//------------------------------// // Chapter 7: Apple Jack's Shove // Story: Tales from Mystika: A My Little Mages Book // by Yondy //------------------------------// Chapter 7 Apple Jack’s Shove Apple Jack’s mouth felt like a desert. Her dry lips cracked as she tried to swallow, but all she could manage was a wheezing sputter. Her lids came unglued as she struggled to open her aching eyes. She immediately shut them again as the bright lights assaulted her vision. Apple Jack groaned as her head lopped to one side, her temples pounding like a drum. Her whole body ached. Was she still in the field? No, she thought, there were no birds, no wind in the trees. She felt the hard ground as her weak arms searched tentatively beneath her. She winced as her muscles stretched, reminding her of the knife she took the night before. The wound had been bandaged, she could feel the pressure of the tourniquet wrapped tightly around her forearm. There was a shuffling sound near her. Apple Jack could feel something tapping on the bronze shoulder of her armor. She tensed, readying her good arm to swing. Her bleary eyes shot open as her glove met with something solid. Apple Jack’s eyes grew wide as she realized her hand was around the neck of a human being. A royal guard human being. She quickly recoiled and stuttered over an apology as the young recruit gripped his sword half-unsheathed. “I uh, I’m real sorry, sir. It’s been a rough night and I didn’t know who-or-what was givin’ me a wakeup call.” The soldier released his nervous grip but still eyed her warily. “It’s been a rough night for all of us, Sister, but I’m not going around strangling anyone who comes near me. Now stand up.” Apple Jack could barely sit up, let alone stand. The first part of a “why” escaped her lips, but the rest of her question was cut short by shouting outside. Her ears perked as she recognized the familiar voice belonging to one loud-mouthed Rainbow Dash. Apple Jack didn’t have time to react before her old friend burst into the room, pushing past two entrance guards. “Keep your hands off her, Rusty!” She shouted, stomping over to the startled soldier. “Commander,” the guard replied, collecting himself, “for the last time, we couldn’t check her while she was unconscious.” “She’s the damned Avatar of Honesty. You wanna know if she’s a Changeling? Ask her, dipshit.” “Changeling?” AJ asked groggily. “Get her out of here.” The guard protested. “Dash. It’s alright.” Apple Jack held up her good arm, dismissing her friend. “Due to the sensitive matter of this inspection, I’m going to have to ask the commander to leave.” The guard repeated, blocking the hallway. “Like hell I’m gon-” “It’s alright Dash. After last night, we’re gonna need all the friends we can get. Go on.” As Dash left in a huff, Jack turned her head to the guard and gave him a puzzled look. “Changelings? Really?” “There have been sightings in the surrounding areas.” The soldier said dismissively as he prepared some kind of detection spell. “Like we didn’t have enough to worry about.” Apple Jack mused. “What else are we worrying about?” Asked the guard, the colorless glow around his hands intensifying. “I can’t do this sittin’ down?” Apple Jack said in seriousness, avoiding the question. The guard sighed. “Changelings are capable of hiding energy in their surroundings as well as melding with furniture. I’m going to have to ask you to stand up, ma’am. The analysis only takes a minute and then we’ll be on our way.” Apple Jack smirked as the soldier finished his explanation. He’d obviously done this a few hundred times before. She obliged him as she gingerly brought herself to her feet. “Feet shoulder width apart and arms straight out, please.” The soldier dictated as he muttered a few words and his hands began to glow a bright white. Apple Jack tried to lift her arms, but it was obvious to anyone watching that she was in serious pain. “Actually, that’s just standard operating procedure. It’s...you can leave your hands down, Sister.” “What’s your name?” She asked the soldier still looking at her legs, trying to find some sort of nonexistent magic to will them to move. “Russell,” answered the soldier, a little taken aback at Jack’s forwardness. “And what did you mean by ‘enough to worry about?’” “Well Rus’ if you wanna hear a crazy story about somethin’ worse than Changelings, come to Dusk Court tonight. It’s a doozy. Bring popcorn.” “Something worse than Changelings, on top of the ones that’re making my life a living hell right now?” “Pretty much.” “Screw the popcorn. I need a drink.” “Get me one while you’re at it, will ya?” Apple Jack tried to laugh at her own weak joke, but the chuckle hurt her still cracked ribs and made her cough up what felt like a piece of her lung. She knew the healing was working as fast as it could, but in the meantime the pain was crippling. “As a matter of fact, got any here?” “I don’t drink on duty.” Russell answered, his glowing hands hovering inches away from Apple Jack’s body. “So how long have you been a guard here in Chantal-” Apple Jack’s banter was cut off by Russell taking a step back and his right hand glowing a dark purple. Seeing his hand turn this color immediately hardened his expression and his other hand blurred as it shot directly to his sword handle. “Sister. Empty the contents of your bag. Slowly.” Russell said, just out of reach. Apple Jack was stunned, but a little annoyed at this point. She started to undo the belt that held her side bag on. “I’m exhausted, kid, you open it.” She answered, winding up an underhand throw. “STOP!” Apple Jack stopped her arm in the middle