The first day after was the funerals for the Royal Guards and soldiers of Glaxia that died in the defense of the train station. Workers from Glaxia we're already at work on a monument for the royal guards, and when Captain Comet Tail learned of it she chewed them something awful for not including the names for the soldiers of Glaxia. One over zealous worker snatched up the armored pony into a hug thanking her for the honor to his nephew. It was probably what kept Comet from headbutting the offender senseless for the violation of personal space.
Twilight stood with Soelia and the rest of her family at its dedication ceremony in the late afternoon on the next day. It was the third public appearance of the Princesses following the crisis of Canterlot, and many of the nobles that attended were nervous of the political ramifications of Blueblood’s attempted coup. So many were on their best behavior, and every free space was packed with ponies, soldiers from Glaxia, and surviving family members of the deceased being immortalized in the slabs of crystal. Princess Luna took the podium first in a line of speakers that would include Sorrow, Captain Comet Tail, and lastly Cecilia.
“Good afternoon, it is no secret why we have gathered here today on the parade grounds of the royal guard. When I gave the evacuation order of Canterlot I was aware of the 200 commander rank royal guards stationed in Canterlot. Before the victory that number soared to almost every uninjured guard stationed in Canterlot at the time of the order. I have never seen a greater abuse of the battlefield promotion clause, and yet I am thankful for their dedication to their post. If not for their perseverance I might not be here giving this address. I am honored not only by those who sacrificed, but those who remain which is why I have allowed the promotions to stick.”
Luna took a moment to flip her note card over. “No memorial will ever replace what was lost. Families have lost irreplaceable loved ones, but it means we who have benefitted must give back in what ways we can. It doesn’t have to be much, simple things, because that is what makes Equestria the strong kingdom that it is. We help one another the best we can even if that help is just listening, and memorials like this help us remember the cost of peace when peace comes. It helps us remember that not everypony emerges unhurt as the ink dries, and those hurts last the rest of their lives. As Sundays are a slow day in guard training, this memorial will be open to the public for viewing, but open anytime for families who have a loved one here. I’d like to introduce Captain Comet Tail, captain of the royal guard.”
Luna stepped back as Comet Tail stood up and approached, she saluted the princess, and with a nod Luna moved back to her seat as Comet took to the podium. Not gifted with the royal canterlot voice she spoke into the microphone. “I had exceptionally big hooves to fill when I took over for Captain Armor. We both had our career defining moments, and ironically while defending the same patch of ground. When I took over I began to train the guard for a situation just like what happened, but any leader worth their salts will tell you that no amount of training can prepare you for the real thing. It was by a saving grace we had the help of the second and fifth armies of Glaxia to bolster our experience and crash course my guards into the role I wanted them to be at months from now on just training. After the battle I finally got the terms of the agreement and found that the soldiers of Glaxia were sent down here without any kind of compensation from Equestria. I can’t stand for that, not while they helped my guards, and did a lionshare of work. You will find their names on this memorial as well, and furthermore I gave those participating the right to put the Canterlot post ribbon on their uniforms or banners. It is woefully inadequate to what they really deserve, but it is the best I can do within my power. We lost a lot of good guards in this latest fight, but had it not been for their sacrifices I would fear a greater cost in lives.” Comet Tail turned toward the seated group; “I’d like to introduce the Lady of Sorrows”
Sorrow came to the podium; “Remembrance in a time when we all want is to forget about the void in our lives. A name on a cold crystal does nothing to represent the flesh and blood that the name was attached to. Yet it's the simple things as Princess Luna pointed out that make us feel a little better.”
Sorrow turned and pointed her tablet at a giant screen on one of the barracks and it came to life showing a huge area with glowing circles with lines leading up to them but everywhere else was a sea of flowers with more lines of people adding to them. A floral statue of a royal guard stood at the center of the carpet of floral arrangements.
“Port Side transport hub number three, one of four major hubs on my ship, and it is where the public has decided to pay their respects to strangers they have never seen in person. Soldiers that don’t swear to my banner, and their surviving family.
What I was going to tell a group in a clothing store, probably has a greater impact here, and greatly explains what you’re seeing now. Glaxia is a ship of war, but it is also a haven from the horrible atrocities that war brings. Those that make it aboard find solace and for a while they are happy until the truth eats at them as it does to all those who came before them. Glaxia is a place that death frequents, and I'm not blind to what it does to those who call my ship home. It destroys culture, families, and leaves in its wake the same feelings they tried to escape from.
Sorrow turned and the screen turned to a picture showing the astronomers at Luna’s observatory celebrating as Starfall didn’t seem so pleased as her magic was moving papers into her saddle bag. Sorrow continued; “This is the first picture taken as we approached the world, and it caused a change that started in the black corridors. Even my best efforts to keep it secret only fueled the under the desk trade. Ponies became famous, ponies with names became even more famous, artists with skills were bombarded with commissions for their talents.”
A drawing showed up on the screen showing a rather different side of Celestia. The anthro version of her was wearing some armor that was clearly nothing seen on Equestria. The presence of glowing runes gave it a magic infused vibe. The tunic underneath also bore off world symbols in a clear pattern of high standing, but the cape billowed out in the wind bore her cutie mark in the current lightning made the gold almost appear burning like a real sun. The princess was currently pointing a sword down at a defeated looking Braxus. "It may appear as a silly drawing, but the hope it brings can move mountains. I have seen a new life breathed into my people, and for all the loss you've suffered it cannot compare to the good Equestria has given back."
Sorrow continued on as the screen switched to another except it was from high up and showed part of a desert literally burned to glass. “In the time we have been here you have awakened what we have become numb to feeling, and for that I cannot thank you enough as a people for just being who you are. However, it was a personal interaction that changed my whole outlook on the future. On this memorial you will find the name of Spike, for some of you, you know exactly who that is given whose family he was born into.
He had hopes and dreams like everyone else, but by a certain set of circumstances he too would fall. It is what he did at the end that surprised even me, and proves everything I just showed you. He stole a magical artifact that belonged to my family in order to save his sister he believed to be in danger. He was humiliated by the consequences, but held no regrets as that change proved crucial in tracking Blueblood. He assisted the royalty of this world in giving enough warning to get evacuations underway, and defenses in place for both sides. He stood the line at the train station while his sister and caretaker put herself in harm's way once again.”
Sorrow took a minute to wipe her eyes; “He came to me with a solution to not only to give Equestria a stronger chance at winning the battle, but to deal a blow to my enemies as well. I obviously told him it was longshot, and that the consequences would become permanent up to and including death. He was undeterred and I went with him to ensure the best possible outcome. What you are seeing on the screen is his grave, Spike the dragon died in the process of forging the strongest magical artifact known to the dragon kind, and because of it victory is possible in two conflicts.”
