons, sending Rainbow to the rest of the group.

        Shaun stares at the doors before him. He sweats as his ponder his situation. He raises his talons to his temples and focuses. He tilts his head when he notices something. There is a tiny 1 carved into one of the doors. He goes to the door and opens it. His friends stand on the other side. He hears a small roar. A crab-sized hydra charges from beside the other door. The griffin tosses the monster through his door and joins his friends. The doors disappear once they are closed.
        Razzly looks up. ‘Where’d you come from?’
        ‘Blame his parents for that one,’ Alba replies.
        ‘Oh, I was just out for a stroll and was attacked by a chaos demon,’ Shaun says. ‘He’s about yea big’ -- he motions with his talons -- ‘looks like a jigsaw of creatures. Have you seen anypony matching that description?’
        ‘Thankfully, not recently.’ The unicorn goes to an oven. ‘Want some cake? Discord was kind enough to furnish wherever this is.’
        ‘That would be great. Thanks.’
        Shaun passes Rainbow sleeping on a cloud as he joins Razzly. Helios sits next to his sister, staring at the stars.
        ‘Any idea what we’re looking for?’ the prince asks.
        ‘Not a clue,’ Alba replies. ‘I’m supposed to know it when I see it. Not much of a clue to work on.’
        There is a flash. Apple Pie and Apple Bloom appear. The stallion is cradling the mare in his forelegs and nibbles her ear. Helios looks over. He instantly turns away, trying not to vomit. Razzly covers Shaun’s eyes and blushes. Rainbow yawns and looks up.
        ‘Mazel tov,’ the pegasus congratulates. ‘Am I going to be an aunt now?’
        The couple realize they are being watched.
        ‘This isn’t what it looks like!’ Apple Pie defends.
        ‘Looks like my big brother was doing the nasty,’ Rainbow comments, settling back into her cloud.
        Helios holds his forehead. ‘That image is going to be seared into my brain forever.’
        ‘Remind me to thank Discord for this task,’ Alba says. ‘I don’t think I ever want to see my big brother having sex with Apple Bloom.’
        Embarrassed, the couple try making themselves as small as they can.

        Hours later. Alba is still staring at the stars. Trixie, Raindrops and Octavia have been returned to the group. Everypony mills about as they wait for Alba to see what she is suppose to see. The young princess yawns and stretches. She blinks as she looks back at the stars. She blinks again then jumps up, pointing.
        ‘There!’ Alba shouts. ‘Right there! Did you see it!’
        ‘See what?’ Helios asks.
        ‘That star! It just went out!’
        ‘So?’
        ‘Stars just don’t go out! They don’t!’
        ‘Couldn’t it have gone nova or something?’
        Alba gapes. ‘Are you really that stupid? Novas are huge explosions. The whole sky would be lit up! This just vanished.’
        ‘I have never heard of stars just disappearing,’ Trixie says. ‘Are you s-?’
        ‘I’m certain of it!’
        Clapping is heard. ‘Very good. I knew you would see it,’ Discord compliments.
        ‘What does it mean!’
        ‘You know what it means. That is why you are so angry.’
        ‘I’m not angry! I’m...’
        ‘You sound angry,’ her brother interrupts.
        Alba growls at Helios. She snorts and looks away. ‘This can’t be true. This is all a trick.’
        ‘This is Discord we are talking about,’ Octavia agrees, glaring at the creature.
        Alba shakes her head. ‘No… Mom would have told us… Dad would...’
        ‘Do you really think so?’ Discord asks.
        ‘If you think your parents know something, we should see them as soon as possible,’ Trixie suggests.
        ‘No...’ Alba thinks. ‘We have to go to the Crystal Empire. The library there has the largest collection of astronomical records, stretching back to before mom and Celestia first fought Discord. We will find out the truth before we face them.’
        ‘Very good.’ Discord smiles. ‘My little girl is growing up.’ He drops to the ground. He stands with his forelimbs out stretched. ‘Now, I am ready for my punishment.’
        The Elements form up behind Alba. Their jewels glow with magical energies.
        ‘What are you doing?’ Alba asks.
        ‘We’re ready to seal him again,’ Helios says.
        ‘And I am ready for whatever you dish out,’ Discord adds.
        Alba looks from her friends to Discord. She takes a deep breath and looks down. ‘Get out of here.’
        ‘WHAT!’ everypony, griffin and Discord shouts.
        ‘As princess of the New Lunar Republic, I am hereby pardoning Discord of his crimes,’ Alba states plainly. She scowls at Discord. ‘You better not take this lightly.’
        ‘Are you insane!’ Helios shouts.
        ‘I agree with your brother,’ Discord concurs.
        ‘Helios…’ Alba sighs, ‘you are the Element of Kindness. You should know a little compassion and friendship can turn even a threat like Discord into a close ally.’ She takes a deep breath. ‘If I can get along with Shaun, I can get along with anypony, including Discord.’
        ‘Does that mean we’re friends now?’ Shaun asks.
        ‘Not on your life.’
        ‘I… don’t know what to say,’ Discord gapes.
        ‘I’d run if I were you,’ Octavia threatens. ‘You are getting a special reprieve from the princess. Don’t squander it.’
        Discord looks around, stunned. He nods. ‘Thanks, Alba.’ He smiles. ‘You gave me more than just my freedom. You’ve given me hope. I am certain you will solve this problem.’
        Alba frowns and looks away. ‘Please, just leave, before I regret my decision.’
        ‘You won’t see me again until the end of it all. You have my word.’
        Discord snaps his talons and disappears. The group is returned to where they first encountered Discord.
        ‘I hope you know what you are doing,’ Octavia snorts, trotting away.
        The others follow Octavia, leaving Alba to think. Razzly waits with her friend. A small white rabbit with a bandage on his head chases after Helios.
        ‘Your mother is going to be furious with you,’ Trixie comments.
        Alba looks up, angry. ‘The anger isn’t completely one-sided in this case,’ she states, marching away.

> Razzly's Mother
> --------------------------------------------------------------------------

        The Elements exit a train at the Crystal Empire station. Alba wastes no time heading out of the station, headed straight for the palace. Trixie catches the filly with her magic.
        ‘Alba, calm down. We just got here,’ the unicorn scolds.
        ‘But I have to see Aunt Cadance right away!’ the princess whines. ‘The sooner I can see her, the sooner everything can be sorted out.’
        ‘What about seeing the town with your friends first? This isn’t all about you.’
        Alba sits and crosses her forelegs. ‘Fine,’ she huffs.
        Trixie sighs and releases her spell. Alba instantly teleports away. The older pony facehoofs. ‘I really should have seen that coming.’
        ‘I’ll catch her and make sure she doesn’t cause any trouble,’ Helios says, before teleporting away.
        Octavia pats Trixie on the back. ‘Just have fun and meet us at the palace when you’re ready.’
        The earth pony pulls her hood up and gallops after the royals. Trixie sighs again and turns to the group.
        ‘I was hoping that we could take some time to see the city together,’ the unicorn states, ‘but if you want to split up too, I guess it is fine.’
        Raindrops pushes a cloud with Rainbow sleeping on it. ‘Thanks. I think I’ll join the others at the palace too. Hopefully, she’ll be up in time for dinner.’
        ‘We won’t be out too late,’ Apple Pie adds as he and Apple Bloom leave together.
        ‘Looks like it is just us,’ Trixie says to Razzly and Shaun.
        ‘I haven’t been to the Crystal Empire in a while,’ Shaun replies. ‘I’m looking forward to seeing it.’
        ‘How about you, Razzly?’
        The filly frowns and kicks the ground a bit. ‘Sure… I guess…’
        ‘What is wrong?’ the older unicorn asks.
        ‘It is just…’ She shakes her head. ‘Daddy used to know a really mean pony from the Crystal Empire. I’m worried she might be here.’
        Trixie smiles. ‘Don’t worry. It is a large city. It is unlikely that we will run into her. And if you do see her, you have me to protect you.’
        Razzly smiles too. ‘I can always trust you, Trixie. Thanks.’
        ‘And if all else fails, I will use my mighty psychic powers on them!’ Shaun assures.
        The ponies laugh as they trot off together.
        ‘You can at least pretend that was cool!’ Shaun complains, following.

        Trixie leads Shaun and Razzly though the marketplace. The filly has calmed down and she is no longer hiding under Trixie. Shaun is snapping photos of everything he sees. Trixie tells the others about the stores and products they are seeing. She carries a small bag of crystal fruits for Razzly to bake with later.
        Razzly marvels, seeing the Crystal Empire for the first time. Crystal buildings shimmer. Crystal ponies sparkle in every color of a crystal rainbow as they sell their wares. There are occasional flashes from sky-blue crystal pegasi as they fly overhead on patrol. The filly feels like she is in crystal heaven, until she sees a pony step out of a restaurant down the street.
        Razzly frowns, looks away and backs up a step. ‘Can we not go this way?’
        Shaun looks back. ‘What was that? Eagle eyes are great, but eagle ears… Do we even have ears?’
        ‘Are you okay, Razzly?’ Trixie asks.
        ‘I… I just want to go somewhere else, okay?’
        ‘Okay. No need to get upset.’ She puts a hoof on Razzly’s back. ‘We’re here for you.’
        Razzly smiles and opens her mouth to respond.
        ‘Razzleberry?!’
        The filly scowls and looks down.
        A green unicorn mare with a crystal green mane and tail trots towards the group. ‘It is you! What are you doing here? Does your dad know you are here?’
        Razzly mutters to herself.
        Trixie steps between the new mare and Razzly. ‘Excuse me. How do you know Razzly?’
        The new unicorn looks confused. ‘Razzly? Her name is Razzleberry. At least, that was the name her father made me agree to.’ She snorts. ‘Probably the only good decision he ever made.’
        ‘Daddy made better decisions than you did,’ the filly grumbles.
        The green mare gasps. ‘How dare you say that? I see your attitude has worsened since I left. Come on. We’re going home. I’ll set you straight.’ She frowns. ‘Maybe now my lawyers will have enough to get you back where you belong.’
        Razzly is gripped in a green aura. Trixie flicks the other mare’s horn, freeing Razzly.
        ‘Excuse me,’ Trixie interrupts. ‘I don’t know who you are, but Razzly is not going anywhere with you.’
        ‘I am Jade Emerald,’ Jade states. ‘I am Razzleberry’s mother. She is coming with me whether you like it or not.’
        ‘You’re not my mother,’ Razzly growls.
        Shaun looks confused. ‘Wait. I thought you said your mother was dead.’
        Jade snarls at the younger unicorn. ‘What has your father been telling you?’
        Razzly glares angrily at the older unicorn. ‘I never said she was dead. Jade did give birth to me, but she was NEVER a mother to me.’
        ‘You whelp!’ Jade uses her magic to drag Razzly to her. She lifts the filly’s tail and delivers a slap across her rump. ‘I’ll have a lot of work to do to teach you to behave again.’
        Trixie growls at the brazen display of abuse.
        Razzly kicks free. She backs away a few steps and faces Jade. ‘Who the hell do you think I am? I am not some doll you can manipulate anymore. I am my own pony. You can’t tell me what to do. I am...’ -- she looks around, sees Trixie and smiles -- ‘I am The Clever and Spectacular Razzly! I am the Element of Generosity! If you can’t deal with that, then go buck yourself! Generously too!’
        Razzly smiles and nods triumphantly. Trixie laughs to herself. Shaun claps.
        Jade growls. ‘You little brat! I’m going to have start all over teaching you the right way to behave.’
        Jade pulls Razzly back to her. She raises the filly’s tail again and lines up another slap. A silver bolt of magic hits Jade in the chest, sending her back several meters and freeing Razzly. The filly rushes to Trixie’s side.
        ‘One hit is already one to many,’ Trixie seethes, excess magic diffusing from her horn.
        Jade picks herself up. ‘Who are you to tell me how to discipline my problem child? Razzleberry has always needed somepony to put her in her place and make sure she behaved. Her father obviously failed since I left him.’
        ‘He kicked you out!’ Razzly shouts. ‘You treated us like crap! Getting rid of you was the best thing he ever did!’
        ‘Razzleberry! Shut up!’
        Trixie laughs and steps forward. ‘Who am I, you ask?’ She draws a wind under her cape and stands on her hindlegs. ‘I am The Great and Powerful Grand Duchess Trixie Lunamoon. I am the personal magic instructor for Princess Alba, and Razzly’s father appointed me her protector while we travel the world together.’
        ‘That is the stupidest title I have ever heard,’ Jade snorts. ‘Razzleberry is MY child! I will take care of her how I see fit!’
        ‘How you see fit should put you behind bars.’
        Jade growls. She tries magically gripping Razzly again, but her spell is blocked by a silver shield. ‘Get out of my way!’
        ‘Stop trying to harm Razzly, and we will.’
        ‘You like her so much? Take her from me! I challenge you to a magic duel. Winner gets to be her mother.’
        ‘I can take you in my sleep. Care to go first or shall I?’
        ‘This will be too easy. I’ll let you have the first shot. Might be the only one you get.’
        Trixie smirks. ‘Learned this one from my friend the late Twilight Sparkle.’
        Trixie casts a spell. A mustache appears on Jade’s face. Jade rolls her eyes and magically cuts it off.
        ‘Here is a specialty from the restaurant,’ Jade retorts.
        The unicorn summons a spray of whipped cream. Trixie yawns and uses a shield spell to redirect it to top various fruits and pastries in the other shops.
        ‘Is that it?’ Trixie taunts. ‘Razzly, if you don’t mind...’
        Trixie takes a crystal fruit from her bag. She splits it and plants the pieces in the ground. She focuses a spell on the planted fruit and small sprouts pop from the ground.
        ‘Growth spell. Impressive,’ Jade comments. She blasts the sprouts with a bolt of magic. ‘But pointless.’ She closes her eyes and focuses. ‘Just got to build up for...’
        Ponies scream and gallop past the arguing mares. Razzly yelps and cowers behind Trixie. Shaun’s lower beak drops as he takes pictures as fast as he can.
        ‘Good to know some ponies respect real power,’ Jade mumbles.
        ‘Oh, they aren’t running from you,’ Trixie says. ‘They are running from that.’
        Jade turns around and pales. A several-meter-tall bear with a translucent, starry hide climbs over a building and roars. It sees Jade and lumbers over to her.
        ‘An ursa major!’ Jade screams. ‘What is one doing here!’
        ‘Actually, that is an ursa minor,’ Trixie calmly replies. ‘The majors are much bigger.’
        ‘Bigger!?’
        The ursa minor roars again and slashes. Jade screams and falls back as she tries to flee. The claw goes straight through her. She backs straight into somepony. Trixie glares down at the other mare.
        ‘That is a simple illusion from my act,’ Trixie states. ‘I would have thought somepony like you would be able to see through an act. I mean, you fake a brave front so well.’
        ‘An-an illusion?’
        Trixie frowns. ‘A pity it was so easy to defeat you.’
        ‘Y-you didn’t...’
        Trixie stomps beside Jades head and leans down. ‘I. Won. That means Razzly is mine to watch over.’ She leans close and whispers, ‘And if I ever catch you near her again, I will use all my influence with the royal family to make sure nopony ever finds your body.’
        Jade nods, scrambles to her hooves and gallops back to her restaurant. Trixie snorts and trots back to her friends. Razzly gallops to her idol and gives her a big hug. Shaun takes a picture of the happy moment.
        ‘Mom! You’re my mom now!’ Razzly cheers.
        Trixie laughs. ‘Magic duels aren’t exactly legal contracts… In fact, I will have a lot of explaining to do when I see Regent Sombra later...’
        Razzly nuzzles Trixie’s chest. ‘I don’t care. You’ve been more of a mother than she ever was. You actually care about me. You fought to protect me, not to control me. I love you, Trixie.’
        The older unicorn smiles and kisses Razzly’s forehead. ‘I love you too, Razzly.’ She gives the filly one last squeeze before letting go. ‘We should get to the palace. I am sure Alba will want to hear all about this.’
        ‘Ooo! Can I tell her?’ Shaun asks. ‘It will be so funny when I bust out the pictures and you back me up.’
        Trixie smiles and trots away. ‘We’ll see. Come on. Let’s get going.’
        Razzly nods and catches up. ‘Right with you, mom.’
        Trixie laughs and ruffles Razzly’s mane as they trot away together. Shaun takes one last look back before flying after them.

> Dude, Where’s My Cadance?
> --------------------------------------------------------------------------

        Alba teleports to the Crystal Palace. The guards draw spears at the surprise arrival. The princess glares at the guards.
        ‘Stand down,’ the princess orders. ‘It is just me.’
        The guards relax. ‘Sorry, princess. We were not expecting you.’
        ‘Well, I am here now. Tell Sombra I am here to see Cadance.’ She trots past. ‘Actually, I’ll tell her myself.’
        Helios teleports in, causing the guards to ready their weapons again. The stallion chases his sister. ‘Alba, wait up.’
        The filly hurries through the castle. ‘No time. Have to see Cadance.’
        Her brother tries catching her in his magic. ‘At least slow down. Remember the last time you...’
        Alba rounds a corner at a high speed. She slips and skids across the crystal floor. A mare screams as the princess plows into her. Helios trots up to his sister.
        ‘Smooth move, princess.’
        ‘Sarcasm or title?’
        ‘I think you know.’
        ‘Well, the least you can do is help me up. I’m getting crushed here.’
        ‘Excuse me, princess,’ the unicorn mare atop Alba says. She stands and magically ties her black mane with teal highlights back into a bun. She adjusts glasses and looks down at the princess. ‘I was not expecting you, princess. When I heard your party was back in the Republic, I assumed you were heading for the capital. This is a welcome side quest. Though you did drop in unannounced.’
        Alba stands and brushes herself off. ‘Sorry, Regent Sombra. I was in a rush to see Aunt Cadance.’
        Sombra adjusts her glasses again and levitates a tablet. ‘That will just have to wait. She is very busy right now.’
        ‘Doing what?’
        ‘Her royal duties.’
        Alba glares up at the light grey mare and huffs.
        Helios puts a hoof on his sister. ‘That will be fine. We can wait.’
        Alba turns to her brother. ‘The fate of the universe is in the balance, and you want to wait!? You’re the worst brother ever.’ She turns back to Sombra. ‘Help me, Regent Sombra. You’re my only hope.’
        The grey mare covers a laugh. ‘I’m sorry. I have my orders. I’ll check with Cadance and report back to you at dinner.’
        Alba trots away grumbling, ‘Curse your sudden, but inevitable, betrayal.’
        Sombra holds back a squeal. She smiles at Helios. ‘Will the rest of the Elements be joining you as well?’
        ‘They should be,’ the prince replies. ‘I don’t think they have other plans.’
        A loud roar is heard from the city.
        ‘What was that!?’ Sombra panics, hiding behind her tablet.
        ‘I think that was Trixie saying she is on her way...’
        Helios follows Sombra to a balcony so they can investigate the disturbance. Raindrops flies up, pushing Rainbow on a cloud.
        ‘Beep, beep. I have a cloud,’ Raindrops says. ‘Um, do we have a room ready or just park her somewhere until dinner?’
        ‘There should be a parlor up ahead,’ Helios replies. ‘Just look for the angry princess.’
        Raindrops nods and pushes Rainbow away.
        Sombra levitates her tablet and taps away. ‘I should get started on your rooms. Find Trixie and then report to me what happened.’
        Alba teleports to the balcony. ‘Is Cadance ready now?’
        ‘And you, hold your horses, missy.’
        Alba groans and teleports away.

        Sombra hosts the Elements in a large reception room. The hall is decorated with portraits of past regents with a large portrait of Princess Cadance and Prince Shining Armor at the head of the hall. Rainbow digs into the meal while Raindrops takes her time to enjoy the food. Alba stares incredulously at Shaun as he relates the story of Trixie’s magic duel. Razzly laughs at her friend’s reaction. Helios listens to his brother as Apple Pie tells him what he and Apple Bloom saw on their day out. Trixie and Octavia talk with Sombra, who is drinking a Ramune.
        Alba rolls her eyes at the end of Shaun’s story. ‘It is believable that Trixie would trounce an evil mare for Razzly’s sake. The story could have done without the show tune in the middle, though.’ She turns to her friend. ‘Are you okay? I mean, you just drove off your mother...’
        Razzly shakes her head. ‘I am fine. Jade is gone. Trixie is my real mother now.’
        ‘Magic duels are exactly...’ Alba stops and shrugs. ‘If anypony argues, you have the sanction of Princess Alba to back you up.’ She turns to Sombra. ‘Speaking of princesses… Where is Cadance? I thought you said she would be joining us at dinner.’
        ‘Oh, uh, Cadance is feeling ill,’ Sombra replies. ‘She regrets that she cannot meet with you...’
        ‘I can cast any manner of health spell. I’ll be fine.’
        ‘Alba, if Cadance needs her rest, you should let her be,’ Trixie advises. ‘You wouldn’t want to be disturbed if you had a cold.’
        ‘I just need to talk with her for a moment. That is all.’
        ‘Maybe later,’ Sombra replies, ‘or I could help you if it isn’t out of my league.’
        ‘Whatever,’ the princess grumbles.
        ‘I have to agree with Alba in part,’ Helios says. ‘We haven’t seen Aunt Cadance in years. I was hoping she would make time for us despite us showing up unannounced.’
        ‘Your arrival is perfectly fine,’ Sombra says with a smile. ‘If there is anything in the Crystal Empire you need, I am happy to assist you.’
        ‘Do ya think we can get some crystal apple trees fer the farm?’ Apple Bloom asks.
        ‘Come on, AB,’ Apple Pie sighs. ‘There is plenty of time for that.’
        ‘Ah know, but Ah figure if we’re back home fer a bit, Ah might as well tend t’ the orchards while we’re here.’
        ‘Miss Apple Bloom. Not only will I furnish you trees, but I will get you meetings with our top cultivators so that you can learn the proper methods for tending your new crop,’ Sombra states. ‘It is the least I can do in my position as regent.’
        ‘Miss Sombra,’ Raindrops speaks up, ‘I am curious what you do here to be able to arrange all of this.’
        ‘Also, can we get more churros?’ Rainbow adds.
        ‘Actually, it is Regent Sombra,’ the unicorn corrects. ‘And I do regenty-wegenty things. Basically, I manage the Crystal Empire for Princess Cadance. It is a noble duty that goes back to my great-great-great-great-great-great-great-great-great-great-great-grandfather.’ She motions to a portrait.
        The painting depicts a large, fierce-looking, dark grey unicorn stallion with a flowing black mane, piercing red eyes and a deep-red-tipped horn. The unicorn is wearing plate armor and carries a spear in a hoof while using his ornate helmet as a stand for his pose. The Crystal Heart shines behind him. The guests look at the painting then at Regent Sombra. The mare smiles proudly.
        ‘As you can see, General Sombra the XIV was an impressive figure,’ the unicorn states.
        Raindrops nods. ‘He was, but...’
        ‘But what?’
        ‘Well, to be blunt, you look like you’re about half his size. No offence, but he looks like he can give Apple Pie a run for his money in the size department, whereas you’re smaller than Rainbow.’
        ‘She just needs more churros,’ Rainbow prescribes, ‘and so do I!’
        ‘Well, it is not really the size of the pony...’ Sombra begins.
        ‘Not to mention, you are lighter than all your ancestors,’ Octavia adds, motioning to the other portraits. She pulls back her robe, revealing her foreleg. ‘I’m even darker than you, and I wear this all the time.’
        ‘Well, I got a couple highlights from my mom’s side as well as some cream in my coat...’
        ‘And I know this hasn’t come up much, but you can give Full Moon a run for her money when it comes to Neighponese things,’ Helios contributes.
        Sombra glares at the prince. ‘I find your lack of faith disturbing.’ She takes a deep breath. ‘Listen, I might not be as imposing or as male as my ancestors, but Princess Cadance hoof-picked me to become her new regent when my father retired to Manehattan with my mother. My parents and Cadance ensured I had the best education and upbringing possible. Cadance herself even looked after me for my parents, a feat she only did before with Twilight Sparkle. If you don’t think a personal friend of Princess Cadance can carry out her wishes, then you have hurt me deeply.’
        ‘Speaking about Aunt Cadance, when can I see her?’ Alba asks.
        ‘Eventually,’ Sombra snaps.
        ‘Sorry for upsetting you,’ Raindrops apologizes. ‘I should have believed you are a capable regent by the arrangements you have made for us already.’
        ‘Thank you.’
        ‘If I can ask one more question...’ She and Sombra glare at Rainbow and Alba respectively before they can interrupt. ‘How did your family come to serve the Crystal Empire?’
        Sombra nods a sips her drink. ‘Ah. There is a great piece of pony history.’