of the toss, still holding the strap. Realizing the guard was serious, her eyes drooped slightly. “Sorry ‘bout that.” “Just empty the contents on the floor in front of you.” Russell said militaristically. Apple Jack obliged and shook the bag’s contents onto the floor. Russell held out his right glowing hand to the contents, with the other firmly gripped to his sword. Amidst the mundane travel supplies, the dried apple slices, canteen, fire rune stones and such, whenever Russell moved his hand past the Shadow Blade’s cloth, it turned an unmistakable purple. He did it three times to make sure. “You want to explain to me why you’ve brought Changeling energy into the royal city, Sister?” Apple Jack chuckled. “Remember the thing I told you that was worse than the Changelings? That’s a piece of its undies.” “This is not a laughing matter Sister, do you know what this is?” Russell said firmly. “No, and apparently neither do you!” “This is going to the Archmage.” “Yeah. With me, when we go to Dusk Court. You’d know that if you were payin’ attention.” “Evidence processes in two to three days, Sister.” Her heart sunk. She needed that scrap. It was the only way to get things going, and she wasn’t about to hand it over to some kid. Apple Jack’s eyes darted around the room, surveying her options. Behind the guard, resting quietly on a table was her sword, wrapped in canvas. The rune in Eri’s blade glowed a soft red as she tentatively reached out to it with her mind. “You can have it back after we’ve quarantined and determined the threat.” “NO!” Jack shouted, stepping forward as the broadsword on the table vibrated in response to her anger. “Sit down, Sister.” Russell slowly unsheathed his sword. “Last chance, boy. I’ve literally fought the forces of Hell to get here and I don’t know if you’ve heard the stories about me and my friends, but it’s my job to do most of the killing.” Apple Jack swallowed the lump in her throat as she imagined sticking Eri through Russell’s chest. Just as Russell started to lunge Eri flew off of the table towards them, but a shout from behind broke Jack’s concentration. “HEY!” Screamed a familiar scratchy voice from the door, causing Eri to clang onto the floor. “Brought reinforcements!” Dash piped as she puffed her chest out and strutted straight through the door with Rarity and Twilight in tow. Apple Jack breathed a sigh of relief as Russell diverted his attention towards the small battalion of half of the six Avatars of Virtue coming directly for him. “Did he touch you, AJ?” Dash rambled on without letting her answer. “I know my friend’s cute, but if you’re so desperate that you had to-” “DASH!” Apple Jack shouted in frustration, but the exertion caused her to slump back down onto the bench behind her. Twilight started forward, but Russell intervened, his sword still drawn. “Sister Apple Jack has in her possession Changeling fabric, Ms. Sparkle. Step aside.” “I know, I gave it to her an- wait what? Changeling?” Twilight’s eyes lit up like her mind was processing new information. Apple Jack knew this was usually a good thing. “After several Changeling sightings, protocol is t-” “Yes yes yes, we know, but you’re saying that the ripped black cloth failed the Changeling detection test?” “Yes. And must be brought for processing.” Russell explained like he was telling a five year old. “I need to come with you.” Twilight said matter of factly. “That’s part of my research and I need to know anything I can about it.” “Authorized personnel only, Ms. Sparkle.” “I have complete clearance.” “Not even Avatars are allowed in the enchantment analysis station. Defending your friend could lead to tampering.” Russell said, reaching towards the black cloth. Twilight raised her voice again in protest, but Rarity gently put her hand on Twilight’s shoulder and moved past her towards the stoic guard. “Russell, is it?” Rarity moved gracefully forward, the garnet gem in her tiara glowing, “When I asked you to personally take care of our dear friend Apple Jack, I just knew I could count on you to take care of things. And that’s the only thing that set off your spell, is it not?” Rarity's voice flowed like liquid silk, blending inquiry and suggestion. Russell seemed to relax and lean towards the beautiful enchantress; Apple Jack wondered if he would have even said yes if that wasn’t the case. “Of course, Senator.” He said with a dreamy smile. Giving a slight bow, he turned to Twilight with a head jerk motion for her to follow him. Twilight turned to Rarity and silently mouthed “Thank you,” with wide eyes. Rarity breathed a soft sigh of relief and Dash clapped her hard on the back nearly knocking her over. “One of these days, Ray. You’re gonna get found out, hauled off, and we’re gonna need to find a new sixth.” “Come now, Rainbow Dash, we simply don’t have the time to put up with due-course when the end of the world is afoot. Besides, people just think it’s my irresistible natural charm.” Rarity rationalized. Technically, between her natural beauty and innate magical ability, she was for all intents and purposes right. “What time is it?” Apple Jack asked, glancing up at the orange light filtering in from the window above them. “It’s time for you to lay back down, darling. I’m sure Twilight will be able to handle the meeting just fine.” Rarity said soothingly. Apple Jack ignored her and rose to her feet. “If they see me like this, I’ll at least get the sympathy vote,” she said determinedly, limping a bit less as she felt the healing start to close the cracks in her ribs. “You can’t charm all of ‘em, Ray.” She added with a forced smile. “Jack. I know you’re hurtin’ and all, but I gotta ask you somethin’.” Dash interjected. “For the last time, I will not marry you without a pre-nup.” Apple Jack joked as she collected her faithful sword from the ground, Eri obediently rising into her grip before she sheathed it at her side. “I’m serious, Jack. Scoot didn’t come home last night.” “You sure?” Apple Jack said puzzled.
