//------------------------------//
// Chapter 16: Starswirl's Message 
// Story: Primordial Conflict 
// by Jumping Jack 
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Chapter 16: Starswirl's Message


I have never seen such a big gathering of ponies and buffalo. When they saw us emerge from the canyon, the crowd began quieting down. The one thing I noticed as we made our way back, the petrified ponies in trees were no longer there. I was glad to see there was no sign of any burning pony slash buffalo trees. Din was correct. Beating Gaia dispelled whatever effects she put on them. The victims were gathered outside. I also noticed that there were a lot of wagons on the edges. Once we got across the bridge, several ponies broke through and starting shoving microphones in front of us.

"You lot! Is it true that you were the ones who managed to stop the overgrowth of Appleloosa and the Red Canyons?" one pony asked.

"The Thunder Bird is real. Were you able to study it?" one pony asked, poking Scribble in the snout. He rubbed it with a stoic annoyance.

"Many of the ponies and buffalo have stated they've witnessed you all heading into the canyon. Do you know who is responsible for the overgrowth?" another asked. The many chattering ponies shoving stuff in our faces was beginning to get crowded. It wasn't until Galavance let out a loud screech that quieted everypony. She flew forward and landed between us and the news ponies.

"Listen up, pardners! I understand ya'll have questions and we would like to answer! But we've just had a near death experience in the canyon and as Deputy, I would ask everypony to please make way. We would like to get the wounded tended too and we shouldn't keep them waitin'. Once things are settled down, we'd be happy to answer any questions ya'll have!" she said. The ponies seemed to ignore her and were pushing microphones in front of her. It wasn't until the buffalo began stomping that caused the ponies to startle and make way. I watched as the buffalo were stomping in place, mimicking a stampede. They then moved aside as Sheriff Silverstar and several other ponies, whom I'm assuming are the Appleloosa cowcolts, motioned for us to follow. The buffalo helped us through, keeping the news ponies at bay. We walked a good bit away, coming up to tents. It almost looked militaristic. I sighed, feeling exhausted. We were then greeted by the nurse mare, who led us into a medical tent. Me and Sharp Eye sat across from each other as she checked on us both. Thi, Cloudchaser, Flitter and Scribble sat inside. Galavance and Sheriff Silverstar stood by the tent entrance, making sure no pony was getting nosey.

I just had my tongue checked before the nurse mare turned to Sharp Eye. Sheriff Silverstar tipped his hat up and looked to us.

"In all mah' years of lawfully providen' for tha' folk of Appleloosa, 'ah never thought 'ah'd see tha' day when Red Canyon began ta' cry an' have so many forces of nature at work." He then looked at Galavance, clearly noticing the change in her feather pigments. "What in blazes even happened in there? One moment, we was rushing out a rescue crew ta' block off the canyon an' next, we was hearing a boomin' voice an' a giant Thunder Bird flyin' aroun'. Not only that, but some o' tha' rescue crew couldn't even get into tha' canyon without bein' swiped at by wooden tendrils. An' most importantly..." he motioned to Galavance. "What happened ta' you, kid?" Galavance blinked, realizing she was being addressed before examining herself.

"I... don't even know where to begin." She stated. She took a breath and then started explaining all that has happened. She told him how we entered the canyon, fighting off the living foliage before stumbling across the petrified ponies and buffalo in trees. How we ended up fighting a pure force of nature and how it was keeping Rita's (Sheriff Silverstar arched a quizzical brow at her mentioning the Thunder Bird's name) eggs as hostage so it could have gotten it to do whatever it wanted. She did her best to leave out that Sharp Eye is housing said force of nature currently. When she finished, she only got to the part where she blacked out and woke up finding out she had changed and is now able to converse with Rita. Sheriff Silverstar listened intently. He then tipped his hat and bowed his head in thought.

"Iff'n ah' woke up one day an' you told me all of that, 'ah would have laughed it off an' called you a crazy griffon. You were always imaginative. But this time... 'ahm inclined ta' believe you." He then looked to us. "As fer' everypony else... well... ya'll rest up. 'Ah have ta' keep tha' nosey ones at bay." Galavance perked up and held up a claw.

"Oh, oh! I'll help! I've gotten real good at getting the crowd to pay attention!" she said excitedly. Sheriff Silverstar smiled and waved her through.

"After you." he said. Galavance turned to us and tapped her two talon claws together bashfully.

"Ummm... thank you for everything, everypony. Let me make it up to you. Starting now." she said with a smile. She gave a salute before stepping out with Sheriff Silverstar. We could hear the buzzing chatter outside the tent and the nurse mare sighed.

"So noisy..." she then frowned at me and Sharp Eye. "Considering you both look like you've been through Tartarus and back, I can safely say, you both are in good shape and health. Though, your eyes are a cause for concern, I don't see any major or minor damages. But I suggest getting plenty of rest." she said before stepping out. Everypony was quiet. We listened to the constant buzzing of the distant ponies before I sighed and decided to lay down on the bed, resting a foreleg across my abdomen. I stared up at the plain white fabric ceiling of the tent before hearing Scribble open up his journal and scribbling something down.

"Alright, everypony." Scribble spoke. "Taking into account of everything that has happened, what have we've learned and what can we do to prepare ourselves better?" he asked. Cloudchaser snorted.

"Are you kidding? We are way in over our heads. You saw how Gaia and Din clashed! I doubt both of them were in control of each other." she said. Flitter looked worriedly at us.

"Are you sure you two are okay?" she asked. I casually wiggled a hoof.

"I'm still me, surprisingly." I stated a little too sarcastically. Sharp Eye, however, seemed to cover for my attitude.

