“What do you think they’ll make us do this time?” Fluttershy asked, the girl clutching Rarity’s arm tightly.
Rainbow Dash shrugged, the girl’s arms above her head, her hands clasped behind her neck. “I don't know, but for once in my life, I hope it isn't more gym class. I don't know how much exercise I can do.”
“You’re telling me,” Applejack added, rotating her right arm in its socket. “I can still barely lift my darn arms.”
The group of seven paused as the elevator they were standing in stopped, its doors opening a moment later. Together they walked out into another long, mostly metal hallway flanked by numerous automatic doors. Like most of the underground facilities that Perfect Tempo called home, this space was largely unoccupied. Though a little unnerving to most, the small gaggle of girls had grown used to its sterile interior, and unadorned walls.
“I’m just surprised they called us all down here,” Twilight remarked. “I would have thought that they would want us to split up again.”
“That would be more efficient, but perhaps they have a group exercise in mind,” Sunset Shimmer posited.
“Or maybe they are going to throw us a party for being so awesome during our first day!” Pinkie Pie exclaimed.
“Somehow I doubt that Pinkie,” Rarity replied.
“Hey, ya never know,” Pinkie Pie retorted.
“Well, I hope you’re right Pinkie. A party would be nice right about now,” Rainbow Dash declared.
The group stopped once more, only this time it was in front of a rather large, and out-of-place wooden door. Twilight used her magic to push it open, allowing them to walk into a familiar gymnasium. There Perfect Tempo and the rest of his friends and fellow teachers waited, standing in a half-circle in the middle of the room.
“About time you lot showed up,” barked Thevetat the dragon. “I was starting to get bored.”
“What? But we were early,” Twilight complained.
“Do not take it personally, despite his age, this one has the attention span of a child,” Perfect Tempor remarked with a small smirk.
Thevetat snorted, crossing his arms over his massive, scaly chest. “It's not my fault everyone moves so slow and is so boring.”
“Heck yeah,” Rainbow Dash agreed.
Twilight sighed. “Let's just, listen to Perfect Tempo, please.”
“Thank you Twilight,” Perfect Tempo began, clearing his throat. “Before we begin I wish to congratulate you all on your first day of training. You performed exceptionally and should be proud of yourself.”
“Even if there are certain deficiencies to be ironed out,” Platinum added.
“They have great potential and will do excellently,” Harvest Moon remarked, the large man nodding approvingly.
“That they will,” Perfect Tempo picked up. “As you all know, however, this crash course will be brief. You all have school to finish up and personal lives to lead.”
“I still think they should drop out,” Ghost declared. “They have the ability to grow considerably if we had them serving under us in a more permanent manner.”
“It is a shame that will not happen,” Rarity exclaimed, squeezing Fluttershy’s hand a little tighter.
“Yes, a shame,” Ghost murmured absently.
“Regardless,” Perfect Tempo began. “I have begun to close in on our mutual foe, though that will not come until after your graduation at the earliest.”
“That's a relief,” Applejack muttered. “I was actually kinda hopin’ to go to that, and have arms rather than wet noodles.”
“My mother would kill me if I did not attend my own graduation ceremony,” Twilight remarked.
“Which is why your training will pick up in earnest after you have finished school,” Perfect Tempo continued. “Like yesterday, today will largely be an exploratory day where we test your abilities and explore how best to teach you.”
Several groans could be heard from among the crowd of girls, with Pinkie Pie breaking from the group by shouting yipee.
“I know it was hard but trust me when I say it is for your own good,” Perfect Tempo stated. “But don't worry, after we are done we will be spending a bit of one on one time with each of you.”
“Trust is built upon the bedrock of honesty,” Harvest Moon exclaimed. “And we cannot do so unless we have a chance to learn more about one another.”
“I still think this sounds stupid,” Thevetat muttered.
“For once we agree,” Platinum remarked.
Perfect Tempo shot a brief glare at the two dissenting voices before turning back to the girls. “Despite what some may say, we do not wish to be seen as taskmasters, but rather as teachers, teaching you how best to use your new abilities.”
“So we’re just gonna… what, go to the movies?” Rainbow Dash muttered while scratching her head.
“If that is what you and your teacher decide,” Perfect Tempo replied.
“Huh,” Rarity murmured. “I did not see that one coming.”
“Well, I totally did!” Pinkie Pie proclaimed, pumping a fist in the air. “Party time, woo!”