 “Well, we were flying you and Twi all night, but Flitter hasn’t gotten any word since then.” “Rainbow Dash, dearest, I’m sure she’s fine. Troubles being what they are, the post may be delayed.” Reassured Rarity as they took their places behind the determinedly limping Apple Jack as she exited the building. The door guards grumbled quietly as she pushed past them, glaring at her like an escaping prisoner. “She’s been waiting at the embassy all day, Ray.” Dash shot back, reminding Rarity of the large parchment in the Skyborn embassy which sent and received messages from its Sister parchment at the Cumula town hall. There was only one pair in the realm and it was placed in Cumula, as it was difficult for the earthbound to stay in contact with the floating city. “This is the first I’m hearin’ that Scoot had a cousin.” Apple Jack said suspiciously. “Yeah. Flits keeps to herself pretty much.” Dash said off the cuff. “And you trust this Flitter chick?” Apple Jack asked without looking at Dash. “She’s my squads’ eyes. She saves my ass on a daily basis.” Dash answered honestly. Apple Jack nodded, knowing that Dash didn’t give people credit lightly. “Well, even if she is back at my place, it’s the safest place in Mystika right now. If she wants to head down there and check on Scoot, she’s got my permission. Just tell her the password, but tell her if she tries anythin’ funny, Mac’s hammer can have a mind of its own, if ya know what I mean.” “If he can catch ‘er.” Dash scoffed. “But thanks, AJ. Flits’ll be thrilled. And if I don’t make Dusk Court, give ‘em hell for me.” That said, she sped off towards the direction of the Skyborn embassy. “And then there were two, I suppose.” Rarity joked with a forced chuckle as the two made their way towards the Chantalot Castle. “I’m so sorry about the hospitality, Apple Jack. I wish this could be under better circumstances.” “Your hospitality? You kiddin’? Ray, I was about five seconds from turning that guy into a guard-kabob when you came in. I was so happy to see you, If I wasn’t feeling like I’d been bounced off a cliff thirty times, I woulda said 'Come on in the bed and snuggle like the good old days,'” Apple Jack said, louder than she should have. “Apple Jack!” Rarity almost screamed in shock. “Keep your voice down.” “C’mon! It was good times.” Apple Jack said with the same tone. “We were on the road! It was cold!” Her voice then got very soft and stern. “Please don’t embarrass me in front of these-” “Strangers who’ll never see you again ever?” “They’re all potential voters, Apple Jack!” Rarity corrected. “They can’t even hear us. And if they could, they'd know I’m just joshin’.” Apple Jack clapped her on the back weakly. “Possibly, darling, and normally on the road, after a flagon, or six, I'd josh with the best of you,” Rarity replied, dusting off her shoulder. “But I’m the bu-” she hastily readjusted her vocabulary, “the subject of a lot of jokes as it is, and there is no sense in giving them more arrows.” “What jokes and who from? Who do I gotta beat up?” “You’d beat up the whole senate?” Rarity asked skeptically. “Well, after tonight, they’ll be calling you a damn hero. They already sent down troops to help the temple out, right?” “Twilight didn’t tell you, did she?” “I haven’t said a word to Twi since she passed out on top of me.” Apple Jack noted. “Twilight promised I wouldn’t have to break this news. Oooooh, that girl!” “I’ve been busy tryin’ not to be dead, Ray. Sorry to bother ya.” “It’s not that, Apple Jack.” “And lay off the full name, would ya?” “It’s your name, darling, and as an Avatar of the Archmage, I won’t have you confused with someone else.” “But Twi was supposed to tell me what now?” “Ah. Yes. That...” Rarity sighed nervously. “The meeting at the Senate didn’t go exactly as planned...” She said apprehensively. “They’re not sending a whole lot of troops back to the farm? That’s fine. Whatever they can do.” “They can’t do...anything.” “Can’t or won’t?” Apple Jack stopped dead in her tracks. “I told Twilight this would happen...” “And you just sat back in your damned chair and let them?!” Apple Jack yelled, turning dignitaries’ heads as she created a scene at the bottom of the castle steps. “The Archmage herself said they couldn’t spare the resources! What am I supposed to say to that?” Rarity cried desperately, trying to keep her voice down. “You say that we’ve got demons in our backyard and they need to be offed. NOW.” Apple Jack's voice came a bit stronger as her strength returned. “I wasn’t there, Apple Jack, I didn’t know the severity, and those words aren't exactly in my vocabulary, but-” “But what?” Apple Jack growled, her dirt-speckled face inches away from Rarity’s powdered nose. “You really should be back in bed.” Rarity tried to change the subject. “You’ve just been brutally beaten and-” “And I’m still alive, which is more than I can say for the youngins at the temple if something isn’t done.” “Apple Jack, being a senator is much more complicated than beating your chest louder than the other gorilla across the room.” Rarity diverted her eyes as she nervously played with her hair. “Ever tried it?” Jack challenged. “You’re missing the point entirely.” “Ok. Next time we’ll switch places. You take care of