Sorrow turned the screen off; “Spike’s ambition was to be a prince, and if the textbook description falls short of the mark that leaves us basing it on merit alone. He was generous in his actions, loyal to ponies of Equestria, kind to a former enemy, and his sarcasm was humorous to those that got it. He honestly spoke the truth to all questions, and had a magic that saved the world. I’ll let you -ponies of Equestria- make the call if he earned it or not. What I can tell you is that you’re all heroes, you’ve shown us how to live again, and for that I thank you. I call Cecilia Barnum…”
Cecilia made her way to the podium and waited for Sorrow to sit before she began. “Who can destroy Equestria better than those who lead it.” Cecilia let the words soak a moment before continuing; “Spoken by a mad stallion after ordering the killing of foals at the orphanage. Blueblood spoke the truth to Princess Cadance, but he was incorrect in the scale. To the average pony that statement means you blame the princesses or their magistrates that handle government affairs. That is the seed of doubt that blooms into chaos as most don’t question to dig deeper into the meaning of the words.
The truth is in your history, and no greater example of that truth then at Hearths Warming. It was not Princess Platinum, Commander Hurricane, or Chancellor Puddinghead that founded Equestria. Three aides that held no real power in their tribes forged not just a nation, but an undeniable truth. True power in Equestria lies in its subjects, not solely in the hooves of those with a title, but not everypony can lead or it would be equally chaotic as nothing would get done. So you invest your power into those that you believe to be the best, you give them a title, you grant them respect, and they work to ensure everypony has a happy life.”
Cecilia stepped out from behind the podium her voice still carrying with perfect clarity to the crowd. “Blueblood pulled the wool from your eyes and showed you an undeniable truth. His parting gift to sow discontent among everypony. He wanted to inflict as much pain and suffering as possible, to scare the living, to destroy those who lead Equestria, and that is precisely why we need memorials like these.These honorable men, women, mares, and stallions listed on this memorial bought us precious time. They assisted in the defeat of monsters Blueblood summoned to capture your primary means of magical defense. They even sacrificed to end a war you have nothing invested in, or were even aware of until I slammed into the Everfree Forest. Yes they serve to remind of those you lost, but on the same token they mean so much more. Subtle things --as Princess Luna pointed out a moment ago– are ingrained into everything and one that I wish for all to understand is that you still have a choice to make. You know an undeniable truth, but let me tell you one very important truth.
Change irrevocably damages us all, whether that be a tragic change, or the long slow change of time. Those who try to fight change have only perished tired and bitter. Those who have accepted change are saddened or elated yet they move on in discovering the new boundaries within this change.
There is no going back to how it used to be. Sure the chances are that it's possible to get close to it. However, it will always be different in some small subtle way. I like my captain, and the crew of Glaxia will not forget what happened here. Ten individuals set out to restore a goddess to her throne, and they succeeded in that task which still seems surreal to me. Yet it's earned you the respect of a high throne, and perhaps more with time. A true leader remembers the past, but does not allow themselves to be chained by it. So choose well leaders of Equestria, because your future depends on it.”
Solelia waited her turn, and moving into the memorial she skimmed the names. Some names she remembered from her time in the castle growing up. Nice enough ponies, but her claw stopped at a name along with her breath. She started to tear up, and feeling a hoof she let out the breath quickly gasping in another. She looked down at the stallion and he spoke; “My boy talked about that little whelp all the time. Apparently the little guy had a knack for cooking, and my boy got caught snacking. Armor had them running it off, but he never got the chance to say thanks before the princess sent them off to Ponyville. So how did you know Spike, did you donate his egg to the school?”
Soelia shook her head; “I didn’t think they were good enough for Twilight, so I gave them to the guards thinking nothing of it. A pan of bread rolls and Shining made them run six times around the training field. She’s a picky eater you know, Celestia help us all if a side gets a little too brown, and I swear the end of the world was upon me when I made quesdeias. Twilight’s mom spent two hours in the closet trying to make me feel better, and another hour lecturing an apology out of Twilight that was worthy of the hurt she caused me.”
The stallion stood dumbfounded at first before he managed to formulate a respectable question. “So that means you are Spike right?”
Soelia shook her head again; “ It’s really complicated and I really don’t understand it all right now. I have his memories, but even those are starting to change when I try to remember how he looked. That is the consequence of playing with magic beyond my understanding -let alone species- but I have no regrets as my family is safe.” Soelia removed her claw and looked for an exit, but the same hoof touched her again. She looked back at the stallion that pulled up his hoof back under him.
“Well I would hate to see a legend die so easily, and with your permission may I write a book on him?” He watched the surprise on the dragoness form, and then recognition hit causing the surprise to grow.
“Page Number, you’re Velvet’s publisher, and you and I...well Spike met you. Why Spike though, there are hundreds of ponies on this memorial.”
“However, there is only one dragon, and one who claimed the title of prince. I have heard stories already, including those from my son’s unit, and I believe Spike to be a humble dragon. How else do you explain HRH Spike the dragon not having a royal funeral?”
Soelia closed her eyes; “Two weeks, and we can do the interview, no mention of my connection anywhere, not even a hint, and all royalties go to Queen Arcadia’s hive.” Soelia opened her eyes; “I’m sorry about the loss of your son, but please excuse me.” Soelia exited the memorial to find a place to come to grip with what she had just seen and heard from the memorial and Page Number.
That place turned out to be the statue garden nearby, and staring up at the now heroic pose Discord took upon his petrification she had to smile. “Soaking up attention even as a lawn ornament?”
“Oh does the whelp wish to be insignificant once again?”
Soelia looked around for the source of the voice only for it to speak again. Eyes forward little one, do you honestly think just because I became a statue I would lose the ability to speak, and my is your mind just a mess of chaos. Welcome to the realm of magic users Soelia, Twilight, and other unicorns could eventually hear me if they became powerful enough and choose to listen. Tia used to come and annoy me with attempts to ”befriend” me.”
Soelia looked at the statue; “At least she talked to you right?” Soelia’s eyes once again drifted to the ground; “If chaos is your thing perhaps you can help me make sense of it all. Even you have to have a rhyme and reason to why you do things the way you do.”
“Oh I know why, and by clear observation I am stone and therefore not obligated to help you.”
Soelia felt a glimmer of anger rise up in her. “Yeah well, at least I don’t have ponies visit me out of pity, or need to force others to pay attention to me.”
“Is that what you think I do? Poor misguided dragon, there is more to me than what you have-”
“Yeah, Yeah, chaos is not any one thing, I was there when Twilight tried, and I wanted to burn you for turning her gray.” Soelia turned to leave but Discord had some last words for her.
“You have chosen a path I took a long time ago Soelia, and it cost me two of my greatest friends. You have made the choice, accept the consequences, because to fight them is to lose yourself as I have.”
Soelia smirked; “If they are anything like the friends I have then you’ve lost nothing.”
