//------------------------------// // Chapter 3: An Encroaching Shadow // Story: Harmony Arisen // by Panoramic Toast //------------------------------// Chapter 3: An Encroaching Shadow Three months later “A Brief Guide to Equestrian Artifacts, check! Into the Unknown: The Uncharted Land of Dragons, check! Griffins: The Rise and Fall of a Species. Eeerrrr...” Twilight levitated her list out of the way, and she began searching through the tall bookcases that stood all around her. She scoured all of the immediate area, even searching near the staircase. “No! I could have sworn we still had that! Why do books always go missing?” Twilight said as she carelessly threw the other two books behind her. Lack of sleep had been getting to her even more over the past few nights. She had begun practicing even later into the night. She practiced levitation, basic teleportation, basic mass transfer spells. It was beginning to grow hopeless in her mind, What’s the point, she would sometimes tell herself. It never helped her stop. Twilight walked back, and began carefully re-checking her list. "I guess missing five books isn't that bad." Twilight levitated the list, and placed it on her bed. Twilight began walking to the door, adjacent to her bedside. She used her magic to make the velvet curtains spread, letting the sunlight radiate through the glass doors. Twilight opened the glass doors and stepped onto the balcony. Once she was outside, she closed her eyes, and let the sun’s rays wash over her. She smiled, and looked to the horizon. In the distance, she could see the sun’s mystical rays gleaming over the massive skyscrapers and metal monuments of pony achievement. She always enjoyed taking a few minutes just to take a look outside, and admire mother nature. For once, she didn’t feel so powerless. When she stared at the open skies, she felt like somewhere out there, someone was reaching out for her. She wondered if somewhere in those open skies, she would find her purpose in this world. Twilight could see other ponies starting out their days: leaving for work, saying goodbye to their families; all the usual things. Some ponies who had jobs during the night made their ways home. Many of these were police ponies or soldiers, guarding Fillydelphia from the shadows that may strike at night. Twilight Sparkle had noticed an increase in the number of military ponies around Fillydelphia in the past month. Ever since the Britannian Prime Minister declared war on Germaneigh, the world was in an uproar with countries trying to choose sides. Britannia, Prance, and The Land of Ire had developed an alliance while Germaneigh continued to gain support from the destitute lands of  Griffonia, who's reasons for aiding the German conquest were still unknown. Many countries had opted to stay out of the war, however. After the fall of Ponland, Germaneigh agreed to divide control of the country with Lunaria under the agreement that Lunaria would abstain from participating in the war. Meanwhile, Neighpon was abstaining from all talk of war, but there was still much speculation of their allegiance due to the current emperor's war-like attitude and foreign policies. It had not been a full year since they signed the treaty to end the three year war with Eastern Lunaria which resulted in brutal losses on both sides. Solaria, in a predictable move, had chosen to remain neutral under the hopes that Germaneigh would not attack the Solarian homeland. Still, Solaria had been on its guard; always waiting for an imminent invasion, should Trixie be so bold. One could not walk the streets without seeing somepony on the corner of the street, diligently keeping watch. One could not be sure in such times, especially with Trixie's forces currently tearing through the heart of Prance. At times like this, Twilight could not help but fear the worse. Her thoughts were soon interrupted by a pleasant voice. “Enjoying the view?” Twilight snapped her head back, and nervously replied, “N-no! I was just-err...opening the doors....to let in the morning breeze!” Silver Tome walked onto the balcony, next to Twilight. “It’s okay Twilight. There’s nothing wrong with taking a break every now and then.” Silver Tome leaned forward, against the balcony's wooden railing. “Its a beautiful day out. A bit unusual for winter, but I don’t like to question a good thing.” “Yeah, the animals seem real active today. Look over there!” said Twilight, pointing a hoof towards the ground. Silver Tome followed Twilight’s hoof, pointing to a single squirrel running across the street, being chased by an elderly pony with thick spectacles, and a red bow tie. The pony chased after it yelling, “Confounded squirrel! I’ll teach you to throw your nuts at me! I fought in the Great Equestrian War! Killed fitty ponies! Bet you, I can take on some hotshot rodent!” Twilight and Silver Tome were unable to contain their laughter as they watched the old pony chase that little squirrel all over town. Eventually, their laughter subsided, and Twilight turned towards Silver Tome. Twilight's voice had a somber tone. “Mom, do you think we’ll have to go war?” Silver Tome bore a frown as she looked in the distance. “I don’t know dear. Politics in the Empire are very finicky. This isn't the first time Solaria has tried to stray away from a war. In the last great war, we stayed out of for the longest time until it started directly affecting us. However, once the banners of war are called and the politicians step up and make their speeches, everyone is willing to stand and throw down their lives for glory and vengeance. Heck, I