//------------------------------// // Chapter 36: To Where and Back Again Part Two // Story: Light and Dark: Road to Redemption // by MXCDarkHorse2020 //------------------------------// Chapter 36: To Where and Back Again Part Two “Oh, this is so strange. We're here and that's there, and I clearly meant for us to be there and not here.” Discord commented in annoyance of what had just happened. Instead of teleporting to Fluttershy's exact location he was instead teleported to just outside of the Changeling Kingdom. “Oh, I-I can probably explain…” Thorax tried to explain only for his attempt to be shrugged off by the Lord of Chaos. “Oh, well. If at first you don't succeed... “ Discord prepared to snap his fingers to do something only to be restrained by Twilight. “Maybe we should come up with a plan first?” Twilight spoke up and strongly suggested. “A what?” Discord responded. “You know, figuring out the best way to do something…” Starlight added. “…Before you actually do it...” Trixie added. “...Which could lead to everything going up in smoke if you don’t.” Sunset also added. “Oh, that's adorable. But you see, unlike you, I can do anything.” Discord smugly laughed it all off. “Uh, actually…” Thorax again tried to explain only for his attempt to explain himself to be dismissed again. “That's all very nice, but really a waste of time.” Discord again cut him off by placing a finger on his mouth. “We have me. And what else could we possibly need?” “A draconequus with magic and half a brain might help.” Trixie sarcastically remarked. “Why are you here again?” Discord glared at Trixie in response. “I mean, it's not like you're going to stop the changelings by pulling a rabbit out of a hat.” Discord demonstrated by pulling a copy of Trixie’s head out of from under her hat. “At least my magic can do something.” “The thing about magic here is…” Thorax tried to explain for the third time in the row as Discord yet again ignores him. “Like this!” Discord demonstrated by magically conjuring up medieval armor and a flying pig. ”For Fluttershy! Yaaah!” He charged into enemy territory only for the magic to be canceled as Discord just clings onto the cliff he nearly just went over. He then sends another flying pig in the hive’s direction only for the same result to happen. “I've been trying to tell you!” Thorax finally spoke up clearly annoyed with Discord’s ignorance. “Nothing other than changeling magic works here. Chrysalis' throne is carved from an ancient dark stone that soaks up outside magic the same way changelings soak up love. It's how she keeps the hive safe.” “Is that why our magic didn’t work when we confronted the changelings earlier?” Twilight asked. “I’m afraid so, and that’s how she was able to capture everypony.” Thorax answered as Starlight walks up to the edge of the cliff with her horn lighten on and then dissipated the very inch it crossed into changeling territory which greatly concerns her. “So, uh, what kind of plan were you thinking, Twilight?” Trixie asked Twilight as she joins by Starlight’s side as she examines their situation. “Well, since we are all without magic this time around, we need to destroy the source of this anti-magic throne by getting to the hive.” Twilight explained. “Sounds good to me.” Sunset is completely on board with plan without question. “I’ve been used to living life without magic so it shouldn’t be too much of a problem for me.” “It’s not like we have any other choice.” Starlight commented while very nervous herself of the idea of having to be without magic this time around considering how she uses it for nearly every single problem she has come across. “Uh-huh!” Thorax shook his head in agreement. “Well, that's a terrible plan.” Discord scoffed. “And here I thought you were the best mastermind of the bunch.” “Well, considering this mastermind managed to take over Equestria with mostly her brains and intellect, I am doing the best I can with what we have to face with.” Twilight calmly retorted while having none of Discord’s complaining. “But if you want to go ahead and blindly charge into the face of danger and get yourself captured, then go ahead!” Twilight gestured to the hive as she pulls out her makeup so she can dye her fur to a darker purple color, dye her mane black, paint over her cutie mark replacing it with an assortment of black stars surrounded by one big black star in the center, and finished by carefully putting on contacts to have her appear with light blue eyes just like her Midnight disguise. “That being said we need to get there without being spotted.” She added as she led the walking journey to the hive with Sunset, Starlight, Thorax all followed closely behind as they all step into Changeling territory. “Are you kidding! I haven't walked that far in a millennia!” Discord further whined much to everypony’s increased annoyance. While this is going on, Midnight herself watches from the forest behind them, smiling evilly seeing that her plan is still in motion. "Good luck!" Midnight told her in her direction as she pulls up a chair with her magic as she plans to watch the rescue mission unfold as she reads her book while sitting back cross-legged on her chair while pulling out her orb so she can personally see it more closely without being spotted from afar. As everyone makes their way to the changeling hive, Discord still can’t help up complain on the way over. “Oh, I don't know how any of you manage not being able to disappear and reappear whenever you want!” Discord further complained. “Well, I, for one, definitely miss you being able to disappear!” Trixie commented sounding very annoyed with