Luna entered the throne room for her court session only to pause midway to the throne as a rather large visitor was sitting with their back turned to her staring at the throne. Luna continued her approach speaking as she did; “Soeila, Twilight is out searching for you with her friends, but what brings you to an empty room?”
Soelia looked up as Luna settled onto the throne and Blue Ink took her place beside the throne. “When I was at the memorial today, I read Spike’s name, and it was humbling to see the title. Yet, I know that in a few months there will be no difference between his and my own memories. Soelia Sparkle will have been hatched by Twilight Sparkle during her entrance exam to my knowledge at least, and the worst part of it is that my pride as a dragon will not tolerate the truth speaking otherwise. If there is any mare I know that knows about consequences like this and has pride like a dragon that is Princess Luna.”
Luna glanced at the itinerary held up by Blue Ink briefly before turning her attention back on Soelia. “I have a few minutes so I must be brief, and I appreciate your compliments towards my character.” Luna briefly nodded to the maid that brought a cup of coffee to the otherside of the throne. “Please excuse my rudeness Soelia, but even my time as the Nightmare has brought some good to Equestria. One day out of a whole year, everypony has the choice to dress up, or they pay homage to a corrupt version of myself. I thought it insulting the first time I traveled to your village, it still does insult me, but I have learned to accept and appreciate the time ponies spend hosting their celebration under the night. It also brought a group of friends together that have gone on to do things my sister and I were unable to do.”
Luna thought a moment on how to best help her friend. “Perhaps the solution lies in treating those memories as a separate entity. Like a sibling, one you have lost, but have fond memories growing up together. Your pride would not be in conflict, and it would solve the issue of your birth.”
Soelia added quickly; “What about Twilight and all the friends who know me?”
Luna went to her throne and took a seat; “A book with you listed as a surviving sibling. As for Twilight and those who know the truth. Talk to them as you should have, discuss the plan, perhaps another solution could be found.”
Soelia rose to her feet; “Thank you for taking the time to help me Luna.”
Luna put on a warm smile; “I will always make time for a dear friend Soelia. Do find your sister she is terribly worried about you since you left unexpected this afternoon.”
Soelia nodded as her horns began to glow. The shimmer spread to her whole body, and with a louder than normal popping sound she vanished from the carpet.
(Ponyville Cafe)
Lola poked at the dish in front of her, apparently it was supposed to be steamed asparagus salad. She was professionally impressed with the taste, and considered maybe sourcing-
“Take a picture dad.” Jezabelle quipped as she stabbed another forkful from her plate. Cecilia hid her smile well, but Mindy paused briefly to look at her daughter's.
“Don't tease your father, she's always looking for new things to make, and you are not fooling me Cecilia Ann. Your eyes give you away, and I suppose you have something to say along with Jezabelle?”
Cecilia leaned forward; “Tastes even more amazing with that garlic roasted chicken I had stashed away on Yulee. I don't recommend preparing around the locals though. I cooked a steak once and I thought the rope was going to come out.”
Lola finally unwrapped her silverware. “We'll discuss the manner of how that chicken came to be missing later. It was not cheap, nor did I see a replacement in the freezer, and I surely hope the locals try nothing of the sort again.”
Jezabelle set her fork down; “This is Ponyville, and things like that happen with spur of the moment emotions. You just have to wait and it will blow over soon enough, and everypony goes back to being happy go lucky.”
Lola nodded as she turned her attention towards a table of ponies that was staring at her. The ponies caught on that she was looking at them and blushed as they went back to their own food. “I will have “patience” then when dealing with the locals. I am more interested in discussing your claim of Tatiyana Crescent Claw.”
Cecilia paused after loading her fork. “There is nothing to discuss, I have already given her the token of my love. That in itself by our customs has already married us.”
Mindy set her fork down on her now empty plate. “I am concerned about her actions at her first discharge, and by rule she is your mate. However, it is the majority of the family that decides if she carries our name and protection.”
Cecilia finished her salad and set her fork down onto the plate. “I knew about her plans after discharge, but even then I allowed myself to get attached to our relationship. I was miserable after she left because I couldn’t have what you have which is the constant knowledge you both are fine. When I went to check on her Braxus had already taken her, but I will not tell you the story you seek mom. It is not my story to tell, and by your words I am not obligated to tell it. She has to be a part of the family to fall under the no secrets dynamic. What I will tell you is that it was a promise made to family prior to coming to Glaxia. ”
Jezabelle growled; “Then let’s get it outta the way, where is Tatiyana, because I believe she was invited to this dinner as well?”
Cecilia pushed the plate forward and leaned back in her chair; “She had her full evaluation after stabbing herself with Changeling fangs, and Sorrow wanted to speak to her directly after it. Vivian promised me a full report under the table. The ceremony is after my race with Rainbow Dash, and I wish I could find someone that could walk her down the aisle. Her father is dead, and her mother does not approve of our union."
“I could always ask Yolanda to walk me down the aisle.” Tatiyana pulled up a chair and sat down with the waitress showing a moment later to take her order. Tatiyana could see the question coming from a mile away and decided to just answer it right then and there. “Sorrow will take me back to Nekos, she’s already discharged me honorably for the second time, because some group in the infirmary staff has pushed back against her crack down on the rules. In basic terms, if she makes an exception for me, they expect fair treatment on the like, and I’m not the only casualty of this group. Vivan or rather Yolanda now is basically being treated like dirt. So much for a little piece of heaven with that group of devils running around shaming it.”
Lola spoke as she stabbed another forkful; “I’ve spoken with Aya on the subject of mother, and she promised me that she would be looked after considering the price on her head by the dragons. This infirmary group moves fast considering the engagement was less than 3 days old, but Jezabelle has brought up a more pressing matter that requires immediate attention since you have arrived.”
Anna thanked the waitress for her meal that arrived before focusing on Jezabelle as she unwrapped her silverware. “Oh, is the matter that serious?” She began cutting into her eggs and Jezabelle gestured towards her parents without so much as a word. Tatiyana set the fork down playing her ace for eavesdropping; “I respect your traditions for what they are, but you are not the only family that hold their heads up high. l will not ask or beg for it, and I will keep some things private."
Mindy spoke; "I can respect your culture as it's part of my bloodline, but I fail to understand why you would leave only to come back to accept eternity by my daughter's side."
Anna picked her fork back up; "I gave my word to my family that I would try to find a cure to a disease that was plaguing Nekos. It cost me my father, my brother, and two uncles. I also was too late to find the cure as a junior doctor had discovered a cure a month before I returned home. I lost a lot Mindy, and sure I wanted to run right back to Glaxia. Instead I worked with said junior doctor, and now there is a vaccine for that disease. I finished grieving, and then pirates came looking for me hoping to have something against the 225th."
Anna started eating again and Lola spoke; "I have no objections to allowing our name. I already know Jezabelle is on board with it. I do not like being a contradiction to my mate, and I'm certain your answer has changed her mind."