"Considering we've been crashing into mountains and aren't dead. I can say that the abuse they put us through didn't seem to affect us so much. Though... having you tossed aside while a being like that takes control of you? I couldn't gain control of myself." She bowed her head. "I am never going to live this down listening to a being like that. I'm such an idiot..." Flitter flew over to Sharp Eye and pat her claw reassuredly. She smiled.

"We understand, Gwyen. How can we blame you for not being in control? I know you had your heart set in the right place. I never once doubted you that you had every intention to help ponies. When we noticed that you were under direct effects of one of the Elements of Power, we could have only expected the worst. And frankly... it wasn't as bad as we thought." I turned my head to her and arched a brow.

"What do you mean?" I asked. Scribble cleared his throat.

"When Din mentioned finding the Heart of Gaia, I could only assume that the reaction that was caused when you both went into that mountain, that you found it. Whatever Din did to it cancelled everything Gaia had done. The jungle caught fire and while we thought things were starting to get even more out of control, seeing err... Rita help out with Galavance and then seeing everypony unpetrified, it is safe to say that there is a way to reverse any affects the power elements have if they actively try to meddle with everyday life." He said. He then flourished his hoof in a circle. "We can safely control the elements via spectator intervention. So long as we find these 'hearts', we will be able to... how Din would have said it... put them in their place?" he explained. I swished my hoof in front of me.

"Spot on, egghead." I said. "Exactly how Din put it. Only, more cocky and evil." The thought then struck me. I put my hoof down and looked over to Sharp Eye. "Can you sense if Gaia is moving around in you?" Sharp Eye blinked in confusion before closing her eyes and taking a moment. She then opened them and shook her head.

"Everything is quiet." she stated. I nodded.

"Din's quiet too. It seems that Gaia used a lot of power while Din hardly used any. If you think about... Din was actually the calmest out of the two. She was cocky, but seemed calm and collected... in her own way. Din shot a beam of fire into the heart of Gaia and I was expecting the crystal to explode, but it only glowed and then dimmed. That's how she was able to cancel out Gaia's garden." I thought about it a bit more. Something is missing from this. What is raising red flags in my head? I closed my eyes and thought hard. I couldn't pinpoint it. It was there, but it seemed too far out of reach. I sighed. "I guess now we know what kind of hate these elements have towards one another. I thought it was a power struggle. But it seemed to be ages worth of pent-up hate and frustration." Sharp Eye lowered her head a bit.

"You know... when Gaia first came to me, it was in a dream. I had just finished helping Appleloosa with their annual New Years Extravaganza. I was tasked in decorating the orchard. I took a quick nap under a tree and in my dream, I was soaring through the skies. Almost thinking of Griffon Stone. But then a mountain appeared out of nowhere. I didn't think anything of it at first. But when it started to turn itself towards me, I had to stop. Gaia had the face of an alicorn and was speaking to me. She greeted me like a pony mother would. Coddling me as I told her my desires. She seemed to sympathize with me. She told me how much she wanted to save the land by bringing new life into the world. How her garden would give all what I hoped for and more. When I woke up, I found that leaves began to grow in the orchards." She rubbed the back of the head. "I wasn't sure what was causing it. I seriously thought it was a dream. But over and over again, she appeared to me, greeting me each time and listening to my thoughts and desires. She even told me her own struggles, how she has to deal with so many others that would threaten her garden. She asked me to protect it and told me that I have a power to help others as well. To use her gifts to save them.

"I started to notice that anything organic in produce I touched, began to ripen and or become lush with life. Even dead flowers from the winter. Appleloosa was experiencing an early spring in winter. Then one day, the produce companies came by as a deal to begin next harvest when they saw that the trees were growing products already. I had already despised New Appleloosa before, but when I saw the glint in their eyes, I knew I had to do something. The ponies at first were able to keep up with demand, making more money than they had ever seen. But then, it began to get out of control. I was beginning to show immense strength and nearly ripped out an apple tree. I ended up toppling it. I heard Gaia tell me to head to the canyon. She sensed there was a gift to the land that she would preserve." She sighed. "I guess she was talking about Rita and her eggs. She led me to the cavern and told me to plant a seed she conjured in front of me. It grew into her 'heart'. After that, she began to grow her garden over time. While she was handling her own goals, I decided to take her gifts and use them against the produce companies. I sabotaged so many businesses with overgrowth of products that the companies were beginning to think the ponies were using supplements to grow their products en mass. That's a bad deal for most. It would have also hurt Appleloosa financially, but... I wasn't intending to go that far. I wanted those produce companies to realize that everything they have been doing has been slaving ponies for money.

"I even got the tribes involved. Told them that the ponies of New Appleloosa had awoken an ancient curse and is causing their spirit god to be enraged and an early spring happen. I... wasn't expecting them to think that the other rival tribes would be their main concern. But they would stampede almost everyday after in protest." She bowed her head. "It was going so well at first, but then, when I started catching onto Gaia's little plot when she started kidnapping ponies for a while, using them to help her grown her garden as you all saw. I confronted her about it and she told me they all had dealings with the produce companies that I've been working so hard to take down. I should have known then and there that she was only saying it to keep me out of her way while she tended to her garden." She then took my idea and laid down on her back, one claw on her chest as she stared at the ceiling. "I went with it though. Am I really allowed to be forgiven for setting up so many things to fail? So many creatures to be put in danger? I was aware of sabotaging everypony. I was aware of the kidnappings. But I just turned a blind eye and wanted to get back at the ones who were ruining this great land." She put her foreclaw over her face and let out a groan. I couldn't help but laugh.

Everypony arched a brow and Sharp Eye peeked out from under her claw. Thi scratched her head.