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
400 years ago

        The New Lunar Republic army marches through the Crystal Empire. Queen Luna and General Sombra issue orders as their troops fill the bleak, grey streets. All around them, earth ponies engage in hoof-to-hoof combat, pegasi fly overhead and unicorns cast spells. Slowly but surely they fight their way through a changeling horde towards the palace. A changeling queen with scraggly yellow hair barks orders at her drones. Luna stops her army at the base of the tower.
        ‘Surrender, Naiad!’ Luna declares. ‘Your ally has abandoned you, and your forces have lost. This is your last chance to get out alive.’
        ‘I will never surrender to the likes of you!’ Naiad screams down at the ponies. ‘My hive has eaten their fill of the crystal ponies, and their queen has served me well.’ She covers a belch. ‘Though technically, she was served raw.’
        ‘You monster!’ Sombra shouts.
        ‘I prefer “Queen Naiad”, but whatever helps you remember me in the last few moments of your life.’ She eyes the unicorn lustfully. ‘Though I wouldn’t mind keeping you around as a slave. You look like you have a few more productive years in you.’
        Sombra growls and charges a spell on his horn. Luna places a hoof on his shoulder to calm him.
        ‘Do not let her get to you.’ The pony queen turns to the changeling queen. ‘Naiad! I have been patient. I was willing to spare your hive if you left, but you leave me no choice. Your hive will be destroyed. If there are any survivors, hopefully Chrysalis will take them in and give them a second chance at life.’
        ‘Chrysalis!’ Naiad roars. ‘That traitorous wench can burn forever! I would kill every last member of my hive myself rather than let her take one of my changelings.’
        ‘We offer her life, and she spits on us,’ Sombra mutters. ‘We should squish her like the bug that she is and be done with her.’
        ‘Do not be so rash,’ Luna advises. ‘Was it not your grandfather who spared the lives of hundreds of enemy ponies after the Siege of Canterlot during the civil war not too long ago? Without his action, reforming the Republic would have been a much harder task than it has been.’
        ‘You are talking ponies. Changelings are monsters.’
        ‘Changelings are not monsters. A single one may commit a horrific act, but you cannot condemn an entire group for it. Besides, we may one day require changeling assistance in a time of need.’
        Sombra closes his eyes and nods. ‘You are right. It is just… I see this once-great city ruined by the invasion. It sickens me to think there is nothing more we can do but wait for the Elements of Harmony to arrive and use their powers on her.’
        Luna thinks. A small smile appears. ‘There may be something else we can try before then...’

        Luna, Sombra and a small team of ponies teleport into the palace. Dead and cocooned crystal ponies litter the halls. Patrolling changelings fly past the ponies as they sneak through the palace.
        ‘I am never laughing about invisibility spells ever again,’ one of the soldiers comments.
        ‘Shh!’ the queen hisses. ‘Invisible does not mean they can’t hear us.’
        Luna checks down a hall and motions for the others to follow. A loud hiss fills the halls.
        ‘Damn those ponies!’ Naiad screams, marching from the balcony. ‘If Chrysalis hadn’t abandoned us, we wouldn’t be in this meatgrinder.’ She crosses the path of the intruders. ‘Drones! Get out there! Take as many of them with you as you can!’
        Changelings swarm out of the palace. Luna’s party slips past them to a throne room. A crystal alicorn lays dead beside the throne. A heart-shaped crystal floats over the throne, glowing faintly. Luna motions, and a pegasus flies to the Crystal Heart. As the soldier flies back, a changeling patrol races towards an exit, one hitting the pegasus. The changeling and pegasus fall to the ground, sending the Crystal Heart sliding away. The changelings start hissing, alerting their comrades to the intruders. Naiad and her guards rush to the room.
        ‘What is going on here?’ the changeling queen demands.
        Luna drops her spell and fires a magical shot, driving the changelings back a step. ‘It is over, Naiad. Prepare to meet your end.’
        Naiad cackles. ‘You seem to forget where you are.’ She whistles, and changelings swarm the hall. ‘You are a little outnumbered.’
        Luna raises a shield spell as the changelings advance. ‘Prepare to retreat once I have the spell ready.’
        Sombra grits his teeth and charges forward. ‘It is not over yet!’
        The unicorn plows through the changelings. He reaches out with his magic and grabs the Crystal Heart before Naiad can reach it. He slams into the changeling queen, sending her back several meters.
        ‘Like we said, Naiad,’ Sombra growls, ‘you are finished.’
        ‘What are you going to do? Throw your giant mood ring at me?’
        Sombra levitates the Crystal Heart around him. ‘The Crystal Heart gathers and amplifies the love and hope of the crystal ponies. As long as one still lives, its powers can be unleashed. The Crystal Empire will never fall to one who breeds hate and fear. The crystal ponies are nopony’s slaves! And I will defend them to my last breath!’
        Before Naiad can retort, the Crystal Heart starts glowing brighter. The artefact bursts with energy. The light from the palace attracts the attention of the crystal ponies hiding in their homes. Seeing the beacon, their powers add to its effect. A pulse from the Crystal Heart sends the changelings flying, scattering them into the frozen north. Another burst of magic causes everypony remaining to appear crystalline. Luna smiles and takes the Crystal Heart with her as she leads her party to the balcony. The remaining changelings surrender as the crystal ponies gather at the palace. They bow when they see Luna and Sombra holding the Crystal Heart high.

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

        Regent Sombra smiles and adjusts her glasses as she finishes her story. ‘The crystal ponies wanted to make General Sombra their new king, but he accepted the lesser role of regent until a proper pony could be found to fill the job. Since then, the Sombra family has watched over the Crystal Empire until Cadance and Shining Armor took over its jurisdiction. We have continued to serve at their side.’
        ‘Speaking of Cadance...’ Alba begins.
        Helios kicks his sister under the table. ‘That is a good history lesson, but you forgot one thing.’
        ‘Oh? I think I demonstrated the nobility of the Sombra line quite well.’
        ‘Two words: hentacle tentai.’
        Sombra jumps slightly and covers a nosebleed. ‘First, I have no idea what you are talking about. Second, that is an art form.’
        ‘One word: churros!’ Rainbow declares. Everypony looks at her. ‘What? They are good, and I could really go for some right now.’
        Sombra stops her nosebleed. ‘I’ll have the chefs bring you some as soon as possible.’
        ‘Sweet.’
        The regent stands. ‘Please. It is getting late. Let us relax for the rest of the evening. I will see what arrangements can be made for everypony in the morning.’ She turns to the princess. ‘And yes, that includes your demands.’
        Alba huffs and sits back while the others finish their meals.

        Alba stands outside of Octavia’s room. The sleepy assassin yawns as she listens to the princess.
        ‘You want me to break you into Cadance’s room?’ Octavia asks. ‘Why?’
        ‘I need to see Aunt Cadance,’ Alba answers. ‘I’ll be seen if I fly up there, and there is a shield protecting it from teleportation. All you need to do is break in and get her to see me.’
        ‘Whatever,’ the earth pony groans, turning back to her room.
        ‘So, are you getting your gear for this mission?’
        ‘I’m going to bed, and so are you.’
        ‘Damn it! I am your princess! I order you to break into my aunt’s bedroom!’
        Octavia stops. ‘Alba, there is only one royal I allow to boss me around. You are not him. Go to bed before I send you to bed.’ She closes the door.
        Alba growls and storms away. She marches around the halls. She kicks open a door when she reaches the end of a hall. The guard on the other side is crushed, leaving the imprint of yellow feathers on the wall. She continues on her way but stops when she sees a light coming from a room. The princess slows and slinks towards the light.
        ‘Princess, what are you..?’ a flattened pegasus starts.
        ‘Shut up!’ Alba hisses, teleporting the pony far, far away.
        She skulks to the door and peeks in. Trixie is meeting with Sombra. The unicorns look worried.
        ‘Alba is really pressuring me,’ Sombra confides. ‘I am worried that I cannot keep it up.’
        ‘We must,’ Trixie replies. ‘We are under orders from Luna. We can’t let anypony find out.’
        ‘W-what would be the harm? Telling the truth...’
        ‘Can you accept the truth yet?’
        The grey mare frowns, looks away and kicks the ground. ‘Well, uh...’
        ‘Exactly.’ Trixie shakes her head. ‘No. Alba pardoned Discord. He is free once again. If she finds out, who knows what trouble she will cause?’
        ‘What about Helios? He is levelheaded.’
        ‘And Alba can break him in a second. He isn’t as tough.’
        ‘Yeah, but he is sweet. He would know how to handle it.’
        ‘We can’t take that risk.’ Trixie takes a deep breath. ‘I’ll help you run defence. All we have to do is convince her to go back to Canterlot.’
        Sombra smiles hopefully. ‘Maybe we can hear what she has to ask Cadance. If it is something we can help with...’
        ‘With how she has been acting, I don’t know.’ Trixie laughs. ‘Maybe we can find a portal to another world somewhere in the basement and escape for a few days until everything blows over.’
        Sombra frowns and adjusts her glasses. ‘That sounds like something out of a cheesy movie. What do you propose doing on the other side? Form a rock band?’
        ‘I play a mean electric guitar.’
        Sombra rolls her eyes and goes to the door. ‘I’m going to bed now. See you in the morning.’
        Alba quickly teleports away before she is caught. Sombra exits the room and looks around.
        ‘Wasn’t there a guard out here?’

        At breakfast, Alba glares at the older unicorns while the others eat. Razzly serves a large batch of waffles made with crystal fruits. Rainbow guards a pile of freshly-baked churros from everypony. Sombra talks with some guards.
        ‘He was a yellow pegasus, not that bright. Maybe he wandered off into the wastes for some reason,’ she says.
        The guards salute. ‘We’ll do our best to bring him back in a flash.’
        ‘Or not,’ Alba mumbles.
        Sombra gives the princess a quizzical look. She shakes her head and levitates her tablet. ‘Anyway, I have arranged a meeting with our cultivators for you, Apple Bloom.’
        ‘Thank ya.’
        ‘Miss Razzly is getting acquainted with the baking staff.’ She looks up. ‘Miss Rainbow, what is it you would like to do today?’
        A new platter of churros is set in front of the pegasus. ‘I’m good.’
        Sombra rolls her eyes. ‘As for you Alba...’
        ‘Let me guess. Cadance is too busy for me?’
        The unicorn nods. ‘Fortunately, she has allowed me to hear your request and do what I can to assist you.’
        The princess sighs. ‘Good enough. I need access to the archives at the library. All of the archives, even the sealed ones.’
        Sombra pales. ‘I don’t think that is possible...’
        ‘You said you would do anything. I just wanted to get formal permission so I wouldn’t have to order them opened.’
        ‘But you need authorization to...’
        ‘I authorize me as princess of the New Lunar Republic.’
        Sombra adjusts her glasses. ‘It is not that simple. Only Cadance and your parents have the authorization to unseal the archives. You don’t have the authority.’
        Alba takes a slow, deep breath. ‘That is why I need to see Cadance. She will listen to me.’
        Sombra closes her eyes and thinks. She looks over at Trixie then at the princess. ‘One of Cadance’s first acts was to give me the ability to act on her behalf and issue orders carrying the full weight of her authority. I will allow you access to the archives.’
        Alba sits back and sighs in relief. ‘Finally.’ She looks over at Razzly. ‘Do you want to come with me while I do my research?’
        Razzly shakes her head. ‘Sorry. The chefs are going to show me some of their recipes and techniques today.’
        Shaun puts a talon on Alba’s shoulder. ‘I’ll go with you! We’ll library until we cannot learn anything more!’
        The princess shudders. ‘As if I didn’t think it could get any worse...’

        Alba storms through the palace. Trixie and Sombra try to stay ahead of the princess. The two unicorns block a door and raise magical shields. Alba magically grips the shields. She forces the mares back down the hall, scratching the crystal floor.
        ‘Alba! Stop!’ Trixie commands.
        ‘Please don’t go in there!’ Sombra begs.
        Alba stops and looks back. ‘You have been blocking me from seeing Cadance since we got here. No longer. I need to see her and nopony else. The fate of the universe depends on it.’
        ‘What is she talking about?’ Sombra asks.
        ‘Something Discord showed her,’ Trixie answers. ‘Probably a trick to manipulate her.’
        ‘It is not a trick. It is real,’ Alba counters. ‘I have evidence. I just need to talk to Cadance about it. She’ll understand.’ She pushes the door open. ‘Cadance? It is me, Alba. I need to talk with you.’
        No response comes from the room. The young princess slowly enters the room. While the room is clean, it is cold and empty with the curtains drawn. The only sign of Cadance is a tiara sitting on the bed. Alba slowly turns back to face the unicorns. Sombra is on the verge of tears.
        ‘Where. Is. Cadance?’ Alba seethes.
        Sombra looks at Trixie for support then back to the princess. She closes her eyes as she sobs, ‘She is gone.’
        ‘What do you mean “gone”?’
        ‘F-four years ago...’
        ‘Don’t say it,’ Trixie snaps.
        ‘Four years ago, I came in to check on her, and she was gone. I don’t know where. All that was left was her crown and a note saying she was not going to be found, that I was to tend to the Empire and that she loved her country very much.’
        Alba scowls at the mares. ‘So Cadance is gone and nopony knows where she is?’
        Trixie shakes her head. ‘Lyra’s spies and Octavia’s organization has found no trace of her. It is almost as if she just disappeared.’
        ‘She probably saw the disaster coming. Combined with depression from the loss of Shining Armor, she probably escaped to a safe haven.’
        ‘S-she can do that?’ Sombra stutters.
        Alba nods. ‘I saw in a book that there is a realm that can be accessed with alicorn magic. Cadance probably went there to get away from everything.’ She looks at Sombra. ‘We have to tell everypony.’
        ‘What! No! That is insane!’ Trixie exclaims. ‘Think of the panic it will cause! You are talking about announcing a beloved figure has just “disappeared”. The Republic has yet to hear of Discord’s release. Not to mention the brewing tension with the Griffin Empire. This would be a major blow to the Republic’s image and stability at a time when we need to be our strongest. Think about the nation before your principles.’
        ‘I am. This is the right thing to do for our nation in the long run. If we are honest with our citizens, they will support us in our time of need.’
        ‘When? While they are panicking about the ancient evil you unleased or while they are panicking about the loss of another princess?’
        ‘I pardoned Discord because he earned it. He has yet to cause any trouble. As for Cadance…’ Alba looks at Sombra again. ‘I think the truth will help unite the Crystal Empire behind you. You have done so much in the past four years. I am sure the citizens will support you.’
        ‘You cannot take that risk. An individual may react calmly, but a crowd can be dangerous.’
        The princess glares at the entertainer. ‘Let me guess, you were advising my mother on this strategy all these years. You two were manipulating Sombra from doing the right thing.’
        ‘We were protecting her and the Crystal Empire. The chaos it would cause would weaken us at this time of conflict with the griffins.’
        ‘And how many years without conflict were you saving that line for?’
        ‘Enough!’
        The arguing ponies stop and look at Sombra. She is staring at the ground. There is a puddle of tears at her hooves.
        ‘The princess is right,’ Sombra mumbles. ‘It was stupid to cover up Cadance’s disappearance for so long. I thought that was what she wanted. She would have wanted me to stand tall and lead. We have to tell everypony.’
        Alba goes over to Sombra. ‘You have my support. I know Helios will back you up as well.’
        Trixie takes a deep breath. ‘I hope you know what you are doing.’

        A large crowd of crystal ponies gather outside of the palace. Nearly the entire Crystal Empire has turned out for Regent Sombra’s announcement. The Elements stand with the regent as she addresses the crowd.
        ‘Citizens of the Crystal Empire,’ Sombra begins. ‘I come before you with bad news.’ She takes a deep breath. ‘Princess Cadance is gone.’ The crowd murmurs. ‘Four years ago, her bedroom was found empty. She left behind a message of hope for you all. She wanted to leave you all with the love she held for everypony.’ She takes another breath. ‘Since I was a filly, Cadance raised me to carry on her ideals. I will continue to do my best to govern as she would have intended. I hope you will stand with me as we go forward.’
        Helios steps forward. ‘Regent Sombra. You have governed on your own since Cadance left. You have proven yourself to be a great leader already, and you have honored Cadance’s memory more than you know. You have our support.’
        Alba smiles as Helios and Sombra continue addressing the crowd, easing their minds. Trixie trots up behind the princess.
        ‘This might be going well for you now, but you still have one major test ahead.’
        Alba’s smile instantly turns into a frown. ‘I know. I have to speak with my mother...’

> Happy Homecoming
> --------------------------------------------------------------------------

        A train pulls into Canterlot station. Ponies file out of their carriages. The crowds clear from around a car in the rear when its doors open. The Elements and their escorts step onto the platform.
        ‘My babies!’
        Rainbow flies out of the way, as Apple Pie is tackled in a hug. Pinkie Pie coos as she squeezes the life from her son.
        ‘Hi… mom...’ the trapped stallion gasps.
        ‘Mommy!’ Rainbow cheers, joining in on the hug.
        ‘It is so wonderful to have you back,’ Pinkie pines. ‘I was so worried about you every day since you left.’
        ‘It is okay, Pinkie,’ Trixie assures. ‘They were well taken care of the whole time.’
        ‘Rainbow. You look thin. Have you been eating enough?’
        The pegasus hides a churro. ‘Nuh uh. I’ve been forced to starve every night!’
        Pinkie grabs the nearest pony she can find. ‘Get my daughter all the snacks in the city! Send the bill to the palace!’
        Helios struggles under his aunt’s grip. ‘We’ll have a feast back at the castle. Just ask my parents, okay?’
        ‘I think that will be fine.’
        King James slowly trots towards the group. Everypony parts when they see his stern glare. Razzly hides behind Trixie, scared that the king is angry. Alba stands her ground, but looks away. James stops when Octavia blocks his path.
        ‘Go easy on her. For me.’
        ‘We’ll see,’ the king snorts. He looks over. ‘Prince Gusty. Good to finally meet you. I guess the rumor that you were banished to boarding school forever was a lie.’
        ‘Well, I can’t take all the credit for that one, but I did do my part to really make it stick,’ the griffin replies.
        ‘We’ll have to talk later. Your uncle is really worried about you.’
        Shaun hangs his head and backs away. Raindrops pats his back assuringly.
        James trots to his daughter. ‘Your mother and I want to have a word with you.’
        Alba glances up briefly before looking away again, frowning. ‘Fine. Let’s get this over with.’
        James huffs and turns back. ‘Luna and I would be honored if you stay with us at the palace. Take as long as you wish to see the city. We will send for you when it is time for dinner.’ He looks back at Alba. ‘As for you...’
        James teleports himself and Alba away. Razzly lets out a worried squeak for her friend. Trixie gives her a reassuring hug.
        ‘Well, it is certainly interesting to be back already,’ Trixie breathes. ‘I don’t know about the rest of you, but I could go for some lunch. Miss Octavia, would you mind suggesting a place?’
        ‘She’s gone,’ Raindrops reports.
        ‘Hmm. Then we’ll just have to go someplace else. Razzly, what do you feel like having?’

        James and Alba appear in one of the palace’s sitting rooms. Luna is standing at a window. Alba cringes and tenses up as her father takes his wife’s side. Luna lets out a long sigh and turns around. She slowly trots to her daughter. She glares down at Alba.
        ‘What made you think anything you did in the last two weeks was a good idea?’
        ‘Sorry, mom,’ her daughter mumbles, avoiding eye contact.
        ‘Sorry for giving the Republic a political black eye when you abandoned your trip to the Griffin Empire?’
        ‘He was plotting to killing us...’
        ‘Sorry for freeing the God of Chaos?’
        ‘He wasn’t that bad...’
        ‘Sorry for revealing the loss of Cadance?’
        ‘The Crystal Empire had to know...’
        ‘Sorry for betraying everything you once stood for as an Element of Harmony?’
        Alba stares at the ground and seethes. She stomps and looks at her mother, scowling. ‘That is a lie! I am still the same pony! I was doing what was right and what was needed to be done! Shaun saved us from death in the Griffin Empire! Discord is behaving and not causing any trouble! And Sombra is handling the Crystal Empire fine! None of my decisions have turned out badly!’
        ‘Not on the surface, but you failed to see the political implication of your actions! The Republic is looking its weakest since it was formed! I have been working overtime to repair the damage you have done!’
        ‘I did what was right! Ask anypony on the street to make the same decisions I made, and they will side with me!’
        ‘You didn’t think of the Republic!’
        ‘I did what was best for the Republic! Especially with the griffins...’
        ‘Emperor Mordred is accusing you of kidnapping the prince, damaging the castle and harming griffin soldiers as you fled from the Empire. You made us look like fools to the international community.’
        ‘If we had stayed...’
        ‘Then we wouldn’t be in the mess we’d be in right now.’
        ‘Then we’d all be dead right now.’ Alba looks down, crying. ‘You would rather your kids die than you look bad to the other leaders?’
        Luna steps back in shock. ‘Alba that is not what I am saying...’
        Alba turns away. ‘No. You hate us. I get it. We’ll just leave. Forever.
        ‘Alba...’
        Luna tries hugging her daughter, but she is blocked by a magical shield. James trots over and comforts his wife.
        ‘Dear, we have been making our own assumptions about what has been going on and basing our reactions on those,’ the king says. ‘Maybe we should listen to Alba’s side of things and explain our side as well before things get even more heated.’
        Luna nods. ‘Of course. I overreacted. Alba, you know I love you and never want to see you harmed.’
        Alba closes her eyes and looks away. ‘I love you too, mom.’
        ‘Is this a bad time to offer myself as an impartial witness?’ Octavia says, slipping into the room.
        Luna frowns at the other mare. ‘James and I need to have a word with you in private afterwards, but you are welcome right now.’
        The queen motions to a couch. Alba sits across from her parents. Octavia takes a nearby chair.
        Luna takes a deep breath. ‘Okay. Alba, tell us everything that happened, from the beginning.’

        A sky-blue unicorn with a golden-white mane carrying a violin case trots from a fancy music school. She takes her time to talk to her friends and teachers. As she nears the street, she notices a small crowd. She approaches slowly.
        ‘Excuse me,’ somepony in the crowd says. ‘I am here for her.’
        The crowd parts as Helios steps forward.
        ‘Helios!’ Krile cheers, catching him in a hug. ‘You didn’t tell me you were back!’
        ‘I’ve been sending you messages since we got to the Crystal Empire. I know I sent you several since we got close to the city.’
        The unicorn laughs. ‘I’ve been in class all day, so I’ve had my mobile off.’ She leans up and kisses Helios’ cheek. ‘Great having you back.’
        ‘Wonderful to be with you again.’
        ‘Whatcha bring me?’
        Helios scowls.
        Krile laughs and kisses her coltfriend again. ‘That is the Helios I remember.’ She trots ahead. ‘Come on. You can tell me everything.’ She keeps going. ‘And don’t forget to bring my violin.’
        The prince sighs, laughs and follows fillyfriend away, carrying her violin and saddlebag.

        The Pie family trots through Canterlot together. Technically, only one of the Pies is trotting. Rainbow flies beside her brother who still has their mother latched to him in a hug, wearing his hat. Apple Bloom laughs as her coltfriend carries his mom with them.
        ‘My little baby boy is back,’ Pinkie coos.
        ‘Happy to see you too, mom,’ Apple Pie laughs.
        ‘Do you like hearing about all our adventures, mom?’ Rainbow asks. ‘Do ya!’
        Pinkie nods. ‘They’re pretty amazing, but why are all of yours about food, Rainbow?’
        ‘Ya shoulda told her ‘bout Lucky,’ Apple Bloom suggests.
        ‘Who’s Lucky?’
        ‘Lucky Heart is only the super sweetest pegasus ever!’ Rainbow replies. ‘He saved me from a horde of villagers and made me dinner and let me be on top when we made out together!’
        Pinkie laughs. ‘Sounds like your father and me when we first met. He must be great if he gets you this excited.’
        Rainbow nods happily. ‘The only pony better than him is Synth Tech.’ She sighs longingly. ‘I would so do him hard.’
        Apple Pie facehoofs at his sister’s comment. Suddenly, the family is surrounded by ponies in dark suits with ear pieces. A lime-green unicorn steps out in front of them on her mobile.
        ‘Yes. Thank you. I’m meeting with the first of them right now.’ Lyra hangs up and turns to the others. ‘I just got word what your next mission potentially will be. What time would you like to schedule your appointments?’
        Apple Pie gets on guard, which is hard to do with his mother riding him. ‘Who are you?’
        ‘I am Lyra Heartstrings, Information Minister for the Republic. It is my job to be informed about everything worth being informed about and to prepare Republic agents for dangerous missions.’ She smirks. ‘And you two are headed on a fun one.’
        Pinkie scowls. ‘Where you sending my babies, Lyra?’
        ‘It wasn’t my idea. It was the queen’s and their little sister’s. You’ll find out at dinner.’ She levitates he mobile. ‘I suggest making the meetings early, so you have more time to recover.’
        ‘Recover from what?’ Apple Pie asks.
        ‘Like I said: preparations. If you don’t choose a time, I can just have my agents take you when I have a free spot.’
        Apple Pie growls. He glances over his shoulder. ‘Mom?’
        Pinkie has an intense frown. ‘Best to get it over with. I’ll have a word with your aunt once we find out more.’
        ‘Question!’ Rainbow says, raising a hoof. ‘Will there be churros?’
        ‘I can arrange that,’ Lyra replies.
        ‘Why didn’t you say so earlier! We can totally trust her, guys.’
        Rainbow flies over and starts talking with Lyra. Apple Pie sighs. Apple Bloom and Pinkie nearly bonk heads as they comfort the young stallion.