him at this point. “Give Discord a break. None of us knew we weren't going to be able to use magic.” Starlight spoke up in his defense. “I did.” Thorax spoke up as Twilight halts everyone. “If we get separated, it might make sense to have a way to make sure we are who we say we are.” Twilight spoke up should the worst happen. “You all know what to do if we encounter these kinds of situations?” She asked everyone who all except for Discord nods in agreement. “Oh! Like a secret code! How about if I say "we are" and you say "doomed"? Or you say "rescue" and I say….” Discord playfully pondered as he tripped over a rock during his thinking. “How about if we say "klutzy" and you say "draconequus"?” Trixie proposed to him as he looks down at her in annoyance to that condescending remark. “"Klutzy draconequus". Works for me.” Starlight agreed feeling very entertained with the name herself. “I'll definitely remember it.” Thorax agreed too. “Shouldn’t be too hard to forget.” Sunset also agreed while sounding pretty amused herself at the name as she resisted the urge to snicker. “Works for me.” Twilight also agreed without second thought as she continued leading the rescue mission. “Now come on, we better keep moving.” The six managed to make their way deeper into enemy territory until they took cover for nearby rocks as they approach the entrance to the hive to where Thorax takes the lead by helping them get in and out various hiding spots as they get inside. As Thorax and Twilight fly into the hive, Discord turned his back into a bridge for the unicorns to climb across get inside. “Okay. I am definitely glad you came. I don't think we'd be able to find our way without you.” Trixie commented very pleased while still creeped out by the changing appearances of the hive. “You definitely wouldn't.” Thorax unquestionably agreed as their entrance closed up. “Um, where's the way out?” Trixie asked feeling a little worried now. “It's a changeling hive.” Thorax explained as he continued to lead the way. “It shifts and changes like we do, and we're the only ones who can navigate it. It's total chaos to non-changelings.” “Well, it's decent chaos. I don't know if I'd call it "total".” Discord voiced his input about it unimpressed. “Now that we’re inside…” Twilight instructed everypony. “Thorax will be taking the lead in navigating this hive as we get to the throne room so stay close behind him.” She told everyone as Thorax leads the way through the hive. “Are we sure that I'll get my magic back when we destroy this throne thingy?” Discord asked Twilight. “Yes, I’m sure.” Twilight simply responded not even looking at him as she follows right behind Thorax. “Well, that's reassuring.” Discord sarcastically commented. “And how are we supposed to destroy the throne when we find it?” Sunset asked Twilight. “With these.” Twilight presented tools and matches from her bag. “And how do it depends on if how many of us can get there without getting caught.” “Well, that’s reassuring, smart girl.” Trixie sarcastically commented feeling it won't be enough to save the day. “Hey, when I took over the Crystal Empire, I took everything one step at a time.” Twilight defended herself. “And as much as I’d like to argue we need to keep moving and think as we go because one too many oversteps could cause this whole mission to go up in smoke.” “I don't suppose you brought any throne-destroying tools along with these useless sideshow props.” Discord asked Trixie as he searched through her bag and pulled aside the magic props she packed. “Asks the Lord of Chaos who can't go for a walk without whining nonstop!” Trixie retorted. “Yes, but when the throne is destroyed, I'll be able to rip the very fabric of reality to save our friends, while you'll still be a self-absorbed, below-average illusionist!” Discord calmly replied and taking a jab at her ego yet again. “Self-absorbed?!” Trixie took offense to that remark. “Why, you...!” “Enough!” Twilight sharply interrupted as she lead the way again. “Both of you! If any of us ever hope in succeeding in this mission or at least make it out of here alive without being cocooned. We need to work together!” “She right!” Starlight agreed as she followed Twilight. “I'm just barely keeping it together, and it would be wonderful if you two could actually try to help instead of bickering like foals!” “So grow up! Both of you!” Sunset added her input before following her friends in front of her. “Okay.” Discord relented as they followed them after ceasing their enlargement. “How can we help?” Trixie asked just as ready to stop their argument for the time being. “Aside from putting aside the arguments...” Twilight began as the others caught up to them. “We need to keep calm and quiet if we want to navigate this hive undetected. Thankfully, we have someone who knows where there going.” She added as she pointed to Thorax ahead. “Um, guys? I think we're lost.” Thorax regretfully told the others as they reached another open part of the hive with no sense of direction inside not even a second after Twilight had said that. “And I spoke too soon.” Twilight immediately regretted when that happened. “Oh, great.” Trixie sat down in defeat. “We might as well just sit here and wait for the changelings to soak up all of our love or whatever gross thing it is that they do.” She then changed her expression to a fearful one when a thought occurs. “How often do you all get hungry?” “Actually, I haven't been since I met Spike. And changelings are always hungry. We can never get enough love.” Thorax answered. “Well, that's just super…” Trixie sarcastically remarked before being