//------------------------------//
// Chapter 17 
// Story: Ein Sof Zealotry 
// by ZhaoZoharEX 
//------------------------------//


Original Title: Reconquista Of Powers
This chapter is part of the older version of "Ein Sof Zealotry" and is to be considered non-canon in lieu of the pending rewrite. This along with the rest of the old story remain for the purpose of comparison.




The entire town of Ponyville pitched in to search for Twilight Sparkle after she disappeared, some even going so far as to expand their boundaries outside the town in a desperate effort. After many long weeks though, the authorities made the painful choice of calling off the search.

“You gotta be kidding me!” Rainbow Dash shouted at the royal guard sergeant who made the announcement. “You and I both know she could still be alive! She’s out there somewhere, I know it!”

“I’m sorry, ma’am. But we’ve had a majority of the royal guard force searching nationwide with the help of good samaritans aiding in the search and we just can’t find any trace that the former princess is even still in Equestria, let alone still alive. We’ve had so many other issues to attend to as well.”

“I don’t care what you say, Twilight IS alive! She has to be…”

“I understand your concern, miss Dash. But it’s been nearly ninety days since she disappeared. For now, we have to consider her legally dead.”

“But-”

“Rainbow, just let it go,” Applejack said placing a hoof on Rainbow’s shoulder. “This is hard for all of us. But no matter how hard we’ve tried, Ah don’t think we’d get anywhere. It pains me to say this, but Ah think we hafta just…. carry on.”

Rainbow Dash stared at Applejack, vision slightly blurry from a mixture of angry tears and lack of sleep. She glared back at the sergeant before finally relenting.

“Fine. Do what you want,” Rainbow sobbed, “but I refuse to believe she’s really dead. I just…”

“Ah know, sugarcube. Ah know.”

Over the course of the following week, the citizens of Ponyville decided, with permission from the mayor, to raise a statue of Twilight in the town square as a memorial; ponies would look back on it and remember her for days to come.


IN MEMORY OF
A GREAT FRIEND
TWILIGHT SPARKLE


“I just can’t believe it had to come to this,” Rarity said wearing her mourning attire, as if it were a funeral which in a way it was. “How could we have been so foalish?”

“Ah can’t believe I said those things back at the library. But Ah think Pinkie’s taking it the hardest out of all of us.”

“Really?” Rarity asked as she glanced at the pink pony bouncing away. Pinkie Pie didn’t seem to have changed much from her usual self: while everypony else was forlorn and unwilling to speak, Pinkie carried on with a smile as she left to gather party supplies. “She doesn’t look like she’s grieving.”

“From what Ah can gather from the Cakes, she’s probably in denial about the whole thing. Can’t really say Ah blame her. Rainbow Dash and mahself are having a hard time believing that Twilight….” Applejack shook her head violently to chase away the grim thoughts in her head. “Well anyway, Ah best be getting back to the farm. Applebuck season is comin’ up soon and Ah can’t let this get in the way of business.”

Without waiting for a response, Applejack galloped towards her home in Sweet Apple Acres. While she really did need to harvest her apples for the season, she had another reason to want to get back to the farm. Ever since the day Spike left to live in the Crystal Empire with Princess Cadance and Shining Armor, Applejack had been throwing herself into her work more and more, even taking on daunting tasks by herself. While this wasn’t unusual for the kind of workaholic pony Applejack was known for being, her friends and family could see clear as day this was something more serious.

The following afternoon, Applejack had taken to her duty during the first day of applebuck season. Even though she had plenty of chances to ask others, especially her brother for help, she insisted on doing this alone. She was going to harvest as many apples as she could. That’s exactly what she was trying to do when Big Macintosh dropped by to check on her. Despite being at it for several hours straight, Applejack refused to stop to rest, whether it be for lunch or anything else.

“Applejack!” Big Mac called out.

“Whataya want?” Applejack responded without stopping. “Can’t ya see Ah’m busy here?”

“Applejack, Granny an’ Ah have been watchin’ ya work like mad since Twilight went n’ gone missing. Yer workin’ yerself to death, sis. Ya need to stop.”

“This ain’t nothin’ Ah can’t handle!” Applejack said as she bucked a tree particularly hard, causing the base to crack a bit. “Just because Ah lost a friend don’t mean Ah can start slackin’ off. Ah have a lot of work ahead of me.”

“But yer workin’ TOO hard, sis. Ah worry bout ya whenever you get like this.”

Applejack didn’t let up on her work as they talked, rather she persisted and went from tree to tree with her wagons. “Are you suggesting Ah can’t do this by mahself, Big Macintosh?”

“Eeyup. We’ve been through this before, remember? After Twilight moved here ta Ponyville? Ya tried to go through another applebuck season by yerself and it didn’t turn out so well.”

“Ah didn’t have much of a choice! Ya hurt yer back and couldn’t help me.”