        Luna and James sit at a dinner table. Alba sits near them, trying not to look at her parents. Helios and Krile enter the dining hall. The prince takes a seat by his mother.
        ‘Hi, mom,’ Helios greets. ‘It has been too long.’
        ‘It is wonderful to see you again, my son.’
        ‘Does your father know you are here?’ James asks.
        ‘He does,’ Krile replies.
        ‘And he is okay with it?’
        ‘You can always make it a royal order if you really want to get under his skin.’
        James sparkles.
        ‘No,’ Luna commands.
        ‘Yes, dear.’
        Pinkie’s group enters the hall. They slow when they see the royals, but they still sit at the table.
        ‘Welcome back,’ Luna greets.
        ‘Mind telling us why we had a run-in with Lyra?’ Apple Pie says bluntly.
        ‘Don’t worry,’ his father assures. ‘It was for a good reason. She won’t do you any harm.’
        ‘It was because of my idea too. Sorry,’ Alba apologizes.
        ‘We’re just a little worried,’ Pinkie explains. ‘My kiddos just came back.’
        ‘Sorry,’ the princess mutters again.
        ‘Alba! Helios!’ a new voice calls.
        The prince and princess look to see an amber unicorn dragging a light blue pegasus into the hall. Sunset is too enraptured with a book to notice a change in her surroundings.
         Corona drops her sister to hug Alba. ‘Why didn’t you come see us right away?’ she asks. ‘I’m so proud of you for giving the griffins the shaft they deserve.’
        ‘Corona...’ Luna hisses.
        ‘Oh, shush, Auntie. I kept telling you they were murderous thugs, but you didn’t believe me. Thankfully, my cousins survived and proved me right.’
        ‘We had a little help,’ Alba replies. She looks towards the door and shudders. ‘And there he is now.’
        Shaun enters the dining hall with Trixie, Razzly and Raindrops. Corona scowls when she sees the griffin.
        Shaun smiles when he sees Corona. ‘Ah! Children of Celestia!’ he cheers, approaching. ‘Great to see you alive. I was so glad when I heard you stayed on the airship and made it here safely.’
        Shaun tries taking one of Corona’s hooves, but she backs away. ‘Do I know you?’ she growls.
        ‘Sorry. I should introduce myself,’ Shaun bows. ‘I am Prince Shaun Gusty of the Griffin Empire. Currently on the run for knowing too much about my uncle’s rise to power and for stealing enough state secrets to help you and your family evade the hit squads he sent after you.’
        ‘How do we know what you are saying is true?’
        ‘I was the one who gave you the note warning about my uncle’s intentions.’
        ‘And he helped save us from being killed,’ Alba adds. ‘You can trust him.’
        Corona looks the griffin over, huffs and takes a seat by her cousin. Shaun smiles again and takes the seat on Alba’s other side. The princess rolls her eyes. She looks at Razzly and shrugs. Corona uses her magic to levitate her sister to the table. Once everypony is seated, Luna stands.
        ‘Welcome. Now that everypony is here...’
        ‘Dinner!’ Rainbow speaks up.
        The queen nods. ‘Yes, that, but we also have important business to discuss.’ She waves and dishes are levitated to the table. ‘Please. Eat.’ She watches as the others dig in. ‘Now, I have been talking with Alba about your journey so far.’
        ‘To be fair, it hasn’t been as bad as she said,’ Helios interrupts.
        Alba glares at her brother.
        Luna sighs at her son’s comment. ‘She has been quite thorough recounting your experiences, but we would like to hear more from all of you.’
        ‘Ooo!’ Rainbow squeals, raising a hoof.
        ‘And not just all the different foods you have eaten.’
        ‘Aww!’
        ‘Furthermore, based on what Alba and Corona have told us and combining that with the current political situation, we are a little worried for the future.’
        ‘It is Morgan’s fault,’ Shaun says. ‘Ever since she arrived, she has been doing stuff to Mordred. I’d say she is making him worse, but it is more like she is amplifying his greed and ambitions.’
        ‘Thank you for that insight. We believe that at this rate, some sort of conflict is inevitable. I have been meeting with Ambassador Gilda, but we both agree that your presence is going to be a key factor moving forward.’
        ‘Well, I always knew I was the most important griffin in the world.’
        Alba groans.
        ‘I’m a little lost,’ Apple Pie says. ‘Where do we fit into this? And why do we have to arrange meetings with Lyra?’
        ‘As the Elements of Harmony, you are a great symbol of the Republic. We are hoping to use you as ambassadors once more.’
        ‘Because that turned out great last time,’ Helios moans.
        Luna sighs. ‘We are hoping that having a griffin, the crown prince of the Griffin Empire no less, will aid in our diplomatic endeavours.’
        ‘So, we’re being sent back into the Griffin Empire right away?’ Apple Pie asks. ‘After they tried killing us?’
        ‘Hopefully not right away,’ his father replies. ‘We are still working on a diplomatic solution to that.’
        ‘Then where are you sending us?’
        ‘We want to prepare for the worst, and Alba offered a suggestion based on your experience. We are sending you to meet with Queen Chrysalis of the changelings.’
        Razzly lets out a loud scream before shrinking back in embarrassment. She covertly slips a napkin under the table.
        Helios gapes. ‘Changelings. Really?’ He looks at his sister. ‘And this is your idea!’
        ‘As Shaun showed us, changelings can slip into the Griffin Empire and have no love for Mordred’s policies towards them,’ Alba explains. ‘If it does come to conflict, they would be a great ally to have on our side.’ She snorts. ‘Besides, I thought you cared for changelings.’
        ‘I do… But from a distance where they can’t eat me.’
        ‘Changelings have been welcome in the Republic for ages! Even after their attack on the Crystal Empire, there have been no open persecution or discrimination against them.’
        ‘There is no discrimination because they are too scared to reveal their true selves.’
        ‘Well, I guess not everypony is as caring as you.’
        ‘Well, I mean… Uh… You are talking about recruiting Chrysalis! She was one of the queens who attacked the Crystal Empire!’
        ‘We have information that leads us to believe she will be sympathetic to our cause,’ Luna replies. ‘It is a risk worth taking.’
        ‘Do we even know where she is? How do we find her?’ Helios looks to Shaun. ‘How did you find the changelings that helped you?’
        ‘It was tough,’ Shaun replies. ‘Mordred drove them all underground in the Empire. I don’t even know where to look in the Republic.’
        ‘I do,’ Corona states. ‘I’ll go with you.’
        ‘What!’ Sunset shouts, finally looking up from her book. ‘That is insane! Last time...’
        ‘Last time turned out perfectly well,’ her sister says. ‘I know where to look and what we are looking for. Besides, we have to pay back our new family for all the hospitality they have shown us.’
        Alba smiles at her cousin. ‘Thank you, Corona.’
        Apple Pie sits back. ‘Changelings… That is pretty intense.’
        ‘They’re not bad once you get to know them,’ Shaun says.
        Rainbow looks up from her eating. ‘Wait. Changelings eat love. Does that mean we have to eat love too when we’re there? What does love taste like?’
        ‘It is a little salty,’ her mother replies, covering a laugh.
        ‘MOM!’ her kids yell.
        ‘I don’t get it,’ Sunset mopes.
        ‘It is in one of your books,’ her sister replies. ‘Trust me.’
        Helios grimaces. ‘Aunt Pinkie’s tact aside, what does going to see changelings have to do with seeing Lyra before we leave?’
        ‘Changelings will do everything in their power to manipulate you,’ his mother replies. ‘We want you to be mentally prepared for any tricks they pull.’
        ‘If one o’ them even thinks o’ tryin’ t’ go after mah AP, Ah’ll smash ‘em!’ Apple Bloom states, hitting the table with a hoof.
        ‘Let’s hope it doesn’t come to that,’ James sighs. ‘Enough about that. We’re having a feast and catching up. Who wants to share a story from your journeys?’
        ‘Ooo! Me!’ Rainbow says, waving hoof.
        ‘Not about food.’
        ‘Aww!’
        ‘Tell him about your coltfriend,’ her big brother suggests.
        James narrows his gaze as he focuses on his daughter. ‘A colt is showing interest in my daughter.’
        Rainbow nods. ‘Uh huh.’
        ‘Is he cute?’
        ‘Very!’
        ‘He better be!’ He turns to Krile. ‘See. Tell your dad that is how you raise a well-balanced daughter.’
        The young mare covers a laugh. ‘Yes, sir, King Sparkle.’
        The king rolls his eyes. ‘You’re worse than your dad with that title. You better not call my son “Prince Helios” all the time.’
        ‘She’d have to do it once to start,’ the prince grumbles.
        James looks at his son for a moment before looking back at Krile. ‘That is one thing you got right so far.’
        Everypony laughs and goes back to telling stories. Luna smiles as she listens. She looks at Alba. The princess smiles as she listens to her friends and family. She notices her mother looking and frowns before striking up a conversation with Corona. Luna sighs and goes back to watching the others.

        Early the next morning. The Elements gather outside of Lyra’s office. Rainbow sleeps on a cloud. Apple Pie and Apple Bloom rest their heads on each other. Helios levitates a large cup of coffee. Razzly sleeps next to Trixie. Only Alba and Corona are awake. They talk about various spells they know while waiting to be called.
        Shaun folds his wings over his head. ‘This is all part of it, right? She is trying to mess with our minds. Psychological warfare without the logical.’
        ‘Funny how you didn’t see this coming,’ Alba snorts.
        ‘My powers function better with coffee and donuts and maybe a basket full of fish and chips,’ the griffin moans. ‘You would think somewhere in Canterlot there would be a place that sells griffin or Diamond Dog food...’
        ‘Powers? What is he talking about?’ Corona asks.
        ‘He thinks he is psychic,’ Alba answers. ‘Just go along with it if you want to keep your sanity at the expense of his. Fewer migraines that way.’
        ‘She is just jealous of my amazing, stupendous, astounding...’
        A magazine is shoved in his beak.
        ‘I like my way better,’ Corona says.
        Lyra comes out of her office. She sees the sleeping ponies and choking griffin. ‘Apple Pie. You’re up.’
…
        Apple Pie sits across from Lyra as she goes through a folder. The young stallion looks around the office. The walls are covered in pictures of a cream mare with a purple and pink mane.
        ‘You have a lovely wife,’ Apple Pie states.
        ‘Thank you.’ Lyra sets down the folder and turns to the stallion. ‘So, how long have you been ashamed of your family?’
        The stallion stands. ‘We’re done.’
        ‘Come on. You can be honest with me. Your mother is always bouncing about, acting strange, talking about inappropriate subjects at royal receptions. Your sister sleeps all day, rarely got in any sort of trouble growing up, eats more than the rest of the family combined and stays so thin. Not to mention she completely demolished you at the Iron Pony.’
        Apple Pie shakes his head. ‘That isn’t even that half of it. You’ve seen the way she is. Hordes of stallions and more than few mares chasing after her all the time. She acts like she doesn’t know anything, but she’s as smart as the rest of us. She is bringing it on herself and acting all innocent. It is just...’
        ‘Well, maybe if you spent more time with her...’
        ‘How can I! She just darts off with those wings of hers! Why couldn’t I get something like that from dad? Why is she so special?’
        ‘You have your earth-moving powers, and you revitalized an entire farm. And I don’t just mean the one in the Griffin Empire.’
        ‘Yeah, but who ever talks about that? “Apple? He’s just some farmer living between an irradiated former war zone and a forest filled with creatures from your nightmares. Why can’t he be more like Rainbow?” If I wanted to be more like Rainbow, I’d have to eat my weight in fried sugar for breakfast, then give in to the illusion Discord showed me.’ He sits and shakes his head. ‘Buck that.’
        Lyra opens the file. ‘From what you reported of that encounter, that would be what you’d be doing.’
        ‘Mom just dances about throwing parties for everypony. Rainbow … Yeah, the wonderful and exciting life of Rainbow Pie. If it wasn’t for Helios and his sense of sanity, I’d doubt I was related to any of them. Like, he is the only one with a bit of sense in him.’
        ‘Well, if you don’t mind living the boring life of an apple farmer, that is fine. No real drop in team Loyalty if you just want to go home with Apple Bloom and knock out a few foals.’
        ‘Whoa! Hey! I never said that! I just...’
        ‘You just wish they weren’t so over-the-top and super hyper? Maybe let you out of the background once and a while?’
        Apple Pie frowns at Lyra. He looks away and takes a deep breath.
        ‘Tell your sister I’ll see her now.’
…
        Alba watches Lyra, trying to read the unicorn.
        ‘Feel free to guess what I am going to say,’ Lyra says.
        ‘You’re going to say I’m a bossy know-it-all, a stuck-up princess,’ -- she scowls -- ‘maybe a terrorist, if you were my mom...’
        The unicorn smiles and sits back. ‘Actually, I wasn’t going to say any of that, pervert.’
        Alba glares across the desk. ‘What did you say?’
        Lyra turns a page in Alba’s file. ‘Last time you visited Full Moon, before she disappeared, you found a… certain type of comic… One with certain pictures of ponies doing certain things...’
        ‘It is an art form...’ Alba mumbles.
        ‘It wasn’t until about a year ago when you discovered that you could...’
        ‘Don’t say it…’
        ‘Well, let’s just say you discovered that a lot.’
        ‘It was for science,’ Alba growls.
        ‘Probably could have reached another planet with the amount of science you do.’
        ‘Watch it.’
        Lyra laughs. ‘Sorry. You have been restraining yourself since your journey was first proposed. Quite impressive.’ She turns a page. ‘Just the night before you left Canterlot, the night after you met Razzly, in the first night in Manehattan (don’t know if Razzly was with you at the time), the night of Cadance Times (we know Razzly was there then),’ -- she turns another page -- ‘on Blueblood’s airship, Emperor Mordred’s castle (both nights), the Crystal Palace and once more when you got home last night.’ She looks up. ‘That about covers it.’
        Alba seethes as she stares at the unicorn across from her. Magic radiates from her as she holds herself back from attacking. ‘I will destroy you.’
        ‘At least write a nice condolence card for my wife when you do.’ Lyra sets down Alba’s file. ‘We’re done.’
        The princess stands and heads to the door.
        ‘Before you go, just one last question.’
        ‘What?’
        ‘It is pretty evident that when you start dating you will be colt crazy, but I am wondering… If you two were older, would you try it with Razzly? Just once to see what it is like.’
        ‘You are a disgusting, little...’
        ‘Not even for science?’
        Alba clams up, turns away and leaves.
…
        Rainbow floats on her cloud while Lyra goes through her file. The unicorn finishes reading and sets down the document.
        ‘You know, I am pretty amazed,’ Lyra states.
        ‘I’m sorry! I didn’t mean to...’
        ‘You’re clean. We couldn’t dig up one thing about you that you haven’t broadcast to the whole world already. You even posted a selfie during your escape from the Griffin Empire. I don’t know if you are insane, brilliant or just really thick.’
        ‘I’d say about fifty percent of each.’
        ‘You’re free to go. Food should be here soon. Just got the call from the caterers.’
        Rainbow cheers as she flies from the office. Outside, her older brother looks upset. He is not even looking at his sister while Apple Bloom tries comforting him. Her younger sister is quietly meditating to get her emotions under control. The princes still look knackered as they sit together. Trixie wakes Razzly for her turn. Rainbow smiles as she arranges her cloud in the center of the room. A door opens, and Raindrops looks in. The pegasus is tackled in a hug.
        ‘Raindrops!’ Rainbow cheers. ‘So great to see you. I bet you’ll pass your exam as well as I did.’
        The older pegasus frees herself. ‘Actually, I was going to talk to you about that. I’m going home.’
        ‘What?’
        ‘You have come so far and matured a lot since we left Cloudsdale together. I am sure you can handle the rest of this journey.’
        ‘You mean “we can handle the journey”. Together.’
        Raindrops shakes her head. ‘No. It will be you. Alone.’
        Rainbow tears up and whimpers.
        ‘Rainbow, you are great young mare. You can do anything you want. You don’t need me as a crutch or a foalsitter. I believe in you.’
        ‘But...’
        Raindrops gives her friend a hug. ‘We’ll be cheering for you in Cloudsdale. Just don’t overfeed all the changelings with all the love you share with everypony.’ She goes to the door. ‘See you around, Rainbow.’
        Raindrops closes the door behind her. Rainbow’s cloud bursts over her, raining on her as she starts crying.
…
        Razzly fidgets in her seat as she waits for Lyra to begin.
        ‘I know this is scary, Miss Souffle,’ Lyra says, ‘but this won’t take long, and I won’t hurt you.’
        ‘Alba looks so upset, and Rainbow was crying when I came in here...’
        ‘Don’t worry. I have nothing of the sort planned for you. In fact, you really impress me.’
        ‘I do?’
        Lyra nods. ‘You started out so shy and timid, but now you are quite brave. I think it is pretty fun that you use the image of your timidness as a way to lull ponies into thinking you are weak or into getting what you want.’
        Razzly smiles proudly. ‘Well, I am clever and spectacular.’
        ‘It worked on Discord, didn’t it?’
        ‘He was a big sweetie once you got to know him. Definitely not as scary as history made him seem.’
        ‘I’ll bet.’ Lyra looks in Razzly’s file. ‘I bet you didn’t wee once that whole time.’
        Razzly tenses up. ‘Excuse me?’
        ‘Oh. You have a tendency to wet yourself when faced with an uncomfortable or scary situation. Must have been pretty embarrassing on your first day of school.’
        Razzly looks away and holds back crying.
        ‘It is okay. You can let loose here. I can have somepony clean up between meetings.’
        ‘I try so hard,’ Razzly whimpers. ‘I don’t want to look weak, especially in front of Alba or Trixie. I’m sorry.’
        ‘It is okay. Like I said, you have gotten a lot braver since you made your friends.’ Lyra laughs. ‘Hell, I bet the changelings would run in terror, thinking you’re counterattacking if you react with as much fear as you do when they are just mentioned.’
        ‘I won’t! I’ll prove it! And I know I’ll be safe since Alba and Trixie will be there to protect me!’
        ‘There’s the brave warrior we have grown to love.’
        Razzly nods proudly and goes to the door.
        ‘By the way, when you are old enough, Alba wants to have sex with you.’
        Razzly lets out a sharp squeak. She slowly turns back to Lyra.
        ‘Have a nice day! Send Shaun in for me, will you please?’
…
        ‘Nope!’ Lyra says, setting a card on her desk. ‘By the laws of statistics, you should have at least guessed one right by now.’
        ‘It is too early!’ Shaun defends. ‘I didn’t have access to the buffet long enough! There was pineapple in my fruit salad! That is the devil’s fruit, all pointy and full of endzones.’
        ‘You mean “enzymes”.’
        ‘No, there are little hoofball stands in each one. If you listen closely you can hear the pineapple demons cheering every touchbasket.’
        Lyra rolls her eyes. ‘Anyway, your insanity aside, you are pretty reliable. You’ve really proven yourself.’
        ‘Your pony gods wouldn’t have chosen me as your Element of Honesty if I wasn’t so perfect.’
        ‘So very perfect. Too bad she doesn’t see it that way.’
        ‘Who are you referring to?’
        ‘You know exactly who. You loved her at first sight. Too bad she will never love you back.’
        ‘Still in the dark.’
        Lyra leans forward. ‘You love Alba.’
        Shaun laughs nervously and tries shrugging off the accusation. ‘Me liking her? She’s a pony. I’m a griffin. Yes, she is attractive for a pony, and I am a pillar of griffin perfection, but there is no way she would ever look my way.’
        ‘Which is why you are always trying to get her attention.’ Lyra leans back. ‘It is okay. You’ll return to the Empire. Find a nice female griffin or two and settle down. You’ll just have to deal with your longing every time you host a reception when she visits or when sent to Canterlot on royal business.’
        ‘But you are talking about Alba. S-she is special. I-I don’t know what you are talking about. I-I’m not attracted to her. Pfft.’
        ‘Don’t worry. You’ll move on.’
        ‘I’m fine. I’m fine. You’re silly.’ He leaves the office. ‘Hey, Alba! Want to see this cool trick I was showing to Lyra? First you pick a card...’
…
        Lyra paces, levitating Helios’ file. ‘Where to start with you?’
        ‘What is that supposed to mean?’
        ‘There is just so much here for changelings to support. The odds of you cracking first is two-to-one. Razzly is next with seven-to-two.’
        ‘That is not entirely fair...’
        ‘To start with, you have a bizarre attraction to your sister Full Moon. You are riddled with insecurities. Krile has you whipped. You’re a mother’s boy. You quit the Iron Pony. You aren’t the best magic user. You’re a bit of a wimp. Need I go on?’
        ‘Wimp?’ Helios scoffs. ‘I destroyed a school!’
        ‘You were having a temper tantrum and lost control of your emotions.’
        ‘I put a pony in the hospital.’
        ‘One pony when there were potentially hundreds more you could have hurt too. You protected them. You tried protecting Storm Runner and failed.’
        ‘I could have killed him!’
        ‘Which is why you went to his bedside, sniveling and begging forgiveness. You just have to accept that you are too kind for your own good.’
        ‘Just because I am kind, it doesn’t make me weak.’
        Lyra sits at her desk. ‘If you are not as weak as you have shown, you have to ask yourself: when push comes to shove, could you do something unthinkable to save the day?’
        Helios stares back in shock, looking for an answer.
        Lyra picks up a new file. ‘I believe I still have a couple more appointments, so if you’ll kindly leave...’

        Alba trots around her room, picking out items to pack for her trip. She sets some books on her bed next to her saddlebag. There is a knock on her door.
        ‘Yeah? Who’s there?’
        Luna enters. ‘I was just wondering if you needed anything for your next trip.’
        Alba turns away. ‘I don’t need anything from you.’
        ‘I thought you would say that, but I got you something you might enjoy anyway.’ The queen sets a book on Alba’s bed. The cover features a young mare laying on her back with her legs apart. ‘I figure the book you got from Full Moon is getting old by now...’
        ‘MOM! What the hell!’ Alba closes her eyes and holds back more screaming. ‘This is so embarrassing.’
        ‘You are lucky to have an easy source of this material. When I first needed it, it was nine hundred years before it was readily available. Believe me, I needed it a lot until your father came around. No pun intended.’
        Alba cringes. ‘That is so wrong...’
        Luna sits on the bed. ‘Alba, you know how old I am. I was without a serious relationship from the time Discord was sealed until I married your father. He, Twilight and their friends were already interjecting themselves into my timeline a lot already. It could have been disastrous if he interjected further. … Pun intended that time.’
        Alba grimaces. ‘Mom, that is so… Wait. Are you saying dad and Twilight visited you with time travel?’
        Luna nods. ‘Your father, Twilight, Applejack and even Pinkie were all instrumental in helping the Republic turn out the way it has.’
        ‘How involved were they?’
        Her mother thinks. ‘Twilight helped write the constitution, though I think most of her contribution was reciting it by rote. We had to convince her an amendment decreeing all sandwiches to be cut diagonally was a bit much.’ 
        Alba laughs. ‘That’s funny. What else did they do?’
        Luna sighs. ‘Applejack helped with some farming techniques during a major crop failure. Rainbow Dash trained our early air force. I don’t think there has been a single formal event until recently where I didn’t wear a Rarity-designed dress.’
        ‘That is amazing! Why didn’t I know this before?’
        ‘Do you know the panic it would cause if everypony knew history was being shaped by time travelers?’
        Alba groans. ‘That is the problem. You keep all these secrets from the population. It wouldn’t hurt to know these things.’
        ‘The knowledge that there are time travelers whizzing about solving every problem would make everypony complacent and make them expect that somepony else will come along and fix everything for them. Why bother solving your crisis if somepony from the future will do it for you?’
        ‘Wouldn’t hurt with the stars going out...’
        ‘You finally saw that, didn’t you?’
        Alba sits by her mom. ‘Discord wouldn’t let us free until I did. Why didn’t you tell us? You must have known for a long time. I’ve seen the records in the Crystal Empire’s library.’
        ‘Tell you the universe might be ending? Do you know how much of a panic that would cause?’
        ‘It would get everypony looking for a way to stop it.’
        Luna puts a foreleg around her daughter. ‘I’ve known about the stars going out since before we sealed Discord. I have looked into every possible way to reverse it. I’ve consulted with your father and The Doctor for centuries. We have tried everything we could think of to fix it, but it keeps happening.’ She frowns. ‘Keeps happening faster and faster. We are up to losing a star a week now. I don’t know how long we have left.’
        ‘It makes all this griffin and changeling nonsense seem rather pointless, doesn’t it?’
        ‘Maybe a little, but it gets you out of the castle. And you found your cousins. I was quite shocked to learn I still had nieces.’
        ‘Corona is really nice, and Sunset reads everything in front of her. I’m sure the three of us will find a solution and save the universe!’
        Luna laughs and hugs her daughter. ‘I know you will. You’re definitely destined for something amazing.’
        Alba smiles and returns the hug.