cut off by Starlight. “But you aren't hungry at all now?” Starlight asked in surprise. “Huh. Once I made a few friends, I guess I just sort of forgot about the whole feeding thing.” Thorax brought up as Starlight approaches them “Is that about the same time your wings changed?” Sunset also asked. “I guess so.” Thorax responded as Twilight thinks of a new angle of how they can defeat Chrysalis hearing this as Discord yawns now bored. “While I would love to sit around chitchatting about feeding and not feeding.” Discord spoke up before loudly speaking through the tunnels with his voice echoing. “I have a Fluttershy to save!” “He’s blown our cover.” Sunset commented as she face-hoofed herself in exasperation at Discord's idiocy as she noticed the changelings emerging from their hiding spots. “We’re dead!” Starlight commented at the sight of the changeling's eyes from the shadows as she is about to have a panic attack. ”So much for the element of surprise.” Twilight sarcastically said to herself as she looks around their surrounding for a quick way out. “Can you please lower your voice?! You're gonna get us all captured!” Trixie whispered in a scolding tone. “Oh, you keep saying that, but I haven't seen an actual changeling since we got into this hive.” Discord commented until they heard the sound of buzzing growing louder and louder and towards their direction. “Not until now.” Twilight commented to acknowledge they are coming. “W-What's that?” Trixie frighteningly asked. “A changeling patrol!” Thorax screamed in alarm before starting to hyperventilate as his nerves are starting to feel shot too. “This seems like one of those moments where we need a plan.” Discord spoke up wondering what they are going to do now. “What kind of plan?! We have no magic, and it's not like my illusions are gonna save us!” Trixie couldn’t help but throw back his words at him. “Unless Twilight has any idea.” “I do!” Twilight immediately spoke up as Starlight ran up to her wondering what it is. After gesturing her head in the stage magician's direction she immediately got the idea. “Do you have any of your smoke bombs?” Starlight asked. “Are you kidding?” Trixie smiled as if this was a trick question. “And I have another idea that could help with that.” Twilight further proposed as she looked at Thorax before whispering her plan to deal with the changelings. "Oh, Twilight. Do you still have your makeup kit?" Sunset also asked when she spoke up. "Because I got another idea!" She added as she put on makeup to appear just like Trixie. “Oh, got it!” Thorax responded as he and the others saw what idea she is proposing as he transformed into Trixie. “Now go, hide!” He ordered them to do so as he stayed behind as the changelings arrive as Trixie toss him the smoke bombs. “Looking for somepony?” Thorax said in disguise before using one of the smoke bombs to disappear by tossing it into the ground and then reappeared in another hole as the changelings hiss in confusion before he spoke up again. “Is that the best you've got?!” He further taunted as he and Sunburst constantly appeared and reappeared while constantly running ahead of the changelings while the others in hiding watch from above. "Come on, you can do better than that?" Sunset taunted the changelings as she used of the smoke bombs to make her escape back to the others. “Not exactly great and powerful, but effective.” Discord voiced his thoughts as the other girls nod in agreement. “Hm. I'll take it.” Trixie simply accepted as Thorax reappeared in disguise before them. "Klutzy"... Starlight spoke somewhat nervously thinking he is another changeling. Draconequus!” Both she and Thorax spoke up at the same time just to make sure it is him as the others except Twilight breath in relief. “Great job Thorax!” Twilight complimented. “Ugh. I really think we need a new code word!” Discord really did not like this insulting phrase. Personally he wished it was something that wasn't at his expense. “That was a pretty good plan.” Sunset complimented Twilight. “You really are one smart girl! It’s better than what I could have come with." "Well you just came up with your little trick on the spot. So, you're not half bad in that regard yourself." Twilight returned before handing her friend a towel to wipe the makeup off. “But we still don't know where we're going.” Trixie pointed out. “Actually, we might.” Twilight said otherwise. “Two of the changelings didn't go with the rest.” “And with an intruder in the hive, they went to protect the queen!” Starlight added with the same deducing realization. “Good thinking Twilight! You too Starlight!” Thorax complimented the two as they both laugh in embarrassment. “Let’s get going!” Sunset spoke up as they pressed forward while secretly following the two changelings up the stairs before they approach the entrance to the throne room which is guarded by multiple changelings. “Now what?” Trixie asked in a whisper. “We... go in.” Twilight answered. “Even if I wanted to, there's no way past the guards. We'll be spotted for sure.” Thorax pointed out. “Not if we have another distraction up our hooves.” Twilight pointed out. “I'm fresh out of smoke bombs.” Trixie quickly shared as she showed them her empty saddle-bag as proof. “Normally, I'm the most distracting thing I can think of, but without magic...” Discord brought up while thinking he too is empty-handed here too. “You shouldn't underestimate yourself.” Starlight replied not buying that with a knowing smile. “You’d be amazed of what you’re capable of without realizing it.” Twilight added with the same expression as Discord looks on confused before