seven traumatized kids, I’ll sit in the chair and yell at people for not doing their jobs.” Apple Jack said, trying to give Rarity a reality check. “You’d be lucky to last a term.” Rarity noted coldly. “And what a helluva term it’d be.” Jack said through gritted teeth. “Are you two done yet?” Twilight called from the top of the stairs. “Our bad news quota is about full for the week.” “It’s fine, Twilight." Rarity breezed by her icily. "I need to go and find Octavia anyway. I’ll see you both inside." “Shouldn’t you be at the station, checkin’ out that whooza whutzits?” Apple Jack said as she limped up the stairs to her. “Rarity’s spell still had its hold on the guard and I was able to duck into her old dress shop saying I had to use the bathroom. Then I just slipped out the back way.” “Well it looks like lil’ miss Rarity’s got all the answers today.” Apple Jack said bitterly. “I take it she told you?” Twilight said to a silent Apple Jack. “I’m so sorry, Apple Jack. We’ll fix it.” “Did you get it back?” Apple Jack asked as she continued her climb up the stairs only to have Twilight hand her her staff for support. Twilight padded her pouch, grinning slightly. “It never left my sight. And after it failed the Changeling test, I performed a couple of examinations on my own before getting here and found some fantastic evidence.” “Fantastic enough to get some troops?” Apple Jack asked. “I’d need some more time, but I have enough information to spin something.” “Spin?” Apple Jack asked skeptically, not liking where this was going. “A very educated guess, based on related facts with some slightly fabricated sources.” Twilight winced. “So a lie.” Apple Jack stared Twilight down. “It’s the only way we’ll get people motivated, Jack. Please understand. If there were any other way, I-” “Whatever. Just as long as I don’t have to do it.” She shushed Twilight. “What didja find, anyway?” Apple Jack pushed. “Too much to talk about, but regardless, now the case we have is all but airtight, so it shouldn’t be a problem.” Twilight said as they approached the security checkpoint before entering the senate hall. A broad-shouldered man in royal Chantalot army regalia stood stoically before them. “Please remove all weapons and magical devices before entering the courthouse.” He dictated in a flat tone. Apple Jack slid the short swords out of her belt and placed them in the basket provided. The guard cleared his throat as he eyed Apple Jack, his expression remaining the same. “What?” Apple Jack asked with a raised brow. “Your sword, Sister.” “What, this little guy?” Apple Jack said as she tilted the hilt of her greatsword. The guard’s eyes narrowed on her, heavy with disdain. He didn’t reply. “Sorry, he stays with me. I’m life-bonded to ‘em. I nearly died last night when he got into the wrong set of hands, I’m not goin’ nowhere without ‘em.” “That sounds tragic, really, but the rules are still the same. Please remove your weapon.” “Do you know what life-bonded means? LIFE. BONDED.” Apple Jack said loudly. The guard was becoming increasingly annoyed. “Look, Sister, I can’t allow you into a government building with a 5 foot sword.” “Well it looks like we’re holdin’ Dusk Court outside tonight.” “Apple Jack,” Twilight said pulling her aside, “lets not make this any harder than it already is. Eri will be fine in the hands of the Royal Guard, there aren’t any Shadow Blades in the city. We’ll pick him right back up as soon as court lets out.” Apple Jack gripped Eri’s hilt tightly, feeling the rune in its blade pulse in response. “Please?” Twilight pleaded, her purple eyes big and pitiful like a baby deer. As a show of solidarity, Twilight removed the crystal horn from her circlet and put it in the basket next to Jack’s daggers. Slowly, Apple Jack unbuckled the sheath from her belt, lifting her sword onto the table with both hands reverently. After a moment, she laid it down next to the basket with a solid thump as the heavy sword settled on the wooden table. “Y’all wouldn’t be able to lift him anyways.” Apple Jack said as she limped forward. However, the guard stopped her again. “For Pete’s sake, what now?” “Your staff, Ms. Sparkle.” He said, motioning to the makeshift crutch under Apple Jack’s arm. “But Sister Apple Jack’s leg is almost mangled. It’s really killing her.” Twilight bluffed. “And you couldn't bear to part a cripple from her walking stick. I’ve heard it all. That staff is in textbooks, Sparkle. One flick of the wrist in the wrong hands it could vaporize the whole senate. Hand it over.” The guard stared Twilight down. Apple Jack winced as she placed all her weight on her right leg. Twilight swept underneath her friend’s arm to support her as she walked. “What a prick.” Apple Jack said, not quite out of earshot. “He’s just doing his job.” Twilight said, looking back anxiously. “Maybe my eyes ain’t what they used to be, but I thought your brother was working guard duty last time we were here.” Noted Apple Jack. Twilight sighed loudly. “He’s actually at home with his beautiful wife, taking care of my beautiful niece or nephew to be.” She said, obviously annoyed. “Which means we don’t get to see your beautiful sister-in-law in the chairman’s seat?” “No. Hopefully the interim chairman’s as understanding.” “You really think that’s possible?” “As smart and fair as Cadence? I doubt it. But it’s nice to dream.” Twilight said as they opened the doors to the senate floor. Inside the senate room, there wasn’t an open seat in the house. Not only was each and every realm senator there, but the spectator seats were just as packed. “Looks like you made some waves with