        The Elements and their family gather at the train station. Krile gives Helios a big kiss. Shaun waits on the train, eating a large bowl of pineapple for breakfast. Sunset lectures her sister and keeps trying to put books in her saddlebag. Apple Pie says his goodbye to his mother then carries Rainbow onto the train. The pegasus is still sad about her friend leaving the journey. She perks up a bit when Razzly gives her a freshly-baked churro. Alba gives her father a hug before joining the others. James and Luna watch with Pinkie as their children take their seats on the train.
        ‘Excuse me,’ a pony mutters, trying to slip past.
        ‘No surprises this time?’ James asks.
        Octavia looks back. ‘Don’t worry. I arranged for something special.’ She smirks. ‘Taking a page out of your daughter’s playbook. Everything will be out in the open soon enough.’
        Luna groans and rolls her eyes. ‘Great. Just wait until Rainbow finds out.’
        ‘Find out what?’ Pinkie asks.
        James laughs nervously. ‘Well, when a drunk, ninja assassin...’ he begins.
        Octavia laughs to herself and boards the train. The Elements sit around the car, trying to avoid each other after having to face their secrets the previous day. The assassin sighs and heads to the back of the car. ‘Hope you all brought plenty to do. It is a long ride to Los Arion.’
        Everypony mumbles an acknowledgement. Alba even raises her book up to show it. A smaller book falls out of the one she was showing off. The princess turns bright red as she quickly snatches the book back and shoves it in her bag.
        ‘That is for science!’ Alba shouts.
        Helios starts laughing at his sister. Shaun covers a slight beak bleed as thoughts form in his head. Apple Pie holds his head and grumbles. Trixie becomes flustered when Razzly asks what the book was. Rainbow putts her cloud over.
        ‘You know. I like science too,’ the older sister says.
        Alba balls up and tries focusing on her real book. Corona comforts her cousin while trying not to snicker. Octavia laughs to herself again, pulls her hood down and relaxes.

> Synth Tech LIVE!
> --------------------------------------------------------------------------

        Shaun leads the Elements through a wide alley. He keeps looking down at his mobile then trying to determine his position. Alba and Corona glare at the confused griffin. The others groan at yet another stop. Only Rainbow seems relaxed as she sleeps on a cloud. Apple Pie gets some comfort as his sister’s cloud hovers over him.
        ‘I told you I should have led the party,’ Corona huffs.
        ‘I thought you said you had this,’ Alba joins.
        Shaun taps his mobile. ‘This should be right. My map program has never been wrong before.’
        Octavia glances over at the griffin. ‘Are you using Pear Maps?’
        ‘I might be.’
        ‘Because it says our final destination is in the middle of the ocean.’
        ‘Why they hell are you using a Pear product!’ Alba yells.
        ‘Can’t you use Sorbet like somepony sane?’ Corona hisses. ‘You might as well be leading us into a trap.’
        There are loud clangs as four griffins carrying firearms land on fire escapes, surrounding the party. Another armed griffin lands in front of the Elements, aiming his weapon at them.
        ‘You dirty...’ Corona growls at Shaun.
        ‘It wasn’t me! I swear!’ the prince defends.
        ‘You’re coming with us,’ the lead attacker orders. ‘If you resist, you will be shot.’
        Alba, Helios and the unicorns charge spells on their horns. Razzly hides under Trixie. Apple Pie gets on guard, the stone street rippling around his hooves. Octavia calmly looks around and smirks.
        ‘Stand down,’ the assassin states. ‘We have backup.’
        There is a thump as one of the griffins is pinned to a wall. A pony in a white, hooded robe like Octavia’s holds the griffin up before dropping him. A white horn and muzzle can be seen sticking out of the hood.
        ‘Sweetie Belle?’ Apple Bloom wonders.
        The hooded pony shakes its head and leaps at the nearest griffin. The pony deftly dodges the griffin’s bullets and slams into the target, impaling the griffin with hidden blades. The pony leaps off the wall and sails over the Elements. The griffins fire at their attacker. The hooded pony charges a spell on its horn and extends its hidden blades. Electricity travels from the unicorn’s horn to the blades and arcs out to the remaining griffins on the fire escapes. The griffin on the ground keeps firing at the attacker as it falls towards him. The hooded unicorn spins around the shots and lands on the griffin’s back, balancing on its front hooves, hidden blades out before flipping off its prey.
        Octavia smiles happily and trots forward. ‘About time you show up.’
        The hooded unicorn turns and grins. ‘Me? I’m not the one lost in the middle of the city.’
        Alba and Corona glare at Shaun. The griffin backs away into Helios.
        ‘Well, we wouldn’t be lost if you showed up to meet us at the train station like we had planned,’ Octavia counters.
        The new unicorn laughs sheepishly. ‘Sorry about that. There was a record shop selling some of your original vinyls, and I just had to snatch them all up.’ He looks at Corona. ‘Go easy on him, beautiful. It wasn’t his fault you were ambushed. They had as hard a time finding you as I did.’
        Corona growls at Shaun, ‘You’re safe. For now.’
        ‘Um, Octavia. Who is your friend?’ Helios asks.
        Octavia smiles and stands by the new pony. ‘He’s somepony I hope you will all get along with. I’d like you to meet’ -- she pulls off the unicorn’s hood to reveal a white unicorn with an electric blue mane and wearing sunglasses matching hers -- ‘my son, Technis.’
        Technis’ grin grows, and he waves to everypony. ‘How’s it going? Great to finally meet all y’all,’ -- he turns to Corona again -- ‘Especially you, beautiful.’
        Corona blushes. ‘Right. Uh, hello.’
        ‘Good to meet you,’ Alba adds.
        ‘Yeah. Hey,’ Helios says.
        The others mumble greetings. Trixie analyzes Technis.
        ‘Come on. You can do better,’ Octavia snorts. ‘I would have thought you’d be happy to finally meet your long lost brother.’
        ‘WHAT!’ Alba, Helios and Apple Pie shout. Rainbow yawns and starts stretching.
        ‘Wait. Did you say he is your son?’ Apple Pie asks.
        ‘And how the hell is he our brother?’ Helios gapes.
        ‘Well, you see… When a stallion and a mare...’ Alba begins, making hoof gestures to go with the explanation.
        ‘I DO NOT want to hear how foals are made from my little sister,’ Helios shouts.
        Octavia sighs. ‘It was all my fault. I came back from a mission depressed. I got myself really drunk and forced myself on your father. With your father really hating me for that desperate act, that gave me plenty of time to start raising Technis.’
        Technis puts a foreleg around his mother. ‘And a fine job you did of that too.’
        ‘Yes. Raising your foal to be a murderer,’ Helios scoffs. ‘Real mother of the year material.’
        ‘Hey,’ the white unicorn snaps. He pulls back his robe to reveal a barred eighth note with red and blue wave functions superimposed over it. ‘Check the mark. I’m a musician. Helping my mom’s order is just my side job between shows.’
        Rainbow yawns again and sits up. ‘Are we at the hotel yet? I’m tired.’
        ‘Rainbow, we’re in the middle of something right now,’ her older brother replies.
        The young mare looks around. Technis waves at his older sister. Rainbow springs up and gasps. She flies over to the new pony and starts nuzzling him.
        ‘I love you so much!’ Rainbow squeals. ‘I am your biggest fan. I have all your albums memorized. You are the coolest pony ever!’ She leans up to Technis’ ear. ‘I would let you do everything to me.’
        Technis laughs and backs away. ‘Glad to know one of my siblings is a fan.’
        ‘You know him?’ Apple Pie asks.
        ‘Uh, duh,’ his sister replies. She turns around and starts waving her tail in Technis’ face. ‘He is Synth Tech, only the greatest musician to ever live.’ She looks back. ‘And you can start any time now.’
        ‘Thanks for the offer but as we were explaining, I am your brother.’ Technis slips around his sister. ‘Besides, when I am ready, I will give myself to a special lady.’ He slides up to Corona. ‘Hey, special lady.’
        Corona blushes redder than in her mane. She squeaks and tries looking for an out.
        Rainbow frowns. ‘Ah! Come on. Low hanging fruit here. Just one go.’
        ‘He’s your brother!’ Apple Pie and Helios yell.
        The pegasus blinks as if confused. ‘What are you trying to get at here?’
        Apple Pie marches over and grabs his sister around the neck. ‘Looks like somepony needs a bit of a talking to...’ he grumbles, dragging her away.
        ‘That seems like a good idea,’ Trixie agrees. ‘It appears we have a lot to figure out. The least of which is where our hotel is.’
        ‘Don’t worry. We’ll have somepony else lead the way this time,’ Helios huffs.
        ‘I got it!’ Razzly speaks up, levitating her mobile. ‘Grandpa Blackberry always gives us the latest models.’ She trots off with Trixie and looks back at her friends. ‘Plus, it gives you time to get to know your brother.’
        The other ponies mumble to themselves as they trot away. Technis gets to know his newfound siblings. He notices Corona watching him and shakes his hips a bit. The mare freezes as she watches him.
        ‘Corona, hurry up!’ Trixie calls.
        ‘I’m coming!’ the young mare shouts as she catches up.
        ‘I really hope you don’t mean like Rainbow,’ Alba teases.
        Corona growls at her cousin and silently follows along.

        Corona stands on a balcony overlooking Los Arion. Even at night, the city buzzes with activity. The mare takes a deep breath as she watches ponies passing below. A pony is heard approaching, causing Corona to go on guard.
        ‘Nice night, ain’t it?’ Technis asks.
        ‘Oh. It is only you,’ Corona huffs. ‘But yes, it is.’
        The white unicorn stands beside the amber one. ‘I can’t think of anypony to better spend it with too.’
        Corona rolls her eyes. ‘Do lines like that really work?’
        ‘I don’t know. You’re the first mare I’ve tried them on.’
        The mare looks at the smiling stallion. She snorts, rolls her eyes again and looks away.
        ‘Ah. Come on,’ Technis moans. ‘Do you know how many mares would love me to say that?’ He shudders. ‘Given the my and some of my fans’ ages, that is a really creepy prospect.’
        ‘Given your sister’s reaction to you, I don’t envy your position.’
        ‘Heh, heh. Hey, speaking of family, how cool is it to finally know your family? I was worried I’d be alone my whole life.’
        ‘Knowing my cousins is pretty nice...’
        Technis bumps his shoulder against Corona’s. ‘You’re telling me, cuz.’
        ‘I don’t think being them your half-siblings and my cousins makes us cousins as well.’
        ‘Phew!’ Technis breathes. ‘Then what I am feeling for you isn’t as weird as it would seem.’
        Corona frowns and looks away, her cheeks blushing slightly. ‘Why do you keep talking like that?’
        ‘Can’t I call you beautiful? Not to mention, you are pretty, smart and determined. I think that makes you a very attractive mare.’ He smiles. ‘I’ve seen the way you look at me. You think the same way, except replace mare with stallion.’
        ‘I… I do not think about such things,’ Corona denies, blushing redder.
        ‘Why not? It doesn’t hurt.’ He leans close. ‘Just give in to your feelings.’
        ‘I… I...’ She backs away. ‘I can’t. I… don’t know how...’
        ‘Don’t know how? That’s silly.’
        ‘I’ve been on the run for so long. I never thought I would stop long enough to meet anypony. I had resigned myself to being forever alone. I just… I just didn’t expect…’ She takes a deep breath. ‘I like you, okay? I’m just not ready to like you, if that makes sense.’
        Technis stares at Corona in silence. ‘Ready yet?’
        Corona laughs. ‘I don’t think it works like that.’
        ‘I’m here for you whenever you’re ready. … Ready yet?’
        ‘Technis...’
        Technis laughs. ‘Take it from somepony else who thought he’d have to lock away his emotions, it feels good to be wrong. It feels really good.’ He turns Corona to face him. ‘I could learn to love this feeling.’
        ‘I might be able to love this feeling too...’
        Technis grins. Corona smiles. A shadow passes over them.
        ‘Now, kiss.’
        The unicorns look up to see Rainbow floating on a cloud above them. Corona screams and jumps back.
        ‘Not funny, Rainbow!’ the amber unicorn shouts.
        ‘Ah, come on,’ the pegasus pouts. ‘I totally ship you two.’
        Technis chuckles. ‘That’s a good endorsement.’
        ‘I’m going to bed,’ Corona grumbles.
        Corona storms off to her room.
        Rainbow lowers herself to beside her brother. ‘Mares. Am I right?’
        ‘Thanks for the help, Rainbow. … You’re not going to do things to me, are you?’
        ‘Nah. You’re super sexy and all, but Apple convinced me that it would be reaaaaally bad if we slept together.’ She pauses. ‘Wanna see the lumps from him convincing me?’
        ‘Our father is okay with him treating you like that?’
        Rainbow shrugs. She leans down. ‘I’d chase after her if I were you. … Unless you want to come to my room instead.’
        ‘Rainbow!’ Apple Pie glares at his sister from a doorway.
        Rainbow snickers. ‘Hee hee. Looks like I gotta go to bed.’ She slaps Technis on the butt. ‘Go get her, tiger.’
        Rainbow flies off while her older brother starts scolding her again. Technis laughs to himself as he heads to his room.
        ‘This family is the best.’

        Apple Bloom and Razzly trade items off their breakfast plates. Helios and Apple Pie try to stop Rainbow from drinking maple syrup straight from the bottle. Corona has a map of Los Arion out to show Trixie, Octavia, Technis and Alba known changeling hotspots.
        ‘When we traveled through here, we got help from the changelings in the city,’ Corona explains. ‘They knew all the best places to hide. Unfortunately, we had to leave when the griffins finally started closing in on us.’
        ‘Not my fault!’ Shaun defends from across the table.
        Octavia studies the map. ‘Looks like they are spread around the city. Might take some time to find any who are allied with Chrysalis.’
        Shaun slides over to the map. ‘Look for ones with crystal jewelry. Those were the ones allied with Chrysalis in the Empire.’
        ‘Why crystals?’ Alba asks.
        ‘Probably a dig at her disappearance after the invasion,’ Trixie guesses. ‘She is taunting us.’
        ‘Whatever it is, it will make it easy for us to find them,’ Octavia surmises. ‘Technis and I can find a changeling and extract the information. Just give us ten minutes.’
        Technis turns to Corona. ‘It usually takes me much longer. Believe me.’
        The amber unicorn blushes redder than in her mane. Alba snickers at her cousin.
        ‘That doesn’t really sound like the most diplomatic idea,’ Trixie argues.
        ‘I agree,’ Alba adds, nodding. ‘Corona can show me where to go and Technis can escort us. I’ll speak with the changelings personally.’
        Helios lets go of the syrup bottle, allowing Rainbow to start chugging, as he turns to face his younger sister. ‘Are you crazy? Don’t you know how dangerous that is?’
        ‘This mission was my idea,’ his sister argues. ‘I volunteered us for it because our presence would show that we are serious about allying with Chrysalis. I want to be involved in every step of the negotiations, from first contact to the final decision.’
        ‘I don’t like it… You could get hurt.’
        ‘Don’t worry. I’ll have my big brother with me.’
        ‘Damn right, I am going with you!’
        ‘I meant Technis. We might need to save you in case I really do get into trouble.’
        Helios huffs and sits back. ‘Great. Just waiting until there is something only I can do. That will be fun.’
        Rainbow drops the syrup bottle from her mouth and takes a deep breath. ‘I recommend napping on a cloud until then. That always works for me.’
        Helios groans and returns to his breakfast. His big sister gives him a very sticky pat on the back.

        Alba and Corona trot through a back alley of Los Arion. The cousins carefully take in everything they see. A pair of ponies stand by the back entrance to a club, chatting. A glint of jewelry can be seen. Alba looks up at Corona, nods and approaches the other ponies.
        ‘Excuse me. Can you answer a question for me?’ Alba asks.
        ‘What do you want, kid?’ a dark green pegasus replies. 
        ‘First, I like your necklace,’ the princess compliments. ‘Second, can you tell us where we can find Queen Chrysalis?’
        ‘What are you talking about?’ a yellow earth pony growls.
        ‘You are changelings, aren’t you? I want you to take me to your leader.’ She laughs. ‘I always wanted to say that.’
        The ponies flank Alba. ‘Kid, you better be joking. Accusing a pony of being a changeling is risky business.’
        Alba rolls her eyes. ‘Have you seen the wings and horn? I am Princess Alba. I am trying to find your queen so we can negotiate an alliance.’
        ‘Our queen is in Canterlot.’
        Alba sighs. ‘Please drop the act. It is getting childish.’
        The pegasus nods at the earth pony. He goes inside the club and returns with several more ponies, all wearing some sort of crystal item.
        ‘Ya know, telling us you’re the princess isn’t that good of an idea,’ the pegasus says. ‘That might make you a valuable bargaining chip, especially if we really are changelings.’
        Corona is shoved into her cousin. The unicorn turns and growls at her assaulter. The cousins are surrounded.
        ‘You really don’t think I would have come without back up?’ Alba scoffs. ‘I’d suggest telling us what we want before it gets messy.’
        ‘You and what army?’
        ‘Well, I would say my mom’s, but...’
        All the other ponies collapse and a blade appears under the pegasus’ throat. Each of the fallen ponies revert to being changelings.
        ‘Just tell the princess what she wants,’ Technis hisses into his captive’s ear.
        The pegasus looks around nervously. Corona kicks the pony who shoved her earlier. The pegasus drops his disguise, reverting to changeling form.
        ‘Fine,’ the changeling sighs. ‘I just hope you know what you are getting into. Our queen will not be coerced so easily.’
        Technis eases off as the changeling starts telling Alba everything he knows. Corona watches her cousin before looking at Technis. The stallion smiles and blows a kiss at the young mare. She blushes and looks away. Above the group, Octavia, Helios and Shaun relax their guard and wait for Alba to finish her interrogation.

> It is Good to be the Queen
> --------------------------------------------------------------------------

        The Elements trudge through a jungle. Trixie and Alba lead the way, looking for any signs of Chrysalis’ hive. Helios passes around a canteen, which Shaun takes. At the back of the party, Technis hums one of his songs with Rainbow singing along with him. Octavia and Apple Pie keep watch for anything out of the ordinary.
        ‘You know the first thing I am going to ask when we find Chrysalis?’ Trixie grumbles.
        ‘If she’ll ally with us?’ Alba replies.
        ‘For a large glass of water?’ Helios pants.
        ‘Churros!’ Rainbow requests.
        ‘Actually, I was going to ask how she got all the way out here from the Crystal Empire without being noticed.’
        ‘More importantly, how have none of our world-monitoring satellites never picked up this enclave before?’ Alba adds.
        ‘Another good question would be where the nearest shower is,’ Corona groans. She pokes Alba. ‘Also, couldn’t you have commandeered an airship back in Los Arion? Use your magical pony princess powers?’
        ‘That would have been an abuse of my station as...’
        The trees rustle all around the party. Everypony gets tense and looks for changelings. Technis and Octavia pull their hoods over their heads. Razzly nervously pulls on Trixie’s leg.
        ‘Not now, Razzly,’ the mare hisses. ‘You can take care of yourself.’
        Shaun lifts Razzly to his back. ‘You can hide with me. Oh, and don’t worry about getting scared. I’m due to begin molting soon.’
        Razzly snorts angrily as she buries her face in the griffin’s feathers.
        ‘I’m not detecting anypony with my magic,’ Alba says.
        ‘Let me try something,’ Apple Pie offers. He taps the ground a bit and senses the vibrations that return. ‘I am picking up five forms in front of me.’
        Trixie, Alba, Corona, Helios and Apple Bloom turn around and stare back at the stallion incredulously. 
        ‘I meant besides you.’
        Technis swiftly turns towards the bushes and raises an electric shield. Octavia follows her son’s lead and leaps with her blades out.
        ‘Halt your attack!’
        Not knowing where the command came from, Technis catches his mother with his magic. Around the ponies, changelings come out of the jungle. A dozen surround the ponies on the ground, even more in the trees. Each wear crystal ornaments. A tall, queenly changeling with long red hair and a dark blue chitin wearing a small, pink crystal tiara approaches Alba and Helios. Her long fangs glint in the light coming dimly through the canopy.
        ‘What do you think you are doing out here?’ the changeling demands.
        Alba pushes her brother out of the way. ‘We are looking for an alliance, Chrysalis.’
        The changeling laughs, revealing more fangs. ‘You think I am Chrysalis?’
        ‘Aren’t you a queen?’
        ‘I am Delta, emissary of Chrysalis. We have been expecting you. I was sent to retrieve you and bring you to her. Follow me, and you will not be harmed.’
        Delta turns and trots away. Octavia and Technis reluctantly stand down. The changelings continue to surround the ponies as Delta leads them deeper into the jungle.
        ‘We assume you are tired,’ Delta states. ‘We brought plenty of water for you until we reach our city.’
        The changelings get out water pouches and give them to the ponies. Razzly squeaks and shakes her head when a changeling gets close to her. The others take the offered drinks.
        ‘If you are not a queen, how come you look like one?’ Alba asks, stepping beside Delta.
        ‘I was born to another hive with the intention of becoming a queen one day,’ she explains. ‘An ursa major attacked my hive, and I was the only survivor when Chrysalis found me. She took me in and raised me to be her heir instead.’
        ‘That is very nice of her.’
        ‘Indeed. She is like a sister to me.’
        ‘I feel the same way about Alba,’ Helios states.
        Everypony laughs as Alba growls at her brother.
        Trixie joins the royals. ‘If Chrysalis knew of our intentions to see her, why didn’t she send you to meet us sooner?’
        ‘We do not trust outsiders,’ Delta answers. ‘Nopony outside of our hive knows where we live. We wish to keep it that way. Do not worry. We are almost there.’
        Delta quietly leads the ponies a short while longer before they reach a clearing with a small city surrounding a castle. The buildings look organic, like they were grown, but they have many crystal elements built into them. The castle also has entire wings that appear to have been built from crystal. Most of the changelings surrounding the party return to their homes while Delta and a few escorts continue forward.
        ‘This is not what I expected a changeling hive to look like,’ Alba comments as she follows Delta through the city.
        ‘What were you expecting?’ Delta asks.
        ‘I don’t know,’ the princess replies. ‘I just didn’t think everything would be so crystally.’
        ‘It is almost like being back in the Crystal Empire,’ Shaun adds. He taps Razzly. ‘Come on. Check it out.’
        Razzly peeks out from hiding her face. Some passing changelings smile and wave at her. She screams and hides again. Trixie groans at the filly’s behavior.
        Delta smiles. ‘I think Chrysalis can best explain why that is.’
        The changeling laughs smugly, leaving the ponies to wonder. They reach the castle. Guards in crystal armor get the doors for them. Delta guides the guests to a large reception hall. A changeling queen with long cerulean hair and green chitin wearing a large crystal crown sits on a throne. She grin widely when she sees the approaching group.
        ‘Welcome to my hive,’ Chrysalis greets, rising. ‘I trust you had a safe journey.’ She pauses and points at Octavia and Technis. ‘You, assassins. Please stop your plotting. You are perfectly safe here. Now. Let me have a look at you.’
        Chrysalis circles the party. Octavia, Trixie and Helios watch the queen warily.
        ‘Queen Chrysa...’ Alba begins.
        ‘Shh!’ Chrysalis finishes her inspection. She motions Alba and Helios forward. ‘You two. Here.’ She levitates Razzly from Shaun’s back and points to him. ‘You too, prince.’ Once the visitors are lined up, the queen bows. ‘It is my honor to host you. I hope you will enjoy my city during your stay,’ -- she stands and smirks -- ‘which may last a very long time.’
        ‘What does that mean?’ Helios asks.
        ‘Probably because our negotiations will take a while,’ Alba replies.
        Chrysalis laughs. ‘Hardly! I don’t want anything to do with your petty pony problems. My hive is safe. If war were declared, then your side will mop up those pathetic griffins. Why should I risk my citizens in your mess?’
        ‘Wow. Ouch,’ Shaun groans.
        ‘What?! You’re not even going to hear us out!’ Alba shouts.
        ‘Oh, I will,’ Chrysalis replies, ‘but in my own time. Now, if you’ll excuse me, I have business to attend to. We have arranged for accommodations here in the castle. We can continue exchanging barbs at dinner. Toodles.’
        Alba growls and takes a step forward, but a changeling darts between her and his queen. Delta looks at Chrysalis, who is reclining on her throne, sighs and shows the ponies away. Alba gives her host one last growl while following Delta. Chrysalis smiles and waves as a tray of fruit is brought to her.