"My objections we're warranted having only my own speculation as truths to questions. You are welcome to carry our name if you choose to do so and we'll ensure your protection from further attempts by piracy to capture you. However, that is not all the revelations is it?" Mindy continued her emotionless stare at the eating Tatiyana.
Anna finished her eggs. "I'm sure we'll have a story to tell our child about where she was conceived…"
Cecilia dragged her up out of the chair. "You mean I'm a father?" Anna gave a pointed glare about being forcefully disturbed from her meal. Cecilia's ears fell a bit in temporary shame, but perked back up as her joy couldn't be contained or held down. Anna for her part couldn't stay mad for very long; "Yes I am pregnant, and I didn't even know till they did the blood work for stabbing myself with changeling fangs. Cecy are we really ready for this?"
Lola spoke up; "Was I? We did what had to be done for a safe future for our children, and you are not alone."
Anna sighed; "I know that, but the worry is still there. While I know Mindy can't show it, she has to agree with me on some level."
Mindy spoke rather stern toned; "I agree that worry existed, but allowing yourself to be consumed by that worry is not healthy. I will ensure my daughter does her best to support you despite the separation you will face."
Jezabelle spoke up; "Speaking of separation, sis has taken off to no doubt give the news."
Tatiyana looked at her half full drink; "Next time I'll wait till I tell her."
She went to give chase but paused as Lola spoke up; “I’ll make you steak tonight to compensate for your brief lunch, and I think dumplings for Cecilia will be an adequate punishment.”
Tatiyana was confused; “Cecy doesn’t hate dumplings though.”
Lola spoke; “She will when she finds out what I cook into them. Can I count on your discretion?”
Tatiyana smiled; “She won’t know what hit her.”
(Starfall Mountain, Dragon Lands)
Sunset, Red Lace, and her fellow changelings slid off Isis in the reception chamber. Isis lit the chamber and waited for all the awe induced sounds to taper off before speaking to her new houseguests.
“Welcome to Starfall Mountain, you are standing in the reception room, and it is the only room that does not have a closing door to the outside. Dragons that have sought my wisdom are taught to enter through this room and wait here for my arrival. The current dragon lord is no exception, and he is well aware that his rules bear no jurisdiction here. If for any reason you are in this room and a dragon or any other guest wishes you harm, merely flee into the mountain or come find me.”
Isis looked at Red Lace; “Your fellow changelings promised to trade room and board for services in cleaning and assistance to me. There have not been permanent guests in this mountain for over a century, and many of the rooms have been left to gather dust. I will not fault them for falling behind or taking a considerable amount of time in any one room to reach a standard. Therefore I will not accept you pushing them towards such a standard. Wait here.”
Isis left through the library doorway and Sunset looked at Red Lace; “You sure about this Lace, there is still time to find another place if you want? Isis did say she would understand if this was not the place for us.”
Red Lace shook her head; “I can sense your excitement, and I highly doubt no one loyal to Blueblood would ever think to enter the dragon lands. It’s something ponies or even sane changelings never do, and you’re secretly frothing at the mouth to get into her library. My sisters only want a stable home where their efforts will be rewarded with sincere appreciation.”
Sunset’s mood soured; “What do you want out of this Lace, because I told you it can’t be just about me and your sisters. It has to be about all of us or not at all.”
Red Lace looked conflicted and broke eye contact, and Isis took that moment to return to the room carrying simple looking necklaces with a colored gem in each. In her centuries of experience she answered the question for Lace. “Sunset, you're asking a specialist to think outside the box they have lived in for as long as they can remember, and it is very uncomfortable for Lace to give an answer to that question. If you remember the trip over here she questioned me twice if I wanted to take a break. In her mind she has already included me into her caretaking responsibilities even though I did not ask her to. Those two times were at the maximum distance a changeling could travel by air, without resting somewhere.”
Isis distributed the necklaces while continuing to make the point of her speech. “She loves you Sunset, that is why she is here by your side, and likely will for the remainder you both shall live. Yet she will never stop putting those around her first, and no doubt she will eventually give you an answer. Just be patient if it's generic, you can free someone, but you cannot free them from their culture simply by cutting the link.”
Sunset felt terrible realizing that she had been unknowingly hurting Lace and her sisters by shoveling Equestrian customs at their hooves. Lace suddenly hugged her and the apology flowed out of Sunset’s lips on autopilot. “Sweet Celestia, I’m so sorry Lace.”
Lace hugged tighter; “I know, but anywhere you are I’m happy, okay?”
Sunset tightened her hug with her response; “I’ll do my best to remember it going forward, but please tell me if I mess up something. Maybe if you teach me about being a caretaker, then I can teach you about being a pony, and that way we can understand each other without making so many silly mistakes.”
The rumbling of chuckles snapped their attention back to Isis. The dragon pointed at the necklaces; “I have enchanted these to warn you of unsafe areas in the mountain. It has been closed for sometime, and like mines it is possible for dangerous gases to build up that can kill you silently. Some are even odorless and tasteless, and even after tomorrow's airing out there can be pockets. You will be required to report any kind of trouble to me for remediation. In basic terms, if it glows, you turn around and come find me, if I am unavailable you stay out of those areas until I say otherwise. I will be highly upset if you attempt to handle a situation yourselves without it being a matter of emergency.”
Sunset thought for a few seconds and looked up at Isis. “If you have a layout of the mountain, perhaps I can devise a ventilation system of sorts that can prevent this even when closed for protection.”
Isis nodded; “You are welcome to try, and I wish to be part of your teaching of customs as well. Now, would you like the grand tour?”
(Changeling Hive, Badlands)
Arcadia felt the despair and hunger as she passed the entrance into the hive. Injured drones of all castes were stepping out of her way as she passed by them on the way to her throne. It was worse than Arcadia thought, and the once proud halls of the old hive were nearly silent. They used to be filled with the sound of humming from wings in her early youth. Now that humming felt like a haunted noise at the current population. The more she saw the greater the shame forcing her head down and her gait adopted less grace to match her mood. She felt the wall open up and she came to a stop noting the darkness and looking up she blinked seeing her mo...Chrysalis’s room. She used her magic to recharge the lights and jumped when she heard the wall close up behind her.
Arcadia noticed that it was mostly spartan in decoration, a few pieces from ancient conquests her mother had made, but nothing too flashy that Arcadia didn’t know the story. There beside the bed were two pictures, one was of Thorax, and the much larger was a younger version of herself. Taken the day she was left in Abbey's care, standard practice for new admissions, the melancholy she had was genuinely displayed, and it made Arcadia let out a breath she was holding. Blinking she noted a folded piece of parchment, and with a quick flare of magic she brought it over as she sat down. The words of her mother were beautifully written, and she fought the rising tears.
Arcadia, this room along with the crown is yours. This room is the only place you should ever break down in, and never in front of the hive. I have spent many nights crying to sleep in this room.