was amazed that we managed to stay out of the Pegasi-Griffin War! I remember, all my pegasus friends were begging to go to war after Lunaria decided to join in. Thankfully, time passed, and it ended without the need. Hopefully the same will happen soon. Maybe this game of ‘I own this, I own that’ will end.” “What if it doesn’t, and the Solar Empire joins in? Does that mean they’ll do a draft? Does that mean I’ll have to fight? What about you?” She wanted to find her purpose, but she was positive that it wasn’t to be a soldier. Besides, she could never imagine herself having to kill another pony. “If the time comes and there is a draft, then they’ll want every able bodied mare and stallion. Since I don’t see a broken horn or hoof on you, I’m guessing that would include you. I’m too old for it, though.” “If there’s a draft,” Twilight paused, carefully considering her words, “Do I really...have to go? couldn’t I just stay here?” Twilight cringed, scared at how her mother would react to the thought of her being a draft dodger. Silver Tome did not change her expression as she continued, “If the time comes, you’ll have to make that choice.” Silver Tome turned, and smiled at her daughter. “I’m your mother, and I’ll always be there to support what you think is right, even if I don’t personally agree.” Twilight looked into her mother’s eyes, and silently thanked her for her words of reassurance, before looking back to the ground. “But Twilight,” Silver Tome continued, “You have to keep in mind that there are some things in this world bigger than yourself. There things bigger than you, me, even the entire Solar Empire!” “Like what?” “That’s for you to find out,” said Twilight’s mother with a smile before heading back inside. “Besides, I think we’ve taken a long enough break. People could be over here any minute now!” Twilight Sparkle nodded, and followed her mother back inside the library, using her magic to gently close the door behind her. As her mother made her way downstairs, Twilight could hear the raspy voice of an older stallion. “Silver Tome, how are you! You’re getting younger every day!” Silver Tome responded with a laugh. “Oh, Quill, you old idiot! How’s the old pony’s home been treating you!” After Silver Tome reached the bottom of the stairs, Twilight could only make out laughing, and the occasional playful insults that her mother was known for. Twilight turned back to her chore list. After realizing the length of it, she decided to walk past it, to the far side of the room where a baby dragon lay curled up under the shadows; desperately trying to avoid the suns rays.  “Spike! Time to get up!” Twilight said firmly. Twilight waited for a reaction, only to see the dragon pull the bed covers over his face, mumbling gibberish. Twilight engulfed the blanket in a bright magenta aura, and lifted it into the air. Spike jumped back, wide awake from the sudden exposure. Twilight said in an agitated voice, “Spike. Up. Now.” Spike slowly rose to his feet, yawned, and said in a sassy tone, “Geez Twilight! I’m up!” Twilight smiled, and began walking back to her list. “Good, now we can start working on the chores. I have a few errands I need you to run for me. First, I need you to run, and get more parchment. I also need a box of quills. Here’s some money to cover the cost.” Twilight reached in her satchel, and pulled out a small bag of coins. Twilight levitated the bag towards Spike, who quickly snatched it, and ran downstairs to try and purchase the requested items. Finally left alone, Twilight gave her full attention to the stack of books that stood before her. Wasting no time, Twilight quickly began sorting the books alphabetically, and putting them in stacks that would be added to the shelves. She continued sorting and moving; hearing the whoosh of her magic as it swept, and sorted away the books. She continued to sort until she noticed a faint noise that sounded like children singing outside. Twilight walked back onto the balcony, and looked outside, but could see no one. Not giving it a second thought, she continued with her work until she could notice the singing growing louder. She could now hear a full choir of fillies singing a strange, but beautiful hymnal. Twilight tried to understand their words, but could only hear mumbling, as if their words were slurred together. Twilight closed her eyes, trying to understand what they were saying, but could only make out gibberish. Twilight opened her eyes, and began searching the room.  Under normal circumstances, she would be amazed by the sheer power, and depth that was being expressed through their oddly singing, but she was more concerned with locating the source of their singing. Twilight nervously examined every inch of the room, trying to locate a radio or other source of the disturbance. Twilight glanced downstairs, only to see her mother talking to a young patron. Confused, and somewhat frightened at the children’s song in her head, Twilight walked towards the doors of the balcony, and used her magic to fling open the doors. As she took a step outside, it all stopped. The singing cut off as abruptly as it started. Twilight looked outside towards the streets below, and in the distance, but could not find any children; other than a few stray fillies with their parents. Confused, but wanting to move one, Twilight shut the door, and continued with her chores. She heard a whistle from downstairs. “Yes?” Twilight yelled back, awaiting a response. Silver Tome shouted back, “Twilight, can you do me a favor?” Rarity sat at her desk, her hooves pressing against her forehead. She