        The ponies, minus Razzly, are lead to a dining area. Chrysalis sits at a large table singing a song to herself. Delta rolls her eyes at her queen’s behaviour. The ponies take their seats around the table, and dishes are brought out.
        Chrysalis stops her singing and looks at her guests. ‘Let’s eat!’
        The dishes are revealed, and everypony starts eating.
        ‘That was some nice singing,’ Corona comments.
        Chrysalis smiles. ‘Thank you. I am quite lovely, aren’t I?’
        ‘I wouldn’t go that...’
        ‘I’m a regular pop idol. I should go on tour.’ The queen laughs. ‘I would need a stage name though. What? Something like Empty Sun? Seems like something fitting.’
        Technis smiles. ‘Can’t wait to tour with you.’
        ‘Don’t encourage her,’ his mother snaps.
        Alba looks up from her meal. ‘Queen Chrysalis, I...’
        ‘I’m not going to discuss anything relating to an alliance right now,’ Chrysalis interrupts. ‘We will talk when I am in the mood to jest.’
        The princess snorts. ‘That is not what I was going to say. I was just going to thank you for having your hive refrain from trying to eat us since we got here.’
        Delta chokes on her food. Chrysalis starts laughing. The ponies look at their host, confused.
        ‘Why would we want to do that?’ the queen chuckles.
        ‘Well, you’re changelings,’ Alba replies, shocked. ‘Don’t you do that sort of thing?’
        Chrysalis sighs, annoyed. ‘My hive is above draining emotions from ponies as a food source. We have found a way to control that urge. I, myself, haven’t fed on another being since that wonderful invasion of the Crystal Empire.’
        ‘Wasn’t too wonderful for the crystal ponies...’ Helios grumbles.
        ‘I know. Queen Naiad went a little overboard, if not insane.’ Chrysalis snorts angrily. ‘No thought to preservation of the food source or of the city. Thankfully, I was able to capture important institutions before she could devastate them: the library, the farmlands,’ -- she smirks -- ‘the mines.’
        Alba nods matter-of-factly. ‘Protecting the library is a good way of proving we can reach common ground. When it comes time to negotiate a treaty...’
        Everypony groans, interrupting the princess.
        Shaun sets down a talonful of food. ‘So wait a second, I thought you needed to drain emotion to survive. How have you gone so long without feeding?’
        ‘The desire to drain emotion is a psychological one. We can live on many other foods,’ Chrysalis explains.
        ‘Though some of us still eat other creatures,’ Delta huffs.
        Chrysalis rolls her eyes. ‘Yeah, yeah. We all know you’re a vegetarian. How very noble of you.’ She turns back to the griffin. ‘The point is that we don’t need to drain emotion as long as we have our urges suppressed.’
        ‘And how do you do that?’ Helios asks.
        Chrysalis sits back and adjusts her crown. ‘Take a wild guess.’
        ‘Ooo! I think I know!’ Rainbow calls. ‘Sugar, spice and everything nice, but you accidentally added a secret ingredient: Chemical X! Thus, the Power-Chrys girls were formed! Using your awesome superpower, you fight crime and the forces governing your desire to drain love!’
        Everypony stares at the pegasus.
        ‘You’re an idiot,’ Chrysalis replies.
        ‘So, what is the real secret?’ Trixie asks. ‘Don’t tell me they are those tacky crystals. Those have been the devices of charlatans for centuries.’
        Chrysalis glares at the unicorn. ‘If it weren’t for these crystals making me nice, you would have my fangs in your neck right now.’
        ‘Magical crystals have been used for all sorts of things,’ Alba points out. ‘Most airships use a magical crystal for their hover and propulsion methods. Though I haven’t heard of one that can alter brain chemistry...’
        ‘My drones found these during our invasion. We were quite surprised that they dampened our desire to feed on the crystal ponies,’ Chrysalis explains. ‘We gathered a number of miners and crystal farmers and covertly relocated them and enough feed crystals back here to form our hive. After a few years, we had a sustainable crop and none of my hive had any more cravings to feed on emotions. We freed the ponies and lived here peacefully ever since.’
        ‘That explains the crystal ornaments whenever we encountered one of your changelings elsewhere,’ Shaun states. ‘Here I thought you just had horrible fashion sense.’
        ‘Can it be both?’ Corona suggests.
        ‘I don’t see why not.’
        Chrysalis growls at her guests. Delta covers a laugh.
        ‘Okay. So you won’t eat us,’ Alba sighs. ‘Then my next question has to be: how are you hiding here? We have all sorts of satellites that should detect you. Heck, I bet your whole hive is visible from orbit.’
        ‘My dear princess, we’re changelings,’ Chrysalis replies, recovering her composure. ‘We have been hiding for centuries. You don’t think we know how to keep unseen?’
        ‘Not to mention there are several spells they could use to hide from all manner of mechanical or magical detection,’ Helios adds.
        ‘Thank you, prince. I am glad we see eye to eye.’
        ‘No, I am just pointing out some facts my sister forgot. I’m making her look silly, not you look good.’
        ‘You’re an ass,’ Alba grumbles.
        ‘Actually, he’s a pony,’ Rainbow corrects. ‘I thought you knew that.’
        Everypony snickers at the joke.
        ‘You’re an idiot,’ Alba replies, glaring at her big sister.
        Everypony calms down and continues eating their meals.

        The next morning. Trixie fixes her cape around her neck and adjusts her hat. She heads to the door of her room and stops. She looks back at the bed. Razzly is trying to hide with her head under her pillow.
        ‘Razzly, you have to come out sooner or later,’ Trixie huffs.
        ‘I don’t wanna!’
        ‘It was rude of you to miss dinner last night and breakfast today. Chrysalis will think you are being rude if you don’t come out.’
        ‘You can’t make me!’
        Trixie takes a long, slow breath. ‘For somepony who has come so far with her fear, it is extremely childish of you to be this terrified of changelings.’ She turns away again. ‘Maybe we should have left you in Canterlot.’
        ‘Shut up!’
        ‘Well, I’ll be out seeing the city with everypony else. If you get the nerve to act like yourself, feel free to join us.’
        Trixie marches out of the room, leaving the filly on her bed. Razzly growls and throws her pillow at the door before levitating it back so she can continue hiding.

        Helios trots through the changeling town. Changelings go about their daily business. Most are out shopping or visiting friends. Some head out into the jungle to hunt. Several travel out to the Republic on a trail the ponies did not know about. Helios tries to ignore the attention he is getting from the changelings. As he passes an open-air food stall, he sees Shaun digging in.
        ‘This is so good,’ Shaun moans, munching a beakful of food. ‘You do not know how good some meat is after spending all that time with the ponies.’
        ‘Gee. Thanks for the high praise,’ Helios snorts.
        ‘No offence meant. Griffins just have different tastes than you ponies.’
        Helios snorts again and looks at the stall’s fare. ‘You have a lot of… interesting foods. I didn’t see any chickens or other animals around town for food, though.’
        The changeling chef grins. ‘I never said this was chicken.’
        ‘You could be eating an endangered species!’ the pony prince argues. ‘That is irresponsible!’
        ‘Bah! We know more about the forest than you do. Now, what are you having?’
        Helios grimaces. ‘I’m beginning to regret having breakfast more...’
        ‘Come on. Live a little,’ Shaun encourages.
        ‘Yeah. Don’t be a wuss,’ the changeling adds.
        ‘It isn’t all bad,’ another patron says.
        Helios looks and his jaw drops. Alba is sitting nearby with a small plate. She picks up a small item and eats it.
        ‘Alba! What the hell are you doing!’
        ‘Just having a little lunch. What does it look like?’
        ‘But you’re… you’re...’
        Alba frowns. ‘What? You don’t like seeing your little sister handle this thick and juicy meat? Getting its fluids all over her face.’ She wipes some grease from her cheek and licks her hoof clean. ‘Mmm. Tasty.’
        ‘Alba, that’s not…’ He shakes his head. ‘That is not what I am talking about… Well, it is, but not like… Ugh!’ He looks at Shaun. ‘Wings down!’
        Shaun snaps out of his daze, having been staring at Alba. He forces his wings to his side. ‘Sorry. I was, uh, distracted. We were talking about sports.’
        Alba scoffs and rolls her eyes. He looks at her brother. ‘You should be getting to know the changelings better. They are not as strange and off-putting as you seem to think.
        Helios growls. ‘I am not upset by changelings. I just don’t think that is a healthy habit you are developing.’
        ‘You didn’t mind when I ate all that meat with the griffins.’
        Shaun chokes on the drink he was sipping.
        Helios shakes his head. ‘One, I did not know that. Two, I did not need to know that. Three, I am so telling mom when we get home.’
        Alba groans and goes back to her meal. ‘Learn to live a little. Okay?’
        Helios moans. He looks at the vendor. ‘If you have any fruits or vegetables, I’ll take those.’
        The vendor turns back to work. ‘Coming up… sissy.’
        Helios growls at the insult. Shaun and Alba laugh.

        Apple Pie wanders around the crystal mines. The miners trade their recently-dug materials with some jewelers before returning to work. The pony watches the transactions for a bit.
        ‘Have an interest in the crystals?’ a changeling foreman asks.
        ‘Maybe a bit,’ the pony replies. ‘I was watching the mines more.’ He taps a hoof on the ground. ‘I have a bit of earth manipulating power and can sense your workers below.’
        ‘Like our operations?’
        Apple nods. ‘Quite impressive.’
        ‘Thank you.’ The changeling smiles. ‘Several years ago, I travelled to the Republic to study rock farming under Cloudy Quartz. While there, I helped her daughters Maud and Limestone rebuild a farm in the Ponyville region. It was tough work, but it was worth it to see the farm come back to life. That really motivated me to give it my all to help both changelings and ponies.’
        Apple stares at the changeling before grabbing him in a hug. ‘Thank you. Thank you very much.’
        ‘Uh… No problem.’
        ‘Apple! Where are ya!’
        Apple Pie backs away and turns towards a passing Apple Bloom.
        ‘Over here, AB!’ he replies, galloping to her side.
        ‘Yer sister told me ‘bout a good place t’ go fer lunch. Let’s go.’
        ‘Right away.’
        Apple Bloom looks at the mine. ‘Rocks, eh? Must be yer Pie blood showing itself.’
        Apple Pie laughs. ‘Might be.’
        The ponies trot off, laughing together.
        The changeling foreman thinks. ‘Pie? Wait a moment...’

        Technis and Corona follow the sound of laughter towards a field. They see Rainbow floating on a cloud before he arrives.
        ‘Left back leg green!’ Rainbow calls.
        A group of young changelings rush about under the pegasus.
        Technis steps forward. ‘Playing a game of Twister?’
        Rainbow laughs. ‘Sorta. More like Twister with a twist. See.’
        The unicorns look at the changelings. Their various body parts are many different colors. The unicorns laugh.
        ‘Looks like you are having a bit of fun.’
        Rainbow nods. ‘Polka dot tail!’
        The changelings do their best to transform in time. The ponies laugh as they watch the game.

        In her room, Razzly lays on her bed and stares out the window. Her stomach growls. The filly moans and gets up. She goes to the door and opens it. A pale yellow earth pony with a sky blue mane greets her.
        ‘Hello.’
        ‘WAH!’
        ‘Sorry.’
        Razzly collects herself. ‘It is okay. I wasn’t expecting a...’ Her stomach growls again.
        The earth pony snickers. ‘I think I know what you want. I’ll be right back.’
        The pony leaves Razzly to get some food. The filly breathes a sigh of relief and goes back to her bed.
-------------------------------
        Razzly sits on the bed and eats while the other pony sits with her.
        ‘This is very good,’ the filly comments.
        ‘I glad you like it.’
        ‘Thank you for getting this for me. I was worried I might run into a changeling out there.’
        ‘Who said you didn’t?’
        Razzly drops her food mid bite. ‘What?’
        The changeling drops her disguise. The filly stares in shock and scoots back, trying not to scream.
        ‘I can return my disguise if it will make you feels less scared.’
        ‘I-I-I’m not scared.’
        ‘If you were more scared, I’d have to wash the sheets. … I might have to do that anyway.’
        Razzly covers herself. ‘That’s not true! I’m not scared.’
        ‘I’m sorry for scaring you. I’ll go.’
        ‘I’m not scared! I am brave!’
        ‘You are shaking. It was mean of me to scare a little filly like you.’
        ‘I am the Clever and Spectacular Razzly! I am not afraid of any changeling!’
        The changeling sits back and smirks. ‘Good. I’m glad I’m not scaring you.’
        ‘Damn right you’re not scaring me.’ Razzly takes her plate back. ‘Not scared...’
        ‘Sorry for pushing you like I did.’
        ‘Hmpf. I was never scared to begin with.’ She eats as confidently as she can. ‘... Thanks.’
        The two continue their meal together, Razzly trying to open up more with the changeling.

        Chrysalis directs her servants as they set up for dinner. Delta trots into the dining hall with Razzly and her new changeling friend. The new changeling bows and leaves Delta and Razzly.
        ‘Nice to see you made a friend,’ Chrysalis notes.
        Razzly turns her nose up. ‘The Clever and Spectacular Razzly is not scared of changelings.’
        ‘And your legs barely shook when you said that. I’m so proud of you.’
        The filly snorts and takes her seat. The group of Alba, Helios, Shaun and Trixie return.
        ‘Have a good day?’ Chrysalis asks.
        ‘Very good,’ Trixie replies.
        ‘You’ll have to tell me all about it.’
        ‘Well...’ Alba begins.
        ‘We’re back!’ Rainbow calls, flying into the hall.
        Her brothers, Corona, Apple Bloom and Octavia follow her.
        ‘I have never seen anything as weird as that game,’ Octavia mutters.
        Apple Pie laughs. ‘That’s our Rainbow.’
        Chrysalis motions to the table. ‘Please. Sit. Alba was just telling us about her day.’
        The ponies take their seats.
        ‘As I was about to say,’ Alba begins again, ‘I noticed that changeling culture was very similar to our own. This sort of common ground is what would make a great backbone of our future treaty.’
        Chrysalis groans. ‘Always with your stupid treaty. That is not going to happen. We are not going to involve ourselves in your petty affairs.’
        ‘But our cultures are so similar. We have a common enemy in Mordred. You can join us and prove that changelings are not the beasts everypony thinks they are.’
        ‘I appreciate your persistence, but you have to accept the reality of your situation.’
        ‘But...’
        Helios puts a hoof on Alba’s shoulder. ‘Give it up, Alba.’ He gives Chrysalis a sideways glance. ‘She isn’t worth your time.’
        Alba frowns and looks at her plate. She silently starts eating. Helios goes to his meal too. Chrysalis glares at the prince and digs in as well.

        Helios lays on his bed and reads. He sighs as he tries not to think about his captivity in Chrysalis’ hive. There is a knock at his door. He sets down his book to answer. A changeling stands outside.
        ‘Yes?’
        The changeling bows. ‘There is a guest to see you.’
        ‘A guest?’ The prince is incredulous. ‘For me?’
        ‘A pony entered our realm not too long ago. She identified herself as a friend of yours. Chrysalis sent her to you.’
        ‘Who..?’
        ‘Helo!’ a sky blue unicorn with a white-golden mane cheers as she bounds into the room.
        ‘Krile!?’ Helios replies, surprised.
        The changeling leaves the room, closing the door on the ponies.
        The young mare cuddles her coltfriend. ‘I am so glad I found you. I was scared what they would do to me.’
        ‘What are you doing here?’
        Krile looks away, ashamed. ‘I was worried after you left. I followed you to Los Arion and had to retrace your route from there. I just missed you so much.’
        Helios sighs. ‘It is okay. You’re safe. Chrysalis isn’t as evil as she seems.’
        ‘Good.’ Krile grins, a fang slipping out for a second. ‘Helo, I love you.’
        ‘I love you too, Krile.’
        ‘No, Helo...’ The unicorn rubs her body against the stallion under her. ‘I love you.’
        Helios jumps slightly. ‘Oh.’
        Krile leans down and kisses her coltfriend.

        The ponies gather in the dining room for breakfast. Everypony talks about their plans for the day. Alba stares at her plate, grumbling to herself. Helios trots into the hall with a big grin on his face.
        ‘Good morning everypony,’ the prince greets.
        ‘You’re in a good mood,’ Corona notes. ‘Stop it before you infect us all.’
        ‘Of course, I’m in a good mood. It is a great day to be alive.’
        Apple Bloom gives Helios a confused look. ‘Why are ya actin’ like AP after we… OH!’
        Helios looks around. ‘Hey, have you seen Krile?’
        ‘Back in Canterlot,’ Alba replies. ‘Why?’
        ‘Well, she wasn’t in our room when I got up. I thought she was here already.’
        ‘Why would she be here?’
        ‘Because she followed us.’
        ‘Krile isn’t here. I would sense her magic.’
        ‘But then who..?’
        Chrysalis yawns and stretches as she enters the hall. ‘Good morning. So good to see you all,’ -- she brushes against Helios -- ‘and see you again.’
        Helios tenses up. ‘What?’
        Alba facehoofs. Apple Pie copies his sister. Rainbow starts snickering at her younger brother. Corona shakes her head while Technis covers a laugh. Helios’ face goes pale when he realizes what and who he did.
        Chrysalis takes her seat. ‘Princess, while I commend your efforts, last night your brother convinced me to form an alliance with your Republic. It was a long and hard negotiation that took several hours and multiple sessions to complete, but in the end, when we were both drained and exhausted, we came to the same conclusion.’ She starts eating from the plate set in front of her. ‘I’ll give you the details after breakfast. I’m starved. He took a lot out of me’ -- she smirks -- ‘and vice versa.’
        ‘Please don’t say that in front of my sister,’ Helios whimpers.
        Alba takes a long, deep, calming breath. ‘Well, at least we got our treaty.’ She pats her brother on the back. ‘Good job, Helios. I knew you wouldn’t screw up. Though technically...’
        The prince whimpers again. Everypony goes back to eating. Shaun gives Helios a talons-up.
        ‘You know, prince,’ Chrysalis says, eating, ‘if you stick around longer, I wouldn’t mind another negotiation session later.’
        Helios faints.

> War Were Declared
> --------------------------------------------------------------------------

        The Element’s group trot through Canterlot Castle, towing a sleeping Rainbow on a cloud. A tall dark blue pegasus mare with long red hair and wearing a crystal necklace trots with them, looking at everything in awe. Corona has left to find her sister, and Octavia and Technis are reporting back to their school. The guards are on alert, but they are reluctant to report what is going on, even to Helios and Alba. Some of the guards even give Shaun dirty looks as he passes. The group finds King James and Lucas meeting in a hallway, discussing recent business.
        ‘Daddy!’ Alba cheers, galloping to her father. ‘I missed you!’ she coos, hugging his leg.
        James hugs his daughter. ‘I am glad you have returned. How was your mission?’
        ‘I was able to successfully negotiate an alliance with Chrysalis.’ She breaks the hug and jabs him in the side. ‘Also, did you know I had another older brother, dad?’ She jabs him again.
        James laughs and takes in the group. He looks at the new pegasus. ‘Were you sent by Chrysalis?’ The pegasus nods. ‘Well, no need for a disguise. You’re safe here.’
        The pegasus looks around. She takes a deep breath. Delta is briefly surrounded by green fire as she drops the illusion. Guards turn their weapons on her.
        ‘At ease,’ James commands. ‘She is a guest.’
        ‘She might not be needed if the queen’s meeting goes well,’ Lucas adds.
        Helios steps forward. ‘What does that mean? Where is mom?’
        ‘She is currently in a meeting,’ Lucas explains. ‘Emperor Mordred sent a special envoy to help bring an end to the brewing conflict. Your mother is meeting with him and Ambassador Gilda as we speak.’
        ‘The Emperor claims that everything is just a misunderstanding,’ James scoffs. ‘That is as likely as somepony blowing a hole in the castle without us knowing about it.’
        A loud explosion rocks the castle. Smoke billows from a gaping hole in one of the towers as debris falls into a courtyard. A dark blue flash precedes the arrival of Luna and Gilda to the hallway. Luna is shielding Gilda with her wings.
        Gilda pushes free. She paces, a roar building in the back of her throat. ‘What the hell! That bastard tried to kill me! I’m going to kill him!’ She lets loose her roar.
        ‘I think he did that to himself,’ Luna pants. She gallops to James and hugs him. ‘The envoy turned out to be a trap. He used the meeting to get close enough to attack us.’
        ‘And you blasted him?’ James asks.
        Luna shakes her head. ‘No. He hid explosives on his body and detonated them as soon as I was close.’ She backs away a couple steps and collapses, exhausted. ‘I barely got us out in time. I’m afraid to think of anypony else who was in the area who wasn’t lucky enough to teleport to safety.’
        Alba and Helios rush to their mother and comfort her. James sits with them. Razzly hides under Trixie. Rainbow still sleeps on a cloud.
        Apple Bloom grabs Apple Pie out of fear. ‘Th-this is insane.W-why would they do this?’ she stammers.
        Shaun puts a talon to his beak and thinks. ‘Mordred probably wanted the Republic distracted by the tragedy so he could...’ He looks up. ‘The air force! Has there been any movement from the Empire’s air force recently?’
        James and Luna look at Lucas. The unicorn starts digging through reports on his tablet. ‘Nothing coming through the military channels,’ he reports. ‘Wait. We’re getting a lot of reports coming in. The Empire’s embassies and consulates are sealing themselves off and driving out non-griffins. There are reports of soldiers taking up combat positions.’
        Shaun frowns. He turns to the royals. ‘Take me to the embassy.’
        ‘Yeah!’ Gilda agrees. ‘Me too! I want to get them back for trying to kill me. I’ll rip off their wings and shove them up their..!’
        ‘No,’ Shaun interrupts. ‘Mordred has been using my disappearance as a way of stirring up trouble between our nations. If they can see that I am fine and working with the Republic, then they should start deescalating their hostilities.’
        ‘Mordred doesn’t give a crap!’ Gilda roars. ‘He is probably out in front of a camera giving a big speech about how the ponies kidnapped you and killed you and how attacking Luna was a precautionary measure.’
        ‘And if I am seen alive and well, then his lies will start unraveling. If enough griffins believe me instead of him, then we can buy enough time to get him off the throne.’
        Gilda growls and looks away for a moment. She turns back and nods. ‘Then let me be the first to join you, future King Shaun.’
        Shaun steps back, chokes. ‘K-ki-.’ He laughs giddily. ‘I forgot about that part.’
        ‘One step at a time,’ James groans, standing. He goes to Shaun. ‘I’ll take you to the embassy. Defusing the conflict at our front door will be a good first step.’
        ‘Do you have to go?’ Luna asks. ‘Will you be safe?’
        James looks back and nods. ‘The area should be sealed off by now. Besides, do you think Octavia will just sit on the sidelines after an explosion at the castle?’
        James casts a spell and teleports himself and Shaun away.
        Luna huffs and stands. ‘Lucas, gather the generals and have them meet me in the war room. Trixie, take my children back to their rooms and make sure they stay safe.’ She marches away. ‘And Apple Pie...’
        ‘Yes, ma’am?’
        ‘Smack some sense into your sister to make sure she realizes the situation we’re in!’
…
        James and Shaun appear on a Canterlot street. Royal and Lunar Guards cordon off the streets surrounding a walled-off building. The walls surrounding and the windows of the building are covered in armed griffins. A corral of reporters try to get the best position to cover the event. James pushes forward to the Royal Guard command post. The commanding officer salutes the king.
        ‘What’s going on?’ James asks.
        ‘The griffins sealed off their embassy, sir,’ the commander reports. ‘Once all civilian personnel were evacuated, their guards started taking positions around the building. They appear ready for a siege.’
        ‘Their civilians are gone?’
        ‘Not likely,’ Shaun replies. ‘Mordred would use them as a shield to prevent you from storming them directly.’
        ‘And you are?’ the commander snorts.
        ‘Prince Shaun of the Griffin Empire,’ the prince introduces. ‘Basic combat tactics were one of many subjects that caused me to run away from the Empire.’
        ‘He is here to help,’ James adds. He turns away slightly. ‘Report.’
        ‘I just...’ the commander begins.
        ‘Shh!’
        Octavia steps forward. Technis is behind her. ‘Between the two of us and our snipers, we can have the building cleared in ten minutes.’
        Shaun growls. ‘And by “cleared”, you mean “bloodbath”.’
        ‘We prefer the term “slight bodily fluid removal”,’ Octavia counters. Technis shakes his head and frowns. Octavia rolls her eyes. ‘You’re as bad as your father.’
        ‘I didn’t say anything!’ James and Technis protest.
        ‘Let me talk to them first,’ Shaun offers. He turns to the commander. ‘Can we establish a secure communications link to the embassy?’
        ‘No can do,’ another soldier reports. ‘There appears to be a transmission overriding all the airwaves.’
        James raises an eyebrow.’Interesting.’ He turns to leave the command post. ‘I’m going to the media pool. Shaun, come with me.’ He looks at the commander. ‘Do not attack unless I give the order.’ He looks at Octavia and Technis. ‘I’d tell you to hold her back, but I doubt that is can happen.’
        Octavia snorts and looks away. ‘I’ll wait too. You have my word.’
        James and Shaun exit the command post. Guards escort them to the media pool, wary of the griffins watching them. Onlookers shout questions, but they ignore them. At the media pool, the reporters are gathered around monitors showing Emperor Mordred standing at a podium, giving a speech. A vaguely unicorn shadow is seen behind him.
        `... which cannot be allowed to spread further!` Mordred declares. `They claim their precious “Elements of Harmony” are emissaries of peace, but they are really terrorists in disguise! They attacked our soldiers, loosed a changeling horde on the palace, kidnapped our prince and even interfered in a private land rights dispute! Making matters worse, they freed the monster Discord to terrorize the world once more! It is time we stand up and throw off their oppression and let freedom truly be free!`
        ‘For a guy who killed his own brother, he has an odd definition of freedom,’ Shaun grumbles.
        The reporters jump at the unexpected comment. They turn to see the griffin prince glaring at the broadcast while their king taps away on his mobile.
        James looks up. ‘Oh? You’re going to pay attention to us now?’ He laughs. ‘Good. Now, we’re going to need one of you to train your camera on us for a moment. We’ll be giving a response to Empe-’
        ‘Good luck getting a signal out,’ a technician interrupts. ‘They are blocking all our signals. Even hijacked the major streaming sites.’
        ‘I have that covered. Just be ready to broadcast.’
        The reporters murmur and turn away from the broadcast. Cameraponies aim their equipment at the royals.
        ‘Ready when you are,’ the technician states, checking his monitors.
        ‘Excellent.’ James taps a button on his mobile. ‘Greetings, citizens of the world. King James of the New Lunar Republic here, interrupting Emperor Mordred to bring you some breaking news.’
        ‘That doesn’t sound cheesy at all,’ one of the reporters mumbles.
        The king resists rolling his eyes at the comment. ‘We have been hearing a lot of claims from the emperor about actions by the Elements of Harmony. He frames them as some sort of terrorist group. Five ponies, two of whom are fillies who recently got their cutie marks, and one griffin constantly surrounded by the best warriors in the Republic barely constitute a threat in my book. And the one griffin? He just happens to be Prince Shaun.’ He looks over at Shaun. ‘You’re up.’
        The cameras turn their attention to the nervous griffin. ‘Uh, h-hi. I’m Prince Shaun of the Gr-Griffin Empire. I-I heard what the Emperor has been saying about me and’ -- he laughs nervously -- ‘well, uh, I-I’m alive.’ He laughs again. He takes a deep breath. ‘Listen, I know a lot has been happened to the relationship between the Republic and the Empire since Mordred took power. Most of it has been bad. What can you expect when the emperor killed his way to the top? I fled the Empire because I found out what Mordred had done and feared for my own safety. I only returned a few weeks ago since I didn’t want the Elements to meet their end as well. In doing so, I was discovered to be their Element of Honesty. Whatever powers control the Elements, they chose me, a griffin, to join a normally all-pony group. That should be a sign that the Republic and the Empire should start coming together instead of moving towards war, like Mordred and his allies want. As Prince of the Griffin Empire, I will do everything in my power to see that conflict between our nations come to an end. That is what the late-King Uther would have wanted. That is what the Elements of Harmony want. That is what I want. Th-thank you for listening to me. I-I hope we can live together peacefully.’
        James motions to himself, getting the camera back on him. ‘Emperor Mordred knows how to reach us if he is willing to negotiate terms for a peace conference. Oh, and no more “special envoys”. We have had enough suicide bombers to last us a lifetime.’
        James taps his mobile again, cutting his transmission. On Mordred’s broadcast, the emperor stares at the camera, shocked. Yelling is heard behind the scenes. A green flash of magic is seen briefly before the screens go blank.
        ‘Did, did that work?’ Shaun asks.
        James looks outside. ‘If not, then we might have a slight bodily fluid removal in the near future.’
        James and Shaun hear a commotion outside and  leave the media pool to see what is happening, but run into their guards’ magical shields.
        ‘It is not us,’ Octavia reports, sneaking up on the royals.
        Shouts come from the embassy, followed by gunfire. The civilian onlookers scream and panic. Guards help get them off the street while keeping their attention on the compound. The griffins guarding the building leave their posts. More gunfire is heard before everything goes silent. After a few moments, the flag inside the compound is lowered. There is more shouting and soon a blue flag with three gold crowns on it is raised. The main entryway the embassy opens. An older griffin wearing full armor limps out with a bleeding wound. He carries a white cloth.
        ‘Don’t shoot!’ the griffin calls. ‘We’re willing to work with you. We have captured Mordred loyalists and reclaimed the embassy in the name of Prince Shaun and the late King Uther.’ He winces. ‘Please send medical aid.’
        James motions the guards forward. ‘Go ahead, but be careful.’
        The guards nod. They slowly make their way into the embassy to assess the situation. Shaun breathes a sigh of relief. James puts a hoof on their back and teleports them back to the castle. The appear in the middle of a heated discussion in the war room. Everypony stops and turns their attention to the new arrivals.
        ‘Did it work?’ Shaun squeaks.
        Luna takes a deep breath. ‘You caused a lot of dissension within the Empire, but it is too early to tell. I hate to say it, but whether they are fighting us or themselves, the Griffin Empire is going to war.’
> Obligatory Cooldown Chapter
> --------------------------------------------------------------------------