“Let's get this over with,” Platinum muttered, all but stomping out the door with Twilight and Fluttershy in tow.
“I’ll see you soon, I guess,” Twilight called as she jogged out the door.
“Try not to work too hard,” Sunset Shimmer yelled back.
“Come,” Harvest Moon declared. “We must move quickly if we want to have any hope of getting there in time.”
“Get where?” Applejack replied, falling in next to the large man.
“You shall see,” he replied simply.
“Well, start running!” Thevetat boomed, pointing to the door. “I wanna see if your endurance is half as good as your speed.”
“What like, hear?” Rainbow Dash replied.
“Yes here. Wind sprints back and forth across the room, go!” Thevetat shouted, gesturing to one side of the gymnasium away from the shrinking gathering.
“Alright, alright, yeesh,” Rainbow Dash muttered to herself.
“Come,” Ghost commanded, walking up to Rarity. “We shall resume where we left off yesterday, and if you do well I will take you to my favorite place to dine.”
“Oh well, that would be nice,” Rarity murmured, glancing over her shoulder to where Sunset Shimmer stood. “I will see you soon darling.”
“Good luck,” Sunset replied.
Rarity sighed. “I’ll need it.”
“What was that?” Ghost barked.
“Nothing,” Rarity exclaimed, hastily walking after the icey woman.
“So I guess that just leaves us and Pinkie Pie then,” Sunset Shimmer opened.
“Nah. I’m going to cheer Rainbow Dash on,” Pinkie Pie exclaimed, bounding across the room. “Woo, go Rainbow Dash!”
“It seems as though it is just us,” Perfect Tempo declared.
“Oh well, that's still okay. What did you have in mind anyway?” Sunset inquired.
“A few tests to determine how much of your magic has come back, a bit of remedial study to catch you up on things, and then a nice slice of pie,” Perfect Tempo replied.
Sunset Shimmer blinked. “Oh, uh that sounds nice actually.”
“That is my hope anyway, but for now we have some less than fun studying to do,” Perfect Tempo replied, gesturing towards the exit with an outstretched hand.
Sunset smiled. “I’m looking forward to it.”
“So, was all that, really necessary?” Rarity whispered while massaging her temples.
Ghost steepled her fingers on the pristine white tabletop. “Yes.”
“Even the part where you threw snowballs at me while I blocked your icicle attacks?” Rarity pressed.
“Admittedly, no,” Ghost replied. “But you learned quickly, so it was worth it.”
Rarity sighed. “Look, I don't mind a little stress. Lord knows I put myself through enough as is, but these past few days have been downright excessive, don't you think?”
Ghost’s frown deepened. “I don't believe so, no. Your powers will be the linchpin of your team’s success and survival. It is important for you to get a handle on them, and quickly.”
Rarity wanted to reply, to declare that it wasn't worth the abuse, or the rigorous testing but stopped before doing so. Her gaze wandered across the upscale restaurant, its many paintings, immaculately dressed waiters, and high-class clientele. Had it been any other day, Rarity would have been silently freaking out and fussing over her clothing, but not now.
Her teacher had been kind enough to stop back at their shared apartment to acquire something nice. After having a long, hot shower of course, as it wouldn't be fitting to show up smelling like a gym sock. That left only a car ride over to fix her hair and makeup, but contrary to popular opinion, Rarity was capable of being quick when demanded.
It was wonderful, enchanting, and the type of place she wished to take Fluttershy one day. Just thinking about the other girl made Rarity’s heart flutter in her chest, and her aches to melt away. It also gave Rarity a bit of resolve, her back straightening ever so slightly at the thought.
“You were thinking of them, weren't you?” Ghost asked knowingly.
“How did you-”
“I just do,” Ghost interjected. “It's something I’ve seen and felt many times before, and it is the reason why I wish to train you.”
Rarity remained quiet, waiting patiently for the other woman to continue.
“You and you’re friends are young, naive, but kind and good-hearted,” Ghost continued after a short pause. “It will be up to you to protect them, and beyond that, I want to ensure that what happened to me doesn't happen to you.”
“What happened, if you don't mind me asking?” Rarity inquired.
“I will not go into detail,” Ghost stated firmly, only to sigh. “But suffice it to say I was forced into an untenable situation after failing to protect my friends against a rather cruel foe. I made a choice, one that set me down a darker path. One I hope you and you’re friends do not have to walk.”