walking over to the guards with a microphone. After tapping onto it he then spoke into to it to get their attention while the others stealthily sneak by. “Hello, changelings and changelettes! Believe me, I was just as surprised as you are that I'm here! When I heard that I'd be playing for a bunch of changelings, I was beside myself! Then I realized, it was just one of you.” Discord told a joke which is only met with a snarl. “But, seriously, this isn't the toughest crowd I've ever been in front of. But it's definitely the easiest to bug!” He further attempted to amuse. “ "To bug"? Is this thing on?” He then tapped into the microphone to make sure it’s on as the changelings continue snarl at him as they approach him. “Well, if you think that you can do any better, be my guest!” He irritably responded by dropping the microphone and then ran off as the changeling chase after him while the others sneak inside. “It is absolutely ridiculous that it actually worked.” Trixie commented in annoyed surprise. “I know, but you have to admit he wasn’t bad.” Twilight joked as she briefly giggled. “I’ll have to remember that when this is all over.” She thought before readopting her serious expression and demeanor again. “But we better keep moving! Because I have a pretty good feeling the changelings are preparing a trap for him in response." “Agreed.” Thorax nodded in agreement. “Between seeing him and Trixie, the castle will be crawling with more guards soon.” “Which will mean when we get to the throne room, Chrysalis will be there waiting for us.” Twilight shared. “That being said I got an idea of how to beat them which I’ll tell you all when we get there." “But if we do manage to destroy Chrysalis' throne, we'll need him.” Starlight argued. “He could take on the entire changeling army by sneezing if he wanted to.” “He's probably already been captured!” Sunset voiced her input siding with Twilight on the matter this time around. “Let’s go!” Both she and Twilight were the first rescuers to run off ahead before anything else can happen. Once they turn to the tunnel on the right the two then started walking as they try to give the others some time to catch up. “So what’s the plan for when we do get to the throne room.” Sunset asked Twilight. “Well…” Twilight brought Sunset in for a whisper who listens intently. “Oh, okay. You think it will work?” Sunset asked. “Of course if done right.” Twilight responded as Starlight and Thorax come running by them leading to the two to quickly catch up to them. “Discord’s been taken!” Thorax spoke in panic. “He tried to lead us into a trap!” “And they just took Trixie!” Starlight also spoke in the same tone as they all ran together. “Thorax, go right!” Twilight ordered them while pointing to her right. “We’ll go left!” She said as they all did as Twilight instructed them to. The three girls ran that direction as they finally approach the throne room where all of the captives are being held, the princesses, the Mane Five, Shining Armor, Spike, Discord, Trixie, and duplicate Twilight are all being held captive as Thorax regroups with them. “There they are.” Sunset commented while eyeing the horrific sight in front of her. All of her friends cocooned, all unable to move a muscle or scream a cry of help as all they can do is open and close their eyes while only managing a twitch of their hooves. “I never thought my reunion with Princess Celestia would turn out by rescuing her. And from a very creepy and horrifying torture chamber.” “Well, I never thought I’d ever disguise myself as my villainous alter-ego like this at all again.” Twilight shared likewise. “But it is what it is.” “True.” Sunset nodded in agreement. “All right Starlight, Thorax.” Twilight turned to them. “Here’s the plan.” She whispered into both Starlight and Thorax’s ears. "What?" Starlight asked in surprise. "But are you sure I can do this?" "I know you can, now do you trust me?" Twilight assured her student as they got themselves into position as she motioned Starlight to step forward. "Yes I do." Starlight replied with a sigh as she understands the plan as all three ponies walked off to different parts of the throne room while Thorax disguises himself as Starlight. “You all know what to do?” Twilight asked in a whisper to Starlight, Sunset, and Thorax as they all nod in agreement. Thorax in disguise walks inside first as Queen Chrysalis evilly laughs as she speaks up. “One little pony all by herself.“ Chrysalis spoke as she appeared as she appeared in between the cocoons holding Celestia, Cadance, and Luna. “Oh, how will I ever prevent this daring rescue?” She evilly smirked as her changelings all surround Thorax while Twilight, Sunset, and the real Starlight all approach the throne by stealthily making their way through the rocks as the changelings quickly restrain Thorax in place. “Well, well, well. The Princess of Friendship's sole pupil. Honestly, I didn't think you were worth replacing with one of my drones.” She taunted her as she flew down onto her throne. “Too bad she wasn’t worth leaving alone even when's she dead.” She pointed to the cocoon holding what she thinks is Twilight along with the rest of her friends. “You won't get away with this!” Thorax retorted. “I already have.” Chrysalis smugly responded as she pointing up to every powerful pony captive. “Nopony is coming to save you. Your little squad was it. And now, there's just you.” “Thorax is still out there.” Thorax pointed out. “Don't mention that traitor's name in my kingdom!” Chrysalis quickly and angrily spoke as she got up in Starlight’s face. “He was a fool to leave and even more a fool to