        Queen Luna trots through Canterlot Castle. A special guest trots alongside her. The guards keep a watchful eye on Queen Chrysalis as she passes them, giving them smug looks as she goes.
        ‘To think,’ Luna muses, ‘a few days ago, we would be considered enemies. Today, we are finalizing an alliance that will allow changelings to come out of hiding and make their presence known within the Republic.’
        Chrysalis nods. ‘Indeed. Centuries of misunderstanding about to usher in an era of unity.’ She smirks. ‘Speaking of unity, I seduced your son.’
        Luna grimaces. ‘Yes, he made note of it in his report...’
        ‘He lead the treaty process,’ Chrysalis adds. ‘It was a long and hard negotiation. He kept me up all hours with his attentiveness. It was quite exhausting keeping up with his stamina.’
        ‘If you wish to keep me from snapping you and throwing your carcass from the mountain myself,’ the pony queen growls, ‘you will refrain from talking about my son in that manner.’
        ‘I’m just trying to inform you of your son’s ability… as a diplomat,’ the changeling queen snickers. ‘You are the one assuming something more… sexual.’
        Luna glares at Chrysalis. The changeling laughs. They reach a courtyard with a statue in it. She approaches, admiring the work. The stone replica of Princess Celestia smiles back at her.
        ‘I really admired your sister,’ Chrysalis comments. ‘I only knew her through historical documents. I hope she would have been appreciative of my efforts to limit the killing caused during the invasion of the Crystal Empire.’
        Luna sighs and joins Chrysalis looking at the statue. ‘My sister believed in peace.’ She looks at Chrysalis. ‘I am willing to forgive the past for the sake of the future. Unity between ponies and changelings. I am sure my sister would approve.’
        Chrysalis smiles and nods. ‘In that case, may I request a special audience with the prince?’
        ‘Not on your life.’
        Chrysalis cackles. Luna snorts and marches away. The changeling follows, still cackling to herself.

        Apple Pie trots through the orchard. He pulls a large rake between the rows of trees, gathering fallen apples. Apple Bloom greets him as he returns to the farmhouse. She brings the stallion a drink after he dumps the apples in a bin.
        ‘I appreciate Flim and Flam looking after our farm,’ Apple Pie grumble, ‘but can they lay off testing their latest inventions until after harvest?’
        Apple Bloom laughs. ‘They didn’ do too much harm.’
        ‘You’re not the one cleaning it up.’
        The mare shakes her head. ‘Ah told ya that can wait.’ She pokes him. ‘Sides, doesn’ yer earth movin’ powers mean ya can tell the leftover apples are becomin’ great compost.’
        Apple Pie looks back at all the remaining apples covering the ground. ‘Compost? More like a pile of sh-’
        Apple Bloom snorts. ‘Anyway, come inside an’ relax fer a bit. Ya haven’ taken a break since we got back.’
        ‘I’m just happy to be getting something done,’ the stallion replies. ‘Feels like we’ve been away for too long.’
        Apple Bloom frowns. ‘That doesn’ sound too “Element of Loyalty” of ya.’
        Apple Pie laughs. ‘You sound just like my brother.’
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
        Apple Pie and Helios stand on a train platform. Other travelers look over at the prince and his brother as they wait for a train to arrive.
        ‘Heading back to the farm, eh?’ Helios comments. ‘Not very Element of Loyalty of you.’
        Apple Pie groans. ‘I won’t be that far away. If you need me, I’ll be a short trip away.’ He flicks his brother’s horn. ‘Even shorter for those of us who can teleport.’
        Helios rolls his eyes. ‘Sure. Blame the magic users.’
        His older brother laughs. ‘Just having some fun with you, little bro. Calm down.’
        Helios takes a breath and looks down the tracks.
        Apple Pie puts a hoof on his brother’s shoulder. ‘Don’t worry about a thing. If the Elements are needed for anything right now, it is to assure everyone that the Republic is safe. What better way than for us to have a bit of a vacation?’
        Helios nods. ‘True. I do have plans to hangout with my friends later.’
        ‘That’s the first I’ve heard about it.’
        ‘Well, I didn’t think it was impo-’
        ‘You, having friends, that is hard to imagine. Good job.’
        Helios glares at his brother and growls.
        Apple Pie laughs. ‘That’s just what big brothers do.’ He looks for the train for a second. ‘Oh! Speaking of older siblings. I had this weird dream a while back. Before we left on our PR tour. It was about Rei and dad. I think Twilight Sparkle was there too.’
        Helios snaps his attention to his brother. ‘You had a dream about Rei! Tell me everything!’ He narrows his gaze. ‘Did you do anything untoward to her?’
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
        Apple Pie stretches a bit. ‘I think you’re right, Apple Bloom. I should relax a little.’
        ‘That’s the spirit.’
        The stallion brushes by his fillyfriend and whispers, ‘Last one to the bedroom is on bottom.’
        Apple Bloom blushes brighter than her bow as they race inside.

        Alba lays on a couch in her living room. She slowly flips through a book in front of her. Stacks of books surround her. Other piles of books, most topped with an open book, are scattered about the lounge, with a trail of books leading back to her bedroom.
        There is a knock at the open door. ‘May I come in?’ Shaun asks.
        ‘No,’ the princess grunts.
        The griffin walks into the room anyway. ‘I knew you would say that, so I am going to ignore your reply.’ He takes a seat on a free chair. ‘So, how’s it going?’
        ‘I’m reading,’ Alba huffs. ‘And until a few seconds ago, everything was going fine.’
        ‘What are you reading?’
        ‘I am trying to find out how long my mother knew stars were going out and what she had tried doing to stop it.’ She turns a page. ‘As far as I can tell, she’s known since she was younger than me and has been working with dad and The Doctor to solve it since she became queen.’
        ‘Doctor who?’
        ‘That’s the one.’
        Shaun raises an eyebrow and gives Alba a confused look. Not getting any more information, he looks at the nearest open book, turning it so he can read it. He reads for a moment before sighing, ‘I’m sorry.’
        ‘You better be,’ Alba snorts. ‘Touching my book without asking.’
        ‘Not that. I mean this whole mess.’
        Alba looks up from her book. ‘What did you do this time?’
        ‘What?’ Shaun leans back and looks at Alba. ‘This whole war and the uprising. It wouldn’t have happened if not for me.’
        The princess groans and closes her book. ‘You really are an idiot.’
        ‘Hey!’
        ‘Do you really think Mordred would have sat by and done nothing if you weren’t around? How about all your interference with our journey?’
        ‘I didn’t think about that.’
        ‘Obviously,’ Alba replies, rolling her eyes. ‘Do you think I would have gone easy on that small time crook or those Diamond Dog kidnappers? You probably saved them some trouble because you knew just how to annoy me.’
        Shaun stares back, gaping a little. ‘Uh.. I don’t think that is right...’
        ‘And what about in the Empire? If you didn’t break us out when you did, Mordred might have actually killed us.’ She takes a deep breath. ‘I hate to admit this, but you’re actually, sorta, maybe a hero.’ She looks away and mutters, ‘Thank you.’
        A wide grin spreads across Shaun’s beak. ‘Does that mean you might actually like me?’
        Alba glares, blushing. She turns back to her book and resumes reading.
        Shaun laughs as he stands. ‘You’re a great friend,’ he says, going to the door. Before he can leave, he tilts his head to the side and holds a talon to his temple. ‘Oh. And give her an extra pounding for me, too.’
        It takes a second for the message to register to Alba. ‘Wait. What?’ she asks, looking up, but Shaun has already left.

        Lucky Heart flies around his hometown. He watches everypony going about their business and heading home for the day. He lands on a balcony outside of his room. He eyes his bed, ready to rest after a long day of…
        ‘Surprise hug!’ Rainbow shouts as she tackles Lucky Heart across the room.
        Before the young stallion can react, Rainbow locks his lips in a kiss. When she finally lets him up, he pants, ‘Rainbow?! What are you doing here?’
        Rainbow sits up, smiling. ‘What? I can’t visit the bestest stallion in the world?’
        Lucky blushes. ‘Well, I, uh...’
        She gets up. ‘Besides, who else is going to do me before the end of the world?’ Rainbow wags her tail at the embarrassed stallion.
        ‘Th-the world isn’t ending. Wh-what makes you say that?’
        Rainbow sits and thinks again. ‘Oh, it is something my little sister keeps saying. I think has something to do with the war with the griffins.’
        ‘We’re not at war with them!’ He pauses and thinks. ‘Or are we? I wasn’t too clear about that.’
        Rainbow hops on the bed. ‘Either way, you’ll be doing your duty as an Equestrian male and fighting and dying on the front lines while I prepare the defense at Cloudsdale.’ She shakes her tail again. ‘Now, do you want to die a virgin or do I have to come over there in more ways than one?’
        Lucky Heart tries to answer, but he cannot talk.
        Rainbow sighs and plops down on the bed. She moans. ‘Our last trip was so boring! I was the only one that didn’t do any fooling around.’ She wraps herself in one of the blankets. ‘Sure. I  tried seducing the coolest, hottest celebrity in the universe, but he is supposedly my “brother” and that would be “wrong”.’
        Lucky snaps out of his daze. ‘Wait? What?’
        Rainbow pouts. ‘Now, he is in love with Princess Celestia’s granddaughter or something. Nopony loves Rainbow!’
        Lucky Heart joins her on the bed and strokes her back. ‘There. There. Lots of ponies love you. I… I lo-’
        In a blur of motion, Rainbow wraps Lucky under the covers with her. ‘That’s all I wanted to hear. Now, are you going to make a mare out of me or am I going to make a stallion out of you?’

        A chime sounds as the door to a small bakery and cafe opens.
        ‘Welcome. How may I help you?’ Strawberry Souffle greets.
        ‘Daddy!’ Razzly cheers as she gallops around the counter to hug her father.
        As the two unicorns embrace, Trixie watches from the doorway. She smiles and turns to give them some privacy.
        ‘Trixie! Wait!’ Strawberry calls. The mare looks back. ‘Come on. Stay. I have to repay the pony who watched over my daughter somehow.’
        Trixie blushes and looks away. ‘I didn’t do m-’
        ‘That’s right!’ Razzly agrees. ‘You should stay, mommy.’ She looks up at her father. ‘Did you hear? Trixie is my new mommy.’
        The adults laugh.
        ‘Magic duels aren’t really legally binding,’ Trixie replies.
        Strawberry nods. ‘But they can cause a lot of real legal hassles.’
        Trixie raises an eyebrow. ‘Oh?’
        ‘Shortly after the fight, Jade’s lawyers contacted me,’ the stallion explains. ‘They demanded that I give up Razzly to her mother.’
        Trixie growls, ‘I assure you, the Lulamoons have the greatest lawyers in Manehattan. We will do everything in our power to support you.’
        Strawberry shakes his head. ‘My father is Blackberry Sorbet. Our lawyers easily swatted them aside when it was pointed out that simply searching “Magic Duel Crystal Empire” brought up dozens of videos of Jade’s abuse before the fight.’ He holds his daughter close. ‘Razzly is safe from her.’
        Razzly nods enthusiastically. ‘All thanks to my new mommy, Trixie!’
        ‘That’s not really...’ Trixie begins.
        ‘Miss Trixie,’ Strawberry interrupts. ‘I’ve been thinking about it… If something were to happen to me, I’d like for you to take care of Razzly for me.’
        ‘Well, duh,’ Razzly groans. ‘She is my mommy.’
        Trixie smiles. ‘I’d be honored. She is like a daughter to me already.’
        ‘I keep saying you’re my mommy!’ the filly shouts.
        The adults laugh again.
        ‘Yeah. She pretty much is,’ Strawberry says.
        Trixie blushes again. She takes a seat and watches as Strawberry ask his daughter about her adventures.

        King James sits in front of an array of monitors in an office, rubbing his temples. On the monitor in front of him, Mordred looks very angry. The other monitors show reports from around the Republic. One shows griffins rioting with the caption “Live from Los Arion”.
        ‘What you are asking for is out of the question, ’ James growls.
        Mordred snorts and looks away. ‘I don't see how that is my problem. What happens on Republic soil is your problem. You owe us for the mess you caused within the Empire!’
        ‘We haven't done anything. You've done it all to yourself.’
        Morgan slips behind Mordred and whispers something to him.
        Mordred nods. ‘If you had any proof to support the rebels' claims, we would love to hear it.’
        James shakes his head. ‘The Thestrals have kept their investigation into Prince Lance's death open. You are the ones who declared his death an act of pirates, and so soon after the mysterious deaths of Uther and his other sons too.’
        Mordred shrugs. ‘We are willing to assist, but only after this rebellion is crushed.’
        James groans. ‘The chief concern of the rebellion is the fate of your predecessor. You could easily make peace with them if you were more open with your citizens.’
        ‘And what has this openness gotten you?’ Mordred counters. He slams a fist onto the table in front of him. ‘You are supporting the rebels! You have let them take property belonging to the Griffin Empire! You are allowing this civil war to unfold for your political gain!’
        ‘We have done nothing of the sort!’ James shouts back. ‘Our security have not set hoof in any of your embassies, whether or not they side with the Empire. It has been your supporters that seem to lack the respect for other nations' sovereignty. Or need I remind you about what is happening in Hay-jing?’
        ‘It is the Equinese government that caused that situation to escalate!’ Mordred roars. ‘If some of their soldiers get mowed down for trying to invade our embassy, it is their fault!’
        ‘They were just setting up a perimeter...’ James sighs. ‘There were missteps on both sides.’ He looks at another monitor. ‘At least it isn't as bad as Los Arion.’
        Mordred rolls his eyes. ‘Here we go again...’
        ‘Supporters of both sides of your conflict are fighting in the streets,’ James replies. ‘It is a miracle that other districts of the city haven't been drawn into the fiasco.’
        ‘It is their right to protest,’ Mordred huffs. ‘ If those rebel supporters didn't get involved, everything would have been peaceful.’ Morgan whispers something to him. Her horn flashes green for a moment. ‘Right.’ He shakes his head. ‘We were talking about mediation, weren't we?’
        James watches the others carefully, sighs and reopens dialogue with the emperor.

        Sunset flies around the palace library. Corona sits at the reception desk, watching her sister flit about.
        ‘I've been really busy doing research for Alba,’ Sunset says, flying over carrying a book. ‘I've traced the history of the star outages back through the earliest records.’ She cradles the book. ‘It is really cool having all these resources at my hooves.’ Sunset shimmers. ‘Aunt Luna even lets me request books from any library in the Republic. Any book...’
        Corona smiles. ‘I'm glad to see you so happy. It is like when we were fillies.’
        Sunset rubs the book on her face. ‘So many books...’ She catches herself. ‘Sorry. Did you say something?’
        ‘Nothing,’ her sister replies. ‘Want to hear about my trip?’
        ‘Sure. I guess. You got the changelings to help us, right?’
        Corona nods. ‘That was the mission. We got some help along the way, too. He's a really great stallion. I'd love for you to meet him.’
        ‘Maybe some other...’
        ‘Because he is standing right beside you.’
        Sunset looks to her left and sees Technis standing next to her. She screams and flies behind her sister. ‘Ninja assassin!’
        Technis smiles and adjusts his shades. ‘Ah. So you told her about me already.’
        Corona shakes her head, smiling. ‘Not yet.’ She pushes Sunset forward. ‘Sunset, this is Technis. He helped us on our journey.’
        ‘N-nice to meet you,’ Sunset replies.
        Technis fakes pouting. ‘Most fillies your age would be thrilled to have me sneak up on them like that.’ He looks off to the side. ‘My big sister, for one.’
        Sunset looks confused. ‘Huh? Are you some sort of pervert or something?’
        ‘You... don't recognize me?’
        ‘Should I?’
        Corona rolls her eyes. ‘Unless your music is on paperback, she's never heard of Synth Tech before now.’
        Sunset gives her sister a disgusted look. ‘Paperback? Ew.’
        ‘We'll have plenty of time to get to know each other,’ Technis replies. He smirks. ‘But not as much as I'll be spending with you.’
        Corona blushes and laughs.
        Sunset looks at the couple suspiciously. ‘What was that? What are you two doing?’
        ‘Oh, sorry,’ Corona apologizes. ‘Technis and I are sorta dating.’
        ‘You're what?!’
        ‘He's a real sweet guy. Handsome too,’ her sister explains. ‘We're just... Well... I really like him. I've never felt like this before.’
        Sunset grabs her sister and glares at Technis. ‘She's my sister, got it? Just 'cause you're dating, doesn't mean you get her all to yourself.’
        Technis laughs. ‘I get it. No need to worry about me. I'll be happy to have you in my family too, cutie.’
        Sunset growls a bit then lets her sister go. ‘Deal, but I still get her whenever I need her.’
        Technis nods. ‘Agreed. Except when we're... You know.’
        ‘You're what?’
        Corona facehoofs. ‘We haven't done that yet and at this rate, it is getting further away.’
        Sunset looks at the older ponies and shrugs. ‘Adults are weird,’ she mutters, flying away.

        Krile practices a violin solo in her room. She writes notes with her magic while she uses her hooves to play the instrument. Her eyes are closed as she focuses on the music. She finishes the piece and lowers her violin. She hears clapping behind her.
        ‘Do you ever think about knocking!’ the unicorn snaps at the visiting prince.
        Helios laughs and stands. ‘Would interrupting you have made you less angry?’
        Krile glares at her coltfriend then turns away. Helios trots over and sits beside her. Krile sighs and turns to her coltfriend, right as a green beam passes over her.
        The unicorn blinks after the beam passes over her face. ‘Okay. What was that?’
        ‘Sorry,’ Helios apologizes. ‘Last time I saw you, you turned out to be a changeling.’
        Krile laughs. ‘That’s weird. At least you didn’t fall for it, right?’
        Helios looks away. ‘Well...’
        Krile sighs and shakes her head. ‘Whatever.’ She laughs again. ‘At least you didn’t end up sleeping with it or anything.’
        Helios bites his lip and starts looking for an escape route.
        ‘Helios...’ Krile growls. ‘What, or who, did you do?’
        Helios slowly turns to face his fillyfriend. ‘Uh...’

        In a dark room in the Royal Canterlot Performing Arts Academy, a group of ponies meet in secret. Maps and charts cover a table in front of them. A door opens and another pony trots in. Octavia removes her robe as she joins the group.
        ‘Sorry I am late,’ she says. ‘I was seeing off Chrysalis’ delegation.’
        ‘There are other ponies who could handle that for you,’ Silver Fox replies. ‘You don’t have to do everything on your own. Sleeping might help too.’
        Lyra flips through a file. ‘She gets the right amount of sleep and relaxation time for a mare her age. You’re the one who needs to learn to de-stress more often.’
        A white unicorn stallion clears his throat. ‘As fascinating as your health profiles are,’ Fancy Pants interrupts, ‘I believe we have more pressing matters.’
        Octavia nods. ‘Right. The war.’
        A blue-white pegasus gets out a map with ‘Los Arion’ written at the top. ‘Our operatives in LA have been working the supply lines into the riot zone,’ Arctic Fox reports. ‘We’re making sure all families, Empire or rebel, are keeping stocked.’ She nods at Octavia. ‘Thanks to your recent work there, we were able to recruit some of the local changelings to assist in sneaking food across the protest lines.’
        ‘The pro-Empire protesters are winding down and losing steam, especially since most of the other consulates in the Republic are siding with Prince Shaun and the rebels,’ Lyra adds. ‘We’ve been protecting Ambassador Gilda as she works on easing tensions.’
        ‘Good thing they haven’t heard about Hay-jing or else that might add fuel to the fire,’Octavia mutters.
        A tall, white unicorn mare steps forward. ‘I’ve been in contact with our operatives around the world,’ Fleur reports. ‘We could solve that if you really want to.’
        ‘No,’ a burgundy mare replies. ‘That would be too messy politically. We don’t want to make it seem like the Republic is resorting to desperate tactics before the battle has begun.’
        Octavia nods. ‘I agree. We should stick to support and defense for now.’
        ‘My daughter actually agrees with me on something,’ Melody laughs. ‘That is something indeed. You need to spend more time with my grandson. He really evens you out.’
        Her daughter snorts and turns back to the table. ‘Luna and the king are working on a plan to deal with Mordred. We should coordinate our efforts to best aid their plans.’
        ‘To protect our home and the world, all our resources are at their disposal,’ Fancy Pants offers.
        Lyra taps a few buttons on her mobile. ‘Heartstrings Industries has been preparing for mobilization since before your first trip.’
        ‘Just say the word and all our forces and allies will leap into action,’ Fleur adds.
        Octavia smiles, nods and begins going over plans with the others.

