//------------------------------// // The Angry Phoenix // Story: The Royal Three // by Kingstar008 //------------------------------// As the citizens of Canterlot partied throughout the night, the rest of the country and the world was in total shock. Billions across the globe were excited to watch a once in a lifetime event only for their excitement to be turned into horror as they watched the changelings commit horrible war crimes on the military and civilians. Ponies across the country only felt sadness and anger when they saw photos and footage of the cloud smoke rising from the senate and all of the damage the changelings caused. But the most shocking thing Equestria and the world found out during those 12 tense hours was the reaction from the Changeling Empire. News reports confirmed that changeling politicians and military staff celebrated the destruction of Canterlot. They didn’t even bat an eye when they were told that 7000 of the 10,000 troops that they sent to Canterlot were killed and the invasion was deemed a massive failure. For the rest of the night, the world wondered how Equestria would react. And when the sun rose above the country, they got their answer. On January 6, 1010, AG at 8:45 AM, the United Kingdom of Equestria declared war on the Changeling Empire. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Ud3RY7fVDOo The changelings were expecting this to happen, so they stationed 900,000 troops on the border with Equestria before they attacked Canterlot. Then their overconfidence was replaced with horror when they saw 2.5 million troops charging into their country, accompanied with thousands of tanks, missile artillery, armored trucks, and hundreds of airships dropping bombs and carrying thousands of paratroopers. The changelings tried their best to stop the Equestrians from advancing any further, but the amount of fire power and the high morale of the ponies had was enough cut through the changeling’s defenses like butter. It didn’t help that the equestrians were doing a lot of encirclements on the battlefield. Things weren’t going well for the changeling navy as their brand new fleet of battleships were destroyed by equestrian cruisers, battleships, and submarines. When the empire heard about their major naval defeat, it basically destroyed what little morale they had. This war wasn’t about expanding the empire anymore. It was now making sure that the Empire lived to see another day. A war of survival. That’s when the changelings knew they have fucked up. ===•••=== January 9 1010 AG. 1:30 PM Celestia’s POV Celestia was gliding through the outskirts of a small changeling town accompanied by her father and a bunch of tank and truck divisions. A few minutes ago, Celestia and her forces defeated the changeling Marines that were defending the town. As they made their through the town, the residence teleport away from them. Others barricaded their homes and when a field medic tried to help an injured changeling, she begged him not to kill her. Despite having a big red cross on his helmet. This wasn’t the first time that Celestia have heard of the stories like this. Ever since the start of the Equestrian-Changeling war, she keeps on hearing heartbreaking stories from her generals of civilians guarding their properties, believing that ponies would rob them. Or injured civilians begging field medics not to harm them. All because of changeling propaganda painting Equestria as a vengeful nation. As the army of motorized vehicles traveled through the landscape, Celestia grabbed her radio. “Soldiers, halt.” As commanded, every soldier and vehicle came to a complete stop. “Celestia, what’s wrong?” Nebula ask after he landed right next to the white alicorn. “Something is not right here.” Celestia picked up a fist size rock and tossed it a few yards in front of her. *BOOM BOOM BOOM* All of a sudden, a bunch of landmines detonated right in front of them. After the dust settled, Celestia got rid of the shield spell she had over her and her dad. “What was that?” Nebula ask. “That was a land mine. One step, and we would’ve been obliterated.” Then they saw entire army of changelings in the distance, coming right at them. “Attack!” Celestia yelled. Without a second thought, the brave sons and daughters of Equestria ran towards their adversaries as the sound of gunfire and explosions fill the air. When the incoming changelings saw a few tanks division’s coming towards them, they started to shoot their crossbows at the armored vehicles. Only to be obliterated by a shell, get hit by machine gun fire, or crushed under heavy tank treads. As battle raged on Celestia notice something in the distance she thought she would never see again. Behind the changeling army was a massive railway gun. “Oh my God.” Celestia said before shooting a changeling with a bolt of magic. “Railway gun? What is this the 940s?” “That