“You had yer friends to help. As Ah recall, ya almosted killed yerself from working to exhaustion.”

“Yeah. So?”

“What would Twilight say if she saw you right now?”

Applejack had a powerful kick winded up for the tree, but stopped mid kick at the mention of her friend’s name. “Twilight….” She recalled how Twilight tried many times to get her to accept help and how she was just too stubborn to do so. Looking back on it now, she realized how many times she dove head first into work whenever something bad happened to her.

“An’ what would ma and pa say if they were here today, huh sis? Do you think they would want ya to work yerself to death?”

“Ah…. Look, Ah don’t talk anymore today. Ah just want to get these apples harvested.”

“Yer not doin’ that without mah help. Ah know this is hard for you, losin’ a friend ain’t never easy. But this ain’t the way to cope with it. Not by killin’ yerself.”

“Ah wasn’t tryin’-”

“Ah know you weren’t tryin’ to, but mah point still stands. If you continue, what kind of example would that set for yer little sister? You know how close ya’ll are. She was too young ta remember ma and pa before they died, Ah don’t want her ta go through that experience with you.”

Applejack recalled the many good times she had with her sister. Apple Bloom never really had the chance to know her parents and never had a proper mother or father figure. As a result, her older siblings had to fill the roles themselves. She worried whenever Apple Bloom got into trouble or whenever she was bullied by Diamond Tiara and Silver Spoon. She always tried her best to help her in whatever way she could and in doing so, grew to really care for Apple Bloom more than anything else in the world.

It was only now that the exhaustion and lack of energy was finally getting to her as she collapsed onto the grass and laid her head down on her hooves. “Ah just don’t know how else to cope. Ah mean, first ma and pa and now Twilight. Workin’ just helps me ignore the pain.” No matter how hard she tried, she just couldn’t hold back the hot tears as they flooded her eyes and her voice became shaky. “Ah left Twilight in her time of need too many times. How can Ah ever forgive mahself for that?!”

“There there, sis,” Big Macintosh said as he laid down beside her, pulling her into a caring hug. “Don’t forget, Ah’ll be here if ya need me. Granny n’ Apple Bloom too. We’ve all gotcha.”

“You don’t know how much that means to me. Will ya finish the rest of this later? Ah suddenly don’t feel like workin’ today.”

“Eeyup. Like Ah said, Ah’m here fer ya.”





A hushed whispers were filling the circular meeting room of Royal Advisory Council. Eleven ponies sat around a round table in the middle, squirming in their seats as they felt like the statues and the figures in the paintings were watching them with disdain. Some suspected that to be the case, knowing how tangled the net of plots and schemes became over the centuries. Others were certain that the eyes were seeing, for the very same reason. Yet another group knew such spying precautions served no purpose since they alone were spies.

Folder of hoofwritten documents marked as ‘Confidential’ lay in front of each pony, but nopony made a move to open it. They knew what was written inside, having discussed the matters beforehand as to provide the princess with their insight. Possession of information needed wouldn’t justify their behavior though. They all seemed to shy away from the folder, keeping their hooves off the table as if the paper were to turn into a viper and attack them at any moment. No, not needing to read the text motivated them only slightly. Knowing just what the text implied did.

The quiet discussions were gaining strength and volume as the time ticked by. The princess would arrive soon and they were none the wiser as to how to communicate the development to her. Some were concerned for her well being, knowing all too well how stressed and distraught she had been since the tragic events over three months ago. Some feared for themselves, outlining plans for future employment or possible emigration if things turned for the worse. 

“To Tartarus with this!” an orange unicorn stallion exclaimed all of the sudden, smashing his hooves into the table.

“That’s where we are, Covenant, so please choose some other place,” a violet pegasus mare in red flowing summer dress calmly countered. Out of all present ponies she looked most composed. It may have had something to do with the fact she wasn’t supposed to report anything that day. “And don’t ruin the table. I would hate to place my coffee on the ground.”

“So where would you like me to send it? Crystal Empire? Back to those clawed beast? Or those disfigured cows?”

“Anywhere, just stop shouting. I can hardly hear my thoughts. Have you tried to shout them down to submission? It might have worked.”

“Nova is right, Covenant. You are awfully loud,” a grey earth pony stallion wearing a simple silver headband joined in on their little argument. “But in my opinion, you shouldn’t send it to our lovely neighbours. Why waste energy on another attempt at diplomacy when you failed so many times?”

“As if you could do any better, Wintershades. Besides, your voice doesn’t count. You are sucking up to Nova like a foal sucks breast milk. You don’t stand a chance anyway,” Covenant countered indignantly.

“I never said I would do better, just that you failed, which is the only relevant point in the matter. And we will see who stands a chance and who doesn’t”

“Stop talking about me as if I wasn’t present. As amusing as it is to watch you verbally fence pointlessly, it is a bit insulting,” Nova pointed out in her composed voice, checking her hooficure.