"I don't get it. What's so funny?" she asked. I shook my head after calming down a bit.

"It's just funny. I've been there, you know? That embarrassed groan. I know that feeling all too well." I turned my head and smiled at Sharp Eye. "Glad to know I'm not the only one who embarrasses herself from time to time." I chuckled and waved a hoof. "Don't worry. There is a way to redeem that embarrassment. Just going to take a little bit of thought and maybe a helping hoof, here and there." I said. Sharp Eye hummed in thought. She then chuckled.

"You're right... that is not my greatest moment." She said. Flitter shook her head.

"No. Your shining moment was inspiring everypony when you won the world tournament against Equestria's best archers. You had so much honor and even helped your rivals when you didn't need too. What you did all those years ago. It still matters to this day. It matters to me. It's because of you I got to try archery and be good at it!" Sharp Eye looked at her in awe. "What happened today is just one failure out of many that you can learn from. It's a step forward in helping us to get you to control your powers. Today's failure is tomorrow's victory. And if that day doesn't have a victory, then we'll keep failing until we are dead and buried." Flitter smiled. Sharp Eye was quiet. She held out her scarred claw. She had a contemplative look before a smile spread across her beak. She clenched her claw and nodded.

"I guess being exiled from Griffon Stone wasn't so bad. And I'm not the only one who thought that too. That Galavance is an interesting character. I nearly took her life and she bounced back almost immediately from an injury like that." she said. I laughed again. I then held up my own hoof and curled it.

"Then let's take a lesson from her. Even when all hope seems lost, there is always a way to bounce back. I saw it when she panicked after saving me from your attacks. She should have frozen up, but she reacted quickly and managed to set us in the right direction to end this whole thing. Even if she did think she was in over her head, she still jumped in the way to save a mythical thunder bird's eggs." There were relieved sighs in the tent. I looked over and saw my companions smiling. All except Scribble, who seemed more interested at the mention of Rita.

"It was fascinating to see an actual Thunder Bird up close and personal. I need to do a bit more study on this. We have hardly any notes on such creatures. Do you think Galavance can ask Rita if I'm allowed to study more?" he asked. We all exchanged glances before Thi snickered.

"Perhaps. Depends on how the time we spend here goes." she said.





Once we felt rested and ready, I pressed my ear and waited for a response. Thi also had pressed her ear. When somepony finally picked up, I was relieved to hear it was Twilight.

"Pinkie, this better not be another question about asking what would be good to go into another cupcake.” She said, sounding a bit annoyed. I cleared my throat.

"Princess Twilight? It's Quiet Fire." I said. There was a loud crash that caused me and Thi to wince and rub our ears.

"Quiet Fire!! Oh, thank goodness you are alright! Is everypony else alright as well?" she asked. Thi chuckled.

"We're all fine, more or less." she said. Another voice broke through.

"It appears you all have been busy." a voice said. Mine and Thi's expression frowned. Starswirl continued. "I'm impressed. Very much so. You stopped a grave and catastrophic event from happening. I take it you found the power element of earth?" Thi snorted.

"What gave it away? And how do you know about that? I didn't think you were a hologem TV pony." she asked. Twilight spoke through.

"We saw on the map. Quiet Fire's cutie-mark was over a clouded and weather filled area in Appleloosa. When we saw the weather begin to clear on the map and your cutie-mark still active, we saw a green wisp on the map that seemed to float into it. You have to tell us what happened!" she stated. I could hear a bit of excitement in her tone. I then sighed and Thi nodded to me. I explained everything that happened to them, down to the minute detail. When I was finished explaining, I heard the chatter of many other ponies on the line.

"Thank Celestia Appleloosa is safe!" Applejack's voice broke through.

"That must have been terrifying! I'm glad everypony came out safe!" Rarity's voice spoke.

"You guys met a Thunder Bird!? That is pretty awesome!!" Rainbow Dash spoke.

"So many wasted fruits! I could have used them for my next line of cupcakes!" Pinkie Pie spoke.

"Oh, I would love to meet Rita and her little hatchlings! I-If Galavance thinks it's okay..." Fluttershy spoke.

"Girls!" Twilight broke through. "I know you are all wondering about everything, but we have to remember, we have a second Element of Power on our side now. Have you figured out anyway of befriending them?" I frowned at those words.

"Thi is right. I don't think we'll be able too. Din and Gaia didn't hold back. Well, not sure about Din, but Gaia sure didn't. If there is any way we can befriend them, I don't see it." I said. Starswirl hummed.

"Well then. I can rest a little easy knowing that Equestria has been saved from a balance disaster and a power element has been tamed to a degree. Good job, everypony. I'll keep an eye on the map for any more changes. Quiet Fire. Keep me updated on any changes to the element of earth. Gaia maybe more of a wild card than your element." With that, Starswirl's line was cut. Thi blew a raspberry and made a gesture with her hoof.

"Eat it, blowhard." she said. I chuckled before pressing my ear.

"Twilight? I know it goes without saying, but Princess Celestia is making a big gamble. It may sound like blasphemy to doubt the princess. But... if she truly believes we can do this... will everything be alright in the end?" I asked. Twilight shifted on the other end.

"I'm not quite sure what you mean." she stated. I sighed.

"If we fail, Equestria is doomed. If all seven are gathered, what if they end up clashing all at once? We wouldn't be able to do anything then. We are pretty much screwed. And all we can do is try to manage as much damage control as possible. If word gets out that this was Princess Celestia's idea to get such dangerous forces of nature together, her tombstone wouldn't be regally." I explained. I heard Twilight gasp.