must be some brand new technology, isn’t it?” Nebula ask. “Heaven no. My old box TV from the 950s is more advanced and useful than that pile of scrap metal.” “So it’s not a threat?” “No, it’s still a threat. But it’s very impractical for an army to use it. Requires too much maintenance, it takes up too much manpower to operate it, and last, but not least. It’s so big that it takes multiple steam and diesel locomotives to pull it. But I can still do a lot of damage, so some pony have to destroy it.” Nebula saw a determined on Celestia’s face. “You’re going to destroy it?” “I’m going to destroy it.” She said before she flew away as fast as her ways can carry her. “Ok be careful.” Nebula said before he stabbed a changeling that was trying to impale him with a fixed bayonet. “I will.” When Celestia started to hover above the battlefield, she noticed the railway gun was aimed right at her. ‘Perfect, they have fallen right into my trap.’ Celestia thought. A loud bang echo throughout the battlefield as the gun launched a large caliber shell right at the alicorn commander. Celestia was able to dodge the shell without any difficulty. “Now it’s my turn.” Celestia conjured up a powerful beam of magic, aimed it right at the large gun and launched it. The golden beam enter the barrel of the gun and hit the shell that was inside. The shell blew up causing a domino effect with the rest of the ammo, obliterate the mighty railway gun. Changelings watched in horror as their super weapon collapse to the ground. One by one, each soldier of the empire lay down their weapons and put their hands up. Another easy victory for the Phoenix. ===•••=== Canterlot, Equestria. 1:34 PM https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=9KXnacArn3M&pp=ygUUaG9pNCBjaGlsZHJlbiBvZiB3dzI%3D Thousands of miles away from the active war zone, Artemis was walking up the steps of the Senate entrance with a Luna on his right, and Gallaxia on his left. An hour ago, the Canterlot fire department declared the Senate safe for ponies to enter after it was smoldering for four days straight while the city around it was recovering from the changeling invasion. When they open the large doors, nothing could prepare them for what was in front of them. The atrium was a mess. The walls were covered smoke and ash, the floors were soaked in dirty water, and there was a lot of graffiti. And I mean a lot of graffiti. Most of it were very offensive slurs to all six tribes while the rest of them were just defacing every column and wall. But the worst of it was on the roof of the rotunda where the mural of Gallaxia with the sun on the right and the moon on the left, was sprayed with red spray paint that said. “ If we can’t have Canterlot, then no one can.” “Bastards.” Luna said. “I knew something like this would happen. I never thought the vandalism would be at this level.” Gallaxia said. “It’s hard to believe that this is the least damage part of the Senate. Makes you wonder how much damage the changelings caused.” Artemis said. “If this is the least damaged part of the building, can’t imagine what horrors are behind these walls.” Luna stated. They walked through the damaged hallways of the senate for a good half an hour. Observing all the damage the building suffered during the invasion. Luckily, all the priceless paintings that was hanging on the wall were saved before any jackboots got a single foot on the premises. But that couldn’t be said for the murals and statues. Luna was visibly distraught when she saw the decapitated statues of Star swirl and Somnambula on the ground. Both statues have red spray paint on them that said. “Equestria is next.” “The fucking looted the place. They even took the gold fixtures off the walls.” Artemis said, looking at what remains of a once beautiful chandelier. “Celestia you better make them pay for they done.” Luna said to herself. “Guys.” Gallaxia yelled. “Yeah, mom?” Luna responded. “You are not going to like this.” Luna and Artemis looked at each other before walking towards the heart of the Senate. When they arrived, they couldn’t believe their eyes. The grand Senate chamber, where historical speeches and history changing votes were held was now filled with pile of ash and rubble. The beautiful dome that stood above the chamber is now replaced with a clear blue sky. Exposing the building to a cold winter air. In the center of the pile is the golden phoenix statue that used to stand on top of the dome. With its wing spread proudly for the world to see. And despite falling 289 feet to the ground, somehow the statue didn’t have a single dent on it. Artemis said nothing as he walked around the large pile of rubble. He felt nothing but anger and resentment towards Pharynx for causing all of this destruction. ‘It’s just like that day all over again.’ He thought. “Artemis.” He looked to us right to see Gallaxia looking at him with concern. “Are you ok?” “Yeah, I’m ok.” He then look at his watch. “We might as well get going. The news crews are going to be here any minute.” After leaving what remained of the Senate chamber, Artemis, Luna, and Gallaxia, walked back to the buildings main entrance. ===•••=== 2:20 PM After coming back from the news conference at the Senate, Artemis came back to Canterlot castle with Gallaxia and Luna. Instead of returning to his office, he decided to go to the castle library lounge to clear his head. Before he had the chance to turn an another page in his book, Luna entered the lounge and asked. “Artemis, can we talk?” “Umm, sure. What do you want to talk about?” He said after he put his book down. “Artemis, is everything ok?” “Yeah, everything is fine. Why do you ask?” “Me and mother have noticed that you are not acting like your normal self recently. Granted, every pony is dealing with some stuff since the invasion, it’s just I noticed that you been working lot more and you’ve been daydreaming a lot.” “Luna, I assure you everything is fine.” “Are you sure? Because if something is bothering you, you can tell me. I am all ears.” Artemis sighed. “Ok, if you want to know, I’ll tell you. The reason why I’ve been acting a little withdrawn lately is because of all of the destruction and sorrow in the city is bringing back old memories that I tried to forget.” “You witness an invasion before?” Luna ask as she took a seat. “No, what I have experienced pales in comparison of what the citizens of this city has suffered. Me and my siblings vaguely mentioned it when we were dealing with Discord.” “Yeah, I remember Celestia told me about that. She also said that you three were pretty vague. I understand if you don’t want to tell me.” “It’s fine, I’ll tell you. It happened nine ago, September 11, 2001. I was 11 years old, being driven to school by my Aunt Maya. My mom wasn’t able to take us because she was busy at her doctors office. You seen a photo of my hometown, right?” “Of course, it’s a very beautiful city.” Luna responded. “Well, have you seen this photo?” Artemis ask as he hand his phone over to Luna. Luna looked at the photo of New York and noticed that this photo was different. On the left side of the screen there were two tall silver buildings that towered over everything else. “I never seen those buildings before. Are you sure you’re showing me your hometown and not a different city?” “Yes that is New York City. Those two buildings are the twin towers of the World Trade Center the tallest buildings in city. My aunt used to work in the north tower.” “Anyway, my route to my elementary school went by the twin towers, when we were a half a block away, we heard a sound of a plane flying low to the ground. Next thing you know that plane hit the north tower. My aunt was horrified, while the rest of us we’re panicking because we don’t know what the hell just happened. When the fire department arrived, they ordered us to get to a safe area and we did. All hell broke loose when the south tower got hit by another plane. An hour later or so, the south tower collapsed, followed by the north tower falling to the ground. Lower Manhattan was completely destroyed, luckily my aunt’s coworkers survive. We all decided to go back home because who wouldn’t want to go to school after seeing something like that. Mom came back home three hours later and she was crying. I have never seen her cry like that. My dad was in Port Canaveral at the Kennedy Space Center, he was so relieved that we were all right that he cried over the phone. Seeing all the damage that changelings caused and sorrow and fear every pony faces just reminded me of that day.” “Artemis I’m so sorry you had to experience that, and it’s such a young age too.” She said with sorrow in her voice. “Thanks.” “Who would do such a thing?” “A crazy terrorist group name Al-Qaeda, they’re from this region of earth named the Middle East. They were angry at the United States for a bunch of stupid reasons and thought that attacking New York and Washington DC was a good idea. Obviously, it was not only heartless, it was stupid. After the attacks America went after them.” “Oh, my stars. You witness death and destruction because of a few individuals were angry at your country.” “Yeah, who knew that a few angry people could end so many lives. That’s why I also been angry at all the changelings responsible for the invasion. These guys weren’t part of some crazy terrorist group, they run an entire empire, they used their military to attack innocent civilians. If it wasn’t for Zaya and Twilight, Cadence would have died in the caves and Equestria would be been destroyed. Heck, they tried to electrocute and beat a pregnant pony for no damn reason.” Artemis’ voice started to crack. “When I first came to this world, I was amazed of how beautiful this city is and how friendly you all are. For