“Stop it, all three of you. We have more important matters to concentrate on.” All eyes in the room turned to an elderly looking pegasus stallion. His mane already started greying, but his coat kept a vibrant golden color. Having their undivided attention, he nodded contently. “Good. Now, is there any chance to salvage those negotiations, Covenant?”

“No, Brisk, it’s over. With Twilight and Cadance gone they refuse to even consider keeping the treaties.”

“What about drawing new ones?”

“That’s a no go either. Luna is no partner for them and Celestia’s image got mangled in their eyes. Once again because Twilight and Cadance are gone and Celestia partially caused that.”

“Well, then we have to inform her properly. Too bad our usual grave news courier can no longer help us.” He looked at the empty place by his right hoof. 

“Can you blame her? Equestria lost a princess, but she lost a daughter,” Nova said, sharing the saddened expression of Brisk.

“Equestria lost a princess and we lose Equestria because of that. Priorities, Nova,” Covenant said, frowning at his folder with renewed hatred. 

“It’s obvious you don’t have any offsprings, Covenant,” Brisk said with a sigh, checking his pocket watch. “You will just have to report it on your own.”

“The treaties aren’t the worst. I got a peti-”

“Princess Celestia of Equestria, the Raiser of Sun, Diarch of the Day!” the guard suddenly announced.

“Here comes trouble,” Wintershades singsonged quietly. The door swung open and Celestia walked calmly in. A peaceful and kind smile played on her lips in stark contrast to how the assembled council was feeling.

“Good morning, my friends. I hope you are all faring well on this fine day.” Her gaze ran across all of them, stopping briefly at the empty seat. I am sorry, Velvet. I just wish you believed me. Then she noticed how downtrodden her advisors looked. “Is something the matter that your glum mood could freeze a vulcano?”

They fidgeted in their places as she assumed hers and turned their eyes to Covenant. The stallion in question paled a little, beads of sweat appearing on his forehead. There was no way out for him. He cleared his throat and prepared for the worst.

“It is, your highness. I… I am sorry to inform you that the last round of negotiations with griffon and minotaur delegates turned out fruitless.”

“That is disheartening, but not unexpected. Have they stated when the next round is to be held or any conditions?”

“No, your highness. T-they declared the negotiations are over and that the treaties are null and void. Without the princesses as guarantors, they refuse to keep the trade rules established.”

Celestia’s heart sank. I hoped it wouldn’t come to that. They were all friendship and support, but apparently their loyalty stood only as long as we prospered. She took a sip of the cup prepared for her on the table. The coffee tasted very bitter. “That’s worrisome. Though we managed before without those treaties and the last three months showed we still can.”

“Your highness, I am afraid the situation is more grim than you realize, if I may be so bold,” small forest green earth pony mare called out. “They have been increasing import duties and taking measures to hinder export to Equestria during that time and the development is to continue, if the news from Griffon Kingdom are to be trusted. My friends in Merchants’ Guild warned that if their export tax, however damaging it is for them as well, rises for five more percent, most of the trade will have to stop due it becoming too costly.”

“How much of the imported goods can be substituted with home production?” Celestia asked, feeling her migraine being born. 

“About seventy percent. The rest can be imported through more difficult ways from more distant lands. Hopefully those won’t abuse our weakened position.”

“Very well. Please, Crop Lush notify the Merchants’ Guild and the main producers that the tax on goods sold to the home market instead of being exported will decrease by five percent.”

“Yes, your highness,” the green mare answered and took few notes.

Covenant saw a convenient opening for the second and even less pleasant duty he had that day. “I would like to point out that the merchants among high houses still manage to maintain trade contact with both Griffon Empire and Minotaur Confederation-”

“As if they could form a state,” Nova mumbled under her breath, but Convenant still caught it.

“-and Minotaur Confederation,” he stressed out the name, glaring at Nova who was confidently snickering, “and are ready to increase the amount of their import if the crown so pleases.”

Celestia’s face brightened. Was it possible the matters were solving themselves after all? “That would be much appreciated, dear Covenant Binds. Please tell them I am most grateful for their generosity!”

Covenant squirmed once again. “I am afraid the gratitude of the crown won’t be sufficient for them, your highness.”

“What do you mean?”

“This morning a letter was delivered to me. It contained a petition signed by the high houses of Canterlot. As the biggest tax payers and now important economy supporters they demand you to allow them to partake in rule.” He did his best to look as small as possible. The rest of the present ponies froze, even the smirk on Nova’s face dropped in shock. Celestia shared the sentiment - such outrageous demand didn’t appear in over seven hundred years. Brisk was first to recover.

“Sorry, Covenant, could you repeat what you just said? It sounded like the nobles want to-”

“Influence the governance of Equestria in exchange for their economical support,” Covenant finished the sentence in strained voice. “Please, I am only forwarding their demand. I have nothing to do with it!”