        ‘You slept with Chrysalis! Awesome!’ Storm Runner congratulates.
        Helios groans, holding an ice pack on a black eye. The prince is in his living room, laying on a couch. His friends Storm Runner and Green Kerner are visiting. Storm Runner plays one of Helios’ video game consoles while Green Kerner flips through the prince’s comic book collection.
        ‘Cheer up, Helo,’ Green Kerner encourages. ‘Chrysalis is really hot… for a changeling.’
        ‘Not just that,’ Storm Runner adds, ‘but she can be anypony you want.’ He laughs stupidly. ‘The head cheerleader.’
        ‘Miss Bluesky,’ Green Kerner adds.
        ‘Kinky,’ his bat pony friend agrees. ‘What about Silver Fox? You know, the actress from the recent Daring Do films.’
        ‘Meh,’ the earth pony replies. ‘I prefered AK Yearling myself.’
        Storm Runner gives his friend a disgusted look.
        ‘What!’ Green Kerner defends. ‘You’ve seen her picture from her books. She seems like a nice, down-to-earth, classy sort of pony. Nothing like her subject material.’
        ‘Whatever.’
        Helios sits up. ‘Guys, this is not helping.’
        His friends look at him, confused.
        ‘But you’re the first one of us to...’ Green Kerner says.
        ‘Speak for yourself,’ Storm Runner huffs.
        ‘Bullcrap!’ Green Kerner counters, covering it up with a cough.
        ‘Well, okay. Whatever. It is not like the world will end if I never get laid.’
        I am not suggesting that to Alba as a solution. Helios thinks. He sighs and lays down again. ‘Sometimes I wonder why I am friends with you two.’
        ‘Because we’re the only ones who can stand being around you for more than ten seconds?’ Green Kerner guesses.
        ‘Because all your other friends are still in traction?’ Storm Runner offers.
        ‘Maybe he just hasn’t bought anypony else off yet,’ the earth pony adds.
        Storm Runner nods. ‘True. True.’
        Helios moans and covers his head. The others return to what they were doing. There is a brief moment of silence.
        ‘Did you see all those holes on Chrysalis’ legs?’ Storm Runner mentions.
        ‘Now that is kinky,’ Green Kerner notes.
        Helios groans again.

        The Elements gather in a conference room in Canterlot Castle. They look unsure of the gathering, except for Alba, who is reading. Octavia, Trixie, Technis and Corona join them. Lucas enters, followed by Luna and James. The queen and king look upset about something.
        ‘I'm sensing this isn't good news,’ Shaun says.
        ‘No time for jokes, Shaun,’ Alba huffs.
        ‘Did you see me do the hand or the face thing?’ the griffin argues. ‘I’m being as serious as everyone else here.’
        Alba glances at her older sister. Rainbow's face is covered in frosting from a cake she is eating. ‘I can explain,’ the pegasus begins.
        ‘It will have to wait for later,’ her father interrupts. ‘We... have a diplomatic crisis on our hooves.’
        ‘Tell us something we don't know,’ the princess grumbles, glancing at Shaun.
        ‘As you know, King Sparkle, your father, has been engaging Emperor Mordred in an attempt to end hostilities between our nations,’ Luna adds. ‘We were able to reach an agreement. An agreement that is most upsetting.’
        ‘No surprise that it involves us since you called us back,’ Apple Pie snorts.
        Luna slams her hooves on the table. ‘That bastard wants us to put you in the middle of a war zone for his own amusement.’
        ‘And we're not doing that, right?’ Helios asks.
        James shakes his head. ‘The only way we could get him to agree to a “peaceful” end to hostilities and reconciliation with the “rebels” was to agree to send The Elements to the Empire as mediators.’
        ‘That is absolute bullsh-’ Corona exclaims.
        ‘No doubt it is a trap,’ Alba says, interrupting her cousin.
        James takes a deep breath and looks at his wife. Luna nods and grins evilly, a dark aura surrounding her. ‘Obviously,’ the queen replies. ‘Which is why we're going to spring every trap of our own.’

> Harmony Restored
> --------------------------------------------------------------------------

       An airship flying banners of the New Lunar Republic glides to a watery landing. The ship continues to a dock lined with griffins wearing heavy, ceremonial armor. Emperor Mordred and Morgan sit away from the landing craft in a covered reception area. The guards surrounding them have glassy expressions and seemingly do not notice a green strand of magic leaving their emperor and flowing into the unicorn’s horn.
        A gangplank lowers from the airship. Royal guards precede the Elements and Trixie as they exit the ship. Morgan releases her spell on Mordred, allowing the griffin to move forward to greet the arrivals.
        ‘Welcome to the Griffin Empire,’ Mordred calls. He motions to his soldiers.
        The griffin soldiers quickly draw concealed weapons, dispatching the pony guards before they can react. Alba and Trixie barely have time to raise shields to block the attack. A large griffin airship flies around the dock, positions itself behind the docked airship, aims a large cannon at the stationary vessel and fires a single energy blast that destroys the pony’s ship. The griffin soldiers surround the Elements and force them forward.
        ‘I hope you will enjoy your stay,’ Mordred adds.
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
        ‘Good luck,’ Corona says as the Elements make their way off the airship with their guards. She turns around. ‘Ready?’
        Technis and Octavia adjust their armor and pull their hoods over their faces.
        ‘We’re all that are left on the ship,’ Octavia reports. ‘Whenever you are ready.’
        Corona nods. She charges and spell and teleports them out of the ship. They reappear on a rooftop dozens of meters away from the docks. The griffin airship fires on and destroys the docked pony airship.
        ‘Let’s hope the queen had insurance on that ship,’ Technis quips.
        Octavia rolls her eyes at her son’s joke. ‘Come on. We have to hurry if we are going to cut them off.’
        The others nod. The ponies climb down from the roof and rush towards the griffin castle.

        Mordred leads a procession through the griffin capital. Behind him, the Elements follow slowly due to the chains around their hooves. The unicorns and alicorns have magic canceling rings on their horns and everypony with wings has them tied down. Armed guards keep a watchful eye on their prisoners, their spears and new laser cannons at the ready.
        All along the streets, griffins come out of their homes and businesses to watch the parade. Parents shield their children, worried about what might happen. Above the procession, griffins armed with cameras film and broadcast the event for the whole world to see.
        ‘The Elements of Harmony, defenders of justice and light of The Republic, brought down by their own hubris, ’ Mordred taunts. ‘So willing were they to bring peace that they walked right into our talons. Peace will be made on our terms now. Terms that will see griffins as equals, if not betters, to their former pony oppressors.’
        ‘We were already equals, Mordred, ’ Helios snorts. ‘My mother never imposed her will on your or your predecessors' rule. Griffins and ponies have always stood shoulder to shoulder. ’
        ‘We were never equals!’ the emperor snaps back. ‘Queen Luna ruled the world from her throne in Canterlot while we were forced to endure hardships on the frontier. If she needed mercenaries to do her dirty work, our kings were expected to lay down their lives at her hooves.’
        ‘Such Loyalty never goes unrewarded,’ Apple Pie huffs. ‘Republic farmers have always been willing to send aid in times of famine.’ He glances at his sister. ‘And our weather ponies always sent rain during droughts.’
        ‘Just creating a system of depen-’
        ‘Bull!’ the stallion shouts. ‘You farmers are some of them best I've seen! I'd trust my farm to the any day! The only thing I've seen holding them back in an oppressive system of bureaucracy keeping them from doing what they love!’
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
        ‘You tell that asshole!’ Risa yells at her television.
        Pat sighs and tries to calm his wife down.
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
        Mordred marches silently, having given up arguing with his captives. Shaun and Alba hold their heads high, looking as regal as they can. Apple and Helios watch the crowds, giving friendly waves and acknowledgements to griffins vying for attention. Razzly trots alongside Trixie, trying her best not to look too scared. Rainbow yawns and frowns, already bored of having been put on show.
        Suddenly, a ball drops from the sky and rolls towards the bored pegasus. She stops and looks up. A group of young griffins are huddled on a cloud, trying not to be noticed by the guards. Unfortunately, a pair of guards start flying up towards the cloud.
        Rainbow snorts angrily, kicks the ball up, headers it, leaps and delivers a roundhouse kick. The ball shoots upward. It slams into the guards' helmets, distracting them and giving the young griffins time to escape. Rainbow sticks her tongue at her captors as they force her away.
        The procession reaches the edge of the city. As it turns into the lands surrounding the castle, the road becomes uneven as it switches from paved streets to a cobblestone. Razzly trips when her hoof gets caught in a crack.
        ‘Get up,’ her guard growls, poking her in the side with the shaft of his spear. He moves to poke her again, but the spear is caught in an aura of magenta magic. ‘What the?’
        Razzly looks up, glaring at the soldier. ‘Just who the hell do you think I am?’
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
        ‘My little girl,’ Strawberry breathes, watching the broadcast from the Empire.
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
        ‘I am the Clever and Spectacular Razzly!’ the filly shouts, standing as tall as she can. ‘If you touch me again, you'll be in for a world of pain! Am I making myself clear?’
        The guard rolls his eyes. ‘Just move along. You're holding everyone up.’
        Razzly snorts and trots away with her nose up. Trixie cannot contain snicks at the filly's behavior.
        Mordred stops when they reach the castle. Soldiers line the battlements, many armed with their new laser cannons. The number of troops on the ground doubles as Mordred steps up to the main door. The additional troops herd the ponies in as they trot forward.
        ‘Welcome back to my castle, ’ Mordred states. ‘You'll be staying here until your usefulness has run out.’
        Alba takes a step forward. ‘This is your last chance, Mordred. Free us or face the consequences.’
        The emperor shakes his head. ‘You truly are a fool for not realizing how much trouble you're in.’
‘My mother will make it rain brimstone from the heavens,’ the filly counters. ‘Your days are numbered.’
Mordred scoffs. ‘You believe the myths about your mother a little too much. I am secure in my position.’
        An officer hurries out of the castle.
        ‘And I can say the same to you.’
        Before Mordred can retort, the officer leans in and whispers something. Mordred roars in rage. He turns and marches into the castle. ‘Excuse me. It seems your mother wishes to speak with me.’ He turns to the guards. ‘Take them to the dungeon. Let them get "comfortable" in their new home.’
        The guards force the Elements inside. Morgan watches for a moment, grinning evilly, a fang peeking from under her lips.
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
        Mordred takes a seat in his war room. He nods to an officer who presses a button. ‘Queen Luna. What do I owe the honor?’ he states calmly.
        `You had your fun, Mordred,` Luna replies over the radio. `Let the Elements go and step down or I'm going to wipe your country off the map.`
        ‘Such harsh words. Are you sure we can't negot-’
        An alarm sounds.
        ‘Your highness, we're detecting a Republic airfleet off of Aerieland.’
        ‘Naturally. They would want to try backing up their thre-’
        Another alarm sounds.
        ‘We're detecting another fleet.’
        ‘Launch our air force,’ Mordred hisses.
        The alarms sound again.
        ‘How many fleets did they send at us!’
        The officers check their reports. None of them want to answer.
        ‘Okay,’ the emperor groans. ‘They have a lot of ships. We can match them in number and firepower with our new weapons. Deploy everything we have. Show them we're not to be trifled with!’
        The officers start issuing orders. The roar of launching airships can be heard from inside the castle.
        A guard approaches Mordred. ‘We should move you to a secure location.’ The emperor glares and growls at the soldier. ‘Just in case. Y-you can still run operations from a safe location.’
        Mordred sighs and lets himself be lead away.

        Across the Griffin Empire, airships of all types launch. Simple balloon-lifted airships activate their engines, steam, magic or otherwise, to power their propellers. Massive airships lifted by giant fans rise from the ocean. Every ship is armed with the latest weapons, ranging from projectile launchers to a few scaled-up laser cannons. On their decks, armored griffins stretch and prepare their firearms, many with the laser cannons, for the upcoming battle. The griffin fleets head toward their western border, with a few staying back to guard the mainland.
        A massive armada waits for the griffin air force. What the pony fleets lack in number of ships, they make up for in size. Three enormous carriers, each with a small fleet of smaller airships on deck, float in the center of their individual task forces with battleships and point defense ships at the ready. Pegasi and bat ponies give their arms a final check.
        On board one of the carriers, Luna watches the griffin fleet approach. ‘Why do they always choose to fight?’ the queen sighs. ‘This is Queen Luna on the Airship Celestia. All groups report in.’
…
        ‘King James on the Sparkle,’ James replies, spinning in his command chair. ‘We're ready when you are.’
…
        A pinto earth pony stallion wearing an eye patch stands on the bridge of an airship. ‘General Pip, reporting in. The Shining Armor and our group are ready, my queen.’
…
        Luna nods in acknowledgement.
        `I thought I was the only one allowed to kiss my wife's plot,` James comments.
        `I-I was just following standard protocol,` Pip protests.
        `Is that what kids are calling it these days.`
        Luna facehoofs. ‘Our children are captives of a psychotic madman, and James embarrasses me in front of the whole fleet.’
        `Not the whole fleet,` her husband replies. `We're still missing... Ah! There she is.`
…
        Another carrier group joins the other three. An unusual figurehead stands at the end of the carrier.
        ‘R-Regent Sombra and the Cadance carrier group, reporting in,’ the unicorn stammers.
        ‘Sorry we're late. I had a hard time finding your special guest.’
        `You actually found him?`Luna asks.
…
        Discord adjusts a headset as he sits on the end of the carrier Cadance. ‘I'm here, my queen. My better judgment tells me to stay away, but I'll be damned if I'll let those weapons of war harm another pony.’
…
        `Thanks for your assistance,` James states.
        Luna nods. ‘We are in your debt, Discord.’
        `Spare me,` Discord snorts. `Just give me the signal to unleash the chaos of war.`
        `The what?` Pip asks.
        `Chaos [chows] is a perfectly cromulent word,` James argues.
        Sombra snickers over the line.
        Luna groans, ‘Children. I'm surrounded by children. ’ She shakes her head. ‘Begin the attack and send a message to the rebel leaders. Disable as many ships a you can,’ she orders. ‘We want to weaken them,not slaughter them.’
…
        The pony fleet begins advancing. Discord flies from his perch to attack the griffin vessels.

        Armed guards lead the Elements through the narrow halls towards the dungeon. Alba lets out a loud sigh.
        ‘If you let's us go now, you can keep on living,’ the princess sighs.
        ‘Shut u-’ a guard starts before a figure drops from the ceiling and lands on him.
        Another white-hooded figure drops down behind the group. Octavia and Technis quickly dispatch the griffins using their hidden blades. In a matter of seconds, the guards are a bloody mess on the floor.
        ‘I gave them a chance,’ Alba snorts.
        Helios groans, rolling his eyes, ‘Yes, real Element of Friendship.’
        Technis removes the Elements' restraints while Octavia clears the halls. Alba and Trixie test their magics once their horns are free. Rainbow stretches her wing.
        Octavia returns to the group. ‘The coast is clear. You have a straight shot back to the entrance.’
        ‘Corona should be there with support,’ Technis adds. ‘She went to gather the rebels after dropping us off.’
        Alba stretches her wings a bit. ‘Good. If Mordred has to deal with mom's assault and a rebel raid at the same time, he should be easy to get to.’
        Shaun nods and pats Helios on the side. ‘That's our job. Let's get going since it will take some time to sneak around, even with the secret passages.’
        ‘Good idea. The sooner this is over, the better,’ Alba states, heading towards the dungeon.
        ‘Alba, where are you going?’ Trixie asks.
        The princess looks back. ‘Dad told me there was something for me to see in the dungeon and Morgan's lab. I'm going to check it out and free any prisoners I find.’ She looks at her friends and family. ‘I'll be quick and teleport out. I promise.’
        Razzly gives her friend a brief hug. ‘I trust you. Just be safe.’
        ‘I will.’ Alba gallops off to see what she can find.
        Trixie pulls Razzly to her. ‘Come on. Let's get to safety.’
        Apple Pie pats the filly's back. ‘Don't worry. I'll protect you.’
        Razzly nods in thanks. Trixie and Apple lead Rainbow and Razzly back to the entrance. Octavia and Shaun take the lead as they head to find Mordred. Helios lingers for a moment before following after them.

        The Republic air force slowly pushes the Empire's forces back. Every carrier group has disabled many griffin ships. Except for one group. The Cadance-backed fleet is struggling to maintain its gains.
        Sombra gives some hasty, nervous orders to her officers. The ship's communication system crackles on.
        `Sombra! What is going on over there?` Luna demands.
        ‘S-sorry, Queen Luna,’ the unicorn stammers. ‘I-I'm having a little trouble here.’
        `I'll say. Get your act together!`
        ‘Y-yes m-’
        `Sombra,` James interrupts. `Calm down. Think for a moment. This is just like StarCraft, except we're the ones with the Zerg on our side. Got it?`
        ‘St-StarCraft?’ Sombra takes a breath and slowly looks around the bridge. She starts seeing it in a new light. She calmly repositions herself in her command chair. ‘I can handle this.’
        The Cadance carrier group redeploys itself. The fleet quickly regains its ground and advances. In the middle of their counterattack, one of their ships is shot out of the sky with a single shot. The pony forces try to swarm the griffin vessel that made the shot before its laser cannon can recharge. More pony ships are shot down in the exchange.
        James leans back in his command chair. ‘Order the fleet back. Move the Sparkle forward. Draw their fire.’
        An officer turns back. ‘But with that firepower, we won't last long against those lasers.’
        James waves a hoof calmly. ‘You will trust my judgment.’
        The officer takes a nervous breath and starts issuing orders.
        The point defense ships guarding the Sparkle pull back. The larger ship creeps forward. Anticipating weakness, griffin cruisers move in. They aim their lasers and fire. A number of shots are absorbed by an energy shield. The few that get through are deflected by the armor.
        James smirks. ‘Time Lord tech can easily defeat those Dalek knockoffs. Contact Luna. Tell her I set them up for her.’
…
        Luna's communication officer relays a message to her.
        ‘Well, he did do just that,’ the queen comments. ‘Contact Majora Unit,’ she commands. ‘Tell them it is time for Operation Moonfall. And get our ships out of the area.’
        The Republic fleets pull back. The Empire regroups and advances. Suddenly, there is a glint from the upper atmosphere. A meteor streaks out of the sky and shoots through a griffin airship. More glints appear as the Empire's fleet is caught in a meteor shower. They break formation and fall back. The meteors stop as the Empire retreats. The Republic presses forward.
        ‘Send a message to Majora Unit,’ Luna says. ‘Tell them Operation Moonfall was a success and to give their railguns a rest. We might need them later.’

        A trio of griffins fly in close formation over the castle. A black-feathered griffin with a green and gold checkered pattern painted on him leads them. They weave through the battlements, dodging incoming fire from soldiers in front of them and from an airship hovering above. The griffins aim their lances as they rush the guards. They hook the castle's defenders and flip them from the wall. The trio banks away swiftly to dodge a volley from above. They swoop into a nearby grove and land near a group of griffins. Corona trots among them, tending their wounds.
        ‘We can't do much with that airship overhead,’ the black griffin reports. ‘There is no way we can take the castle without taking that down first. We're lucky the 'Emperor' likes hunting game, so we're safe here. For now.’
        A griffin in armor shakes his head. ‘With their new weapons, we'd get cut to pieces in the crossfire from the castle. We have to hold them off until our laser units arrive.’
        ‘Can't the pony just teleport them here like she did with us?’ another griffin asks.
        Corona looks up from her work. ‘Unless they are coming from close by or you have some magic-rich foods, I can't help there.’ She looks at the castle. ‘Don't worry. My cousins are in there. They'll help us out.’
        ‘Aren't we supposed to be the ones saving them?’
        The unicorn smirks. ‘You're here to retake your nation. We're just going to provide you the keys to the door.’
        ‘A door? Out here?’ the armored griffin scoffs.
        A loud crash comes from the castle wall. Guards squawk and scramble from the ramparts above. The rebels head to the edge of the forest.
        ‘Look at the size of that thing,’ the black griffin comments, gaping at the massive, crumbling hole in the castle wall.
        The smoke and dust slowly clear from the newly made exit.
        ‘Told you there was a door,’ Apple Pie snorts.
        Trixie rolls her eyes. ‘Yes. Very good. Let's get out of here before the whole garrison arrives.’
        ‘Hey, Sunny!’ Rainbow calls, flying towards the hole.
        ‘Stop!’ Corona yells. She points up. ‘Watch out for death from above.’
        Rainbow frowns. She pokes her brother and points at the airship.
        ‘What do you want me to do about it?’ he complains. ‘I'm an earth pony. ’
        ‘You can throw a rock at it.’ She looks at Corona's escorts. ‘Actually, I think they are griffins.’
        Apple groans at the joke. He turns to the griffins. ‘Let me guess, they have those lasers.’ They nod. ‘Okay. I figured out a way to handle those.’
        Apple stands on his hind legs and plants his hooves. He focuses his energy then swiftly raises his forelegs above him. Two walls of earth rise from the castle to the forest and meet to form a tunnel. The airship tries breaking through, but the earth and stone absorb the attacks. Apple guides the group forward to meet Corona and the griffins coming to meet them.
        ‘That's... amazing!’ gapes one of the griffins.
        ‘Are you all right? Where is everypony?’ Corona asks.
        ‘Helios and the prince are going after Mordred,’ Apple replies. ‘Alba is doing something stupid, and those two...’
        Apple looks back. Trixie helps Razzly carry wounded griffins into the tunnel.
        ‘A little help!’ the filly snaps.
        The black griffin and his wingmates step forward, but the armored griffin stops them. ‘Sir, they're our brothers. No matter how this conflict ends, I want to see as few griffins killed as possible.’
        The armored griffin nods. ‘Agreed, but at least wait a moment for the medical unit to arrive.’
        The warriors escort the arriving medical unit forward. They take up a position inside the castle while the medics tend to the wounded.
        ‘Rest here,’ the armored griffin offers. ‘We'll take it from here and send any wounded your way.’
        ‘Thank you for your help,’ Trixie replies. She nudges Razzly.
        ‘Just don't kill anypony or you'll have to answer to me,’ the filly threatens.
        The commander nods and starts organizing his troops to seize the castle.

        Alba peeks around the walls surrounding the bottom of a stairwell. The stone structure of the castle has given way to more metallic materials as she entered the laboratory. There are very few guards around, which puts the princess' mind at ease. She steps into the corridor to get her bearings, failing to notice the security camera above her. Thankfully, the laboratory has a large sign and directory right at the entrance. Alba notes where the dungeon facilities are and gallops off in that direction.

        A wall panel opens slightly in an empty sitting room. After a brief pause, it fully opens and Octavia steps out. She motions for the others to follow her. Shaun takes a moment to determine their location.
        ‘We're a couple floors down,’ the griffin reports, ‘but the only passages that go higher are direct exit routes.’
        Technis pats Shaun on the back. ‘Don't worry. We're with you. We'll get you to Mordred safely.’
        Octavia peers out the door. ‘That's a matter of opinion.’
        ‘How bad is it?’ Helios asks.
        ‘Since we started near the garrison, we ended up deeper in the command structure, the most heavily guarded part of the base,’ the assassin replies. ‘Thanks to our distractions in the air and outside, everypony here is on high alert.’
        Helios and Shaun look dejected.
        Technis nods. ‘I'll take the twenty on the left. You take the twenty on the right.’
        ‘My thoughts exactly,’ his mother agrees. She turns to the princes. ‘Wait here. Come out once the screaming ends.’
        The princes remain as the assassins slip out of the room. There are screams and clashes of blades outside.
        ‘So...’ Shaun says. ‘He's your older brother, right.’
        ‘That's what they tell me.’
        ‘I guess pranking him was really tough growing up.’
        Helios sighs. ‘I met him the same day you did.’
        There is a loud thump on the door followed by a bloodstained blade piercing the wood.
        Shaun takes a breath. ‘I stand by my bad attempt at humor.’
        The blade retracts, and the door opens. Technis holds the door open for the princes. ‘Watch your step,’ the unicorn says. ‘Floor's a little sticky.’
        They step out into a hallway filled with griffin corpses. They are careful to step around the bodies as Technis leads them to a safe area.
        Technis points. ‘Main castle is that way. Stick to the side passages to avoid being caught when the guards come this direction.’
        ‘Why would they be coming this direction?’ Shaun asks.
        An alarm sounds.
        ‘Because mom and I are drawing them here. Go!’
        Shaun runs away as fast as he can. Technis turns and gallops to meet up with his mom. Helios waits a second before heading after Shaun.