return! When I find him, he'll learn just what happens to those who betray the hive!” She then vowed to which Thorax showed alarm hearing this to which Chrysalis quickly picked up on. “And it seems I don't have far to look, do I...” She smirked as she used her magic to strip Thorax's disguise off. “Thorax?” The changelings all hiss at him as they hear pounding. They all turn to see Twilight, Sunset, and the real Starlight trying to break the throne’s roots and just got it to barely move before they all dodged incoming blasts from Chrysalis herself. “Very clever.” Chrysalis gave the three ponies props for their little plan. “And clearly Thorax revealed to you the secret of my throne. I can't have powerful ponies using their abilities against me. Even with your rather embarrassing little rescue attempt, everything has gone according to my plan.” Chrysalis then looked around for them as they all hide in nearby holes. “What plan? Why did you do all this?!” Starlight spoke up as Chrysalis was nearby. “So I could feed, of course!” Chrysalis simply responded as she briefly poked her head inside. “By replacing the most beloved figures in Equestria, my drones will be able to store all the love meant for them and return it here to me.” She explained as she got onto her throne. “Everypony will do as I command, and my subjects and I will feed on their love for generations!” She then declared as she evilly laughs as her followers hissed in agreement. “What if you didn't have to?” Starlight suggested after remembering Twilight’s plan while recovering from her shock of Chrysalis and seeing Thorax’s wings as he’s still held captive. “Ridiculous!” Chrysalis angrily retorted as she pulled Starlight by the tail and tossed her before having her changelings restrain her. “The hunger of changelings can never be satisfied!” “Exactly!” Starlight brought up. “Thorax left the hive and made a friend. He shared love, and now he doesn't need to feed. You don't have to live your lives starving all the time!” Hearing this causes the changelings to register confused look hearing this. “You know nothing of the changelings or what it takes to be their queen!” Chrysalis angrily responded as she grabbed Starlight with her magic before tossing her to the nearby wall. “I decide what is best for my subjects, not some mewling grub!” She then approached her as she is cornered. “I know what it's like to lead by fear and intimidation!” Starlight brought up her past to connect in an attempt to connect with her. “And I know what it's like to want everypony to do what you say! But I was wrong. A real leader doesn't force her subjects to deny who they are! She celebrates what makes them unique and listens when one of them finds a better way!” “The only thing Thorax has found is what happens to those who turn their back on the hive!” Queen Chrysalis again ignored her in favor of picking Thorax up and doing as she vowed. “No! Stop!” Starlight pleaded as she restrained by two of the changelings. “Just as soon as I drain every last ounce of love from him and show my subjects what a real leader is!” Chrysalis declared now on the verge of victory as Starlight turns to Twilight who nods at her to speak up of what she told her. “I can feel the love inside me slipping away...! I can't hold onto it much longer...!” Thorax struggled to resist against Chrysalis. “Then don't!” Starlight called out. “Sharing love is what made you different to begin with! You should share yours with Chrysalis! Give her all of it!” Starlight told her with a confident smile as Thorax did so which turned out so powerful the force of the blast sent Chrysalis away and crashing into her throne. The changelings restraining her let go in amazement of what they are seeing as Thorax is now inside a cocoon. Once he emerged he appeared bigger, muscular, with green skin, and orange antlers as Twilight and Sunset emerged from their hiding spots seeing that the plan is working. “This is what happens when you give love freely instead of taking it!” Starlight told all of the changelings who all smile and do the same which causes the throne Chrysalis was standing on to shatter and explode from a bright pink light. When the light disappeared all of the cocoons have shattered freeing everypony while Thorax proceeded a shield to protect himself, Twilight, Starlight, and Sunset. “Well done, Starlight!” Twilight commended as she looks over their success. “Just like we always planned.” “Well, you did come up with the idea.” Sunset brought up. “But it was definitely a team effort.” She said as Starlight went over to help Trixie up as she went over to help the royal sisters up as they recover from their imprisonment of their now destroyed cocoons. Princess Celestia expressed silent surprise up seeing her former student again for the first time in years as Sunset expresses a knowing she doesn’t deserve this expression as she and Luna help her to her feet. The other changelings help Spike, Shining Armor, and Princess Cadance out of their destroyed cocoons, with one of the changelings bringing the Crystal Couple their baby back to them to which the three all warmly embrace each other after reuniting with each other. “Fluttershy?” Discord called out to her as he runs over to embrace her in a hug. “It's, um, good to see you, too.” Fluttershy somewhat awkwardly responded as he scratched the top of her head. “What happened.” She asked Starlight as they turned to face her. “We defeated the changelings with no magic at all, they found a new leader, and... they're all kinda... good now.” Starlight explained to best of her ability in a short sentence as Thorax