your last presentation.” Apple Jack said as they approached Rarity fidgeting in her chair. Apple Jack’s stiff joints protested as she slowly sank into the one next to her. “Oh yes, Apple Jack. It made waves. It made waves like a giant toad diving into a puddle.” Rarity answered with a scowl. Apple Jack chuckled a bit, but it quickly faded. Feeling bad about their exchange before, she leaned in to apologize. “I’m sorry for bein’ cross before, Ray. But how in the hell did these jackasses sweep this under the rug even after you told ‘em about kids gettin’ killed by demons?” “Ah. Well. You see... The interim chairman is a bit, shall we say... set in his ways.” Rarity said with an annoyed smile. “I think the better word is stuck.” Added Octavia. “I suppose you could put it that way.” “In his chair.” Octavia continued, pushing up her glasses. “We get it, Octavia.” “Because he’s fat.” “We can do without name calling!” Rarity whispered crossly, appalled. “I’m not making fun of his weight because I’m mean. I’m making fun of his weight because he’s an insufferable bastard and I want to hurt his feelings.” Octavia’s last statement inspired a snort from Apple Jack, and she could have sworn a couple of senators sitting in front of them as well. “Octavia!” Rarity’s eyes grew wide, as if she was trying to burn a hole through her assistant’s head. “Just painting a picture.” “Worked for me.” Apple Jack said with a slight wheeze. “And just because Chairman Jetset put on a little weight, doesn’t mean h-” “JETSET IS THE INTERIM CHAIRMAN?!” Twilight interrupted Rarity, complete with slamming her hands on the desk. “After our little tiff yesterday I did some digging. Apparently he garnered enough support and effectively bought his way to the top.” Octavia responded. She stated this just as the pudgy thing himself took the stage and flounced back into his chair, seeming to shake the entire pulpit. "and as you can see he garnered A LOT of support." “Looks like he garnered a lot of about thirty pounds of it.” Apple Jack observed, patting her stomach. Octavia smirked. “At least someone appreciates me.” “Well, when the human mind is presented with strong enough logical evidence, people tend to surprise you by how well they can adapt.” Twilight said after taking a deep breath and sighing. “Twilight, you’re a dear, but even in my limited experience, logic and reason tend to be side dishes rarely touched, in favor of wealth and power.” “Guess we’re here to make ‘em choke.” Apple Jack interjected. “I like her. Why were we never introduced?” Octavia said to her boss after a pause. “Because, Octavia, the stress of keeping you both respectful simultaneously would make my hair fall out overnight.” “Your old shop does make beautiful wigs.” “ALL RISE!” A booming voice from the bottom of the stadium called, filling the room. Apple Jack would have preferred to hear the rest of her friends' exchange, but Jetset slammed his gavel and the fanfare began with the entrance of the Archmage. Princess Celestia seemed to have an ethereal glow about her; her presence immediately drew all eyes to her. She was tall and slender, yet commanded attention with her strong disposition even while silent. Her attire was immaculate, from her white elbow-length gloves to the pointed shoes on her narrow feet, she looked like she’d never even seen dirt. The long white dress she wore floated softly behind her as she took her seat on the large throne against the back wall. Her younger, shorter sister Luna followed after a slight pause. Apple Jack noticed how pale Luna seemed. She was naturally pale, due to her nocturnal occupation, but this was more of a sickly pallor, accompanied by feverish shakes. Her dark colored dress was stained with faint marks of sweat. “I don’t care for gossip, but I also don’t live under a rock.” Jetset sneered, getting right to the point. “So that we can clear you out as soon as possible, let’s get this over with. The court calls Senator Baguette to the floor.” “Don’t let him shut you down.” Octavia whispered. “I’ll do my best.” Rarity answered, stepping over Octavia’s legs as she moved towards the isle. “I was talking to her.” Octavia said, pointing to Apple Jack. Jack felt a warmth in her heart she couldn't identify, it was either support or rage. Either way it was strength enough to pull her out of her chair, onto Twilight’s arm and down the stairs. The crowd murmured as they noticed Apple Jack’s disheveled state, grumbles questioning both her and Twilight’s reliability soon emerging in the noise. She even caught a couple of dirty looks from old senators on the edge of the aisle. It took every fiber of her being not to backhand every single one of them on their way down. When they finally made it down to the center podium, Rarity barely opened her mouth before Jetset started. “Senator Baguette, I assumed I was quite clear yesterday morning about the state of Ms. Sparkle’s investigation.” “Mr. Chairman, I do have the floor to propose a budget increase for the St. Germaine Orphanage.” Rarity countered, delicately. “Which was moved to committee for next week, Senator. We all admire your 'generous' efforts, but we have more pressing business to attend to.” Jetset made the word ‘generous’ sound like a slur, which Apple Jack thought was an obvious stab to the Avatars in general. “Which is why I’m tabling my ‘tea parties’ in favor of reopening the matter of the Shadow Blades incidents.” Rarity shot back, not breaking eye contact, a slight smile crossing her face. This sent the senate hall into an immediate buzz and Jetset hammered his gavel, silencing it just as