"H-how can you say that Quiet Fire!? Princess Celestia put a lot of faith in this because she believes you are able to do this! That you would be able to succeed! She has said that to me so many times and I've always had my doubts. But with friends by my side, I was able to overcome everything and Celestia always had complete faith I could!" she said. Thi hummed in thought.

"You say that, but considering she's your mentor, I think you're biased." She said. I heard a wince from Twilight.

"I... wish I didn't need to hear that twice but... you have to trust in her. Trust in us. We've already been handling some disharmony on the side here, but the frontline needs to be you." I sighed at her words. I hate to say it, but she's right. The heroes of Equestria can handle only so much. They need all the help they can get. Suddenly, Starswirl's voice broke through.

"Quiet Fire. There has been some strange occurrences over by Manehatten. When you and the others are prepared, head to the village." he said. Thi arched a brow.

"Uhhh... Manehatten is a big city now." She sighed. "I swear, the power elements have been rather angsty since waking up." Twilight broke through.

"We don't know if it is a power element at work, but we can't rule it out. I have Rainbow Dash and Fluttershy investigating there. Perhaps you girls could meet up?" she asked. I nodded.

"Not like we had any plans else after Gaia. We'll check it out once we get going." I stated. I cut the line and I turned to everypony else. "I guess, make do with what you can before we leave." Flitter was quick to chime in.

"C-can we please stay just a bit longer? I want to pick up a couple of souvenirs for Rumble when we get a chance." she said. Cloudchaser rubbed her mane.

"Oh right. He's been wanting something. What was it again?" she asked. Flitter frowned at her.

"He wants a genuine apple tart made from Appleloosa's own orchard. His school mates have been talking about it since the rodeo and he's been wanting to try it since." she said. Cloudchaser smiled.

"Sounds good. Maybe I can get him something as well." she said. I perked up and held up my hoof suddenly. Everypony looked at me and I flushed, quickly covering the action.

"I-I don't mind helping to look. I-I've been wanting to do a bit of sightseeing around Appleloosa myself. Never could since I was always... busy." I said. That's a nice way of saying you've been living in Ponyville for a while and only focused on work. Cloudchaser smiled.

"Sure, why not? Could do with some R&R. What does everypony else think?" she asked. Thi rolled her neck.

"I need to restock on materials for my firearm. Went through too many during the canyon incident." she said. Scribble closed his journal and stood up.

"I'll join you. I need to restock on my own arsenal." he said. Thi snickered.

"If you call crushing rocks an arsenal, only an egghead like you can come up with something like that." she said with a grin. Scribble trotted past her, casting a sideways glance.

"Don't let the paparazzi jab you in the snout on the way out." he said with a mix of a teasing and a stern tone. Thi blinked and slumped as he trotted out of the tent. She pointed in the direction he went.

"I can never read that guy." she said before walking out of the tent. I turned to the others.

"What about you, Sharp Eye? Want to take a quick breather and err... I guess self-contemplate?" I suggested with a shrug. Sharp Eye scratched her head.

"I'll... think I'll do just that. I have some ponies I need to apologize too." she said, standing up. I nodded.

"Okay then. We're at the Appleloosa inn by the end of the day. I guess we'll end up meeting there and head out tomorrow.”





The day went about us having to skirt around pony paparazzi. Word got out quickly how we emerged from the canyon and due to eyewitnesses of ponies and buffalo recounting being aware of being petrified in wood, they told the anchors that we helped the Thunder Bird reunite with her eggs and how we managed to cleanse the canyon. The buffalo called it their Herd Ancestors fighting the ancient curse. The ponies called it a catastrophe that we managed to stop somehow. Unfortunately, there were some ponies who were petrified with front row seats during Din and Gaia's fight in the air. They quickly described me and Sharp Eye as the main culprits of the whole thing. I was really missing my hat right now. I had to throw on a pancho and cover my mane with a different hat that was little too big for my liking and a bandana to cover my face.

Cloudchaser and Flitter couldn't help but snicker at my disguise. I sighed and looked to them.

"I don't know about you, but why didn't they call all of you out?" I asked with a bit of an annoyed tone. "S'not like I was the only one who did anything." I looked around, hoping no pony was looking our way as we stepped up to a general goods and bakery store. Cloudchaser pat my back.

"Well, if one thing that comes out of this that we know of, is that you'd be the best runner up for the rodeo circus." She said, stifling a laugh. Flitter giggled.

"Sorry, Fie. It's the only thing we can think of." she said, stifling her own laugh. I groaned and put my hoof on the swinging doors.

"Let's just get this over with and get back to the inn..." I said. I wanted to hang out with the two to get a bit better in knowing them. I didn't realize they exhibited prankster energy. We walked into the store with a bell ringing overhead as the mare behind the counter greeted us, helping another pony.

"Welcome, ya'll! Nice day we havin'?" She asked with cheerful enthusiasm. We noticed that the store was a little packed. Enough room to squeeze through. But if we weren't careful, my disguise would be pointless. Cloudchaser pushed through and got to the counter.

"Wow. Never seen a store this busy before." she stated, looking around. The mare nodded and tipped her hat.

"You betcha'! 'Ah would say it's because of tha' tourism. But these 'ere folk are local. Most of 'em are from tha' horrifin' event in tha' canyon. They have a strange cravin' for everything apples right now." she scratched her head in confusion. Flitter browsed the bakery display. It was quite barren with only a couple of fritters, tarts and cookies. Cloudchaser frowned and sighed.

"Do you have anymore baking?" She asked. The mare gave an apologetic smile.

"'Ahm sorry, miss. But we couldn' keep up with demand. We're plannin' on shuttin' tha' bakery down fer' today." she said. "B-but you are free to get whatever souvenir at a discount. Mah' treat fer' unable ta' provide you with a baked tart or two." Cloudchaser turned to Flitter and shrugged.