Why is he so scared? Does he think I will hurt him or banish him? I haven’t done such thing in centuries and he has been a member of the council for years. He must know he is safe. But this… demand, what a nerve they have! In the hour of need they don’t hesitate to exploit it…

She put on a mask of calmness again and returned her attention on trembling Covenant. “Did they provide any reasoning for their demand?” She asked as kindly as she could.

“Y-yes, your highness. They wrote that with how fragile the standing of the crown became, it needs the support of its nobles who present the best of what Equestria gave birth to and thus they should help with deciding the course in which Equestria goes now. They also want to partake in admission into the royal family as the recent choices proved less than optimal.” 

That hit Celestia hard. Not only did they basically blackmail her, holding her subjects as hostages, they even dared to put salt in her still open wounds. She pretended to be strong and in perfect mental harmony, but inside the loss burned her like an acid. She got up and started walking toward the door. 

“The meeting is dismissed for today. Tell the high houses that we are ready to support our subjects with means at our disposal and can decide alone who the best of Equestria’s children is. Crop Lush, follow with the instructions you were given please.”

The door closed behind her and the advisors were left alone. Wintershades emptied his cup and stood up as well. “That went better than I would expect. I admit, Covenant, presenting this to her required a lot of courage. Finally some character. Goodbye everypony.”

Yeah, courage, Covenant thought as the other ponies slowly left the room, the question is just who you fear more - Celestia, or the nobles.





Spike was sitting in his chair next to the throne of Crystal Empire. With no small trouble he managed to convince the keeper of traditions that a special livery for princess’s high secretary wasn’t necessary nowadays. Him being a dragon and the authentic livery being adorned with gemstones improved his position in the argument greatly. 

“The next visitor on the list is Mr. Line Glance, leader of the Crystal Heart Supervision Agency. That one shouldn’t take long,” he said and smiled at Cadance comfortably lying on the throne. “Do you want me to bring you something? Water? Snack? Maybe another pillow?”

“No thanks, Spike. I have everything. You don’t have to ask every five minutes, you know,” Cadance answered with a giggle, Spike’s cheeks turning a bit red. “I appreciate your concern though, you are a great help. But have you even ate a breakfast today? You can’t just ignore yourself.”

The grumble of Spike’s stomach answered for him, but he still tried to protest. “I needed a diet anyway, nothing I can’t handle. But you need all the care we can give you. You should pace yourself more.” He eyed Cadance’s belly with a gentle smile. The pregnancy became apparent on first glance soon after Twilight… That memory was still too fresh for him. Cadance didn’t lose anything from her grace and energy though.

“That will not do. Diets are for mares who want to awe young colts. If you so yearn to hold one, wait for me after I give birth. Stars know that will be a toughie!” They shared a brief laugh and Cadance levitated a small bowl of gems from behind her throne. “Snack up, Spike. I may need you at your best when that announced delegation arrives.”

Spike’s eyes lit up. Day by day he gained certainty that he couldn’t have done anything better than to move to Crystal Empire in his situation. The heartbreak of losing Twilight didn’t lessen much, but his new life did its best to bring him to different thoughts. For one, he was a dragon in a land composed mostly of gemstones. Cadance and Shining were very supportive of him too, sharing his loss as well as feelings of animosity toward Celestia. 

Soon after their arrival he became quite bored. He rarely got to relax from work for more than a day while living with Twilight; she simply undertook so much that there was barely an empty day. Now that there was nopony he would help, he felt useless and lost. Cadance soon noticed and to make him feel better assigned him to the position of her high secretary. She didn’t regret her decision for a single second.

Long years of organising Twilight’s daily affairs as well as perfect bureaucratic training he acquired during Twilight’s time as a princess turned Spike into a glorious assistant to any ruler and true heart of the court’s apparatus. If Crystal Empire ran smoothly before, now the word crisis got removed from the dictionary.

Cadance watched as he munched on his snack while happily humming and couldn’t stop from smiling. No wonder Twilight loved him so much. He is a real sweetheart. Poor boy, I can’t imagine how hard it must have been for him. Anyway, time for work.

“Let Mr. Line Glance in please,” she called to the guard by the door. He stepped out of the throne room and soon returned accompanied by a light blue crystal unicorn, both wearing a pleasant smile. Cadance returned it and beckoned Line Glance forward. “Welcome sir, I hope your day has been as pleasant as mine.”

Line Glance walked to the base of the dais and bowed respectfully before looking Cadance directly in the eyes, his smile growing wider. “Indeed it has, my princess. And it has become even better since I got to see you.”

“Please, the pleasure is mine. Everypony looks so upbeat that I just love to hold court here.”

“I am happy to hear that, my princess. Rest assured that crystal ponies are just as much happy to have you as their leader. That’s actually connected to what I came to tell you today.”

“Oh? Then please, do tell! I can’t wait!” By how she shuffled forward on her throne she was telling nothing but truth. Line Glance shook his head in amusement. “You may sit down if you please too.”