quickly. “Ms. Sparkle’s claims were dealt with yesterday in Dawn Court. Being there, I suspect you remember.” “It is presently classified as old business and, at the presentation of new evidence, constitutes reopening.” Rarity said, quoting the rhetoric in front of her. “Be that as it may, Senator, without a second it can’t b-” Jetset was interrupted by a soft but clear voice from Apple Jack’s right, from the fifth row up of the slope of chairs. She saw a dark haired, dark eyed young man, who couldn’t have been much older than her rise and speak. “The people of Magiville District 4, seconds the motion to hear the news findings.” said the senator. He turned to Apple Jack, locking gazes. “And we’d like to offer our deepest sympathies to our neighbors at Apple Acres for their loss.” He continued, bowing very low. Apple Jack waited until he picked his head up to return the gaze, smiling and give a firm nod. Jetset was silent for five seconds as he adjusted his paperwork. “You have ten minutes, Senator.” He stated without looking up. “I yield my time on the floor to Ms. Twilight Sparkle and Sister Apple Jack.” Rarity said, returning to her seat. Twilight approached the center with Apple Jack behind her. “Thank you Mr. Chairman.” Twilight said turning to Rarity. “If it pleases the Senate, Sister Ap-” “State your names and occupations for the record.” Jetset interrupted. Apple Jack thought of some names she could state for the pudgy bastard in the chair, but bit her tongue so hard it almost bled. “Twilight Sparkle of Magiville, Avatar of Magic and special investigative counsel to the Archmage.” Twilight answered, sounding equally annoyed. “Apple Jack, Avatar of Honesty, Principle Caretaker of Apple Acres’ Temple of Eponi, and more recently recreational demon killer. But that’s more of a hobby.” She added with a smirk. The courtroom responded with nervous laughter, but she could tell that her attempts to work the crowd were working. “Senator Baguette has informed me you’ve added my findings of the past six months to the record.” Twilight stated. “-And your discoveries are very concerning, but all it shows is a minor increase in crime across the realm. These are difficult times Ms. Sparkle, and it’s to be expected these things move in cycles.” Jetset said, continuing to attempt to finish her sentences. “And as an academic I must concede that first, Mr. Chairman.” Twilight responded diplomatically while reaching into her pouch. She produced the Shadow Blade insignia from the pouch in the left hand inciting more whispers from the peanut gallery. “The attack on Apple Acres has yielded this evidence that directly links the unsolved incidents in the realms directly to an orchestrated effort by the Shadow Blades of the Nightmare.” This incited yet another outburst from the crowd and another series of gavel hits from the chairman’s podium. He waved his hand to command a representative to pick up the insignia and brings it to him. As the insignia got within Luna’s field of vision, Apple Jack could have sworn that Luna visually shuddered. The chairman picked up the cloth with his pointer finger and thumb at arm’s length. “All this proves is I now have an old, putrid smelling cloth in my hand. Are you suggesting that this is a dark one’s dirty laundry?” He scoffed. “Like you’re unfamiliar with dirty laundry.” Apple Jack thought. “That’s exactly what it is.” Twilight continued. “The insignia matches the symbol descriptions of the Shadow Blades documented in logs and re-” “All the books were burned in the purge.” “I suppose it’s fortunate that multiple survivors wrote detailed, identical accounts from memory directly after the purge then, Mr. Chairman.” “And your infallible sources include?” “Enclosed in my report, you’ll see the descriptions of the powers and tactics are identical to the Starswirl the Bearded’s account after the First Nightmare Conflict.” “And you haven’t taken into account that Ms. Apple Jack could have fabricated this story after reading this herself?” “I’ve had it in my possession for the past six months and we all know the crime for reading from the restricted wing without authorization.” Twilight smiled as Apple Jack knew she’d just scored a point. “Atta girl, Twi. Take ‘em down.” “Get to the point, Ms. Sparkle.” Jetset quipped, trying to re-establish dominance. “I’ve analyzed the cloth and determined three things. One, it’s a cloth that uses an old polymer not woven by today’s standards, which can be confirmed by Master Seamstress Senator Baguette as well as her business partner.” Twilight stated turning to Rarity. Apple Jack could have sworn that they exchanged winks. “Two,” Twilight continued counting off her fingers ”it is frayed with supernatural scorching where the rest of the body and clothes disintegrated. The Shadow Blades as told by legend do so in order to hide their presence.” “And why wasn’t this ‘cloth’ disintegrated with the rest of the demon?” Gruffed Jetset. “It’s assumed that given the divine nature of Sister Apple Jack’s sword, it brought the demon’s garment into our realm when it separated it from its body. Given that the demon’s body is what disintegrates to avoid leaving evidence, one can argue that when the cloth was separated from it, it ceased to operate under the same rules.” Twilight speculated. “One can argue?” “And yet there you have it in your hand.” Twilight punctuated. Apple Jack almost threw up her fist in victory. She had this fat-cat son-of-a-bitch on the ropes. “Continue.” Jetset said. “Three. Further researching the cloth being an ancient polymer inspired a detect magic spell. The findings of this spell