My biggest regret in my whole reign was being so pride bound I could never listen to my children to find another way to save ourselves from starving. Thorax leaving was a large blow to my confidence. I was losing control before I even launched my second invasion of Equestria. The inevitable defeat removed even my ability to deny full responsibility for so many children dying. It proved to me just how toxic my leadership became, and so I left in hopes you could find a way.
I know you'll be better at accepting change as that was the purpose in leaving you with Abbey Belle. If there is one parting request I may make, try to find Thorax, and give my apologies.
"My queen, everyling is gathered as you requested."
Arcadia spun around to glare; "Knock before you enter, but please wait outside. So much has changed since I left, and fortunately the route here has stayed the same."
The drone responded as he opened the wall. "Actually, the route changed, but I guided you here at least. It's unbecoming of a queen to show that much emotion. It can be heartbreaking to the others."
Arcadia sucked in a breath while composing herself. "Your name?"
"Pharynx, your majesty, and forgive my boldness."
Arcadia moved toward the open door. "When I finish this address, you will choose any two changelings to accompany you on a mission. That mission is to find Thorax, and deliver a message that I wish to speak with him. I want you to stress that he will not be held prisoner for past events with our mother. You will not return to me unless you complete your mission, or verify he is dead. Do you understand these orders Pharynx?"
The changeling spoke quickly; "Clear as crystal your majesty, but if I may guide you to the throne room." He moved alongside the queen.
"Please do Pharynx, and a bit of a spoiler. The advantage of the hive mind is about to be heavily restricted to all including myself. Your boldness earlier will become a punishable offense soon."
Pharynx soured a bit; "Such restrictions can limit defense your majesty, those progressive ideas of Abbey Belle cannot function in the hive at this time."
Arcadia stopped moving; "There would never be a time if we do not take the first steps. It would serve you best not to cast my caretaker in light you just spoke of. Do so again, and I will show you just how much of Chrysalis is in me." Arcadia started moving again and Pharynx smiled a bit liking this new queen. He quickly caught up and Arcadia spoke again; "If anyling were to be testing you, what would you do?"
This is why Pharynx hated smiling, it gave him away too often, but perhaps he could stall as the doorway to the assembly hall was ten steps away.
"I'm still waiting on your response Pharynx, and you can have the privacy of the hall or the attention of everyling in the assembly. Your choice, but I'd make it soon as the steps grow shorter."
The soldier class let out a sigh; "I'm sorry for testing you, and should have known better than to question my queen."
"Things are going to change quickly Pharynx, but one thing will not. My responsibility is to protect this hive from any threats. Those threats either internal or external makes no difference, but internal I will ensure happens very infrequently."
(Practice lap, Rainbow Dash versus Cecilia)
Cecilia was doing her only practice lap, the course was challenging as a series of cloud rings were set up at different altitudes from Canterlot to Ponyville with a stop at Cloudsdale before the final return push for Canterlot. Rainbow Dash couldn't keep her mouth shut once she learned it was happening. So naturally more racers wanted in on it as well, and the starting field inflated to 12. All thanks to competitive trash talking.
Cecilia landed in Cloudsdale to a crowd of foals wanting a peek at a living goddess. Jezabelle shook her head; "Sis, you're going to lose badly at this pace?" Cecilia looked at the watch and grumbled about inexperience and sore back. Jezabelle offered the water bottle much to her sibling's thanks.
The young ponies had been steadily getting closer as their courage grew. Sure enough they circled around and got closer as a group with their parents flying over to stop them. Jezabelle looked at them before crouching and waving them forward before kneeling down. They stopped about arms reach from Jez, and more than a dozen eyes and noses checked her out in the most adorable fashion.
One of the many parents broke the silence. "They are not being a bother to you?" The other parents nodded in agreement with that statement. Jez sighed not because of the question, but due to the fact two of those parents would be heartbroken in a few days.
"They are fine, and there was a time when I was just as curious as they are. I rarely get to interact with children -foals in this instance- because parents see the uniform and try to dull the lure to military service. So the rare chance this happens I will be greedy.” The worry in the parents dropped considerably with that statement, and now the young ponies were nosing Jez’s palms, and she was lightly rubbing between their ears.
Cecilia just rolled her eyes at the display before setting the bottle down. “Catch up when you finish Captain.” With a crouch and flare of her wings she pushed her legs upward to launch herself back into the air working her wings hard to gain speed as she set her course for the finish line. Which to her disappointment had a loitering Rainbow Dash just waiting on her to land. Cecilia let out a tired breath and began to land with as much speed that she could safely manage. She fudged the landing and after the more braver pony spectators had a quick laugh at her expense they moved on leaving just a few and Rainbow Dash.
“That takes me back.” Rainbow sat down beside the laying Cecilia. “If you want to postpone this race till you’re back in good shape I will understand." Cecilia merely picked herself up and sat somewhat proper stretching a wing around to start fixing what feathers she could. Rainbow didn't like the silence; "You okay, I'm not sure if I like the silent treatment, more a pony of action, and talking."
"There is no postponing the race now that you have "talked" so much that others want to and have been accepted into the race." She continued as she brought her other wing around for maintenance; "I doubt I'll be able to beat you, and rather than lose privately like I had hoped in the beginning of promise. I have to lose publicly which brings my pride and self esteem back into question."
Rainbow felt terrible and not having the great skills of Rarity to do damage control. She had to say something, and naturally it was the first thing that came to mind. "Look, it's not that bad, sure you'll lose, and yeah everypony will see you do it. The only thing you need to worry about is whether you did your best, and if you need improvement so that you're on the top next time. Then take that from this race and leave everything else in the background."
Rainbow moved closer dropping her volume; "I've lost my fair share of races, I've crashed, injured myself, but through it all my parents were there cheering me on. I hated that part, but you need that…"
Cecilia snapped at Dash; "You've met my parents, they're not big into cheering in any event!"
Rainbow pointed a hoof up at the ship; "Your parents are not the only ones who have to. How many lives have been saved, because I know of only a few. I bet the number is greater than space at all the checkpoints for the course. Even if your parents can out bluff a rock, just them standing here at this finish line will boost your morale."
Cecilia stood up and Rainbow Dash could see the small tremors in her wings. "So what about my pride then?"
Rainbow closed her eyes; "If you finish the race then your pride is fine. Look, go see Fluttershy, and she'll have your wings and back feeling amazing for tomorrow."
Cecilia took a few steps before stopping, and without turning around she spoke; "Thanks Dash." She carried on down the way walking slowly and Rainbow just looked back out off the viewing platform before launching back and up to hover from being startled by Jezabelle suddenly being there.
"My sister was furious, and a lot of it stemmed from the pain she was in. Her morale has improved considerably since your talk. Now you know why I had you wait here."
Rainbow landed with huff; "You could have told me this without scaring the life out of me?"
Jezabelle smirked; "That is my petty revenge on your stunt of making this a public affair rather than keeping it private."