took another sip of wine, hoping the alcohol would distract her from her pounding headache. She leaned back, against her chair, and stared at the lone, velvet dress which hung against her wardrobe. Rarity used her magic to gently open the doors, and look inside. On the inside, was a variety of dresses in nearly every color imaginable. She had a dress, it seemed, for every occasion: a formal dress for meetings, a formal dress for press conferences, an informal dress for press conferences, even a formal and informal dress for making dramatic speeches. She could remember a much simpler time; when her stress came from a late order as she tried to make the deadline or a customer who demanded changes be made to her design. Back then, she could make mistakes. Mistakes didn't get anyone killed or cause a rain of fire to descend from the heavens. Now, every move that she made was closely watched by the entire world. Every mistake could cost somepony their very life. As she sat, with her thoughts trailing off into the worst case scenarios, she heard a tapping at the door. Rarity looked up, and said in a calm, collected voice, “Come in.” The doors opened, revealing a scrawny earth pony with a neatly trimmed mane, and a black, button-up shirt. The pony walked forward, holding up a long piece of paper. As soon as Rarity could get a clear view of the pony’s face, she smiled, and gave a warm greeting. “Pencil Pusher! How are you, darling? Is your fiance doing okay?” Pencil Pusher replied, “We’re doing very well, madam. Thank you.” Pencil Pusher gave a pause, and looked down at the letter in his hoof. “I’ve got some....bad news. It’s Prance. They've refused our offer for a union between Britannia and Prance's governments. Instead...... they've surrendered to Germaneigh.” Rarity paused, and raised her right hoof against her head. She mumbled to herself, “Foals. Those stupid, stupid, foals.” Rarity raised her head up, and collected herself before facing Pencil Pusher. She maintained a serious, but composed look, and told him, “Very well. Trixie warned us, she told us to protect our allies, and we’ve failed. I've failed.” The words echoed throughout the room as Pencil Pusher stood by silently. “By the way, Madam, the agent from the Defense Ministry is here.” Rarity sighed. “Very well, send him in.” The doors of her office were pushed open, revealing a tan coated stallion with a spiky black mane. He swiftly moved past the doors, his lengthy, tan overcoat swaying behind him as it revealed a glimpse of his cutie mark: an hourglass. He stared at Rarity behind a thick set of glasses and piercing blue eyes. He smiled as he extended a hoof. “Prime Minister, Rarity, I presume?” Rarity shook his hoof. “You would presume right. Anyway, sit,” she said as she motioned a hoof to the chair facing her desk. Rarity walked back to her seat. “Pencil Pusher, please leave us. I wish to be alone with Mr…” “Time Turner,” he finished. “A Pleasure to meet you, Madam Rarity,” he said with a courteous smile. “Yes,” she continued, “I wish to hear of his council. Please leave us.” “Yes, Madam,” Pencil Pusher said as he exited, shutting the door behind them. Rarity sat down and faced him, reaching for a glass of wine. Carefully, she levitated two glasses onto the counter and pulled out a bottle of wine. “Is the wine necessary?” he asked. “Not that I have a problem with a bottle of Isle De Pony. Good vintage.” She smiled. “I can always appreciate a pony with a good taste in wine,” she said as she poured into the glasses. “Still, that’s not why you’re here is it?” she said levitating the glass to him. He grasped it and took a careful sip, while she did the same. “No, the Defense Ministry wouldn’t send one of their operatives here unless it was for a reason. And I think I can take a guess as to what that reason might be. They’ve taken Prance; that was inevitable. Now, they’ll come here and in full force.” Time Turner looked up. “You’re as clever as they say. Still, we’re not without hope. Prance’s defeat was for several, avoidable reasons. First, is communication.” Rarity nodded. “The poor dears were about as organized as a pack of wild apes.” “Indeed. Also, the latest financial crisis hasn’t helped with the situation of providing for defense. You want my advice? Ration everything. Encourage your citizens to donate everything they can. Tires. Rubber. Leather. Anything that can help.” Rarity took a sip of her wine. “General Trot has already advised me of such. Not to be rude, but you are telling me things of which I can already deduce. Is the Defense Ministry really that incompetent?” He laughed. “Sorry about that. I’ve spoken to many leaders in my time. Most of them are brainless drones. I didn’t expect you to be so on top of your game, Madam. Anyway, I have a few ideas on how you might go about strengthening this country’s defenses.” “Do go on, darling.” “First, Britannia is surrounded on all sides by water. This is an obvious advantage. In order to beat us, they’ll have to arrive by either air or by sea. Britannia has the best sea based navy in the world, so they won’t do that. They’ll go by air.”   