standing beside her nods in agreement with both Twilight and Sunset standing beside her proudly watching her. Before any pony could question Twilight or Sunset and understand what had just happened Luna stepped forward to commend her. “Well done, Starlight Glimmer. It seems as though you've learned a great deal since we last spoke.” Luna commended her as they all hear someone from under the rubble of the destroyed throne. Queen Chrysalis herself emerged from the rubble very furious with her horn flaring up and snarling with anger ready for a fight only her fury to turn into instant shock and horror of what’s in front of her. The entire royal family, the Mane Five, Spike, Shining Armor, Sunset, Trixie, Discord, and the entire changeling all angrily glaring at her ready to tear her apart for what she had just put them through. All horned ponies had their horns flared up now that they can use magic again, while the others were all positioned ready to charge at her at a moment's notice with all of the alicorn's either have their wings spread out standing like Twilight, Celestia, Luna or in flight with some of the other changelings minus Thorax along with Cadance, Flurry Heart, and Rainbow Dash in flight as they get ready to attack her with Discord having his arms crossed as Fluttershy stands behind him for protection as they both glare at the fallen changeling leader. Twilight was ready to step forward to begin the beat down only for Starlight to place a hoof on her chest to stop her much to her confusion. “Let me handle this, before you do.” Starlight told Twilight who listened while she still had her wings spread out and her horn flared up as Starlight approaches Chrysalis. “When Twilight and her friends defeated me, I chose to run away and seek revenge! You don't have to! You can be the leader your subjects deserve.” Starlight told her as she offered her hoof of friendship and redemption to her. Both Twilight and Sunset expressed amazed surprise that she is seriously offering her this but didn’t argue since they have been offered the same and accepted while still keeping their guard up. Chrysalis hesitated before at first reaching out as she is going to accept it only to slap it away at the last moment. “There is no revenge you could ever conceive of that will come close to what I will exact upon you, Starlight Glimmer!” Chrysalis angrily vowed as she shot Starlight back and away from her ready to charge at her only to be easily stopped by Twilight with her magic leaving the fallen changeling leader to struggle as she is held up by Twilight as she flies up into her face. “Remember me?” Twilight calmly asked her who looks in confused of what she is talking about. “I’m the pony who just tried to kill at the castle.” She said as flings Chrysalis up in the air before quickly flying up and delivering multiple punches to the face before sending a powerful magic blast right at her chest causing her to land back on her destroyed throne as the rubble starts burning up in flames as she lands back down in front of her while grabbing her by the throat before slamming her back to the ground with multiple punches to the face before picking her up with her magic as she conjures up a magical portal. “Hope you like Tartarus because that’s where you’ll be staying for the rest of your life.” Twilight then calmly yet furiously told her as she sent her through the portal with a punch to the face sending her flying and slamming into a magic-proof cell before closing the portal. As Twilight takes a deep breath to calm herself down she then turns to placing a comforting hoof on a disappointed Starlight’s shoulder for her efforts to reach out to Chrysalis but not before she finds herself nearly getting hit from a blast from her brother Shining Armor as he threateningly approaches him with Celestia and Luna by his side to which Twilight backed up slowly in response to the daggering looks they were shooting at her. “Back off, Midnight!” Shining Armor angrily demanded of the dark coated alicorn. “Shining Armor, easy, it’s me Twilight.” Twilight honestly tried to explain as she is backed up to the edge of the cliff. “We’ll be the judge of that.” Princess Celestia also added in the same threatening tone with her horn still flared up to which Twilight flew up and raised her hooves up in the air. “Come on, B.B.B.F.F., Celestia.” Twilight innocently pleaded. “It’s really me, would Midnight come all the way out here to rescue you all?” She asked as she turned to Cadance as she cautiously approached her with a wary look. “Would Midnight do this?” She asked as did the movements of their signature greeting. “Sunshine, Sunshine, ladybugs awake. Clap your hooves…” She then added as she clapped Cadance’s hoof to which she immediately recognized that she is really Twilight in her Midnight disguise. “And do a little shake.” Both Cadance and Twilight said in unison as the latter smiled honestly which showed as another something Midnight would never do as the two hug with both Shining Armor, and Princess Celestia all joining in. “It’s really me.” Twilight told everypony. “Okay, we believe you now.” Shining Armor now believed her as he scratched the top of her head when he hugged his little sister. “Though you got to admit the way you handled Chrysalis while impressive and well-deserving didn’t really help us recognize you right away.” He also commented on her makeover to which Twilight blushed in response as she took out the contact lenses made her eyes look blue. “Really?” Twilight commented in amazement as she pulled up her black mane as she admired the dark color of it. “I thought