christ sake, you fix your problems with magic and friendship. Well, except for that one time when we all kicked Discord’s ass but that’s beside the point.” He chuckled. “And when I saw the city getting destroyed, it was like I was witnessing that horrible day all over again. And sometimes I feel like I didn’t do enough.” Hearing that last part made Luna walk over to Artemis and hugged him tightly. “Don’t say that. You did everything you could to defend the city and you did it bravely. Some places couldn’t be saved, but it could’ve been worse if it wasn’t for you, Zeya and every pony else. I know my words won’t make you feel better right away but I hope it helps.” “I appreciate what you’re trying to do, I really do.” Artemis said as they both ended a hug. “I just hope that the bastards that caused all of this get what they deserve.” “Don’t you worry, they’ll pay for what they done.” ===•••=== She was right. Five days later, On January 13, 7:15 PM, the Changeling empire suit for peace after a humiliating 9 days of fighting. When ponies heard of the news, ponies from Manehattan to San Franciscolt to the tropical islands of Gallaxia celebrated in the streets. While the changelings were humiliated. And to make sure that they felt the sting of defeat even more, the equestrian government decided to have the peace treaty signed in Vanhoover. When Queen chrysalis arrived at Vanhoover international air station, she was greeted by angry crowds of ponies cursing and threatening her. There was even one incident when a retired naval veteran came at her carriage with a loaded crossbow. Luckily, he was apprehended by the Vanhoover PD. ===•••=== Vanhoover. January 14 11 AM. Apollo was sitting in a conference room in a luxury hotel in downtown Vanhoover, waiting for his “guest” to arrive. During the war, he and a few others worked hard to create a treaty when the changelings inevitably sue for peace. Treaty would punish the empire enough to teach them not to mess with Equestria again. While at the same time, it was lenient enough to prevent another war, unlike the treaty of Versailles. After waiting for 10 minutes, Queen chrysalis enter the room. “There’s no way, you are leading the peace agreements? Where are the royal sisters?” “Yes, I am leading this peace conference, and the royal sisters can’t attend this conference. Luna is cleaning up your mess in Canterlot, while Celestia is still with her army.” “So, they decided to send the alien creature that took up arms against my armed forces to attend in their place?” Chrysalis ask. “That’s correct. Here’s your pen and the treaty you have to sign.” He said, as he put the two objects across the table. The changeling queen didn’t say anything as she took her seat in front of Apollo. She picked up the treaty in her magic and started to read it. The more she read the paper the more shocked she became. “What’s your name?” “Apollo.” “Mr. Apollo, I’m not signing this.” Chrysalis said. “Why not?” “Because my country not paying 400 million bits in war reparations and I’m not giving any land to Equestria.” “Chrysalis-“ “It’s Queen Chrysalis, to you.” “Anyway, you have no saying this because your military collapsed after nine days of fighting. You sued for peace meaning we can put down any punishment we think is necessary. That money is not only for rebuilding Canterlot, but also giving money to families that lost someone during the Canterlot invasion and you’re not losing that much land. The war is not over until you sign this treaty. If you don't, your country will lose more land and receive a harsher punishment.” Chrysalis tried to argue back, but she had nothing. He was right. If she didn’t sign it, that means her country will fall and Celestia will march army through the capital. With every fiber of her being screaming at her not to do it, she picked up the pen and signed her name on the piece of paper. She handed the folder back to Apollo and walked out of the conference room, ignoring all the questions the reporters had for her. ===•••=== Vanhoover international air station lounge. 12:00 PM After she signed the humiliating treaty, Chrysalis wanting to get out of the city as fast as possible. Not only because of Vanhoover keeps on remind her of the devastating loss her country suffered, it was also because of her daughter has been missing for a few days and she just want to get back home to continue her search. Right now, she was in one of the luxurious lounges inside the air station terminal. She was waiting for her private airship to finish getting repairs. Somehow, two out of the four engines had engine problems and it had to get checked, so she was stuck here. Not that she mind, the wine was good and the snacks they had here was surprisingly tasty. The only downside is that her bodyguards were on high alert because there was a high amount of distain and distrust in the air, ponies