"I guess since we can't get one, might as well see about an alternative." she said. I suddenly perked up and smiled under my bandana.

"Why don't we just ask Applejack? She can bake a pie just as good as Pinkie. Or a tart. Sweet Apple Acre apples are just as delicious." I suggested. Cloudchaser seemed to look a bit disappointed by the suggestion, same with Flitter.

"Oh, uh. Rumble had a bad experience with apples from Sweet Apple Acres. Not saying the Apple family don't deliver. It's just..." Cloudchaser began. Flitter finished for her.

"The batch they served that Rumble had had given him err... stomach issues for a couple of days. After that, he's been avoiding anything relative to Sweet Apple Acres. But he's willing to give the Appleloosa ones a try. Since... it's run by a professional group of worker ponies than a family of four." she explained. I rubbed my chin and shrugged.

"Well... when you put it that way, I can see your point. There were a few times I've had a bad experience with Sweet Apple products due to a bad batch. But those were really only ever when they were pressed for time and limited supply." I groaned, remembering the cider debacle. "When they run out of high demand products, it does get a bit annoying." Cloudchaser smiled.

"It's no offense to the Apple Family. They are honest and good ponies working hard to provide what they can. Quality versus quantity." Cloudchaser then beamed and saw a poster hanging on the wall. She hovered over to it and pointed. "What about this one? Rumble would like this one!" She stated. Flitter flew over next to her and beamed.

"Oh wow. Thunderlane has certainly come a long way! Right up there with Rainbow Dash and Spitfire!" she said happily. I peeked between them and saw a vintage looking poster of the Wonder Bolts. At the forefront was Rainbow Dash. On her right was Spitfire. The left would be Soarin. Next to Soarin and another pegasus was a black coated stallion with a mohawk. I remember seeing that pony from time to time in Ponyville. I guess he must be Thunderlane. Cloudchaser plucked the poster down and hovered over to the counter. She paid for the poster and stuffed it neatly into her saddle bag. Flitter picked out a neat little quilted bandana for Rumble. A nice, homey and traditional look and feel to the design. We left the store and began skirting once more through the packed streets. I noticed that there were ponies hugging and crying to each other. Lost families and loved ones that have been missing for who knows how long. As I watched a family of ponies chat and hug each other, my eyes widened as I saw my father and my mother side by side and smiling. There was my brother and my sister, both chatting and looking strangely happy. I froze in place and stared in shock. No... this is a trick, right?

I blinked and rubbed my eyes, looking over to the spot, only to see it was a different family. I furrowed my look worriedly. Something nipped me in the back of my head. I was feeling an increasing amount of envy. So much so that I was suddenly feeling very angry and frustrated. Cloudchaser tapped me on the shoulder and cocked her head.

"You okay, Fie?" she asked. I snorted and danced around them.

"Oh, peachy. Just in tip top shape. I'm so glad we were able to reunite everypony. It must be real nice to see all your loved ones happy and normal." I said, trying my best not to sound too annoyed. Flitter and Cloudchaser exchanged glances with each other.

"Did... something happen?" Flitter asked. I sighed. The day was winding down. We spent quite a while in that canyon. But it felt so soon to cut this little R&R thing short. I waved a hoof in dismissal.

"No. Nothing happened. Just... tired. We should get back to the inn. I want to... sleep. After I have a quick drink at the bar." I said, already walking ahead of them. The two pegasi must be really confused at my change of tone. But I didn't care right now. I needed a drink. We arrived back at the inn and I immediately went to the bar. I tapped the counter.

"Two of your strongest drinks, please." I said. The bartender nodded and went to the back room. As I waited, I saw Cloudchaser and Flitter whispering amongst each other. Cloudchaser then cleared her throat and trotted over to me.

"So... since we... you know... technically saved a full region of ponies and buffalo... how are you feeling about it all?" she asked. I put my hat down and tossed my hoodie up quickly before anypony got any ideas. I then put my head on the counter and slouched, my forehooves dangling at my sides.

"Like I said. Peachy." I puffed my cheek out in a pout. I was really not feeling too well. I should be celebrating about liberating an entire tribe and missing ponies from the imprisonment of a crazed and eerily calm looking power element that was hell bent on killing me. But this empty feeling I was having didn’t make me think of anything other tahn having a nice drink. The bartender finally came back and placed two shot glasses on the counter. When he opened one of the bottles, I put down several bits, my drinking funds I save up usually, and took the open bottle and the other one.

I then pulled back on the open bottle, feeling the warm and sweet taste of honey and a burning sensation. I pulled the bottle away and let out a satisfied breath of air, cuddling the bottle.

“Sweet, sweet remedy.” I said with a blissful smile. Cloudchaser and Flitter looked at me in concern. Cloudchaser then sat down to me and put some bits on the table.

“I’ll just have cranberry juice.” She said. Flitter also put down bits.

“Just a glass of water.” She said. The bartender eyed me before depositing all the bits into a register and then bringing out more glasses and pouring the requested beverages. I looked over to them and wiggled the closed bottle in my magic.

“You sure you two don’t want to try this? It’ll make all your worries fade away.” I suggested. Cloudchaser smiled.

“I’d rather be sober before going to bed.” She said. I mumbled something incomprehensible before seeing Galavance walk in with a buffalo that squeezed through. It caught the attention of some ponies, but the rest were minding their own business. Galavance pointed to us, smiling and walking over.

“Hey, gals! How are ya'll fairing?” She asked. Flitter smiled.