Rarity watched the other female closely, noting the small facial twitches that were almost imperceptible at first. Now, however, Rarity had gotten a good read on the icey woman and was able to detect regret as well as shame. It was visible only for a moment before being swiftly brushed aside, hidden beneath Ghost’s neutral mask of indifference.
“But you’ve found something to care about,” Rarity offered.
Ghost smiled faintly. “I have.”
“They have a way of doing that, don't they?” Rarity pressed.
“That they do,” Ghost murmured faintly. “Love can give purpose to the directionless, and hope to the hopeless. Guard them well, my student.”
“I will,” Rarity promised.
Applejack panted hard, the girl struggling with all of her strength to climb another hill. Her shoulders ached, her muscles burned, and on her back, the sack full of weights dug into her flesh. Despite the ever-present agony, she continued on, pushing herself until she ascended to the top of the forested crest.
There she stopped, breathing heavily as she leaned against a short tree.
“Wait,” she wheezed. “I need a break.”
“Then take it, for we are here,” Harvest Moon exclaimed.
Applejack blinked and looked around, just now realizing that she had reached the top of a small mountain. Behind her, the incline was steady and winding, but in front of her, it was abrupt, having turned into a sharp cliff. The thick ever-present foliage, and the darkening evening sky hid the fact that this was no mere hill.
“Wow,” Applejack murmured.
Without any branches or leaves to get in her way, Applejack could see the entire valley which housed her home. Not only that but she could also see the majority of Canterlto itself, as well as the lands beyond her native city. Yet the many glistening towers, shining structures, and wide-open land were not what grabbed her attention.
Rather it was the majestic setting sun which so captured her gaze, its main bulk hidden by the horizon as well as a few dark clouds. With its rays filtered through the atmosphere, the burning orb looked more like an orange ball resting at the edge of the world. Casting everything Applejack saw in slight shadow, giving the world a strange look that she found enchanting.
“Wonderful, is it not?” Harvest Moon exclaimed, the man sitting down and crossing his legs. “I found it on a mission to eliminate a rogue bug bear cast through the portal.”
“It sure is somethin,” Applejack admitted, dropping her back to the ground before resting next to it a moment later. “I never saw Canterlot from up here before. Granny always said these hills were too deep and too full of old mines to be safe.”
“Your grandmother was mostly correct,” Harvest Moon exclaimed. “But that was a rumor we started to house the fact that this is another of Celestia’s dumping spots for magical creatures that earn her ire.”
Applejack paused, taken aback by the raw fury that came from her teacher’s voice when he spoke Celestia’s name. The girl dismissed that quickly, however, focusing back on the beautiful vista just sitting before her. She couldn't help but worry a bit about a rogue monster, but Harvest Moon had kept his blade on him, though he had finally ditched the armor. Having replaced the antique samurai get up for a simple flannel shirt, and a pair of faded blue jeans.
“You are wondering why I brought you here,” Harvest Moon remarked, not looking away from the city below. “And no, it is not to fight monsters.”
“Well that's a load off my mind,” Applejack muttered.
“Not yet anyway,” Harvest Moon corrected. “That will come later. For now, I wished to get some exercise in and speak to you a bit about why I chose you.”
“You said you saw potential in me,” Applejack reasoned.
“I see potential in each of you,” Harvest Moon replied. “You specifically, I see a kindred spirit, someone who has a similar drive to my own.”
“To protect people,” Applejack stated halfheartedly, unsure of her assertion.
“You are correct,” Harvest Moon stated quietly. “I wish to protect my cousin, Perfect, but I was trained from birth to see my countrymen as my family. To shield them from harm, and guide them from dark to light was to be my duty, as well as my birthright.”
Applejack looked on in silence, waiting as Harvest Moon gathered his thoughts.
“Though some may be happy to have such responsibility taken from them, I am not one,” continued the man in a low tone. “I feel the harm done unto them and my heart weeps, but I sense that will all change soon enough.”
“Why do you say that?” Applejack inquired.
“Night will fall, and drown the sun when a good man goes to war,” Harvest Moon quoted. “Celestia has declared you and you’re friends as well as this entire world as her foe. You will not let her do as she pleases, thus we have a conflict that will bring an end to Perfect Tempo’s endless planning.”
“Why, what's so special about us?” Applejack asked.