His plans and ideas intrigued Rarity. They were brilliant, even by government standards. Still, something bothered Rarity about this stallion. Something itched in the back of her mind. His credentials are perfect, Then what is it? She continued to ponder the stallion as she poured another glass of wine, humming as she did it. “That song. What are you humming?” Time Turner asked, curiously. Rarity paused. “I...I’m not sure. It just sort of...came to me.” Princess Diamond Tiara awoke to her servant tugging at her shoulders. He was a frail old stallion that she simply called Slump, due to his hunched shoulders. She yawned and gave passing glance at her bedchambers. The walls were colored a solid shade of pink, complimenting her coat. Atop her was a pure white chandelier with a light bulb in the center that was now flashing to life. Slump escorted her from her oversized bed and helped her into a rose red dress, lined with rubies around its edges. Behind Slump was a young unicorn maid who began curling her mane, a tangled sea of white and purple. “Your father is waiting in the dining hall,” Slump said with a cough. He was always coughing or wheezing. Sometimes, she wished that he would die and get on with it. “Well, you better hurry up, then,” she said coldly. “Dad would be very angry with you if I’m late.” Slump bowed. “Yes, your Highness.” After a short while, Slump escorted her from her room and down the stone corridors of Canterlot castle. She passed several white coated guards in golden armor as she made her way to the spiraling staircase, lit by torchfire. Slump held her hoof and walked with her down the steps and into the large stretching dining room where she could hear a bout of laughter as well as the clanging of plates. She walked in front of Slump and in view of the stretching dinner table. She spotted around fifty ponies in attendance, a small number by the usual standard. Normally, they fed the entirety of the castle’s staff: custodians, guards, maids, stewards, dressmakers, armorers, and all sorts of others. Today, it was just maids and the soldiers. However, they weren’t what she was looking for. She slowly began walking around the table, looking.....until she found him. He was sitting by the head of the table, next to her father, King Filthy Rich of Solaria, the Solar Empire. He was running a hoof through his golden mane as she approached. She stifled a giggle. “Hi Prince Blueblood,” she said with a wide grin. “How are you today?” She sat down in one of the two empty seats by the head of the table, just across from Blueblood. He shrugged. “Fairly well. This food is adequate, I suppose.” She smiled and nodded attentively. One day, she thought, I’ll make him mine. She had to stifle another bout of girlish laughter as she imagined it. She would hold his hoof in hers in front of an audience of millions. They would all swoon and giggle at how handsome her prince was. Her father would stand next to her with a smile. She would say, “I do.” Their lips would touch and she would live happily forever. I will make him my groom. That is if that stupid mare doesn’t muddle everything up. As on cue, a tall, slender, pink mare sat down next to Diamond Tiara. The pink mare yawned and fluttered her wings from her sky blue dress as she moved the hair from her horn. She sat down next to Diamond Tiara, wearing that same look that she despised. She wasn’t about to speak, but she noticed the glance that her father was giving her. “Hello, Princess Cadenza,” she said bitterly. “Did you sleep well?” Princess Mi Amore Cadenza gave her a smile. A fake smile, she thought to herself. “I’m doing very well, Diamond Tiara!” She laughed in that laugh of hers.  That’s not the laugh of royalty; that’s the laugh of a peasant. “Besides, you know you can just call me Cadence.” Diamond Tiara returned a fake smile and turned back to her meal of oats and caviar. She hated the taste, but kept her composure. I must look royal, she reminded herself. It’s the only way to get his attention. She glanced up to find Blueblood looking towards Cadence with a look of interest. She had always despised Cadence ever since she first made her way to the royal court. A miracle, they had all called her. The first ascended alicorn in a millenia. Truly a sign from Celestia above! they shouted upon her arrival. Diamond Tiara, on the other hoof, never liked it one bit. She was always smiling that ridiculous smile of hers. She played with the filthy common children outside the castle, coming back with the smell of stale bread and rotten cheese. These were not the worst of her offenses, though. Diamond Tiara could see the way that Prince Blueblood stared at her every morning with that lustful look of his. She was trying to steal her stallion right from under her! She would always keep her eyes away and act innocent, but Diamond Tiara never bought it. She’s after my father’s crown. I know it. Once she take my prince, she going to take my rightful place on the throne. That’s what she’s plotting. I know it! Diamond Tiara looked at Cadence and smiled. “You smell absolutely awful. Have you been eating with those street urchins again?” She arched an eyebrow. “What?” “I saw you with those children that played by the dumpster. It wasn’t too far from the castle, but I could see it. You ate with them. Buying them food is one thing, but you sat down with them and ate beside them like they were royalty!” Blueblood gasped. “Is this true, Cadence?” Diamond Tiara nodded and faked a sad frown. “Oh, yes. I saw the whole thing.” “They were children!” she shouted back. “They were starving children! What’s wrong with spending time with and eating with your subjects?” Diamond Tiara was infuriated. “Ummm....newsflash! You’re royalty! I know that you were once one of them, but  you’re a princess now; you’re supposed to be above them!” “With that sort of talk, you almost sound like Queen Trixie,” she shot back. “You stupid little-” “Enough!” her father roared. “I just wanted a nice peaceful breakfast without you three bickering about senseless