“We’re fine. However…” She said. I could tell they were looking at me. But I ignored it and took another pull from the bottle. Galavance cleared her throat before tapping me on the shoulder. I turned around and smiled.

“Hey, Galavance! Griffon of the hour! How are you?” I exclaimed, keeping my feigned happiness going. I was starting to see two of everypony. Galavance motioned to the buffalo.

“This is chief Braveheart. Father of Little Braveheart. He wanted to speak with you.” She said. I looked between the four and waved.

“Sup, chief?” I said without thinking. Braveheart nodded.

“Celebrating your victory? I approve. Every warrior needs to celebrate their hard-won battle.” He said. I started to droop. Braveheart continued. “I also must thank you for what you did for my people and the other tribes. We did not want war. The Thunder Bird was a sign of end times. And I am glad you were there to stop it.” I then frowned and waved a hoof.

“Sorry, chief. It wasn’t a solo effort. I had help and frankly, I think they deserve more credit than I do. They helped Rita reunite with her eggs. In fact, you have Galavance to thank for keeping those eggs safe. Who knows what kind of stress a creature like that can do when pushed to the edge.” I said. Galavance scratched the back of her head, smiling bashfully. Braveheart nodded.

“Indeed. Griffon is now one with Thunder Bird. Blessed by the gift of love. She carries in her the spirit of the Thunder Bird. And when her times come, she will become the next Thunder Bird to take its’ place.” He said. Galavance balked.

“Wh-what? Wait a minute… you mean… when I pass away, I’ll come back as a Thunder Bird?” She asked Braveheart in awe. The chief buffalo rubbed his chin before nodding.

“As the tale goes. We do not know if it is a guarantee. But so far, events have proven to be true.” He explained. I saw the look of excitement in Galavance’s expression. My mood was beginning to shoot down dramatically. Galavance is amazing. How is she able to take a bit of news like that and be okay with it? How is she able to accept that fate and not think of all the bad it might cause? How is she able to smile through it all? Galavance seemed to have caught my glare and she suddenly wavered.

“I-is everything okay?” She asked. I blinked, realizing that my glare was the effect of the drink. I hiccupped and rolled my head back.

“Jus’ fine.” I slurred. Braveheart looked at me.

“Fire pony. I know that your journey is only beginning. And it isn’t going to be easy. No journey ever is. But the way you fought for our ancestors. How you tamed mother nature. Your fighting prowess that of even the strongest buffalo. From every buffalo in the tribe. We thank you.” He said, nodding his head in approval. I didn’t say anything. I only hummed a tune in thought before realizing with the way he was shifting that he wasn’t just here for gratitude.

“I take it you’re not just here to thank me.” I said, taking another pull. The buffalo hummed in response.

“Fire pony is right.” Braveheart began. “My daughter, Little Braveheart. She…” he began to falter. I cocked my brow and looked at him. My vision isn’t good right now, but the eight buffalo chiefs had a sad look. “Last I heard she was hurt during one of our stampedes. Is she… here?” He asked. I looked to the two pegasi sisters before looking to Galavance. The griffon sighed.

“We are trying to look for her. Remember, the nurse mare said she took off to stop the war that was never going to happen.” Galavance explained. “No pony has seen her since. Not even Sharp Eye.” I furrowed my brows. Flitter spoke up.

“We didn’t see her as we were going into the canyon. At least, not from what we saw.” She said. The chief nodded solemnly. Galavance rubbed the back of her head.

“Does she have any certain spots she visits when away from home? Anypony she knows outside the tribe?” She asked. Braveheart shook his head.

“Not that I am aware of. New Appleloosa is big, but not big enough. Little Braveheart doesn’t like city much.” He explained. I sighed and bowed my head.

“I’m sorry… chief Braveheart. I wish I could help but I have another place I need to get too. We’ll be gone by tomorrow. If we happen to see her on the way out, I’ll let her know.” I said, balancing the empty bottle with the tip of my hoof. Braveheart sighed and nodded.

“I understand. We’ll scour the stomping grounds all over to find her. Even scour canyon to find anything we missed. The tribe owes you a debt of gratitude.” He said. Galavance smiled and beat her chest with a balled-up claw.

“Don’t worry chief! I’ll even ask Rita when she’s free to see if she can look for her as well.” She said. Again, I felt my mood growing angsty and depressed. I really want to know how Galavance does it. Her words resonated through my mind.

If griffons like Gilda and Gabby can change, then I can too.

Change. How can I change myself? How can I change if I’m trying so hard to keep being myself? How can I match up to the outgoing positivity to any situation, no matter how bleak it is just like Galavance? None of it helps that I have an evil and merciless power element that has no issues shoving me aside and controlling my actions. Galavance will turn into a Thunder Bird when her times come. When mine does, Equestria is doomed. I suddenly growled, feeling even more angrier. Cloudchaser, Flitter and Galavance along with Braveheart heard me and looked at me.

I stood up from the stool, carrying the full bottle of strong beverage in my magic behind me.