"Seriously, how many more of you are still sore about that?"
Jezabelle spread her wings; "Lot's, but Cecy told them to back off. Seems she took a bit of pity on you. Unfortunately, she knows better when it comes to her own sister."
(Race day, starting line at Canterlot)
Cecilia approached Rainbow Dash as the pegasus went through her stretching. "Thanks for recommending Fluttershy helping me, she scolded me, and rather comically tried to apologise for it later."
Rainbow chuckled; "Yeah, but it's nice to see her being able to speak her mind like that. Look, are you sure you want to go through with this?" Rainbow gave her undivided attention while coming out of her stretch stance. She followed Cecilia's gaze to the starting line.
"I will try Dash, or go down a mess of feathers."
Rainbow rolled her eyes; "Save the doom and gloom for the job. You get self esteem covered with some support?"
"Yeah, hopefully they'll get here in time." Rainbow Dash bumped her side and pointed with a hoof towards the spectator line. Cecilia turned around and standing there, or sitting in two cases, was what was left of her graduating class. Rainbow felt a set of eyes on her, and scanning the group a very rough looking gentleman was burning holes in her head with his glare.
"Uhh, Cecy, why is that guy trying to stare holes in me?"
Cecilia's smile widened; "That's Robert Aster, was a great pilot, but got swarmed one engagement had his wings shot up pretty bad. Lived through it only to crash into the landing rack. It’s odd Millie isn’t there with him, the two were inseparable, but it's possible she got stuck on standby duty. The point of him staring at you is to break your confidence and give me some sort of edge."
Celestia took any chance for Rainbow to respond as she thundered out the call to the race line in the royal canterlot voice. Cecilia took her place which was 20 feet back from the line due to her need for a running start. She set her wings into position and crouched ready and watched Celestia for the starting signal.
The princess levitated the flag, and now all the pegasi moved to launch status. Cecilia started her sprint right as the flag began to fall, and managed to cross the line as the rest took off. This advantage lasted all of a few seconds as the field had quicker acceleration than she did. However, she caught up to hang with the back of the pack.
Spitfire and Rainbow Dash were battling it out for first place, pushing their comfort zones as they cut course gates with neigh but a feathers width of tolerance to a disastrous spin out. This reckless behavior was being watched by the other racers whose skill was nowhere close to a Wonderbolts. So it came as no surprise as a few racers spun themselves out clipping the cloud gates losing valuable time and position.
This development was a great help to Cecilia as she had moved into fourth place on pure taking it easy and cautious. Of course her plan would have to rely on the leaders being caught off guard at Cloudsdale. The rule was four points of contact to qualify as a stop, and that translates to four steps for Cecilia. Her grin widened as she neared the cloud platform, all three leaders were at the table milking water, and all three were confused about her odd approach angle.
Cecilia touched her right foot, her left, her wing pushing her in the turn, her right foot, and then her left caught the edge of the platform. Spitfire tossed her cup starting to gallop for the edge as Cecilia accelerated in her dive. The announcers were beside themselves shouting out such a move was unconventional. Cecilia's supporters started cheering from the announcement of her taking 1st place.
Cecilia felt on cloud nine and after the last cloud gate she folded her wings and dove much to a confused spitfire and Rainbow that were right on her legs and ready to pass her back. She began to chant with her exhales; "two two five!"
It was picked up by the crowd, and Mary started it amongst her group as Cecilia leveled out faster than the leaders. Cecilia wouldn't beat Spitfire, but she had a chance against Rainbow Dash. Tatiyana watched from the castle balcony, nervously biting at her claws, and Yulee was bouncing up and down on the railing beside her chanting along in her own adorable voice. Cecilia reached her hand forward as the cameras began flashing and with nothing left but to hope she crossed the line.
Cecilia banked hard left to dump her speed while continuing to ignore the screaming muscles in her back. She landed with a stumble but thankfully recovered to not face plant on the ground again. Spitfire trotted over; "I have never -in all my races- had a rookie almost outplay me in a race. That stunt at Cloudsdale almost cost me and Rainbow Dash the lead. Then you pull that dive at the gate, I worried you'd actually catch me, and that's saying something."
Cecilia looked at Spitfire; "Me or Dash?"
Spitfire shook her head; "Judges decision, it was that close, and you can bet all those cameras are being rushed to development. Cecilia, I want to thank you for giving me the opportunity to race with you. I understand it was supposed to be a private race, but just look at this crowd. It's better than a derby, and-"
"You talk too much." Robert bored his stare right into Cecilia's; "That was stupid reckless, and if you cramped on the way down?"
Cecilia shot right back; "Then gravity would make me faster, and don't lecture me about risks Robert. However, now that you're here, where's Millie, because I have never seen you apart since you married her."
"It's almost been a month since she was shot down. There was nothing left to recover-"
Robert was wrapped in a tight hug, and decided to remain quiet least his voice betray the hurt rising up in him. Cecilia just spoke into his shoulder; "I'm sorry for not being there for you. She was always so much fun to have around and she worked so hard after your discharge to keep your spirits up."
Robert let out a shaky breath, cleared his throat before tapping Cecilia's shoulder, and the hybrid let him go to wipe her eyes. He spoke doing his best to sound tough; "I'll be fine Cecy, I'll be joining her in a few weeks, the doc's found scarring around the implants. They can do nothing to stop the nerve decay without adding more artificial to stay ahead of the decay. I signed my DNR form the day after she died, I was going to fight it for her, but now I have no reason for such selfishness. Now you're not going to let this mess up the rest of your day, because Millie would have words with us both."
Cecilia held up her palm and three shot glasses appeared complete with brown liquid. She gave one to Robert, one was plucked up by Jez, and she closed her fingers around the last one. Jez spoke; "To Millie and Robert Aster, two of the best fighter jockeys, and a damn fine example of love in the battlefield." The three drank their shots and the glasses disappeared as Jez turned her attention to the captain of the Wonderbolts. "So, are you planning on speeding up Rainbow's application?"
Spitfire sighed; "I'm not gonna lie and say she doesn't have the potential to be in the Bolts. What is making me hesitant is her ego, because that is not what the Bolts are about. She is an element bearer as well, and what we do has risk of injury that can be fatal."
Robert crouched down looking Spitfire dead in the eyes; "Make the damn offer, and then train the bullshit out of her till you're satisfied that her ego is in check. That kid lives for speed, and if you let her slip out your hooves. She'll find another group that will give her the chance, and I'll bet my pretty significant pension that she will headline."
Spitfire raised an eyebrow; "Are you that confident in a pegasus you've barely met, and without knowing her story?" Robert merely nodded and stood up, and Cecilia looked towards the castle.
"I know her enough to write a letter of recommendation Captain Spitfire." Cecilia looked at Robert; "Care to escort a lady?"
Robert scoffed; "You a lady, that'll be the day." Cecilia socked him in the shoulder and he just laughed it off while they started the journey to castle.