He took the invitation and made himself comfortable before starting. “As you know, the Crystal Heart is the core of live for Crystal Empire. The stronger it is, the more powerful the protection of the Empire becomes as well as its fertility.” Earning an eager nod from Cadance, he tilted a bit forward. “The thing is, with how much positive energy the Heart was fueled by in the recent months, its reserves surpass what is needed for maintaining the shield against the northern chill.”

“Do you mean to say that the shield is overcharged now?” Cadance asked with a bit of confusion.

“Basically yes. It is stronger than it needs to be. Which means it could cover larger area while still staying sufficient!” Line Glance beamed triumphantly at his statement. Cadance soon followed his example and the corners of her mouth curled up more. 

“So we could turn larger area into the fresh and beautiful part of the Empire instead of it lying under the snow?”

“Exactly! It would actually double the current size of the Empire. We need to perform more measurements, but it looks fairly promising. I just wanted you to know as soon as possible. It won’t take long and the Empire will return to its former glory, just you wait.”

“That’s a wonderful news! Thank you Mr. Line Glance, you made my day,” Cadance said with a smile and got up to shake hooves with the stallion, though she cringed in pain as she took the step down the dais. Spike was immediately by her side, his snack forgotten.

“Are you ok? Should I call a doctor? Just lean on me.”

“It’s nothing, Spike, don’t worry. Just the back pain. It’s starting to drive me crazy and it will probably become only worse. Well, it is well worth it.” She reached forward to the waiting stallion who calmed down as well at her explanation. “Remember the doors of the palace are always open. We will gladly see you around, especially with such happy news.”

“I will make sure to visit as soon as we prove the theory. Until then, I hope your pains will lessen and that your days will be bright, my princess.”

As Line Glance left, Spike led Cadance back to her throne and fluffed her pillows properly. “What are you going to do with me when the time gets near to the birth, Spike? Carry me around in your arms? Shiny would be so jealous!” Cadance giggled at all the attention she was being given, while Spike continued the pampering. 

“Maybe. I just want you to feel comfortable. Your attention has to be on bigger things, so I cover the smaller ones. Now I think you need a short break. The delegation can surely wait ten more minutes.”

Properly refreshed with some grapes and a glass of orange juice Cadance assumed her original position on the throne and gave Spike a nod. He walked to the door and opened both wings, standing to the side. 

“Joint delegation of the citizens of Crystal Empire.”

About two dozens of crystal ponies of all races entered the throne room. They walked in unorganized formation, but as they approached the dais, they fell into lines. An elderly crystal pegasus of pleasantly crimson color stepped forward and bowed deeply, followed by her friends.

“There is no need for such gestures, my dears. Every citizen of Crystal Empire is always welcome here. What brings you here on this beautiful day?”

The leading mare coughed nervously. The same trepidation was seen on all present, though Cadance sensed bad news wouldn’t cloud that particular day. They looked more excited than worried, maybe stage fright was taking effect.

“Dearest Princess Cadance, my name is Brim Leaf and my friends and I were chosen by the citizens to address you in a matter of huge importance to all of us.” Her voice didn’t tremble a single bit, despite how jittery she behaved. The formal formulation however piqued Cadance’s interest.

“Whatever the matter is, I am sure we can resolve it to our mutual satisfaction. What’s on Crystal nation’s heart?” Spike closed the door and returned to Cadance’s side so he would be ready to fulfill any command, such as seeking out a document in the archives or fetching a pony needed for a dispute. 

“It has been almost two years since Crystal Empire returned to the world of living and those years worked like a balm on the bruises we acquired during Sombra’s rule of terror,” Brim Leaf began, her eyes getting a bit misty at the gruesome memories. She pushed them deep into her subconscious though, concentrating on the brighter things. “Before he rose to power though, the Empire used to be ruled by benevolent, kind and wise rulers. We feared the old prosperity would never return, yet here you are, embodiment of all Crystal Empire used to stand for: peace, love and joy.”

Cadance started blushing from all the praise, sincerely meant at that, but still didn’t have a clue where Brim Leaf was going with this. She didn’t require flattery, such delegation wouldn’t mean much.

“In the past, we used to be an independent land though. We carried it with heavy heart when Equestrian help against a tyrant turned into occupation.” Cadance winced; not even once did she realize that her subjects saw Equestria as an intruder, not a home. “When you announced that Crystal Empire declared independence on Equestria once again, we expected it to be a ruse at first. By this point it is safe to say we were wrong. And you deserve our unending gratitude.”

Two other ponies stepped forward, one being an earth pony, the other a unicorn. All three reached into their saddlebags and retrieved a mahogany box each. They held the boxes in outstretched hooves and opened them at the same time. Each contained a slender silver key with a glowing crystal instead of a handle. 