not only solidify the previous two findings, but also the fact that this cloth is, in fact, over a thousand years old.” “So what exactly do you advise we DO Ms. Sparkle? For the THIRD time.” “I move that an investigative committee be formed to both study and educate those about the Shadow Blades, as well as moving to have the soldiers to hunt and kill them.” Twilight said like a general advising an army. The courtroom erupted in a roar of conflicting opinions again, and while Jetset was hammering to calm them down, Twilight shouted above the noise. “I also move that the other Avatars and I be given full access to the forbidden records so we might learn of the possible motives for this movement. AND I humbly beseech Princess Luna to publicly advise this committee.” The courtroom went silent as all eyes moved to Luna, she looked as if she was standing in front of a wagon coming at her at full speed. “You have the audacity to command a demigod to assist in your research?” Jetset accused. “As creator of the Shadow Blades and the foremost understanding of their attack patterns. Her testimony from her role as the Nightmare during the dark times wou-” “Choose your words carefully.” “Her firsthand involvement with the offending party in question is invaluable, and her cooperation would be integral to the operation’s success.” “When referring to royalty, there’s a fine line between academic inquiry and treason.” Jetset threatened. “And let my professional history show that I don’t bring up sensitive subjects insensitively. I have made similar requests only twice and both times concerned were all too literally earth-shattering events.” Twilight reminded not only Jetset, but the court as well. “And you’re moving for a mass mobilization of troops based on your ghost story findings.” “I’m moving to protect our families from these very REAL ghosts Mr. Chairman.” Twilight said firmly, inspiring cries of agreement from the room. “All your presentation has done is convince the court room and myself that this is some old piece of cloth. For all we know, a bandit stole from a museum and wore it as a disguise.” “Are you ready to show me a record of any museum that was recently relieved of relatively a dozen a full-size Shadow Blades uniforms?” “My point is it could have been donned by a burglar for a perfect alibi. It could be robbed from a grave or-” “But it’s not!” “According to who?” Jetset smiled. Apple Jack clenched her fists. “Don’t give up Twi....” “According to a first hand and first blood account!” “Have you any other physical proof do you have but this scrap?” “No.” “In that case it seems that we have no definitive evidence at this time.” “WHAT!?” Twilight almost screamed. “This ancient finding is remarkable though. We’ll be sure to have our scientists look into this in due course. That will be all.” “Based on the exponential increase of intensity of the attacks, Senator, if we wait much longer, we’ll all be talking through holes in the back of our heads in a matter of months!” Twilight desperately tried to muscle her way back into the conversation. “I said that will be ALL, Ms. Sparkle. We have real business to tend to, so if you’re finished performing for us, sit down before I have you removed.” The bailiffs started towards Twilight, only for Apple Jack to react on instinct as she shot forward past the podium. All eyes centered on her as she looked past Jetset and directly into the ancient eyes of the Archmage. “Miss Archmage Celestia, I don’t do much beggin’, but please.” She pleaded, getting as close to the demigod as the fenced pulpit would allow. “Do not address the Archmage directly, Sister!” Jetset, red in the face as he banged his gavel. Apple Jack ignored him. “I’ve got seven more youngin’s down at the temple, and every day sons-a-bitches like him shove horseshit down our throats so he can stay cushy next year-” “The court does NOT recognize Sister Apple Jack.” Jetset said, snorting and turning even redder. “Funny, Mr. Jetset, I don’t recognize you either underneath all that hog fat.” Apple Jack shot at him, inciting laughter to ripple through the senate hall. “SIT. DOWN. SISTER.” Jetset was now a shade of royal purple. Apple Jack turned to him, tired with the amount of times she’d been told to sit down today, but before she could, the Archmage rose and the entire senate grew silent. “Sister,” she addressed Apple Jack softly. “I can assure you all the precautions have been taken to ensure the safety of our people. Defenses raised and wards thickened. And after more in-depth investigation is done w-” “I’ve almost been killed twice in two days by these slippery bastards, we’ve done nothing but good for this kingdom, so short of me runnin’ around the castle three times buck naked, I can’t think of anything else I could do to get your attention!” Apple Jack said as the last of her patience left her body. “I understand your concern for your family, but I simply can’t spare troops, Sister. We’ll discuss this at a later date when there’s more proof an-” “YOU WANT PROOF?! GO DIG UP THOSE BABIES!!” Apple Jack said so forcefully she coughed up what felt like blood in her throat. She swallowed it and continued. “Check the wounds, the poison, you’d have to not have a soul to do what they did to ‘em. You wanted Twilight to find out what was goin’ on? Well guess what. She found it. And I’m sorry it’s not what you wanna hear, but it is what it is. So let’s all get off our asses and take care of business!” “That’s ENOUGH, Sister.” Celestia said, her porcelain face creasing at the brow. Apple Jack wasn’t done. She turned to the court and addressed