Harvest Moon turned to the girl and smiled. “We are broken, and jaded, but you are kind and pure of heart. Two things that no tyrant can stand.”
Rainbow Dash sat irritably in the hard plastic chair, her face and arms covered in small bruises or welts. Sweat stained every inch of her, and her hair hung down the sides of her face in tangled masses. Though her face was tense, she followed the game closely, watching as the pitcher threw a fastball past the batter.
A moment later she was joined by a large, oddly familiar male wearing a loose-fitting blue shirt. His wide chest stretched the fabric to its absolute limit, and the chair did something similar, the plastic groaning under his weight. To everyone else, he looked like the single largest man they had ever seen, not a pound of which was anything but muscle.
To Rainbow Dash, he looked like a bipedal dragon with an illusion charm dangling from around his neck. Not like that was even visible given the absolute armload of cotton candy, popcorn, hot dogs, and beer that was clutched to his chest. Which he began to dig into the second he was certain his chair wasn't about to collapse under him.
“So, who's playing anyway?” he muttered before stuffing a handful of popcorn into his mouth.
“The Chicago colts, and the Canterlot highlanders,” Rainbow Dash remarked. “They’ve been fierce rivals for years, but neither have managed to get this far before.”
“Tense,” Thevetat added.
Rainbow Dash snorted.
Together the pair sat in silence, for several minutes, merely watching, and eating as the two teams played. The scores were low, with neither having added many to the board, but with over half the game left, there was time for that to change.
“Why do you like this game anyway?” Thevetat exclaimed, gesturing to the players. “It's so slow. I would have assumed you would like something a bit faster.”
“It's not all about going fast,” Rainbow Dash retorted. “Baseball is more than just hitting the ball.”
“Really, how so?” Thevetat challenged before tossing back an entire cup of beer in one gulp.
Rainbow Dash leaned forward and began to point from one player to the next. “The pitcher is known to have an incredible fastball, which means there is a good chance of the ball going long if hit. But the guys out back don't know what to do because the batter has a habit of bunting but he is actually really skilled. The outfield positions are a little staggered, and the lead out there isn't doing his job.”
The pitcher whipped the ball down over the plate, where it was struck and sent flying into an empty spot near the back left. Players scrambled, and people ran from base to base, taking advantage of the ensuing confusion. While this happened fans either cheered or shouted, joining the irritated yelling of one particular coach.
“See? He drove it exactly where they weren't expecting,” Rainbow Dash pointed out.
“Huh,” Thevetat murmured. “Maybe this game isn't so bad after all.”
“You’re welcome,” Rainbow Dash remarked.
“Thanks,” Thevetat replied. “Remind me to go easy on you next time.”
“Just use the balls the smaller balls next time. They don't hurt as bad and are harder to dodge,” Rainbow Dash retorted.
Thevetat nodded. “Fair enough.”
Pinkie Pie leaped into the open seat next to the enormous dragon, her massive tray of food bouncing as she landed.
“What I miss?” Pinkie Pie asked.
“Not much- hey are those cracker jacks?” Thevetat asked, mouth-watering.
“They sure are, want some?” Pinkie Pie offered.
Thevetat licked his scaly lips and nodded. “Oh heck yeah.”
Rainbow Dash smirked, watching out of the corner of his eye as her teacher all but inhaled the bag of treats. Though the feeling was small, she couldn't help but respect the towering male a little more. In a way he reminded her of Applejack, only four times the size, but just as honest as the farmer whom she was so smitten by.
Twilight stood silently in between two rows of strangely colored tulips that had a mottled appearance to them. All around her stretched various such rows of plants both native and exotic, arranged in a haphazard manner. Though Twilight was certain there was some kind of pattern, she couldn't see it amidst the mane winding, twisting paths.
Fluttershy was having similar such thoughts, though she was keeping an eye out for the animals that roamed the grounds. Remarkably healthy, the many rodents or other small creatures showed no fear as they dashed about the garden. The pair were tired, but curious, casting the occasional glance to their teacher who stood a dozen feet in front of them.
Platinum’s usual garb had been cast aside for a long, flowing summer dress that looked like it should be on a corpse. Though mostly light colors, the garment looked downright morbid on her for reasons the two girls couldn't quite figure out. Regardless of their dress, it was a nice change to just stand amidst the many plants, listening to the distant song of birds.
“How was your lesson?” Twilight whispered in a low tone.