         Mordred sits in a secure office, surrounded by officers. He watches a projection of the air battle unfold. Red dots fill the sky as blue dots slowly creep backwards. The land and sea around Aerieland is covered in blue dots and a few red. More blue dots fly up from Eagleland to join the battle.
        The emperor growls and leans back. ‘Can anything else go wrong?’
        An officer checks a tablet for the latest reports. ‘The Elements broke free and one literally punched a hole in a wall and rebels have entered the castle.’
        Mordred snarls.
        ‘O-on the plus side, they and the rebels are tending our wounded too. That saves our resources.’ He scrolls to the next report while Mordred rolls his eyes. ‘An alarm sounded in the garrison, near the operations room. Troops have been rerouted to defend the area while the generals evacuate.’
        ‘Reinforce the decoy safe rooms,’ Mordred orders. ‘That should divide their attention and thin their numbers while they try to find us.’
        ‘Yes, sir.’ The officer pulls up the next report. ‘The pony princess split from the others. Security spotted her heading to the labs and dungeon, but Miss Morgan ordered our soldiers from the area.’
        Mordred winces and holds his temple. ‘No. Let her be. Morgan can handle her.’ He looks at the map again. ‘Call up our reserve fleets from our western airspace. Contact King Orion for his fleets. Send everything we have at the Republic forces.’
        The officer nods. ‘Right away.’
…
        A heavyset griffin with red-brown feathers and light brown fur paces the command deck of his airship. The skies around the vessel are clear. The rest of the fleet can be seen, also in a state of rest. A NCO runs up with a message.
        ‘About time,’ the commanding officer grumbles. ‘We'll finally see some action, instead of sitting on our tails, pretending the Thestrals may attack.’ He stands to address his crew. ‘Fire up the engines! Set course for Aerieland! This is for the homeland!’
        Before and of the griffins can carry out the order, there is a loud thump and the ship rocks.
        ‘What was that?’
        ‘All systems show normal,’ a conn officer reports. ‘Probably a gust of wind.’
        ‘Very well. Continue with your orders.’
        There is a red flash behind the commander. ‘I wouldn't do that if I were you.’
        The griffin commander turns to face a tall, thin black horse with large leathery wings and pale eyes outlined with thick makeup. King Osiris wears ornate, jet black armor with a shining red jewel on the breast.
        ‘Who do you think you are?’ the griffin commander scoffs.
        Osiris glares down at the griffin. ‘I am King Osiris of the Thestral Empire. I am claiming this ship and the rest of the fleet until the end of your conflict with the Republic.’
        The griffin commander puffs out his chest. ‘Oh yeah? You and what army?’
        Osiris glares and taps the side of his helmet. ‘Decloak.’
        Across the command deck and around the the ship, red flashes appear. Thestrals emerge from the flashes, one hoof on the jewels on their armor, the other aiming weapons at the griffins. Red flashes fill every ship in the fleet.
        The griffin commander assesses his predicament. ‘Good army,’ he says, surrendering his command.
…
        ‘Um, Emperor,’ an officer says, flinching. ‘There is a small problem with our reserve fleet...’
        ‘What is it?’ Mordred hisses.
        ‘It seems it has been seized by King Osiris.’
        ‘Bloody bastard!’ the emperor roars. ‘He always takes the pony's side. At least we're getting support from Orion and Deerope.’ The officer does not respond. ‘Right?’
        ‘Well, uh, there is a slight problem with that...’
…
        A blue-grey siren with similar-colored hair containing dark blue stripes sits at the center of a harbor singing. On the ships, deer sailors and marines fight amongst themselves. None of them notice sea ponies lashing their ships with heavy lines.
…
        Mordred covers his face with a talon. ‘So Princess Dusk sided with the sea ponies over her own kind.’
        The officer nods. ‘And her song fed the heated emotions of the deer, turning them on each other.’
        ‘What about their southern fleet!’
…
        On the shore of a beach, Fleur-de-Lis is doing a strange dance and singing an odd chant. Beside her, dozens of Zebra dance and sing as well. More Zebra and several Saddle Arabians join in with drums and other musical instruments.
        Contrasting the musical atmosphere on the beach, the ocean is churning and frothing up a literal storm. The magic from the spell cast by the Zebra shamans has brewed up a massive squall which is heading further away from the coast and out to sea.
…
        Mordred holds his head in both talons. ‘Bloody Zebra shamans and their bloody magic covering an entire bloody continent with a bloody hurricane.’
        ‘I do have some good news,’ the officer speaks up.
        The emperor glares at his subordinate.
        ‘I just saved a bunch of money by...’
        ‘Finish that joke and I'll behead you myself, ’ the emperor snarls, rising. ‘I'll be in the throne room.’
        ‘But sire...’
        ‘I'll be in the throne room. Do not concern yourself with my affairs. Just find a way to save the Empire. Fight to the last griffin if we have to, or it won't be the only thing to fall today.’ Mordred marches out of the room, flanked by his guards.
        The officer takes a deep breath and looks back at the war map. ‘I really did save money, though...’

        James watches the battle in front of him from the bridge of the Carrier Sparkle. He sighs as another griffin ship armed with the modified Dalek laser fires a volley. The ship rocks a bit as pegasi, bat ponies and boarding vessels swarm the attacker.
        An officer approaches the king. ‘Sir, despite the resistance we've been showing so far, the shields and armor won't hold up to too many more shots. We need time to recharge and repair.’
James nods. ‘Very well. Pull back, but order our point defense ships to be extra alert. We have them on the ropes, but they can still inflict heavy damage.’
        ‘Yes, sir.’
        The Sparkle starts pulling back. Smaller ships quickly move to fill the gap, but several griffin ships slip past and rush the carrier. They each train Dalek-based cannons on the larger vessel. Before they fire, a Republic battleship swoops in and intercepts the attack. The battleship gets many pieces, including the main engine, shot out by the time the assault is finished. The battleship falls from the sky while Republic vessels rush to its aid and to drive back the attackers.
        ‘What ship was that?’ James asks.
        ‘It was the Fluttershy,’ the captain reports back.
        ‘Even in death, she still protects me...’
        The Fluttershy plummets towards the ocean below. Suddenly, a bubble appears around the damaged ship. Its fall slows, and it gently bounces on the surface of the water. A figure shoots from above the wreckage.
        ‘That was Fluttershy. Nopony hurts Fluttershy!’ Discord bellows.
        The god of chaos flies straight to one of the griffin ships that damaged the Fluttershy. He lands on deck, indenting the surface. Griffins surround Discord. Some level personal laser cannons at the draconequus.
        ‘The last time I was shot with one of those,’ Discord snarls, ‘I became the creature you see before you. What do you think I'll become next?’
        The griffins look at each other. They set down their weapons and back away.
        Discord crushes one of the laser cannons under his foot. ‘Smart move. Now, land this ship and stay out of the fight or you're each going to deal with me personally.’
        The griffins nod and rush off to complete their surrender. Discord flies off to the next ship.
        Luna watches Discord's actions from the Carrier Celestia. She takes a deep breath and stands. ‘Prepare a transmission for open broadcast to the Griffin Empire, on all their channels.’
The communications officer taps a few buttons then nods to the queen.
        ‘Citizens and warriors of the Griffin Empire. I am Queen Luna of the New Lunar Republic,’ Luna states. ‘The time has come to end this conflict between our nations and within your own. We are calling on all changelings within the Empire to stand up for your nation.’
        Chrysalis steps beside Luna. ‘This is Queen Chrysalis. Prince Shaun is willing to offer amnesty and full citizenship to all changelings in the Empire. If you join my hive as well, I am offering a way for you to coexist peacefully without the need to feed on the emotions of others.’
‘Please,’ Luna pleads. ‘Changelings, rise up and support the rebels. Don't do it for us. Do it for yourself and your homeland. Rise up for the Empire!’
        Luna sits back in her command chair with Chrysalis standing beside her. They watch the battle continue and wait for a reaction.
…
        Aboard a griffin ship, the crew is uncertain how to react to Luna's message. Some of the griffins look at each other nervously to see if one of their crewmates are a changeling. A few griffins exchange looks. They release a burst of energy as they drop their disguises. The changelings rush the bridge while the remaining griffins are confused.
…
        On the bridge of the Celestia, Luna smiles as opposing ships turn on their allies or break from the battle.

        Apple Pie uses his earth manipulation powers to raise another wall to shield the rebels entering the castle as the airship chips away the current wall. Once the wall is in place, the airship's guns stop. A moment later, there are screams as griffins are thrown from the ship. Rainbow dashes through the sky and catches them before they can get hurt. From the ship, changelings look over the side and wave down at their new allies.
        ‘That was a waste of effort,’ Apple grumbles.
        His sister flies down and hugs him. ‘I think it was worth it.’
        Apple smiles and returns the hug.
…
        There is chaos in the Empire's war room. The top commanders have to wrestle a general from the communication systems before he can issue a surrender. The griffins overpower the general. He releases a burst of magic and sprints from the war room in his changeling form.

        Deep in the castle, Alba calmly explores the laboratory. All of the staff have evacuated, leaving their experiments and notes to be picked over. The princess makes her way towards a magical source she detected. She finds Morgan in a room filled with spectrometers, particle detectors and other high tech equipment. The unicorn holds something in front of her that Alba cannot see.
        ‘About time you arrive, princess,’ Morgan calmly states.
        Alba looks around cautiously. ‘Yeah... What's going on here? Why are we the only ones here?’
        ‘Because I wanted to see you alone,’ Morgan replies, sealing the door with her magic.
        ‘Well, I'm here.’
        ‘Yes, you are, but not for long.’ The unicorn looks back and grins, revealing many sharp fangs.
        Alba watches her carefully. ‘So, you're not really an unicorn. I thought your magical aura seemed different. What are you? What do you have there? I am prepared to counter your new weapons in an instant.’
        ‘Oh, it is nothing.’ Morgan tosses a midnight blue horn to the princess' hooves. ‘Just some leftovers from the last pony I met like this. I'm hoping you'll be more satisfying.’
Alba rolls her eyes. ‘Intimidating. Can I go now or do I have to fight you? Either way, you're ending up in a Republic prison.'
        ‘I think you'll stay.’ Magic swirls around the unicorn. She becomes taller, skinnier. Her fur becomes a dark skin. A light orange chitin appears on her back. Her horn becomes longer and twisted through her scraggly yellow hair. ‘Behold your new queen.’
        ‘Yay. A changeling,’ Alba sighs. ‘We're friends now, you know?’
        ‘We will never be friends!’ the queen bellows. ‘Your mother stole my kingdom. And Chrysalis...’ She screams. ‘I will never forgive that traitor Chrysalis! First, she abandons me in the Crystal Empire, leaving my forces to be slaughtered by your mother. Now she allies herself with my sworn enemy. I will deal with her after I take care of you.’
        Alba studies the changeling carefully. ‘Crystal Empire... You can't be Naiad.’
        ‘In the flesh,’ Naiad proudly proclaims, posing.
        ‘You can't be. You're dead.’
        ‘Reports of my demise are greatly exaggerated. Though I did barely get out of Ponyville.’
        Alba glares at Naiad, snarling slightly. ‘What?’
        Naiad paces around the room. ‘After the Crystal Empire, I was a queen without a hive. I wandered aimlessly, draining any pony I could find, plotting my revenge. I tried raising armies and inciting rebellions, but your mother's influence was too damn strong. When that wedding rolled around, I had the perfect opportunity. An operative of mine had given me a communication device that allowed me to summon those aliens.’
        Alba stares at the ground, shaking. She is doing everything in her power not to let her anger take over, but her coat and wings are starting to turn dark. ‘You called the Daleks? You had them attack my father's wedding?’
        Naiad smirks. ‘Worked out better than I thought. It would have been better if at least one of your parents died, but there was enough leftover scrap for me to start over here. Just needed to push that moron Mordred to kill his brother and his family, institute massive militarization and invest in alien technology confiscated from the rubble of that disgusting little town, and here we are today.’ She scowls. ‘Looks like your mother is, once again, ruining my plans, but at least I can slaughter her baby daughter, so it all works out in the end.’
        Alba's rage starts boiling over. ‘You killed them... You killed Twilight Sparkle... You killed my dad... You created Discord... You made my dad miserable every day since then...’
        ‘When you put it like that, you make me sound like some sort of monster.’
        ‘You are a monster!’ Alba's anger explodes. Dark magic surrounds her. She becomes taller. Her coat and wings becomes dark purple while her mane and tail become longer and gain ethereal properties. Dark auras surround her eyes. ‘And I am going to be the one to slay you.’
        ‘Big words coming from a small pri-’
        A massive blast of magic sends Naiad crashing through several walls and ending up under a pile of rubble and destroyed equipment. Alba teleports over, her eyes and horn glowing with dark energy.

        Shaun runs through the halls of the castle. Guards chase after the prince, weapons drawn. The prince rounds a corner and leaps over another set of guards.
        ‘Duck!’
        Shaun gives an odd-sounding squawk as he ducks under Technis. The unicorn leaps from a side room. He tackles a guard into a wall and turns back, sword drawn. The assassin stays to fight while Shaun runs forward. He slips into a stairwell and quickly ascends to the next floor. He charges for the throne room, but a squad of guards block his path. Shaun stops again as their captain approaches.
        ‘Surrender, boy,’ the captain offers. ‘You had your fun, now give up.’
        Shaun looks around and pulls a sword off the wall. ‘Have you forgotten that before I left, I was trained in sword fighting? ’
        ‘I remember,’ the captain replies. ‘I trained you. You were horrible.’
        ‘I know, but I was good at running.’
        Shaun tosses the sword at the captain and runs down a side hall. The captain catches the thrown weapon and sets it aside. He leads his troops after the prince. A few seconds later, Shaun sneaks out of the hidden passage he entered. With the coast clear, he heads back to the throne room. He lines himself up and rushes at the doors. The sudden opening knocks back the guards at the entrance as Shaun busts to the throne room. More guards charge the intruder with weapons drawn. Shaun dodges one, catches another and throws him into a squad mate. Guards further down the throne room ready firearms. Technis crashes through a side window, taking out one guard. He throws a dagger at another before standing on his hind legs, pointing his hidden blades and casting a spell, using the blades to arc lightning at the remaining guards. He tosses a sword to Shaun as the prince marches to the throne. Mordred remains seated, calmly watching the fighting in front of him.
        ‘It is over, Mordred,’ Shaun declares. ‘We're here to bring your reign to an end.’
        Mordred stands, removes his crown, sets it on his throne. ‘Very well. You win.’
        ‘Huh?’ Shaun is shocked and a little confused. ‘That's it? No final battle?’
        ‘I know when I am beat.’
        ‘Can I at least bash your beak in a little?’
        ‘You'll have to catch me first.’
        Mordred knocks his throne over, sending it crashing at Shaun. Before Shaun or Technis can catch him, Mordred opens a secret passage.
        ‘Did you really think I didn't know about these?’ Mordred taunts, closing the door behind him.
        Shaun and Technis try finding the switch to open the passage. Technis even tries casting a spell on the wall. There is a commotion behind them. More guards have arrived. Some help their injured allies. Most advance with swords and firearms ready. Technis draws his blades and charges them with magic lightning. Shaun calmly picks up the crown from where Mordred dropped it.
        ‘Mordred has abdicated,’ Shaun states. ‘I am next in line, so...’
        The guards look at each other then bow.
        ‘Long live King Shaun!’ one calls.
        ‘I'm never going to get used to that,’ Shaun mutters. He shakes off his unease. ‘Signal the troops to stand down. Contact Queen Luna. Tell her we surrender unconditionally.’
        An officer rushes off with the orders.
        ‘Surrender isn't the best first command for a new king,’ the king sighs.
        ‘If you could have picked something else, what would it be?’ Technis asks.
        Shaun shrugs. ‘I could really go for some pie right now.’ He turns to his friend. He puts a talon on Technis' shoulder. ‘Hey. I'm really sorry. She was...’
        Technis nods and wipes his face. ‘Thanks, but you have more important things to worry about.’
        Shaun takes a deep breath and turns to address the griffins gathering in the throne room.
…
        Mordred makes his way through a narrow passageway. He activities a trap, collapsing a section of tunnel behind him.
        ‘Bloody traitors. Bloody Empire. Good thing I stashed all that money and maintained alliances with those pirates. They haven't seen the last of me!’
        There is a dark blue flash in front of the griffin. ‘Or maybe they have,’ Helios says, stepping out of the shadows.
        ‘Just the pony prince.’ Mordred draws a dagger. ‘Get out of my way before I am forced to use this.’
        Helios sends magic blasts down all the visible tunnels, causing blasts and collapsing them. ‘I think you forgot I can do that.’ He takes a step forward. ‘You're mine now.’
        Mordred holds the dagger forward. ‘You'll never take me alive!’
        The prince uses his magic to disarm the former emperor. ‘That was never part of the plan.’ He shrugs. ‘Well, at it wasn't in my plan.’
        ‘Your plan?’ Mordred laughs. ‘I've read the intelligence on all of you. Your Kindness. You are too nice to hurt me. What is your plan? Leave me here until I starve? I know these tunnels better than you think. I'll find a way out long before then.’
        ‘Actually, I was thinking quite the opposite of starving,’ Helios corrects. ‘I was thinking of a meal. A big, fat, emperor-sized meal.’ Before Mordred can argue, he interrupts, ‘But not for me. For my friend here.’
        Helios steps aside to reveal a gaunt changeling. The changeling stares at Mordred and licks his lips.
        ‘None of Chrysalis' changelings will harm me. They are as weak as you.’
        ‘He's not one of Chrysalis'... yet. See, you had him trapped in your zoo, like an animal. I offered him a deal. I get him out and he joins Chrysalis after he does one thing for me.’
        ‘No. You wouldn't.’
        Helios looks down at the changeling then glances at Mordred. ‘Eat up,’ he offers.
        The changeling advances on the griffin, baring his fangs and readying his magic. Helios calmly watches as the changeling has his first filling meal in ages.

        Helios teleports outside of the griffin castle. The griffins are celebrating the end of the war. Rebels and loyalists share drinks, sing songs and reunite. Trixie shares stories with commanders from both sides. Rainbow dashes back and forth between the castle and city, getting supplies and drinks for the party. The prince trots up to where Apple and Razzly are sitting and joins them.
        ‘So, what'd I miss?’
        Apple looks at his little brother. ‘You were in there with the new king. You know what happened. Speaking of, when are he and Technis joining us? Rainbow is getting antsy to see if her "sexy brother" is safe.’
        Corona staggers over, levitating a bottle. ‘She ain't the only one! I want celebrate by doing all sorts of things to his body.’ She collapses at her cousin's hooves. ‘Sorry. This stuff is great. I LOVE griffins!’
        Helios takes the bottle from her. ‘And that is why we wait until we're old enough... Anyway! They'll be along soon. Shaun has a few new duties.’
        ‘Where's Alba?’ Razzly asks. ‘Wasn't she with you?’
        A giant blast of magic shoots out from the cliff below the castle. When it passes, Alba stands at the rim of the newly created crater. She takes some deep breaths as the rest of the dark energies surrounding her dissipate. Once they are gone, she spreads her wings and flies over to her friends.
        ‘So, did we win?’ the princess asks, smiling happily.

        Back in Canterlot, Luna and Shaun give a press conference after signing new peace accords. They address as many issues between the Republic, the Empire and other nations as they can. Present, but away from the conference, the rest of the Elements watch the show. Rainbow sleeps on her big brother's shoulder. Razzly slumps over, bored. Only Helios and Alba still sit at attention, being used to formal occasions.
        Helios applauds a statement. ‘So, how long do you think this peace will last?’
        ‘Shaun's a good guy. He'll be our ally until the end of the universe.’ She turns her nose up. ‘At least, until I save it of course.’
        Her brother rolls his eyes. ‘Of course.’ There is a brief pause. ‘I was reading some of the reports from the relief efforts. They were investigating the damage you caused.’
        ‘Find anything interesting?’
        ‘Not in the immediate area, but they did find the corpse of a changeling queen out at sea. It was missing a leg, its horn was broken and there was massive magical damage covering the body.’
        ‘That is interesting,’ Alba agrees.
        ‘Strange too since griffins don't use magic and there are no known queens in that area.’
Alba nods. ‘Yes. Very strange indeed.’ She claps for an announcement. ‘I wonder what happened to Mordred.’
        ‘Probably just got eaten up by the world he created.’
        ‘Again, interesting.’
        The siblings applaud. Rainbow slips off Apple's shoulder, but he catches her.

        At another press conference, Technis paces backstage. He is stopped when Corona hugs him.
        ‘I'm here for you. Don't ever forget that.’
        Technis regains his trademark grin. ‘I love you so much.’
        ‘I love you too.’ She gives him a kiss. ‘I think they are calling for you.’
        Technis smiles and heads on stage. The gathered crowd cheers for the idol. A 'Synth Tech' chant gets started by some of his fans. Technis gets to the microphone and motions for calm.
        ‘I wish this were a new album or tour announcement, but it is, sadly, the exact opposite.’ Technis takes a deep breath. ‘As of now, I am temporarily retiring. I do not know when I'll be able to produce again.’
        A number of ponies in the gathered crowd cry out. Many shout for answers. Technis motions for calm again.
        ‘Can you tell us why you are taking this break?’ a reporter shouts.
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
        In the griffin castle, a clean up team forces a door open. They immediately turn away. One vomits. The room is filled with dead griffins. Every surface is covered in blood.
        ‘What the bloody hell happened here?’ one asks entering the room.
        ‘Looks like a slaughter...’
        ‘What could have done this?’
        One of the crew moves part of a corpse. ‘What the? There's a pony under here.’ He pulls the body out a bit. ‘Holy sh... She's covered in laser burns. What the hell happened?’
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
        Technis and Octavia lead several squads of griffin soldiers through the halls. They dodge gun and laser fire as they draw their hunters away from Shaun's mission. Technis uses his magic to blast a hole in the ceiling, causing the griffins to be blocked by debris as the ponies catch their breath next to a set of large doors.
        Technis wipes his blades clean. ‘This is starting to get fun. I could probably set on of my mixes to this chase.’ He looks over. Octavia has her sunglasses off and is rubbing her eyes. ‘You okay, mom?’
        She nods. ‘I'm fine. Come here.’ Technis comes over. Octavia takes his sunglasses and throws them away. She puts hers on him. ‘There. Perfect.’
        ‘Mom, what are you doing? These are yours. You said you would never remove them until...’
        Octavia opens the doors behind them. ‘I know. They are yours now.’
        Technis starts tearing up. ‘Mom. What are you saying?’
        Octavia gives her son a hug. ‘There are too many of them. They can be bottlenecked and contained here. You go. Save Shaun.’
        ‘But you'll die if I leave you!’
        ‘And so will you if you stay.’
        Technis tries thinking of a reply.
        ‘Look at the glasses.’
        Technis does not move.
        ‘Look at the glasses, Technis!’
        He removes them with a shaking hoof and looks at them. Around the inner rim, the words 'To Vinyl, love Octavia' are inscribed.
        ‘Those are the last piece of her I have to remember her by. I thought I couldn't care for anypony more than her. Then I had you.’ She holds Technis' crying face. ‘And you have Corona! You have to go back to her! That is my final order as your handler... and your mother.’
        Technis returns the sunglasses. He leaves the room. ‘I love you, mom.’
        ‘I love you too, Technis.’
        Technis seals the door behind him and gallops away. Octavia wipes her tears and turns to face the arriving army.
        ‘So, who wants to die first? Because I am going to be the one to die last!’
        Octavia extends her hidden blades and leaps at the griffins.
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
        Technis wipes his tears and looks up. ‘I lost somepony very important to me during the battle with the griffins. I need some time to deal with the loss.’ He takes a breath and his smirk returns. ‘On the plus side, I have a wonderful new fillyfriend helping me through this tough time. Come out here, Corona.’
        The embarrassed unicorn comes out on stage. All the mares in the audience stare daggers at her. She panics more when Technis kisses her, but catches a bottle thrown at her using her magic.
        ‘Isn't she wonderful?’ the embarrassing unicorn asks. ‘She's Princess Celestia's granddaughter too. How cool is that? Now, if you'll excuse us, I need Corona to take care of me real bad.’
        Technis waves to the audience and makes his exit, dragging Corona with him. Once they are backstage, Corona pins Technis to the wall.
        ‘What the hell was that? I was so embarrassed.’
        Technis grins. ‘Sorry. I thought it would be funny to break some hearts.’
        Corona snorts. ‘Then next time, kiss me properly.’
        She presses her face to his, giving him the biggest kiss of his life.

        The Elements rest in Alba's lounge, much to the princess' annoyance. Alba and Helios search her books. Rainbow sleeps on a pile of books. Razzly serves some treats she made. Apple looks through one of the books before setting it down again. Shaun walks in and takes off a robe and crown.
        ‘Being a king is hard work,’ the king complains. ‘Did you know there is a movement back home to get me renamed to "Shaun the Lionhearted"? The Lionheart Dynasty.’ He shrugs. ‘Actually, that sounds pretty cool.’
        ‘Uh huh. And it will be the last one unless I can find a way to save the universe,’ Alba replies, not looking up.
        Helios groans at her sister's behavior. ‘And I have to get back to work for mom. Not to mention repair my relationship with Krile.’
        Apple stands and stretches. ‘So is this it? Are we done until the next crisis?’
        An uncomfortable silence falls over the room, broken only by Rainbow's snoring.
        ‘And I thought I was Honesty...’ Shaun mutters.
        Apple looks away sheepishly. ‘Sorry. I just, uh...’
        ‘Ya know,’ Alba interrupts. ‘The royal yacht is kept constantly ready for travel.’
        Helios nods. ‘That's right. Our private airship. And despite the recent conflict, there is a major convention starting soon in Neighpon.’
        ‘Hmm. I have been wanting some new trees for the orchard,’ Apple says. ‘Maybe I can plant some Satsuma.’
        ‘I'd love to get fresh melon bread,’ Razzly sighs.
        Rainbow looks up. ‘Melon bread? We have melon bread?’
        Shaun puts a talon to his temple and does his face thing. ‘I sense another adventure in our near future.’
        The Elements smile and gallop off to 'borrow' the royal airship.