you’d be able to see through it. Amazing, of how this disguise still works on both allies and enemies at the same time. Though I didn’t plan on this when leading the rescue mission.” “Why was that?” Princess Celestia asked. “And sorry about our threatening stance towards you just seconds ago.” She quickly added her apology before she could forget. “Oh, it was just to fool Chrysalis into thinking I was dead, similarly to when I fooled all of you in the past after she attempted to kill me.” Twilight explained. “She tried to kill you?!” Luna asked in surprise that she went with that approach instead trying to capture her. “Yep along with Starlight and Sunset.” Twilight calmly added as she pointed to both unicorns. “We barely managed to escape when they attacked us and not before they set fire to my castle and blew it up.” Everyone all gasped in shock upon hearing that her castle is now destroyed. “Yep, that’s pretty much our reaction too!” Sunset added with dull surprise. “Oh, Twilight, I’m sorry to hear that.” Cadance comfortingly hugged her sister-in-law. “It’s okay.” Twilight calmly replied with a disappointed sigh. “There have been explosions and fires at my home before.” She added as she looks over to where the destroyed throne is now burning in flames while referring to the time the Golden Oaks Library was destroyed as Princes Celestia walks over to Thorax overseeing the damage of remains of the past. “Thorax, as the new leader of the changelings, I look forward to discussing how we can improve our relationship in the future.” Celestia warmly gives her regard to him as their new leader. “However, for the moment, perhaps it is best that we leave the Changeling Kingdom to the changelings.” At that moment evil laughter is heard from the smoke and fire from the flames over the throne as Midnight Sparkle appears before everyone as the changeling all look on in alarm at her and take cover, while Fluttershy and Trixie both hide behind Discord's tail for safety, while those who have never seen her before all look on in shock especially Sunset who still sticks around as if she was remembering when she turned into a flaming demon a little while ago. “Go? But you all only just arrived.” Midnight spoke up with an evil smirk. “Midnight!” Twilight angrily spoke upon seeing her and immediately flies up to her eye level again. “Ah, Twilight, Shining Armor, princesses, bearers of the Elements of Harmony, Oh, and of course Spike.” She deliberately said his name last just to irritate him. “Long time no see.” “What are you doing here?!” Twilight demanded as she and the other princesses had their horns flared up and their wings spread out ready to attack again while the others got back into fighting positions too. “I came to say well done, Twilight.” She simply replied unfazed with the threats and glares from the princesses and their friends. “You looked wonderful leading this successful rescue mission." She gestured to her darken appearance and makeover as she briefly presented a mirror for Twilight to look into. "All you needed was the proper motivation to get back at Chrysalis for all the things she has done to you.” “What are you talking about?!” Twilight asked in a demanding tone of what she knows about this. “Remember the one you thought who blew up your castle.” Midnight hinted as she briefly transformed into Queen Chrysalis before changing back. "Looks can be deceiving." She said in Chrysalis's voice. The princess's eyes widen in rage upon this revelation. “It was you! You tried to have me killed!” Twilight furiously exclaimed in realization as she remembered the purple flare from her horn back in the castle before sending the green flames of fire at her, Starlight, and Sunset’s way. Both Starlight and Sunset both join in on flaring up their horns ready to attack at a moment’s notice as they join in on the angry glaring. “Now, now, now! No need to get all hostile with me.” Midnight shrugged it off as it’s no big deal as she crossed her arms. “The funny thing about that is I never would have done if I knew you weren’t good enough to survive that. But at the same time I wanted to find out just how truly capable you are holding your own. Although having your friends killed too would have been a nice little bonus.” “But why!?” Twilight again demanded. “Why are you doing this?!” “Let’s call that one more riddle to solve, perhaps for next time.” Midnight simply answered refusing to give away spoilers. “Now that we all got the truth all sorted out and since you're all here, how about we settle this, all of you against me?” “You’re going to regret doing that pal!” Rainbow shouted at the alicorn as she immediately accepted her challenge as she angrily charged at Midnight who simply grabs her by the neck with her left hoof before twirling her by the tail and then sending her crashing into the destroyed rubble to knock her out. “Oh, Rainbow Dash.” Midnight simply sighed as she shook her head unimpressed. “Still haven’t dropped the habit of charging ahead in battle without a plan. Some things never change.” “Enough of this!” Princess Celestia declared just as furious as she and Luna flew up to her eye level to join by Twilight’s side. “You need to leave now, Midnight!” “Really?” Midnight still responded unfazed by her threatening tone. “Are you sure you and any pony else really wants to try and fight me.” “Yes we are Midnight!” Princess Luna replied just as furious. "Either you leave or we attack!" “Suit yourself.” Midnight calmly replied as she assumed her fighting stance while still flying with her horn flared up now. “Because I’m not going anywhere.” Every pony all