“I’m going to bed…” I slurred. My vision was blurry and it was hard to navigate a bit, but I found the way to mine and Scribble’s room. The room was empty, with only some things that Scribble left behind. I dragged my hooves over to my bed and plopped onto my belly. I held up the unopened bottle and debated about opening it. But I must have passed out as everything else was a blur.


~~~***~~~


I found myself floating amongst the endless stars. My body asleep, but my mind conscious. It felt like I was soaring across space. Not much is known about space. Many ponies before have tried to manage safe travel to it, but the only pony to really get a glimpse of it is Princess Luna. At least, from what we know.

She once described the sky to be dark, but bright and beautiful. Clouds that decorated the sky with colorful, calm hues. The constellations shone brightly overhead. I have to say. Princess Luna is right about the view. It’s pretty. Suddenly, the tranquility of space was interrupted with a giant green eye opening right beside my body. It stared directly at me and I found the stars becoming a blur. As quickly as the stars moved, everything came to a stop and I found myself overlooking a balcony.

I knew exactly where I was. There was a gathering of ponies. Thousands of them. The walls of Canterlot in the distance. The droning sound of ponies chatting amongst themselves. But that’s odd. Usually, a gathering like this either because of a festival or a major announcement. Since there were no streamers or any form of festivities I could see, it has to be an announcement. I saw Princess Celestia and Princess Luna along with Princess Cadence, the alicorn princess of the Crystal Empire, walking beside Starswirl.

“Interesting view, don’t you think!” I heard a voice say. My eyes opened and I didn’t react in any surprise. I looked to my left and I saw Ouroboros sitting on the balcony rail. I don’t know why I did so, but I climbed up the railing and sat down beside him. Ouroboros then passed me a gwynette ale bottle. I looked between that and him. He gave me a strangely friendly smile. I took it in my magic and opened the cap without any struggle and took a pull before passing it back to Ouroboros, who took a swig himself.

“Kind of reminds me the first time we met. Too bad it isn’t Saturday cartoons. But, no pony really enjoys a speech being partway sober.” He cast a sideways glance to me. “Or so I was told.” I didn’t say anything. I wanted too, but it was hard to form any words. But it seemed Ouroboros knew what I was thinking. “Yes, I’ve heard and watched Gaia and Din fight it out for primal dominance. They are always so spiteful of each other.” He snickered. “Of course, with their streaks, it was only natural Din came out on top.”

I looked at the serpentine pony quizzically.

“Oh, of course. I have no issues telling you what you want to know. Though, anything vital to the current mission is going to be a limited number of hints.” He tapped his slit snout. “You still have two left~ Save them wisely.” Again, I couldn’t say anything. I looked down at the gathering and Starswirl talking to the princesses. Ouroboros sighed.

“The old fool hasn’t given up. Though, he now feels that how you handled Gaia cleared his mind of much doubt. Now he’s about to embark on a new quest. To return to Ponehinge and return to Limbo.” He chuckled. “Is what he should be doing. Twilight and her friends have been busy with the old crone. Off on a quest to bring back the remaining Pillars. They will most certainly bring back another being as well, but they can sort it out, can’t they? They are heroes after all.” I cast a sideways glance at him. Ouroboros sighed.

“If you must know, I did have a good reason pulling just Starswirl out of Limbo. It’s fun to toy with his serious nature. But even I grow tired of somethings. But that is beside the point. He would prove useful in helping me restore balance.” I gave Ouroboros a stoic look. The serpentine studied me. My expression didn’t change. He had to know what I was truly thinking about this. He scratched his cheek softly with a claw.

“If you insist. I’ll tell you what I am obligated to say without giving up your freebies.” He cleared his throat. “You must find the pony with an insignia on his chest. He’ll explain almost everything he’s allowed to tell you.” He smirked. “That is not a freebie. That is an assistance between two good friends, don’t you agree?” I turned back to look at the proceedings. Ouroboros snapped his claw and we popped onto the railing right next to Starswirl.

The chattering increased at the sight of us. I looked over to see the three princesses and Starswirl eye Ouroboros. He grinned and gave a friendly wave. Starswirl turned back to the crowd, his horn glowing.

“Yes, my fellow ponies. We are in a grave and dire state of our realm. This. Is Ouroboros. The World Serpent of Balance. He is amongst us today to tell you all that the sign of end times are upon us.” Starswirl said. Ouroboros chimed in.

“Buuuut, my dear Starswirl, who has been a friend to me since he had discovered my existence in his youth, had the brilliant idea to have your heroes of Equestria embark on a journey of epic proportions! Filled with danger, betrayal, love and above all… harmony.” He grinned at Starswirl, who only gave him a suspicious look in return. “Yes, my dear mortals. Your heroes are actively trying to prevent the end times! Which I am ever so grateful. And it wouldn't have been possible without the brain behind it all. Let’s give a big round of applause to Starswirl the Bearded!” Ouroboros clapped. It took a bit for the ponies to stomp their hooves that gradually picked up.

I could see Starswirl looking confused and a little flustered. He cleared his throat.

“Ahem, yes. As what Ouroboros said. By now, rumor has gotten aaround thanks to a certain birdie.” He glanced at Ouroboros, who was now picking his fanged teeth with a claw. “But it is better to express it now than to wait. Come time when the Summer Solstice happens, during the Summer Sun Celebration, the realm as we know it will be thrown into an instability that we cannot prevent, unless we have the proper bearers of certain elements. And not the Elements of Harmony.

“Let me make it very clear. To each and everypony listening and watching. Before you stands the World Serpent. The very being of balance. With him, masked in this fiery veil, is one of the bearers of these powerful elements. The one of fire stands before you. Some of you may know her. And some may have seen her. And most may not know who she is at all. Keep this in mind, that out in this very world, lies six more of these powerful elements. They reside inside anycreature. Dragon. Serpent. Even a bunny. But these are not something you should take lightly.