them all, filling the room as she’d filled her temple with prayer countless times. “You’re all OK with this?! They sit here and are protected by the sacrifice of your people! They say they’re infallible gods, and it’s your job to make sure they act like it. And if they don’t move the troops, and I mean ALL of them, then ALL of your kids will end up like the ones I had to bury.” Her speech inspired such noise from the crowd that it almost drowned out Celestia’s next statement. “One more outburst and I’ll hold you in contempt of court!” Celestia commanded. “Your sister should be held in contempt of court!” Apple Jack yelled, pointing her strong arm and finger at the shorter, paler demigod. “She’s interfering with this whole investigation!" She moved closer to the younger deity. "We've got every piece of evidence short of one of your kids walkin’ in and sayin’ 'hey mom, what’s for dinner!' and you don’t have a thing to say. I heard Dash talking while Twi and I were bein’ hauled here after your kids almost killed us in Horizon Fields. That’s your backyard! Dash talked to one personally and it said they were tired of waiting for you. And it asked for you. You wanna tell your people what the hell they’re waitin’ for?” Apple Jack stared Luna down while she regained her composure. Luna straightened in her chair. With a quiet, yet firm voice, she spoke only to Apple Jack. “There were a lot of things said back in the dark times. You’ve seen red before, haven’t you, Sister? You know how rage tends to scatter one’s mind, yes?” “Sounds like it’s still scattered. Maybe you should take a good look in your head before you start defendin’ yourself. Or maybe we can come up there and look in your head FOR YOU.” Apple Jack threatened. “Guards. Escort Sister Apple Jack to the holding area for the evening.” Celestia commanded. The two guards charged at Apple Jack. “Those kids didn’t do anything! It shoulda been you!” Apple Jack said, still locking eyes on Luna. “TREASON!!” Jetset cried, jumping out of his chair. Celestia held her hand up, stopping the guards and silencing the whole room instantly. “This matter requires impeccable scrutiny, for if this is true, the whiplash against my sister would be taken very seriously.” “You’re tellin’ me you’re damn near immortal and you’re still playin’ by our rules?” “All my power aside, I still have a duty to my people. And if they were to call for my sister’s head, and I’d have no choice but to feed it to them! I expect you’d understand better than anyone here, Sister.” “If Bloomer or Mac sat around nice and cushy while everyone in town was dyin’, they’d be no family of mine. And when the people screamed for their heads, I’d ask them if they’d like ‘em medium rare or well done.” “Bite your tongue, Sister!” Celestia yelled. “Do your damn job, lady!” Jack shot back. “Your trial will be tomorrow, when we will pass judgment on your indiscretions.” Celestia stated before she sat down. “WHAT?!” Twilight and Rarity yelled almost in unison. “Let the court know. Were Sister Apple Jack not an Avatar instrumental in the safety of our realm, I’d have executed her myself at this point.” Celestia said quietly, deadly serious. “If bein’ one of your Avatars means being nice instead of being right, I might as well be one’a you. You can have it.” Apple Jack said, equally serious. “Do you officially renounce your title, Sister?” “Normally, Ma'am, I'd say you renounced the right to have an Avatar of Honesty. But even I know it don't work like that. When I signed on it was because I thought I’d be takin’ care of the people who can’t take care of themselves, because that’s what you do. You feed our hungry, you heal our weak and you fight our demons. And I’m lookin’ at you right now, and honestly, I don’t recognize you. So as long as you don’t care that people are dyin’, I don’t wanna be seen anywhere near you.” As Apple Jack said this, a stone dropped into the pit of her stomach. She did think of the irony that she was fired not for failing to do her duties to the office of Honesty, but for doing them too well. Luna put her hand over her mouth, now visibly sick, yet quietly lifted herself up and exited through the door behind her and her Sister’s throne. Celestia waved to the guards to continue their escort before following Luna quickly without a word. “What are you doing, Jack?!” Twilight screamed, almost tackling the guards to get to her. “My job, Twi. And it feels great.” The guards grabbed Apple Jack by her shoulders but she put her hands up, surrendering and limped slowly out of the hall. But not before causing one last outrage. She shouted from the doorway, “If anyone wants to get something done that isn’t pissin’ in a bucket, meet me outside the castle when I’m out and we’ll get some REAL work done.” Apple Jack’s statements inspired a round of applause and whistles from most of the room and Twilight followed after her. “I’m so glad it feels great. I don’t know what you thought you were doing, but now we’re screwed! Whatever chance we had, you lost it! But I’m glad you feel better now.” She said hot on Apple Jack’s heels. As the guards opened the doors to the courtyard, Apple Jack was greeted by a mob of people she could only assume had been looking through the window or listening through the door. The crowd’s smiles were both fearful and elated as they saw their Avatar of Honesty walk through. She heard yells of “we believe you!” and “we’ll follow you, Avatar!” And for the first time since the attack on her home, she felt hope. “Sounds like we won to me.” Said Apple Jack to Twilight as the guards helped her limp to the dungeon.