“These are the keys of the Empire treasury. Inside the crown of Crystal Kings lay, untouched by Sombra’s corruption. In our gratitude, respect and love to you, Princess Mi Amore Cadenza, we ask you to accept the title of Crystal Queen. Your nation is calling to you.”

Cadance sat there dumbfounded. The ponies came to the dais and placed the boxes to Cadance’s hooves, wearing brilliant smiles. Apparently, they expected Cadance’s shock and didn’t get phased a single bit. When they returned to their places in the formation, Brim Leaf took another bow. 

“The choice is yours and you have all the time in the world. Just know that ponies of Crystal Empire stand by your side regardless.” With those words the delegation moved toward the exit. 

Cadance spent the rest of the day like in a trance. Spike recognised the state reminding him strongly of Twilight and canceled all the meetings for the afternoon. There weren’t too many anyway. When the evening came and Cadance met with Shining in their living quarters, she barely recognized what he was saying. 

“...so even without the funds from Equestria, we will be able to finish the stadiums in time with no problem at all. The Games will take place just as planned.”

“That’s great, Shining. You did a lot for them,” she reacted with little thought. It didn’t slip his attention.

“Is everything alright, Cadance? You seem distracted.”

“Oh? Yeah, I am a bit out of it. Listen, what would you say if you were to become a king?”

“Hmm,” Shining put a hoof under his chin and grinned at Cadance mischievously. “Would I get that cool crown Sombra wore?”

“No, there is another set of crown jewels he never held,” Cadance said as if he was serious. 

“Wait… what are you talking about?”

Cadance pulled the three boxes from her bag and presented them to Shining. “Do you remember that a delegation was to show up today? They asked me to become the Crystal Queen.” She barely finished the sentence before she was wrapped in powerful hug.

“That’s fantastic, sweetheart! You are already my queen, now you will just have more subjects!”

Cadance extricated herself from his hold and looked at him with worry. “Do you think it is a good idea? It will be like saying ‘We won’t have anything to do with you ever again, Celestia.’ I’m not sure I can do that.”

“What will be the difference? We already told her that and we meant it. If they want you to be a queen, you just as well might.”

“Well when you put it that way…” Cadance flung herself on a couch and stretched her limbs to Shining. “Your queen would like a hoof massage.”

Shining grinned as he approached and sat down in front of her. “As your majesty wishes. But don’t blame me if I go above what is demanded.”





Twilight stepped off from the small airship that brought her to a decently sized landmass where she was to visit the keeper of her Element. While the voyage itself was uneventful and calm thanks to the gentle breeze caused by the movement of the vessel, the young alicorn could not help but feel a little lonely as she was by herself with her friends away to other landmasses for their respective training. I wonder when I will see them again now that Dogma is starting us on this schedule. I hope it won’t be too long from now.

No one else was around in the island’s dock, save for an Angel wearing a white scarf who was escorting Twilight to the island’s citadel. Surfing around the landmass was an airborne serpentine angel clad in white and gold armor with a “helmet” covering its head and face, teeth-like metal plates aligned around its mouthpiece. This wasn’t the first time Twilight had seen such a creature. There was another such creature seen during her journey from the Grand Plaza to her current location.

“How many Thrones are there in Elysium, Sister Bliss?” Twilight asked as she addressed her escort.

“More than I know about, but I would guess they’re somewhere in the hundreds judging by the size of Elysium itself. Of course, the Thrones are just one type of Ophanium in Elysium. They patrol the outer layers of the realm while the key areas are left to the Cherubim. Why do you ask?”

“Oh, just curious is all. I’ve been seeing a lot of them since I arrived here.”

“The citadels each hold the Sanctorum, so the levels of security are to be expected. You shouldn’t have to worry though. So long as Mother Dogma sees you as an ally, the Thrones and the Cherubim won’t see you as a threat, especially if you stay on her good side.”

“I hope you’re right about that.”

Twilight and her escort came up to the large domed building located at the center of the island. The large double doors were guarded by two very large angels, each with three faces: one of an ox on the left shoulder, an eagle on the right shoulder, and a lion as the main face. The body was that of a minotaur build covered in red and gold armor and large rings on its wrists. The wings of the guards resembled actual eagle wings rather than the normal ribbon-like design, which instead made up a tassel on the guard’s weapon of choice, a large golden poleaxe.

The guards initially crossed their weapons to block the door, but quickly relented when they recognized the scarf on Sister Bliss’ neck as that of Mother Dogma’s messengers. They then opened the doors and stepped aside, allowing Twilight and Bliss in. The interior of the building was lined with a beautiful quartz-like material that was so polished, Twilight could see her reflection in the floor and walls. The corridor was also very well lit compared to the citadel in the Grand Plaza, thanks to the lanterns hung evenly from the ceiling.

Twilight was led into a bedroom of sorts from the halls and Bliss gestured for her to enter. “I will have to ask you to stay here for now. Father Admiration is not ready to see you yet, but when he is, I will come get you. Okay?”