“It was less intense,” Fluttershy whispered back. “It was mainly studying anatomy. Apparently, that is going to be the majority of my focus now that she knows my skill set.”
“Platinum said something similar to me,” Twilight mused.
“Really?” Fluttershy inquired.
Twilight nodded. “She gave me a shortlist of spells to learn but expected me to memorize two dozen more in my spare time.”
“That sounds like a lot,” Fluttershy murmured.
“It's nice,” Twilight admitted. “So many of my teachers sought to cultivate my ability by simply giving more homework, or by regimenting my learning. I think Platinum knows that I don't need to be pushed.”
“Do you think she was a teacher before?” Fluttershy asked.
“I was,” Platinum declared, turning sharply on her heel. “Back when I ruled my home country, before the coming of the sisters.”
“Oh um, I’m sorry,” Fluttershy murmured.
“Spare me your pity,” Platinum scoffed.
“I don't pity you, Platinum,” Fluttershy offered with a soft smile. “I am genuinely sorry to hear that Celestia did that to you.”
The ageless, century-old undead stood silently, her gaze focused on Fluttershy, though her body was relaxed. After several seconds of quiet, Platinum straightened her spine and cleared her throat, regaining her regal posture once more.
“Regardless,” she began. “I will regain my birth rite, and rule over the lands gifted to me by my mother. Even if those lands are little more than ill populated mountains forgotten by modern pony society.”
“What about the people that live there now? What if they don't want you,” Twilight offered.
The undead woman’s brow furrowed, and her gaze focused on Twilight. “You think me a returning despot, that I am much like the queens and royalty of your world. I do not blame you for such.”
Platinum turned, clasping her hands behind her back and gazing back out over the garden. “We are nobility, but only in name. We live in a castle, yes, but it is fortification first, home second. We rule not through the divine right of kings, but because we have the knowledge and skill to govern well.”
Twilight wanted to press her question but resisted as she knew Platinum’s explanation was only just starting.
“If we are not wanted, we retreat to our estate, becoming teachers, librarians, artists or craftsmen,” Platinum continued. “But when times change, and the people have need of us we take up the mantle of leadership with humility. When that happens we begin by assembling councils from the various townships of the land we are sovereign.”
Platinum began to pace, her brow remaining furrowed as she spoke. “These councils are the true power and strength of our government for they are elected by and hold sway over their neighbors. From there they elect members to join the middle, and upper council, with which I am but a member whose vote counts the same unless there is a tie.”
“It sounds a lot like the commune system popular in south America,” Fluttershy remarked.
Platinum turned and snapped her fingers, a rare smile crossing her face. “Exactly. We did what we could to spread our ideas here in your world but business interests have largely quashed it. Regardless, the spirit of freedom and community are strong, even amongst these violent, hairless apes.”
“That's… fair,” Twilight muttered dejectedly.
“Within such a system princess is a title gifted to the head diplomat and face of this communal coalition,” Platinum exclaimed, pounding her fist into her open palm. “Giving us true strength and true legitimacy, unlike this totalitarian autocracy that Celestia stands atop of.”
“That sounds like a very equitable society,” Fluttershy reasoned.
Platinum nodded. “It is why I fight, and I believe that Perfect Tempo wished for me to tell you all this. He wished to court you in the more political sense, in hopes that you are willing to strike at a foe who wishes us both dead.”
“You mean Celestia,” Twilight exclaimed.
“I do,” Platinum agreed. “She does not consider humanity as being above animals, she notes your violent tendencies and lack of magic as evidence of this. I and my associates do not paint such a grim picture of your species, and wish only for peace.”
“Do you think we, as in ponies and humans, could live without conflict?” Twilight questioned.
“I believe as though it is possible, yes,” Platinum replied, turning sharply once more and clapping her hands. “Enough of this navel-gazing, we must continue your studies if you are going to have any hope of helping yourselves, much less us.”
Sunset tapped her fork against the white plate, her gaze slowly crawling across the establishment she found herself in. Though her head ached, and her fingers burned from a miss cast spell she couldn't help but feel oddly good. There was something about the fifties-inspired dinner that set her mind at ease and reminded her of home. This was despite the fact that she hadn't sat in a restaurant like this one until after she had come to earth.
That didn't matter, though, as the fluffy yet aged seat in the booth felt familiar, as did the white and red theme. The strips of neon lights illuminated the long counter where a half dozen patrons sat, eating or chatting amongst themselves. Flitting from booth to table on wheeled shoes was a middle-aged woman with an odd maid-like outfit who popped gum every few seconds.