refused to sit even 10 feet away from her, and the staff refused to serve her. I mean, what did she expect? She is responsible for attack on Canterlot, attempted murder on Cadence, and the Changeling-Equestrian war and other horrible crimes. She was about to take another sip of her wine when she heard familiar voice. “Hello mom.” Heart skip a beat as she pulled her eyes from the magazine. Relief washed over her as she hugged her daughter. “Zeya thank goodness you’re all right; I was so worried about you.” “I’m sorry to make you worry.” To her surprise, Zeya didn’t hug her back. “Hey, what’s wrong?” She asks after ending the hug. “Nothing mom, the reason why I’m-“ “Sweetie don’t worry about that, you’re safe and that’s all that matters. When Airship’s engines are repaired, we land in Vesalipolis and our subjects will be relieved that you’re safe and sound.” “Mom listen to me. I’m not going back home with you, I’m here to say goodbye.” Zeya said. “What are you talking about?” Chrysalis ask. Noticing that every creature was paying attention to them, Zeya conjured up a privacy bubble. “Do you wonder why the ponies were able to organize such a large army to fight in Camelot? Do you wonder why your spies in the Royal guard mysteriously disappeared only to be found again as prisoners of war? Have you ever wondered why the invasion of Canterlot was such a massive failure? I warn them.” She can see it on her mom’s face. Shock and horror was etched on her face. Her mouth open a few times trying to say something, but nothing came out. Then she felt a wave of anger coming from her. “WHY! WHY WOULD YOU DO THAT?! THAT INVASION WAS GOING TO MAKE US THE MOST POWERFUL NATION ON THE PLANET AND YOU RUINED IT!” DO YOU KNOW HOW MANY LIVES HAVE BEEN LOST! NOW-“ *SLAP* Rage filled tirade came to an end when Zeya slapped her across the face. It shocked chrysalis so much. She stood there for a long five seconds. “How dare you-“ “Listen to me, mother!” Zeya yelled back angrily as tears flow down her face. “The reason why I warned them is because of how heartless your plans were for the country. I’m sorry, not your plans, Ferdinand’s plans. 420 million ponies would have a boot on their necks if the war went in your favor. You even approved a plan to tear apart tearing apart families based on their tribal heritage. Do you know how sick that is?! I read more of the battle plans and was horrified that you guys were actually considering killing Gallaxia and Nebula to make Celestia and Luna surrender. If you have read a fucking history book, you would’ve known that would’ve never happened, the opposite would’ve happened. They would’ve murdered you and Ferdinand for that. Killing her would have never happened because Gallaxia and Nebula are one of the best warriors to ever live, Celestia and Luna too. There’s a reason why dictators in the past think twice about declaring war on Equestria. If it wasn’t for Twilight and the humans, Princess Cadence would’ve died in the caves and if that happened, you would have killed the last living member of the crystal bloodline and Celestia‘s grand cousin. Who I have to remind you, she treats like her own daughter! And if she had died, the entire royal family would’ve hunted you down.” “So, you were worried about the what if's? One you don’t have to worry about that. And two we were planned for everything that would’ve happened. One of the reasons I approved the invasion is because I wanted to give you an empire you would’ve been proud to inherit.” Chrysalis responded. “I was already proud of our country, mom. I was honored to be your heir and I still am. It’s just I wouldn’t be able to live with myself if my country was responsible for so many deaths and a legacy of imperialism. Every time in empire try to colonize these lands with met with rebellions from their pony inhabitants. And I know that the empire you tried to create wouldn’t last because of that. Eventually the empire you built will fall and crumble in front of you. That is the reason why I warned them and gave them the battle plans because both the Empire and Equestria with suffer if we have won. And also, why I came to say goodbye because the politicians back home will find out about this and some of them will try to assassinate me.” “Ok I know who situation back home is not the best, but I promise I will get you a bigger security detail.” “Too late for that, I’m not going back home. I already applied for exiled status, and I got approved. I’ll be living in Canterlot for seeable future. That’s why I am in Vanhoover today, so I can say goodbye to you without having to look over my shoulder.” This is when chrysalis started to tear up. “B-But you don’t have to do that.” “I have to mom. For my own safety. I still love you, but if you continue down this path, you’ll just end up getting deposed and you’ll be all alone. Until you get rid of those