(Sparkle Household day of Departure)
Twilight Velvet sat on the couch her daughter was laying beside her. She traced her hoof through her hair as she sipped her morning coffee. Across and nearest the fireplace was Shining Armor and Cadence spooned together. The house shuddered a bit along with an audible yawn as Spike woke up. Velvet sighed knowing the nightmares her daughter was facing were extreme given the tossing and turning she walked into. It made her feel better that a simple hoof brushing Twilight's mane doing the trick.
"You ok mom?" Velvet shot her look over to Shining and his eyes were open but he hadn't moved yet. "I'd come sit with you, but if I move Cadance will wake, and we both know Twilight will go through the ceiling."
Velvet set her cup on the end table letting her magic rest; "Twiliy was having a nightmare, and I'm worrying as mom's should be. I... didn't sleep well either." Velvet looked away from her son's eyes; "I woke up this morning thinking you and Twiliy were on that memorial. I've never cried so much since I was carrying you both."
Shining moved and sure enough Cadance opened her eyes. He leaned down and whispered something and he finished getting up to move over and side hug his mom. She leaned her head into his body; "Thank you Shiny, I should know better, but you're both hurt in ways I can't fix easily. I'm hurt, and I don't know what to do about it."
Cadance had sat up to watch the exchange, but offered her opinion. "We heal together, and never keep it to ourselves when times get tough. I feel bad for Spi…Soelia, but happy our little sis is still with us."
Shining put on a smile; "I'm proud of her actually, she made the sacrifice play and helped not just us. If any of us could have fixed it we would have. I honestly think…"
"That you talk way too much bro." Soeila stepped into the room. With a giant yawn and claws scratching her side. She leaned over to lightly bump Velvet's cheek and Velvet made a face.
"You need to brush your teeth, your breath smells like Tartarus, but how did you sleep?"
Soeila smirked; "I did brush my teeth, but fire breathing dragon, and missing my bed already." Velvet leveled some knowing glare and Soeila raised her forearms. "I'm serious, I borrowed some mint leaves, and chewed on some stone."
Velvet just sighed before looking down feeling the suppressed shudders from her daughter trying to hide the fact she was crying again. It was easy to shift into mother mode again; "Twilight, stop thinking on it, and look at me." Twilight rubbed her eyes but looked at her mother.
"I'm sorry, I'm being such a baby about this, and I need to start acting like the mare I am."
"Twiliy there is nothing wrong with feeling like this. Guards are extensively trained to deal with stress, but our benefits pay more on therapy than actual pay. It's just the nature of the beast, and we seek others help to deal with it. We're here for you sis, don't forget that, and I don't think anyone's trotted away unscathed in this mess." Shining armor tried his best to smile, keeping his distance so as to avoid smothering her, and the right pony for the job was already there.
"I miss Spike already, and sacrifice is dumb BBBFF. I should know, I cost me once-"
"Stop it!" Now the whole room smelled like smoke and Tartarus as Soelia huffed to reign in her anger. She went on; "I miss him too, but I have the unfortunate act of actually killing him." She wrapped Twilight in a hug; "He doesn't regret it."
Twilight just wrapped her hooves around her the best she could. "Then why do I feel like I failed him,you, this whole thing is confusing-" Twilight stopped when Soelia put the claw on her lips to shush her.
"Let's go flying, just you and me, and maybe Cadance if she wants to."
Velvet gave her best puppy eyes look; "Can mom get a ride today?"
Soelia narrowed her eyes; "Do I still have to brush my already brushed teeth?"
"Yes!" Both Shining and Cadance shouted at the same time. Soelia threw up her claws and marched out of the room. Velvet opened the window with her magic, and smiled her first genuine smile for the day. The mutterings of her dragoness daughter about tooth paste tubes not being big enough. Drifting in through the now open window got the room full of ponies laughing.
(Admin decks, Battleship Glaxia)
Yolanda stood outside Sorrow's office, news traveled fast, and then the passive aggressive first years started their crap. Worthless excuses for medical personnel, and she could probably turn them into a sentient piles of goo. That would insult the slime community on board, and then she would have another group hating her.
Her port in this growing storm was the Barnum family, and to some degree the lady who's office she was waiting to enter. Sorrow had --on one occasion– already demoted a lieutenant that was insulting her, and both had no idea Sorrow was around the corner listening.
She finished the last round of training for Mindy, and that basically ensured that her family would be medically cared for. Aya had already given Lola the coordinates for where the rest of the survivors were staying.
"Yolanda!" Yolanda was startled out of her thoughts coming right to attention and saluting. Sorrow rolled her eyes; "At ease, I've been calling for you, but I guess you were busy upstairs. Fair guess lieutenant?"
Yolanda nodded; "My apologies captain." Yolanda followed Sorrow into her office. The doctor noted a missing Glaxia but they both sat down in their respective chairs. “I guess you know why I’m here?” Yolanda had both her hands in her lap trying her best to not play with her fingers.
Sorrow set a file on the desk that was ridiculously thick; “I can probably guess, but I’m bound by ethics to not read minds. Then again you would know better than anyone else that I couldn’t since certain changes your group did.” Yolanda sighed; “Cecilia has made it clear that I do not need to be aboard to carry out her part in the terms of my judgment. The nurses and doctors are slacking off to the point it makes me look bad to the chief. Most have threatened to terminate their commissions if I gain a position of authority over them. I’m requesting deportation to where my children have chosen to live.”
Sorrow opened the file; “This is every piece of paperwork you have ever filled out, every evaluation you have ever gone through, and any reports of misconduct you were obligated to report. I do read them if Glaxia flags them to me, and usually I go beyond the single flagged report to look for patterns. To put it mildly Yolanda, you played the persona of a doormat very well, but your professional work shows me a different person. I have had my suspicions for a while since you became the only doctor the Barnum family would see outside of myself. There is also the fact you completed several genetic tests I threw into your training that other field doctors failed miserably since they were not required training. So I asked Cecilia, and she told me that any truth I learned would undue all the good you could offer.” Sorrow closed the file and stood up; “Yolanda, Cecilia may be cryptic in her words, but she has given me no reason not to distrust them either. So I ask that you give me a week to get the situation under control, and if you feel the same after that week. I’ll send you where you want to go with my blessing.”
Yolanda set a thumb drive on the desk; “If you ever want to go back to how you were before we-” Yolanda still keeps her eyes averted; “Follow the steps precisely, any mistakes will be fatal, and it will hurt in the later stages. It will leave you at the stage in which we began to change you, and you’ll age normally from that point. You have until your fifthteen-hundredth birthday to decide.”
Sorrow looked at the drive before she sat back down; “Yolanda why did you go down the path you did in life?”