still keeps up their fighting stances as Discord, Fluttershy, and Trixie stand by to watch as Discord wanted to keep Fluttershy out of harm’s way again, while still glaring at Midnight who calmly eyes her fight very carefully as she eyes every pony including the royal sisters in front of her still flying up at her eye level. As everypony patiently awaits for her first move. She first eyed the princesses, then the Mane Five minus Rainbow Dash, she then smirks as she particularly eyes Starlight. Upon noticing this, Starlight quickly attempted to pull her protective spell, but sadly for her it was a second too late. Midnight had already fired a blast from her horn, and as soon as she dropped her shield she found herself greeted to a punch to the face by the alicorn who is sent crashing into the rubble much to Sunset’s shock. Seeing this had her realize right away that she really is very dangerous and unpredictable considering of how fast she managed to get off that attack. Applejack and Pinkie Pie both charged at her to which she swiftly dodged their attempted charges by evading their movements while sending two magic blasts their way to which they barely dodged before being knocked out with blasts to the face to knock them both out. She then flew around sending magic blasts at each of the princesses to which they dodged at returned them in kind as they all trade each other blasts at each other. She is then greeted to a blast to the chest from Shining Armor who then immediately tackled her to the ground with the former trying to pin her down and nearly successfully takes her down until she managed to get up and spin around before grabbing him with her tail and throwing him aside before quickly taking out Rarity who tried to capitalize on that by sending magic at her way by quickly shielding herself before retaliating with a blast of her own to knock her out of the fight. She then faces off the princesses again who all attack by attempting to take her down with magical attacks. Both Twilight and Cadance teamed up together as they both fire blasts as they fly over. Their combined attacks left Midnight unable to counterattack and forced backwards until she was able to shield herself and sending them backwards instead with a wave of magic sent from one of her wings to knock them aside. With them momentarily stunned, she then flew over as Spike attempted to breath fire at her face to which she again effortlessly dodges before sending a magic blast right at him to knock him out of the fight as he tumbled across the ground groaning in pain. Just then both Twilight and Sunset instantly greet her with a blast to the chest causing her to fly backwards a small distance before hitting the ground with both Princess Celestia and Princess Luna teaming up to each deliver follow-up magic blasts to the face to force her back again leaving the dark alicorn facing down the Alicorn Princesses, Shining Armor, and Sunset who are all still in the fight ready to still be able to take her on as she finds herself backed up to the corner of the ledge again. Sensing she is facing an evenly matched fight that is starting to slowly slip from her grasp knowing the skill and power of the Alicorn Princesses she looks around as they all still have fighting stances with their horns flared up and wings spread out. She looks around to her surroundings before thinking to her advantage even in the face of locked eyes and all fully on guard and fully attentive. She then smirks as she quickly sends a blast at Flurry Heart who screams in pain before crashing down onto the ground. Her parents released horrified cries before joining in on a combined blast of magic in her attcker's direction. Midnight was able to repel it by conjuring a magical shield before disappearing and then reappearing behind them with a near fatal blast of magic aimed directly towards Princess Celestia. Sunset was the first to notice before moving to jump in between the blast to protect to her. But not without screaming in pain as she is struck and knocked out of the fight leaving Princess Celestia equally horrified upon seeing her former pupil struck down like that. The four remaining alicorns and Shining Armor again all fired a combined blast at her direction with much more rage and ferocity to which created a huge explosion of fire and smoke which all knocked them back a small distance. Once the smoke and dust cleared up Midnight was gone with only the symbol on the ground left behind with the message. “Until next time Midnight!” The message said as Twilight groaned in frustration that Midnight successfully fought them to a standstill and down to her, the other princesses, her brother, and Sunset before making her escape after taking them all down with a few simple swift moves by thinking on her hooves and to her advantage as she then turns to many of her friends all beaten down and bruised from Midnight’s attacks. Discord himself could only look on completely stunned of what he had just saw, while Fluttershy, Trixie, and the changelings all watch on very scared for their lives seeing the alicorn’s power and abilities and that she is much more dangerous than Queen Chrysalis alone. Twilight walked over to the wounded Sunset being cradled by Celestia in her wing who was also with Shining Armor and Cadance cradling their injured foal as they all tear up in distress seeing their loved ones all badly hurt and on the very verge of near-death. “Well, it seems the war has just begun.” Twilight grimly said with brewing fury of what had just happened as Luna walks up beside her to oversee the casualties that had just occurred.