It was an odd bit of Americana that Sunset hadn't expected to find in the largely modern city of Canterlot. Though it made sense given her company, who was daintily cutting away at his slice of apple pie. The normally impassive, and unexpressive man looked at home here, his usually stern expression left behind.
“Not a fan of fries?” he asked, gesturing to Sunset’s plate.
The girl looked down at her half-eaten burger and mostly untouched french fries waiting for her on the white plate.
“They’re actually pretty good,” Sunset Shimmer admitted. “I guess I’m just taking it all in. I never would have thought there would be a place like this in Canterlot.”
“It's something of a hidden gem,” Perfect Tempo began, dabbing his piece of apple pie in the vanilla ice cream sitting next to it. “There's a remarkable number of them hiding away in the lesser frequented parts of the city.”
“Interesting,” Sunset murmured absently, taking a bite of her burger.
For several minutes the pair were silent, the waitress stopping briefly to fill up their water before rolling away. With only the sound of distant conversation and the low whine of the chrome ceiling fans, Sunset felt oddly comforted. The smell of a sizzling fryer drifted past her nose, mingling with the freshly cooked meat and powerful aroma of ketchup. In no time at all Sunset had finished her meal, the girl startled by how quick the large portion had disappeared.
“You clearly needed it,” Perfect Tempo remarked, leaning back in his chair.
“You two need anything?” asked the waitress.
“Another coffee for me, and Sunset would like…” Perfect Tempor inquired, glancing inquisitively at the girl sitting across from him.
“A slice of that pie, please,” Sunset Shimmer exclaimed.
“Good choice, darlin, be right back,” offered the server before skating away.
“You know the rollerblades aren't really accurate,” Sunset pointed out.
“I know, but it's quirky,” Perfect Tempo exclaimed, his gaze lingering on the departing form of their waitress. “She used to be a figure skater you know. Had a nasty fall and nearly broke her hip fresh out of high school though.”
“That explains why she seems to enjoy it so much,” Sunset Shimmer offered.
A second later and the woman in question came sliding around the corner, a pot of coffee in one hand and a plate in the other.
“A slice of pie for the young one, and some more coffee for tall dark, and handsome over here,” remarked the server with a wide, honest smile.
“Thank you, Darlene,” Perfect Tempo replied. “It's always a pleasure.”
“Daww ain't you a charmer. If you two want anything more you just give me a holler okay?” Darlene replied.
“We will,” Perfect Tempo exclaimed.
“Thanks,” Sunset began, picking up her fork. “I admit I didn't think I’d see this side of you. Or that you had such a side in the first place.”
Rather than become angry, Perfect Tempo smiled and released a soft, gentle chuckle. “Oh Sunset, we're family. Whoever we were back there doesn't matter anymore. What matters is what we have now, each other.”
“Huh,” Sunset Shimmer muttered, taking a bite of the pie.
“I know it sounds cliche and a little forced,” Perfect Tempo admitted. “But that is how I see our little ragtag band of misfits and cast-offs. Like the natives of this place, we are community-driven creatures by nature, and we must build those connections with others lest we suffer for it.”
Sunset swallowed hard and placed her fork back down on her plate. “So, you’re not just saying that to manipulate me into joining your crusade against Equestria?”
“What's there to manipulate?” Perfect Tempo challenged. “We share an enemy and should join forces. It's only natural to do so.”
“But I like it here,” Sunset Shimmer exclaimed, gesturing towards the window. “I may think that Celestia is a terrible person but that doesn't mean I wish to leave this place.”
Perfect Tempo smirked. “You think she's going to stop with dumping the odd magical creature, or unicorn who had the gall to try and learn something? No, I know Celestia, and I know that eventually, she will dump something truly horrible into this place.”
“So that's your plan then?” Sunset countered. “Wait until she does something truly horrible and capitalize on it.”
“You keep talking like this is some grand conspiracy,” Perfect Tempo remarked, arms crossed over his chest. “When I am manipulating you by giving you a home, helping you regain your magic, and protect your friends.”
“It wouldn't be the first time someone did something like that,” Sunset Shimmer pointed out.
Perfect Tempo sighed and ran a hand down his face. “Look. I’ll lay my cards out for you. Yes, I want to convince you and you’re friends to help me free Equestria from Celestia. Am I manipulating you? It depends on your definition of manipulating.”