horrible militarists and nationalist, I am not coming back.” Intercom: “Equestrian airlines flight 4512 is now boarding.” “That’s my flight.” She hugged up crying mother. “Goodbye Mom, I’m going to miss you.” After that she got rid of the privacy bubble, grabbed her carry-on and walked away. Chrysalis watched her daughter disappear into the crowd. After that, she started to cry. Before she went to her gate, the changeling princess went into one the nearby bathrooms. Went into one of the stalls and put on her blue Kirin disguise. She also changed her carry-on color from blue to its original burgundy red color. When she was all done, she exited the bathroom, boarded her blimp, put her carry-on away and sat down in her seat right next to Apollo. “So, how did she take it?” “Not very well when I told her that I was the one that told you guys she was understandably angry and then when I told her that I wasn’t coming home with her, she started to cry. It was very hard to see her like that.” Topaz said as she wiped her eyes. “I know it’s hard, but it’s better to tell her now instead of her finding out later.” Apollo responded. “I know, but that's one of the hardest things I have ever done. Even warning you guys was easier than this. I’m still trying to get over the fact I slapped my mom.” “You slap your own mom? Damn I knew you were brave, I never thought you was that brave.” “I had to do it. She was very angry at me, and I knew she wouldn’t listen to a word I said so I had to make her listen somehow. Now I have to do is wait for my subjects back home to hear the news.” “Hey whatever shit they try to do we’ll be here for you.” “Thanks.” A few minutes later, the blimps engines turned on and the aircraft got off the ground. As the airship left the air station, Topaz notices a gray airship with the changeling flag on its tail. She stared at the airship until it disappeared from view. ===•••=== Vesalipolis, Changeling Empire 11:40 PM Pharynx was in his office in the mostly empty Military HQ, doing some extra work before he clocked out for the evening. It’s been 12 hours since the treaty of Vanhoover was signed and since then it’s been embarrassment day for his country. Not only did his queen sign embarrassing treaty, but he also found out that the reason why Canterlot invasion went so horribly wrong. He felt angry and betrayed that the princess done something so treasonous. She was the reason why so many of his comrades died that day. And when the war started more of them were either killed or injured because of new weapons that he didn’t even know existed. And now the changeling military was in shambles, the southern parts of the country was destroyed, and last, but not least, the changelings were humiliated on the world stage. All because of one spoiled brat decided to commit treason. After he finished his glass of whiskey, he finally finished his paperwork. He looked at the clock and he realize that it was very late. Putting his stuff in his briefcase he was about to walk out of his office when he decided to look at his mirror to see if his uniform was still pristine. And he instantly regretted it. In the mirror reflection, he can see the equestrian consulate just a half a block away. Since it was windy night, the flag of Equestria flew proudly in the wind. He can see every detail of the flag. From its white and gold stripes on top and bottom of it, to the two stars on either side of the sun and moon emblem. Tearing his eyes away from the disrespectful site, he walk to the door and grab the door handle. “How pathetic.” Said a mysterious voice. “Who said that?” Pharynx said as he looked around his office. Then he saw his reflection in the mirror looking at him with a disappointed face. “You heard me you’re pathetic.” “I am not pathetic.” He responded to his reflection. “If you’re not pathetic, why didn’t you take over Canterlot? Why are you drinking so much tonight by yourself and why is that despicable flag still flying? It’s because you weren’t able to take it down. You are nothing more than a pathetic changeling. Actually, ignore that last part, you’re a disappointment.” “I am not a disappointment either. I am one of the most skilled commanders this country has ever seen.” He said, anger flowing in his voice. The reflection laughed. “Your empire has been humiliated, your comrades are either dead, or in the hospital, and last, but not least the military in shambles, all because of you.” “That’s…. that’s not true.” “Oh no, no no. Liar.” The reflection responds as it turned into a familiar figure. “Father?” “Look what you have done Pharynx.” His dad said disappointment heavy on his aged features. “You could’ve done more to prevent this from happening, but your overconfidence got us to this position. You have failed us, you’re not son mine.” “No, I didn’t fail, this all happened because of-“ “LIAR!” His father yelled, now