things. All three of you are contenders for the throne. Blueblood, you are the only remaining pony with the ancient royal bloodline. Cadence, you are an alicorn, the first in one thousand years. By ancient royal code, you are a princess through rites of ascension. Diamond Tiara, you are my flesh and blood daughter and my only surviving heir. By ancient decree, you are also an heir to the crown. One day, one of you will hold control of this kingdom and its ponies. Frankly, that scares me. You all have much to learn before you are ready.” Diamond Tiara smiled. He shot her an angry look. “Diamond Tiara, apologize to Cadence. I know that you may not like her, but you two are royalty; act like it!” She bit her lip before facing Cadence. “I’m....sorry,” she muttered. “Apology accepted,” Cadence said with a bright smile. Smile while you can. Filthy Rich stood. “Diamond Tiara. Blueblood. Cadence. All three of you, come with me. We have meetings to attend to. If you are to take the throne, you must know the duties that it brings.” With a sigh, Diamond Tiara left her seat and followed her father. He was draped in his yellow fur cloak, bearing the Celestial sun that was the Solaria’s emblem. On his head was shimmering golden crown, tipped with blood red rubies. They followed Filthy Rich past the dining hall and up the stairs, passing through a long, narrow, stone corridor lit by torchfire. There were no windows in this part of the castle. This was by far, the oldest section of the castle, used by the princesses of old as a place where they held all manner of secret meetings so that no wandering eyes or ears could intrude. They turned right, entering into an oval shaped room, walled in old stone and lit by the fire of torches along the round wall’s linings. General Blackhoof was already sitting at the round metal table, drinking what appeared to be coffee. Blackhoof was a grizzly old stallion with a snow white beard a bald head.  Next to him was a decrepit mare, wearing nothing to hide the golden coin etched across her flank. Next to them were four empty seats. Her father sat across from the general. Afterwards, they took their seat. Diamond Tiara opted to sit to the right of Prince Blueblood, who sat next to Filthy Rich. Cadence sat to Filthy Rich’s left. Blackhoof cleared his throat and bowed. “Your Majesty, it is good to see you.” “Enough with formalities,” Filthy Rich spoke as he tightened the clamp around his cloak. “You said that you had urgent matters that we must tend to.” The three royal heirs sat quietly and listened intently as they had been instructed to numerous times by King Filthy Rich. Use your ears, not your tongue; this is the way of a true king or queen, her father had once told her. He nodded. “Yes, your Majesty. We still have yet to receive word form Lunaria.” “As cold as ever,” Filthy Rich said. “I’ve never been on good terms with Spitfire or the Lunar Republic, so it should come as no surprise that they’re avoiding communication.” “Yes,” he nodded. “Since seizing control of Ponland with the help of Germaneigh, they’ve taken a step back. There’s been no word of Lunarian assistance from either side since the battle for Prance began.” Her father held his forehooves together. “Any word on the battle’s progress?” “Prance grows weaker by the day. They’ve already lost more than half their army to the German onslaught, even with assistance from Britannia.” Her father’s look was grim. Blackhoof took notice. “It’s not too late to enter, your Majesty.” “I will not needlessly plunge Solaria into another war,” he said firmly. “I am not my father. We have our problems to deal with. Besides, I don’t trust that Germaneigh sided with Lunaria for no reason. I worry that if we take action against Germaneigh, Lunaria may take notice of our weakened borders.” “They’re bound by a treaty,” Blackhoof stated, matter of factly. “They’re bound by words and parchment. I won’t risk my country’s safety for the needless pursuit of war. So long as we are not targeted, we will stay out of the crossfire.” Blackhoof nodded. “We’ve also received word from our agents near the border of Neighpon. Their armed forces are gathering by Yoketo. Their numbers have increased steadily since the siege of Ponland. They could be preparing for an attack.” Filthy Rich dismissed the motion. “Impossible. Neighpon’s emperor only fights wars with East Lunaria these days.” “I wouldn’t be too sure,” Blackhoof argued. “He’s not as wise and peace loving as his brother was, true; however, he’s a shrewd one. I wouldn’t put it past him to be plotting something.” “Their forces are far too weak,” Filthy Rich insisted. “Besides, who would they side with? Germaneigh? Germaneigh and Neighpon have about as much in common as a trout and bear. Enough about Neighpon and their threats.” Filthy Rich faced the elder mare. “Miss Thrifty, you had word to speak of in regards to the economic climate?” She nodded. “Yes, your Majesty. We have word on the progress of your New Deal.” “Excellent,” he said with a nod of approval. Diamond Tiara took a silent sigh of boredom. She always dreaded these meetings. They talked of money, the impoverished, wars, and important stallions and mares. This never interested her. She wished to hear about jewels and fine wines. She wished to discuss her gorgeous prince and her future wedding. With silent dread, she stayed quiet and listened. Applejack stood, grabbing hold of her supply of apples. She threw the bag into the wooden cart and adjusted the harness onto her back. She took another glance back at the apple stand. It looked newer; with a neatly