Sunset Shimmer raised an eyebrow.
“I am giving you these things in hopes that you turn around and help me out in return,” Perfect Tempo exclaimed. “But unlike Celestia I demand nothing. If you take all I have to offer, hear all I have to say, and still say no, then I’ll accept it.”
“Just like that?” Sunset Shimmer questioned.
“I can't promise that the others won't be annoyed, but you will be under no obligation to assist me,” Perfect Tempo continued, opening his arms wide. “The fact that you’re here, protecting these people means less work for me, so although it isn't optimal it's a possibility I would accept.”
Sunset sat there in silence, staring at the man as he sipped his coffee, only to grimace and add sugar. He was being honest, Sunset soon realized, or at least he was being very close to honest, holding little back. It was a frankness that Sunset was ill-used to, the girl struggling to come up with some kind of response.
“Oh,” she muttered dumbly. “I just assumed.”
“I know and it's understandable,” Perfect Tempo murmured. “You are used to Celestia’s approach to so-called, ‘diplomacy’.”
The man added air quotes on the final word, as well as a fair bit of disdain.
“But my goal, my guiding philosophy is choice,” Perfect Tempo began, placing his cup back on the table. “The citizens of our home are not given a choice, they are dictated to, and their subservience is demanded. Can magic be dangerous, of course, can deviant thought be dangerous, obviously, but that is a slippery slope.
The man cursed under his breath. “I hate that saying, slippery slope, though I think you can understand that it's applicable here. If someone’s natural talent is seen as criminal, then that society has effectively outlawed certain people due to no fault of their own.”
“But allowing necromancy?” Sunset Shimmer questioned. “I can understand most everything else but not that.”
Perfect Tempo smiled as if he had been waiting for this very subject to come up. “In Platinum’s home province, necromancy is only allowed when the person being raised signs a contract while they are alive. In return, their family is granted an extra laborer, someone who can work tirelessly to put food on the table for their living descendants.”
“I suppose that's okay,” Sunset Shimmer reluctantly admitted.
“When the sisters came, they culled the undead, leading to famine, and starvation the likes of which nearly wiped out unicorns entirely,” Perfect Tempo continued, leaning forward on the table. “There is a reason why they are mostly white, and mostly live in Canterlot, their population was culled because of the power they held.”
Sunset Shimmer shrank into her seat, a frown crossing her face.
“I know it can be abused, and made into a weapon, but so can this fork,” Perfect Tempo stated, picking up one of the polished silverware. “But the thing is back home, you can't just drop the fork. That talent, that danger is a part of you and can only be removed through painful, invasive surgery.”
Perfect Tempo sighed, dropping his prop and clasping his hands in front of him. “Celestia dictates her morals for all, even in places where if said morals were applied, would kill hundreds. That doesn't matter to her though, to her the world is black and white, with absolutely no in-between.”
“You certainly seem to know a lot about Celestia,” Sunset Shimmer pointed out.
“I knew her. Once upon a time,” Perfect Tempo murmured. “But that was many, many years ago.”
Sunset Shimmer studied the male’s expression closely, noting the weathered, and guilty expression which briefly crossed his face. It was quickly chased away though, replaced by the calm, calculating look that Sunset Shimmer had grown so used to.
“Regardless, she has gone too far, and she needs to be stopped,” Perfect Tempo exclaimed.
“Well, you’ve convinced me,” Sunset Shimmer admitted. “Call it petty but after realizing how deep Celestia’s suggestions had dug into my mind, I was ready to march back through that portal.”
Perfect Tempo chuckled. “That's good. Anger is a positive force if directed towards constructive outlets.”
“I’d have to talk to the others, but I’m fairly certain they will join you as well,” Sunset Shimmer added.
“If you asked them to, I’m sure they would,” Perfect Tempo remarked.
“True,” Sunset Shimmer murmured. “But I won't. Not unless something drastic happens. They don't understand Equestria, nor do they care much about it.”
“We’ve got plenty of time,” Perfect Tempo cautioned.
“I thought you were closing in on Foxtrot,” Sunset Shimmer replied.
“We are, but even then, we will have the chance to train and prepare,” Perfect Tempo stated confidently.
Sunset Shimmer breathed a long exhale. “Good. The girls deserve the chance to end their high school career normally.”