accompanied with many other changelings surrounding Pharynx. His brother, an injured Ferdinand, Remer, all of his family and friends. But the site that hurt him the most was seeing his mom screaming at him as well. Pharynx threw his briefcase at the mirror, breaking it, ending the screaming and leaving him alone in the moon lit office once again. Now trembling and crying, the commander looked around in fear, but only silence met his gaze. He fell to his knees, hugging himself, and saying the same phrase over and over again, as if it shields him from everything. “I’m not a failure, I’m not a disappointment. I’m not a failure, I’m not a disappointment.” Suddenly, Ramer burst into the room thinking that someone broke into the headquarters, only to see Pharynx crying his eyes out. He spent the next half hour trying to comfort his old friend. ===•••=== January 15 1010 AG Canterlot Castle 8:35 AM It was a beautiful cold sunny day in the city in Canterlot. As the civilians helped to rebuild their city, Topaz was walking towards the castle throne room while holding a white folder in her right hand. It’s been a full day since the signing of the treaty of Vanhoover. And since then, things slowly went back to normal for the ponies in Equestria. The troops that were deployed to the front lines came back to their home as heroes, while changelings living in the lands Equestria gained from the war are now waking up in a different country. As predicted, news of her actions spread like wildfire. Many creatures around the world were shocked to learn that the heir to the changeling throne was the reason why Canterlot is still standing. Many called her a hero for doing something so selfless and brave, while others, especially in the empire, called her a traitor and demanded that she is arrest and face trial. As she was walking past the Castle Gardens, she noticed a Bat pony guard approaching her. “Excuse me ma’am, is your name ‘Topaz’?” “Yes, that’s me. Who’s asking?” “My name is Staff Sargent Lydia of the lunar guards. The princesses sent me to find you because there’s a situation going on in the throne room. Apparently, a changeling revealed himself during day court, causing a mass panic, but he said he’s not here to harm any pony and says he knows you.” “Wait, what?! Are there any more changelings with him?” “No, he came alone. But just in case the royal guards are searching the castle grounds as we speak.” “Well, that’s a relief. Might as well teleport to the throne room.” Topaz said as lit her horn. “Do you want me to hold that folder for you, your majesty?” Lydia asks, trying to be polite. “No, I got it. And please don’t call me that while I’m in this form, I don’t want my cover blown.” After that, they teleported away. ===•••=== When they arrived at the wrong room, they saw that Cyclones was restraining a changeling, while Atlas was holding his belt in his hands. The princesses meanwhile had their horns lit with magic just in case. She instantly recognized the changeling. “Ok what is going on here?” Topaz asked. “Oh, I’m glad you ask.” Atlas said. “This changeling, somehow got in line for day court. When it was his turn to speak to the princesses, he dropped his disguise, and all hell broke loose. Cyclone bravely tackle him to the ground while I helped him out. Every pony was evacuated a few minutes ago.” “Let’s just hope that there’s no other changelings trying to attack the city again.” Cyclone said. “Guys I told you, I’m not here to hurt you. Please let me go.” The changeling begged. “Yeah, we’re not falling for that.” Cyclone responded. “Cyclone, let Thorax go.” Topaz said. “Huh, he wasn’t lying after all.” Luna said in surprise. “You actually know him?” Atlas asked. “Yes, I do, he’s a gentle giant.” Thorax looked at Topaz with a confused look. “How do you know my name?” Topaz said nothing as she dropped her disguise. “Zeya.” He said smiling. “I should’ve known it was you.” “It’s nice to see you too, Thorax.” Cyclone look down at the restrained changeling. “You promise you’re not going to do anything stupid?” Cyclone said. “I promise.” Hoping he was making the right decision, Cyclone let go of thorax and allowed him to stand up on his 2 feet. “So why are you here Mr. Thorax?” Celestia asked as she stopped producing magic from her horn. “I want to apply for asylum.” He spoke. “Knowing how high tensions are between our two countries, I figure that talking to a soldier on the border wouldn’t get me anywhere, so I decide to come to Canterlot and talk to you both.” “What do you want to apply for asylum?” Luna asks. “Yeah, what’s going on back home that’s making you consider doing something so drastic?” Zeya asks. “Haven’t you heard? After the empire found out about your betrayal, the politicians and some military officers in Vesalipoils are hunting down any ‘traitors’ within the country. Since I’m good friends with you and