drawn apple standing proudly on the recently cut wood. She missed that old, childish apple stand. Nearly everything from that old apple stand had been scorched by the fires of Germaneigh. Applejack gave a disappointing sigh, and made her way onto the dirt road which led her back home. Before she left, she looked back, and took one final look at the town that she had once called home. It had been three months since the German and Lunar soldiers soared above the skies of Ponland, raining down fire from the heavens. Many buildings still remained charred, and damaged as a result of their destructive force. The speed at which Germaneigh had conquered Ponland was remarkable; it was less than a week after the invasion before Ponland’s government offered an unconditional surrender to Queen Trixie. Now, the town square which had once been an epicenter of bustling ponies, going to and from, was now empty and lifeless. Most of her usual customers had vanished. Even the BonBon, Applejack’s most loyal and chatty customer, was nowhere to be seen in this lifeless town. The few ponies that walked the streets, walked with their heads held low, always wearing the same beaten expression. At first, ponies tried to rebel. They argued, and stood up for their families. The German soldiers put a stop to their insurrection very quickly; killing all those who resisted, and putting their bodies on display in the town square. You could sometimes locate a Lunar Republic soldier, dressed in all blue, but for the most part, they remained in the eastern half of Ponland, closer to the Eastern Lunar Republic's borders. The soldiers that marched here were German. These soldiers now roamed the streets; dressed in bright purple coats, decorated with bright, flashy medals,and the traditional German insignia. They all marched the streets decisively and bore a hardened look as they carefully inspected every individual, and every building. One soldier carefully inspected her apple stand, trying to find some fault with it. The soldier was an earth pony with a steel cylindrical pistol strapped onto the upper part of his hoof. Most of the soldiers were unicorns, and had no need for them; preferring to use their natural magic as a weapon. The earth pony quickly gave up his inspection, and moved onto the rest of the town square. Applejack turned back towards the dirt road and gazed at the sign which once read, “Sweet Apple Acres 2 miles”. The sign now had the traditional German language below it, in a dull white font. Applejack walked past it, and made her way down the old road that would take her home. As Applejack walked farther down the dirt road, she began to look around at the fields that stood on both sides. To her far right, the grass was a decaying brown, and the soil was dead; filled with rotten fruit, vegetables, and overtaken by weeds. In these dying fields, was a single earth pony, desperately plowing away at the dirt. Applejack stomped her hoof, wanting nothing more than to help the poor pony, but realized the futility of any aid she could offer. Deep down, she knew exactly what his problem was, and how she could fix it, but realized that any attempt at helping him would only hinder her own family. The only thing that could help him now was the one thing that even the Apple family lacked: money. Applejack could no longer bear the thought, and she begrudgingly continued along, looking straight on as the barn came into view. In all the change that the the past three months had brought, it made Applejack smile to know that the barn still remained the same. Applejack sped up her pace, locking her eyes on the barn. It wasn't soon until she reached the front of the barn, where she carefully pushed open the large barn doors, and parked the cart, and its contents within. Applejack closed the barn doors, and walked around to the front door. Applejack stopped in front of the door, and banged her hoof against it. She heard a set of hooves slowly coming closer as the the metallic locks loosened from the inside, and the door slowly creaked open. Granny Smith leaned her head out, along with the door, to inspect the visitor. It took her a second before she smiled and said, “Applejack, you’re back! Was today any better?” Applejack walked in, and stretched her rear legs. “Better, but not by much.” Applejack sat down at the kitchen counter, and leaned her head forward, rubbing her hooves against her face. She continued, “This here new government keeps raising the prices on all the farming equipment. I don’t know how long we’ll be able to afford this. And if that’s not bad enough, some stores are refusing to trade because of our Apple bloodline thanks to those stupid German laws.” “I just don’t know how much more we can take,” said Applejack as she pulled her stetson forward; obscuring the upper half of her face. She leaned her head against the counter, and closed her eyes. Granny Smith walked behind her, and rested her right hoof against her back. She leaned in and whispered, “Don’t worry child, we can do this. Why don’t you just get some rest; I can take care of supper.”  Applejack gently picked up her head, and nodded at Granny Smith’s suggestion. Applejack laid her head back down, and listened the to the breeze outside. She could hear every little cracking and creaking of the house; every little breath, and every rustle of the trees. As she lay there, bound by the beautiful silence, she could hear a faint static. Applejack’s ears flopped as the static grew louder in volume. The static faded, and adjusted to the sound of a traditional choir of old ponies. She couldn't make out their words, but they sounded sad; almost like they were crying. Applejack lifted her head, and turned to Granny Smith, who was cleaning dishes in the sink. “Granny, can you turn that radio off. I’m not really in the mood for singing.” Granny Smith turned around, and gave Applejack a confused look.  “Honey, the radio’s not on.” Applejack protested, “Granny, I’m listening to it rig-” Just as she spoke, the singing cut off, and she looked around, with her mouth still open. Granny Smith walked closer. “Child, are you feeling alright?” Applejack waved her hoof at Granny Smith. “Yeah, I’m just stressed, that’s all.” “Applejack, you need to relax. We’re in a rough spot, I know, but things will get better, I know it. I don’t know how, but they will.” “I hope you’re right,” said Applejack as she placed her stetson on the counter, letting her mane run free. She placed her hoof deep inside the hat, and pulled out a single torn envelope. The envelope was white, and had a broken, red seal. From inside of the envelope, she pulled out a letter that read:         Dear Applejack, Granny Smith, and Applebloom, I just want to let ya’ll know that I am alive, and well. During the final phases of the German invasion, myself and a few of my fellow soldiers managed to flee north; to Britannia. It is there that we managed to meet a whole platoon of fellow escapees, and regrouped with the Britannian military. I know things are looking pretty rough out there, but you gotta remember, the other countries haven’t abandoned you. Every day, I hear word of allied military forces from Britannia mobilizing. I don’t care what it takes, I’ll find you, and I’ll get y'all out of there.      , Big Macintosh Applejack gave a faint smile at her brother’s words. She enjoyed the thought that somewhere out there, he was fighting for them. Applejack took the letter, placed it back inside the envelope, and back into her stetson; along with her brother’s other letter. As she did so, she heard the door creak open, and the yelling of a happy filly who had just got home from school. “Applejack, you’re back!” said Applebloom excitedly as she hugged Applejack. Applejack smiled, and returned the hug, and laughed. “How was school today?” Applebloom jumped back and said, “Well, a stallion came in and told us that Miss Wilkins is going to be out for a while, and that he was going to be our new teacher. He started teaching us about German history; that was kind of boring. But then we learned about the ravagers, these airships that can house up to twenty ponies, and fly SUPER HIGH into the air!” Applejack’s smile quickly faded. “That’s great Applebloom, but I’m feeling a little tired, do you mind playing in the other room for a little while?” Applebloom gave a look of confusion, and said, “Oh, okay.” She walked off, heading into the living room before turning around to face her big sister. “Applejack, can I ask you something?” “Yeah.” “I saw Uncle Hayjack today, he was getting in one of those big German trucks. But it wasn’t just him. My cousin, Apple Fritter, was there too.” Applejack's face turned the pale as she absorbed Applebloom's words. “German truck? What do you mean?” “It was one those big ones, it looked like it held a lot of ponies. Where do you think they were going?” Applejack’s heart stopped for a second as she calmly said, “Applebloom, we’ll talk about it later. I need a moment with Granny Smith, can you please play in the other room?” "Umm, okay," Applebloom said with confusion as she walked into the living room. Perspiration rapidly dripped down Applejack's forehead, as she tried to focus her thoughts. She turned to Granny Smith and said in a worried tone, "Granny, you know what this means, don't you?" Granny Smith gave Applejack a pained look and faced towards the wall.  "We can't stay here anymore. It's not safe," said Applejack, finally breaking the silence. Granny Smith objected, “Where are we supposed to go, then? Germaneigh controls everything to the west, and The Lunar Republic controls everything to the east!” Applejack took a moment, as she gathered her words. “North. We go north, and travel by sea to Britannia; like big brother.” “But what about the farm? What about Applebloom? What do we say?” “The farm’s pretty much gone anyway. If we stay, they’ll take us in on one of them trucks, and we’ll never see the farm again, anyway."  Applejack stepped closer and her voice became softer whisper that struck with the intensity of a cobra as she inched closer to Granny Smith, who refused to accept the truth. "I've heard about what those Germans are doing. They take those big trucks and fill 'em with anyone they don't like. Apples, gays, enemy soldiers, people that just stare at 'em the wrong way are all cramped in those tiny trucks and driven far away. They go and take them" she said as she rose in pitch, "and they pack in a camp far away from home. After that, they ain't seen again. Granny, I know that this is tough to hear, but this is a matter of survival." Granny Smith's face scrunched up in frustration as she finally let out a defeated sigh. "Fine. But, still, how are we gonna explain this to Applebloom? She's still just a lil' filly." Applejack looked away and stared back at the living room, where Applebloom was playing one of toys. She felt an aching in her heart as she faced Granny Smith. "Applebloom? I’m not sure. All she needs to know is that we’re going someplace safe. Someplace far away.” "Okay," Granny Smith said with a nod. “How exactly are we supposed to do this? The soldiers won’t exactly stand by, and let us leave.” “We’ll