The doctor hid her face with her hands in a vain attempt to hide her tears. “I was born barren, and would never know the joys of motherhood. I thought science could fix it, and I was close to finding a sequence to do so when Nikolas approached me. He warned me that playing god would upset the Interstellar Dragons. The leadership of my planet was in talks of joining their empire and I blindly followed him hoping for a safe place to complete my work. I was so smart it made me dumb to such sweet words, the moment he revealed his plan I wanted no part in it, but he told me that it was too late for me to leave. That the Interstellars knew I was involved, that rat sold us all out, and my only hope to survive was his project bearing fruit.”
Yolanda was pulled forward into a hug; “If it means anything to you, I forgive you, and I know you're sorry for all of it. That much I could tell when we locked eyes in the clothing store.” Yolanda didn’t respond as she continued to cry on Sorrow’s shoulder.
(Starfall Mountain, Day of Departure)
Two changelings assigned to clean the entry chamber felt a strong emotional contact approaching. They gulped and one gently tapped the amulet around her neck; “Lady Isis, I believe we have guests.” They transformed into rocks to hide just in case the contact wasn’t friendly at first given where they lived it was a strong possibility. Cecilia entered with her family trailing behind her, and Jezabelle was taken aback at the artwork etched into the walls.
Jezabelle went to ask only for Lola to beat her to the punch; “This is the history of Tri-Star, only those who fought there could have such a detailed memory of it, and we’re not alone in here.” Lola settled on the two fake rocks; “I can hear your breathing, please come out, and we are here to see the lady of the mountain.” Two green circles of flame and the two changelings huddled close to each other afraid that their disguises failed to conceal them.
Cecilia spoke; “Be at ease, my father speaks the truth, and to cause bloodshed in your mistress’s home is poor behavior of a lady.” The room lit up in magic as Isis stepped into the room earning a narrowed look from Mindy. Isis merely brushed off the glare and turned her attention to Cecilia; “I welcome you to Starfall Mountain, Barnum family, but to what pleasure do you visit my home?” Sunset hefted Isis’s large mug in her magic while Red Lace and the remaining group of her changelings carried trays with smaller cups. Isis reached over to take the mug -much to the thanks of the unicorn as it was heavy- to place it before her. Red Lace approached the family and distributed the glasses, it was simple water, but the glasses were enchanted to make the contents cold. Sunset looked up at Isis; “Lady Isis, do you mind if we wait in the library until you finish your business?” Isis nodded and Sunset set off for the correct archway, Red Lace and her changelings bowed to the hybrids first before leaving to follow the pony.
Cecilia answered the question; “We are leaving today, and when I told my parents about you they wished to meet you to return something.” Isis nodded; “I do not deserve the kindness after all that I have done to their sisters, but I will listen to all they have to say.” Mindy sipped at her glass before moving forward; “In the months after the fighting stopped for us we continued to hear of news from your empire. We learned of your resignation and the reasons for it which speaks to your honorable nature as a dragon. I only wish your king was as reasonable as you were before condemning us to death.” Lola came up beside her mate; “Cecilia told us you live in regret of your past, and seeing these walls only confirms our suspicions. We also were told that you served her requests. I must admit I’m confused by that behavior given our pasts.”
Isis set her mug down after taking a long drink. “The empire was founded on exploration and trust between races for the advancement of knowledge. In the years leading up to the war, I watched some of those founding principles become clouded in the belief that somehow we became the policy makers for the universe. It was our pride that allowed us to fall so far when you dealt such a blow, and we deserved it if the philosophers are to be believed in their conclusions. It was damaged egos and fear that condemned your race, and for it we corrupted every founding rule the queen mother laid down. That is my reasoning for leaving behind all I knew and traveling to the ends of the universe to escape it. I etched these pictorials so I never forgot the innocence I slayed, and how even I pervert the teachings of our queen mother. If the rest of my years, and perhaps beyond that as well is in service to your kind then maybe I will have earned that forgiveness I seek from your kin.”
Mindy and Lola looked at one another silently before looking at Jezabelle who nodded and stepped forward summoning two giant gold rings. “If that is your desire then you will need these.” Cecilia spoke afterwards as Isis picked up the rings knowing exactly where they were left when she fled to the stars. “Isis, as you have chosen this path I only ask you to watch over the friends I have made here, and teach Soelia the ways of her new form. When the servant of my sister comes, I will watch over as your queen passes judgment, as a friend, and I hope by then you will have come to terms with your past.”
Isis bowed slightly; “I will do my best your majesties, and hopefully I will never need to use these in their capacity again.” Jezabelle smirked; “Oh they shall be pointed at the very throat that forged them in the course of your duties. We have to go Cecy if we are to make our next meeting before we depart.” Isis bowed again; “I thank you for visiting my home, and bid you safe travels.” Isis raised her head to the sound of scratching on the wall, and watched as Cecilia drew a dragon and a hybrid shaking hands to the right of the exit. She walked out the door without another word spoken leaving Isis to stare at the picture for a while before the smile broke out. “I do hope you plan on visiting me before your sister comes for me.” She looked at the archway for the library and her magic gathered up the dishes to follow in her wake.
(Canterlot Palace, Balcony of the Celestial Cycle, Day of Departure)
Cecilia arrived on the balcony to sad faces of those who aided in her return to power. The strong winds off Yulee’s engines tossing their manes and blowing some tears away. She walked towards the group; “Oh you shouldn’t look like that, it’s not really goodbye, and you should know better Pinkie.” The pink pony in question shot forward into a hug when Cecilia got within range. “I know that I know you’ll be back when Twilight does this really nice thing, but that is so long from now.”
Cecilia shrugged; “Parties end Pinkie, and the challenge is making the next one more notable than the last.” Cecilia felt other hooves around her and a few wings. “I had this whole farewell speech planned, but this is better than words. I cannot thank you enough for all that you’ve done for me, for my family in general, and I guess my sister’s gamble paid off. I’m just sorry I have to leave you in a conflict with the griffons.”
Celestia spoke up; “What you accomplished while you were here is more than plenty, and it is not like we haven’t had wars in the past. The guard is holding its own, and we’ll persevere as we always have in the face of conflict.” The group hug broke up as Cecilia’s watch beeped and Cecilia spoke; “It’s time, and I will return with a surprise. Cross my heart, hope to fly, stick a cupcake in my eye.” Yulee transported her up, and just like that the group watched Yulee ascend as the giant ship turned toward the stars. A few in the group felt cheated of a few last parting words. In the end they felt it would only be repetitive as what needed to be said was said in the end. With a distant flash of light the still visible Glaxia was gone, and the blue sky was empty.”
Rarity looked at Pinkie; “Pinkie darling, would you happen to have any predictions on what surprise she was talking about?” Pinkie gave a big toothy grin; “Just a hunch.” Rarity’s eye twitched a bit; “Oh, and what is the hunch?” Pinkie started bouncing around the group; “Now it wouldn’t be a surprise if I told you, but it might be a doozy too.” Rarity just crossed her hooves in front of her with a huff as the others gave a well natured laugh.