my positive thoughts on harmony, I’m afraid they might try to come after me. So, I booked the first flight out of the country last night. what hurts the most is that my little brother is leading the charge.” “Oh no.” Zeya said in horror. “Who’s your little brother?” Celestia ask. “Pharynx is my little brother.” The room was silence. “You really think your own brother would arrest you for no reason?” Luna asks in disbelief. “I don’t know, but I don’t want to find out. That’s why I’m here and if you guys approve, I will be on my best behavior, I promise.” The royal sisters glanced at each other. “Thorax despite your not so great welcome, your request of asylum is approved.” Luna announce. To say that Thorax was surprise was an understatement. “Wait, you just approve me just like that? You two didn’t even debate about it.” “We didn’t need to. You look like a trustworthy individual, Zeya vouched for you, and it’s clear that your homeland is going through some trouble times and it’s not safe for you anymore.” “That’s why we approved of your refugee status. while the city is being rebuilt, you can stay in the castle. Your room will be right next to Zeya’s.” Celestia said. “Oh my gosh, thank you. Thank you so much for this I promise, I won’t cause you any trouble.” A grateful Thorax said. “Lydia, can you show our new guest his new room?” Luna asked. “Of course, your majesty, follow me sir, your room is in the solar wing.” The bat pony said, as Thorax grab his backpack and left the room with her. “I as well make sure he’s right at home. Oh, before I go, I want to give this to you, empress.” Zeya said as she levitated her folder to Celestia. “What is this?” “Laws that I think should be implemented in the new territories, so that the locals won’t feel like they’re being occupied or alienated from the rest of the country. There’s some basic rights in there along with protecting changeling culture and a lot more.” “Well, these are some pretty good ideas. I will present these bills to the senators as soon as possible.” Celestia said as she looked at all the papers. “Wait, how are you going to do that if the senate is being rebuilt?” Zeya asked. “It’s because they are choosing which of the theaters in the city to do government business in, since most of them can hold like 2000 to3000 ponies at once.” Atlas responded. “Oh, that makes sense. Well, I better get going.” She said, before putting back on her disguise and teleporting out of the throne room. ===•••=== The lunar wing of the castle. Gallaxia POV The former Empress stood in front of her mother’s s bedroom door, nervously. She was here because she wanted to ask her a question that’s been on her mind for a few days. Now, since her schedule was clear, she had the chance to ask her. She just didn’t know how. ‘Let’s just get this over with.’ She thought. She knocked on the door three times. It didn’t take long for Lauren to open the door. “Morning Gallaxia.” “Morning mom, may I come in?” “Of course, you can. I was just about to have some morning tea on the balcony.” Lauren said as close the door after Gallaxia entered the room. After she poured her daughter a cup of tea, Lauren took a sip while join the view of the city. “What a wonderful view. Despite all of the damage she suffered, Canterlot is still a beautiful city.” Lauren said. “But I’m guessing you’re not here because of this view. “You’re right. The reason why I am here right now is because it’s a question I’ve been meaning to ask you for a while. It’s just I didn’t have the time to ask.” “What’s the question you want to ask me?” “You and I both know that humans can’t produce magic, naturally on their own. And yet atlas Apollo and Artemis somehow have magical powers. A few days ago, I tuned on my hologram device and went back in time when Discord was messing up everything. And there were three magical signatures on the map, one with orange one was reddish pink and blue. The same colors they had in the right eyes during the invasion. Did you know they had magic?” Gallaxia ask. Lauren put her teacup down gently on it saucer with an audible clink. “I’m glad you ask because I knew that they had magical abilities. I didn’t fully realize how powerful their magic was until I met them back in October.” “So why do they have magic in the first place?” “Well, it’s because they are not ordinary humans, they’re destined for great things. Even though their abilities are in their infancy, with the proper guidance and training they will be able to use their magic for good. I hope this answer satisfies your curiosity.” “Thanks for telling me.” “Anytime.” Lauren smiled. After she finished her tea, Gallaxia stood up from her chair. Before she could walk away, Lauren called her. “Gallaxia.” “Yes, mom?” “You should keep your eye on Twilight. She destined for greatness as well.” “Don’t worry, I will.” After that, Gallaxia left the room.