leave tomorrow night, around midnight," Applejack said definitively. "We’ll pack the essentials, and we’ll sneak north; as far north as we can. I know a few ponies up by the docks who can get us across.” “Tomorrow? That’s so soon!” Granny Smith argued. “I know, but the longer we stay here, the less of a chance we have.” Granny Smith glanced at the ground for a moment before picking her head up, and responding. “Okay, we’ll leave tomorrow night. Applebloom will go to school and you’ll work the apple stand like usual, so we don’t draw attention to ourselves. I’ll get everything packed and ready.” Twilight Sparkle watched apathetically as the train drew closer, its steam visible on the horizon. She rose from the bench as did the other waiting passengers. She sighed as she looked beside her, almost expecting Spike to be beside her, perhaps to comment on her unkempt mane. Another night without sleep and another night wasted on magic training that would never matter. She twitched as she felt something strike her eyebrow. She lifted her head as the pounding rain began to cover her. Quickly, she took cover under a metal awning. Twilight, can you do me a favor? Um...sure, what is it? I have a friend in Baltimare; her name’s Rose. We’ve been sending books back and forth for a while now. A few days ago, however, she sent me a letter telling me that there’s an especially rare collection that she was going to give me. However, she seemed hesitant to send it by mail like she usually does. She can be a little paranoid at times. Anyway, she wants to come by and pick it up. However, I still have to run the shop and Baltimare is several hours to the south. I know this is sudden, but can you go down there and collect them in my place? What about my chores? What about Spike? Will the library be fine without me? Don’t worry about a thing. I can handle your chores and I’ll have Spike help me. Just think of this like a small vacation. A vacation. It felt strange to her. She should have been excited. It had been years since she left Fillydelphia. Still, something felt wrong about today. The blaring of the train grew closer as the locomotive pulled up to Fillydephia’s train station. She boarded the train, leaving Fillydelphia far behind. As the Aegis lowered onto the port, its steam releasing onto the loading bay, Rarity could feel a tinge of amazement from staring at such a magnificent piece of Britannian architecture. A gust of wind shot through the air, moving the fabric from Rarity’s red dress and forcing the metallic chains of her silver pendant to sway in the wind. “What do you think, Madam Prime Minister?” Time Turner asked with a smile. Rarity looked up with fascination. “It’s quite amazing. The ship used to transport Prime Minister Drakkn to the peace treaty that ended the Great War. General Trot even rode aboard it during the war.” She laughed. “I supposed it’s not quite what it used to be though. Trot said that it was derelict, even back then.” “I’m afraid it’s not quite the war machine that it was in the past, but it doesn’t need to be. This is simply a precaution in case of an attack,” he said. “We know that Germaneigh is coming. The easiest route would be the western shore. How in Equestria would they even reach here? They’d have to work their way through the entire country to reach the capital.” “Just a precaution,” he said. “Germaneigh would love to nab the prime minister. Better on a warship far away from the shore than on land, right in the way of Germaneigh’s path.” She sighed. “I suppose so.” A platform from the ship lowered onto the docks as armed soldiers began unloading and carrying cargo off the ship. Although the iron gates made it difficult to see through, she caught a glimpse of a red maned pony with a coat that was a light shade of brown. He was a rather large stallion. Even at this distance, Rarity could see that he was obviously a pony used to physical regiments. “Colonel Blindside,” Time Turner said. She gave him an odd look. “I didn’t know you’d met him.” “I haven’t. Still, it’s my job to know as much about these officials as possible. I am an intelligence operative, you know.” Rarity nodded as she heard yelling from behind her. She smiled. “Pencil Pusher, darling! You look exhausted.” Pencil Pusher, still wearing his black tie, ran to them, breathing profusely as he spoke. “I finished the arrangements with the Defense Ministry. General Blindside will be greeting us shortly.” “Very good,” Rarity remarked as the iron bars of the gate opened, revealing that General Blindside dressed in a white jacket with the flag of Britannia, a large blue star in a sea of red. “He extended his hoof to Rarity. “Madam Prime Minister, I presume.” His voice was much scratchier than Rarity had anticipated, given his large physique. “Indeed. You must be General Blindside,” Rarity said, careful of her tone. He nodded. “I am. A pleasure to make your acquaintance.” He turned to Time Turner next. “You must be the operative from the Defense Ministry.” He smiled as she excitedly shook his hoof. “Time Turner at your service. It’s a pleasure to work with you.” “Likewise,” he said with a smile as he quickly shook Pencil Pusher’s hoof, barely saying a word to him other than a simple greeting. “Anyway,” he said as he walked past the gate. “We’d better get going. We’ve received word that Germaneigh’s fleet is on the move. Wouldn’t be surprised if they were heading out as we speak.” With that, Rarity, Pencil Pusher, and Time Turner followed him past the iron gates as they entered the Aegis, its metallic platform raising them into the ship.