“Uh, sure.”

Bliss smiled and closed the door, leaving Twilight to her own thoughts. She placed her saddlebags on the bed before sitting down on it herself. She surveyed the room and noticed something on the opposite wall that made her smile: a bookshelf.

“Well at least I won’t be bored for awhile,” Twilight said as she used her magic to grab the first book on the shelf and levitated it to herself. She laid down on the bed and positioned the pillow so she could prop the book on it and took a look at her reading material. Ein Sof History? Hm, this outta be interesting. Twilight flipped through the pages of the book and began to read, but her mind quickly drifted as she read sections relating to “Jobs and duties”. The subject reminded her of what Scintillant told her just before the girls embarked to their destinations.

“I wish you luck. You will be in the justification of the Sanctorum now. As for me, I have some work I need to take. You will not be seeing me for awhile, but I assure you, there is nothing you need to worry about.” Even though she said that, I can’t help but wonder what kind of work she is taking.

Twilight placed a hoof to her chin and pondered, not even paying attention to her book anymore. She contemplated what kind of punishment she was receiving at this very moment, but with so many possible answers, it was impossible for her to determine. Finally after several minutes, she gave up trying to guess and decided to take Scintillant’s word and not worry about it.

“Still…. I wonder how she is doing right now.”





The moans of pain and agony were all that filled the air as Scintillant stepped through the gates of Tartarus. Immediately, an angel stepped forward, one all too familiar to her. The angel was a white changeling about Scintillant’s size with a gold breastplate and torso armor, with gold rings looped in the holes on her legs. She had three sets of wings sharing Scintillant design, but hers were straight and arranged in a way that resembled dragonfly wings. Her mane and tail were both braided and laced with royal blue ribbon and bells. Her halo shared a similar design with Scintillant, but with only one ring instead of two.

“Well, well, well, Sister Scintillant. Sure took your time,” the angel said with an accent and a hint of distaste. “What happened? You get your hoof stuck to a rock or something?”

“Nice to see you too, Sister Adamant. You know Mother Dogma put me in charge of the group of mares.”

“The group of mares that you let in,” Adamant retorted in a condescending tone. “You’ve caused a lot of trouble in the past, you know. But I never thought you would be so impulsive as to let mortals into Elysium without permission. Well done!”

“Shouldn’t you be tending to the damned?” Scintillant said becoming increasingly annoyed.

“Lord Belief is switching my duties to Elysium for now. He’s still quite paranoid from the breach. Can’t say I blame him. You were quite frivolous with your actions.”

“Yes well, things turned out okay in the end.”

“This time. Well, you’ve much work ahead of you so I shan't keep you waiting. Ta ta!”

Adamant walked past Scintillant as the latter glared at her. Once Adamant stepped through the gates and was out of earshot, Scintillant started walking deeper into the realm of the condemned. “You’ve much work ahead of you, ta ta!” Scintillant mimicked out loud in a mocking manner before snorting in anger. “I swear, that mare gets on my nerves all too often.”

Scintillant began her excursion into the deeper levels where she was assigned her disciplinary work, stomping her hooves to wake up a sleeping Cerberus. “Sleep on your own time, mutt!” The hellhound growled in annoyance, but a subsequent stomp from the more disgruntled angel caused the it to whimper. “It’s ironic how a giant three headed dog can act like such a little puppy,” Scintillant mused as she walked further.

Even though it was a primary job of Ein Sof among her rank, Scintillant always hated to be in Tartarus to manage the wicked beasts and miserable collections of condemned sinners that seemed to always be increasing in population, especially as of late, and her confrontation with Adamant did little to improve her mood. If anything, it was just made worse. This wasn’t just limited to Adamant either as due to her past actions, Scintillant was not popular among her brothers and sisters, least of all her fellow Powers.

“Well look who decided to drop by,” a large armored zebra practically spat as he saw Scintillant walking close. “I take it you’re here for work?”

“Indeed I am, Lord Belief.”

The zebra simply pointed in a fixed direction that led to a group of their brothers and sisters. Scintillant sighed as such a situation was one she would rather avoid, but proceeded to her station anyway. As she approached the area, one young pony messenger, evident by her lack of armor or regal robes, noticed her and stepped away from her own work momentarily to walk closer to Scintillant.

“Sister Scintillant? I did not expect to see you back here so soon. What is it that draws you back?” Scintillant noticed the tone of her voice was not one of anger or distaste, but rather genuine curiosity. This didn’t surprise her as she knew this fellow Sister was a recent addition to the force and likely did not know about her own history.

“Hello Sister Cherish. I’m just here for some disciplinary work. That is all.” Scintillant knew that directly lying would not help her reputation much so she decided to travel down the honest route and hope for the best.

“Disciplinary? Did you do something wrong?”

