“Mythril... used for the finest of armors... Adamantite... know for the sharpest and strongest of weapons... Orihalcon... a precious mineral that is a strong as one's soul...”
“Still working on that thing, I see.”
Starswirl turned to see the Element of Laughter, Discord climb into his tower. It was secluded high in the mountain range that overlooked Equestria, cluttered with artifacts, small mechanisms and many other contraptions, very few ponies even daring to scale it to meet with the distinguished magician.
“What is it this time?” the weathered mage wheezed, slowly walking toward his close friend. “Come to disrupt my studies again?”
“Is that any way to treat a dear old friend.” the draconequus said, sticking his snake tongue out at the wizard. The two gave the other a sharp glare for a moment or two before bursting into laughter and embracing the other.
“It's been some time, Discord.” the elderly stallion said in a hoarse whisper. “What is the world like?”
“You don't get much sunshine, do you, Starswirl?” the Element of Laughter taunted as he curled his long body over the elder pony's shoulder. “That must be quite a weapon, if you're using such powerful materials.” he said as he watched Starswirl meticulously combine ingredients. Fire hot enough to mold these metals was not easy to fuel. “You want to rule Equestria or something?” Discord hissed with a smile. Starswirl let out a small chuckle.
“You and your jokes.” he said as he slowly walked over to a wrought iron stove. Hot tea was brewing. “I think you should know what it is meant for.” he went on, pouring himself a cup. Discord's smile faded.
“The Alicorn Amulet disappeared without a trace.” Discord said seriously. “Something like that would not remain hidden for as long as it has been... it's possible it could have destroyed itself, being such a powerful object.”
“I considered that.” Starswirl said as he slowly returned to his magic fire. “But I can't help thinking something is amiss... something inside me says the Alicorn Amulet is not gone from his world...”
Discord knew Starswirl could be right. It wasn't long after the last great crisis that the Alicorn Amulet appeared mysterious... buried in the snow where the Crystal Empire once stood, far to Equestria's north.
“Strange you say that.” Discord said. “Princess Luna claims she has been hearing whispers as of late.”
“Unsurprising.” Starswirl grunted. They both knew how hard she took it when they learned her young pupil, Zerus, was trapped in the Crystal Empire when it faded away. He was likely dead by now, it had been so many years. Luna still missed the young colt dearly.
“So then, what do you think the rest of Equestria will think when they learn of the thing's power?” Discord quickly said, trying to change the subject. Starswirl shook his head.
“I haven't clue... but they know us to be the Elements of Harmony. I think they will not fear the weapon's power.” Discord didn't say anything. He hoped Starswirl was right. The ponies of Equestria were so easily swayed. “But enough of that, Discord... tell me...” Starswirl growled, turning, a serious look on his face. “Why did you really come here?” Discord frowned.
“You're dying, aren't you?” he said quietly. Starswirl wheezed and laughed.
“Am I really that transparent?” he said with a smile. Discord folded his arms as his friend spoke. “Yes, you're right... I am not an alicorn after all... come to think of it...” Starswirl said, turning back to his fire. “How is dear Celestia?” he asked. “I would have never thought such an unrefined and barely capable pony would ever be named the Element of Magic.”
“So you've said time and again.” Discord smirked. It was true. Celestia, a young alicorn princess, who was once barely able to preform the most basic of magics, was indeed named the Element of Magic. “Maybe she'll have a strong learning curve.” Discord mused. At this, both Discord and Starswirl laughed.
After a moment more of watching his friend, Discord turned to leave.
“Is there something you wanted to tell me, Discord?” Starswirl said without turning. Discord let out a low sigh.
“How long?” Discord said flatly. At this, Starswirl inhaled deeply.
“Ten years... maybe more.” he said, Discord huffing.
“You always were a terrible liar... but I suppose that's why you are the Element of Honesty.” Starswirl said nothing. He still felt as though he had betrayed Equestria by not telling the truth about the Crystal Empire. “For what it's worth,” Discord said, climbing through the giant window. “when you die, I don't think I will ever laugh again... not for the right reason, at least.” he said. With that, he glided out of the tower, leaving the weathered old stallion to his work.