"These Elements of Power are the very circles that provide death and life to our land. They are forces of nature that cannot be tamed and have minds of their own, even controlling their hosts should they please. As many of you have already heard what happened in Appleloosa, could happen anywhere else.” There was a buzzing chatter amongst the gathering crowd. Starswirl continued.

“I bring a message to all who would listen. The end times are upon us, and only the ones who bear these Elements of Power, can save us.” He said. Ouroboros pat my back. I took a swig of the gwynette. I can’t tell if the ponies know it is me or not. But I was unable to do anything. I felt like I was being puppeted. I was conscious, but my motions acted as if on instinct. “You have every right to fear for your life amongst these individuals. For their power do not care for our own well-being. But do not fret. When the Elements of Harmony complete their mission, my students Celestia and Luna will be ready to contain the power and restore balance.” Ouroboros yawned.

“And I can go back to sleep.” He said boredly. Starswirl held out his hooves.

“Be strong, creatures of Equestria. We are gathering the powers and will contain them on the eve of the Summer Solstice. You have my word.” The crowd began to stomp their hooves but the cheering was more chatter and buzz than celebratory. I snorted and got off of the railing. I walked over to the princesses and took a last pull of my gwynette. Ouroboros snapped his claw and the bottle disappeared. Princess Celestia, Luna and Cadence looked at me with concern.

“Quiet Fire, is that you?” Celestia asked. Ouroboros pat my back.

“Don’t worry. Ponies don’t need to know it is her just yet. Though, with her current track record, she maybe more infamous along with the others. The sisters do have a tendency to show off as they say. It’s part of their whole high and mighty phase they have going right now.” I cast a glare at Ouroboros and he held up a claw. “Kidding. Kidding. Yes, Quiet Fire hasn’t been exposed just yet, even in attendance today. This is her key body. She is the first and only one to have found her key already. The others haven’t… well speak of the devil.” He grinned as they followed the serpents gaze behind them and saw a calm green spectral form of a griffon appear.

“It seems the one who bears the earth finally found their key. Two out of seven. We are on track, my dear friend.” He eyed Starswirl with a mischievous glance. Starswirl harumphed and tipped his hat forward a bit.

“I grow tired of your mockery, Ouroboros. The fact you wanted me of all ponies to send a message to Equestria is beyond my time.” He said. Ouroboros shrugged.

“I figured since you are in such a hurry to get back to your ‘friends’ that I thought having an extra set of eyes or so would help speed things along.” He smiled. Starswirl glared.

“And risk everything we are trying to do? You do not seem to understand that there are darker powers out there that will make it their sole mission to acquire these power elements for their own use. If not, those powers could already be inside the bodies of evil beings. For a Serpent of Balance, you sure do like to cause disharmony.” He said with a cold venom I didn’t think anypony could have. Ouroboros tapped his claw in thought on the ground.

“When you put it that way, it sounds exactly as bad as you say. But like your dear students, I have complete faith that Fie will succeed in her mission in gathering the rest and befriending them. Her and Din are like two peas in a pod already.” He said with a coy smile. He then looked over to the griffon. “Hope you had your fun, Gaia. But it’s time to focus on a better use of your time. Don’t worry. There is still plenty of places to grow your garden.” The griffon must have shot a glare as Ouroboros sighed. “Tough crowd. But! At least you both have found each other! That’s what counts in the end.” Starswirl growled before trotting back into the castle. The princesses exchanged glances. Ouroboros trotted over to the princesses and bowed. "Forgive me for teasing the old crone so much. It's just fun to see him think he has any power over this realm." Princess Luna frowned and stomped a hoof.

"It is entirely uncalled for. I get that our teacher is trying his best to ensure the safety of our realm, but your constant toying is causing him so many mistakes. Let Starswirl gather his bearings!" Luna said, her look serious and cold. Princess Celestia raised a wing in front of her and stepped forward.

"Ouroboros. As my sister's concerns are warranted, I feel that there is more to this... toying as it is put. You've kept us long enough in the dark. It's high time you tell us what Starswirl has done to cause you to paint a target on him." she said, standing firm and displaying a regal intimidation that I could only imagine Thi had seen when she got in trouble. Ouroboros tapped his snout and winked.

"Never kiss and tell, princess. Starswirl was an ambitious youth. And like all youths, their curiosity is unwarranted. And when Icarus flew too close to the sun, his wings caught fire. You've heard that story, yes?" He then pat his chest with a paw. "Take it from the eldritch horror. The brightest minds are the easiest to fall from grace. And those scouring the dark." He looked to me and Sharp Eye's form. "They'll take the whole pillar with them just to reach that top." He then stood up and trotted past the princesses. He then eyed Princess Cadence and bowed. "Your majesty. How fares the child?" Princess Cadence eyed him suspiciously.

"Wonderful." she responded simply. Ouroboros grinned and walked further into the castle. Sharp Eye and I stayed by the princesses. As Ouroboros walked further down the hall, I saw the flicker of spectral forms began to appear one by one. A tall, muscular character silhouette in pure ice and snow-white aura. A small figure that looked like a filly formed from the ground, similar to Tenebres. A breeze swirled by and formed a strange creature silhouette I was not familiar with. It had fins from what I could make out. A swirl of water formed next. A silhouette of another creature stood on two legs. An almost cat like appearance. And the last, the form that shone down from the chandelier that Ouroboros walked under. It flickered upon landing on the ground and a regal alicorn form took shape. Sharp Eye and I finally walked past the princesses.

"Quiet Fire?" I heard Celestia say.

"No matter what happens, Quiet Fire. You are not alone. Befriend the creatures that are host. Not the elements." Princess Luna spoke. I wasn't able to turn around and acknowledge them. However, I did see something in the corner of my eye. It looked like a cloaked figure hiding behind a pillar. The spectral silhouettes began to vanish one by one as Ouroboros disappeared into a distortion. When Sharp Eye's form vanished, I then looked back to the princesses, seeing their looks of concern and worry. I gave a nod before I closed my eyes and found myself floating amongst the stars again. My body asleep, but my mind conscious. And this time, I wasn't alone.