“Not wrong per se, at least not in mine own eyes, but rather frowned upon. For the past year and a half, I was in the mortal realm, Equestria to be specific, and I was looking for a few that I believe would be able to help our situation.”

A minotaur angel turned around with an unpleased expression on his face, a halberd in one hand and a scolopendra’s neck in the other. “Ugh! Again with this? You really should just give it up. You talk about those blasted Elements all the time, yet you’ve nothing to show for it.”

“Oh but this time I do. I’ve found six mares that just may be able to use them. In fact, they are in Elysium as we speak.”

Just as she expected, the other Powers stopped what they were doing and glanced over at her, each with expressions that ranged from concern and disgust to most commonly anger. She knew there was going to be fallout among her brothers and sisters, but she stood her ground regardless.

“You foolish mare! Don’t you realize that’s forbidden? What were you thinking!?”

“Relax. Mother Dogma herself is overseeing them. I will not lie though, I am surprised with how much patience she is showing.”

“You should count your blessings, Sister Scintillant,” Cherish said with concern.

“I assure you that I do,” Scintillant said as she stepped towards the center of the group, meeting the eyes of reluctant Powers. “Look, I know that my actions seem…. questionable at times, but they are always done with the best intentions in mind. I assure you of that.”

The minotaur jerked his head from side to side, popping his vertebrae. “Your assurance loses some value when you continually fail to live up to it and make our rank look worse than it already does. Your intentions may be in the right place, but your actions leave much to be desired. How can I even be sure you’re truthful in your statements?”

The challenging words of her fellow brother struck a chord in her mind as she assumed an authoritative stance and got right up into the minotaur’s face, making him shrink a little from unease.

"Do you see them?” Scintillant firmly asked as she pointed towards the unfriendly atmosphere of Tartarus. “All the damned souls, in eternal pain for what they committed? See the suffering, see what's behind it, all the malice of the world. I couldn't take it any longer and sought help of the ones with power to stop it. Elements were meant to rule the world and shelter it from evil. I wish to help them in any way possible. Do you want to see more ponies come to Tartarus and be lost forever, or would you rather prevent them from falling?"

The sudden display of authority caught the group of angels off guard, a few of them even dropped their tools in shock. The minotaur who Scintillant was yelling at stepped back and backed right into an obsidian pillar.

“All I ask of you is to not jump to conclusions. Many of you complain about your positions, yet do nothing about it. However, I’ve always prefered actions over words and sometimes they can say more than the tongue ever could. So before you judge me, keep in mind that I don’t stand idly like the rest of you.”

With a huff, Scintillant stomped away to a more isolated area to carry out her work, leaving the remaining angels dumbfounded. Cherish was the first to snap out of it and started after Scintillant.

“Sister Cherish, where are you going?” the minotaur asked.

“I’m going to join Scintillant and help her. I’ve always looked up to her and I feel she knows more than any of us.”

“But she-”

“Knows what she’s doing, and so do I.”

The young messenger rank ran to catch up with her senior and as she did, was delighted to see Scintillant’s expression soften a bit. “Sister Scintillant, would you like some help?”

“Sister Cherish? I don’t think that is necessary.”

“Nonsense! You and I are friends. Even if you are just doing disciplinary work, I wouldn’t want to stand by idly.”

Scintillant paused for a moment, taken aback by the younger mare’s statement. It took a second for her to register that her words had more of an impact than she expect. Then she did something she never thought she would do whenever in the horrid atmosphere of Tatarus.

She smiled.





The morning sun illuminated the shelves, worktables and bolts of cloth inside Rarity’s little kingdom. Not even the most meticulous of ponies could find a single spec of dust around and the strict organization of the space and tools would make a drill sergeant drool. Nothing moved in the oasis of order, the only sounds coming from the birds chirping outside and from the kitchen. Though with how much grace Rarity possessed whatever she was doing, the birdsongs were easily drowning her cooking enterprises.

Soon the clattering stopped entirely and Rarity emerged from the kitchen levitating a steaming kettle, single cup and a plate full of pancakes. The decadency of prime lady succumbing to such delicious and diet-ruining pastry added to her already happy mood. 

Just a few months ago she would have been in full work at this time of Saturday and instead of pancakes she would pay her undivided attention to local customers, who were too busy with their jobs to come during the week. The experience of recent times taught her though that getting up early and stay ready for customers would only lead to disappointment. 

She wouldn’t get to sleep in so comfortably on too many occasions. Sweetie Belle had an unfortunate habit of waking with the sun and even worse one of waking Rarity right afterwards, either intentionally or with her clumsiness. That’s why Rarity cherished every morning Sweetie was to wake up elsewhere, for example at Sweet Apple Acres like today, with the same reverence as her mother’s birthday or the release date of Canterlot Chic.

“Now to get this breakfast started. Oh! I forgot to bring whipped cream! Where is Pinkie with her infinite supply of sweets when one needs her the most?” She reached with her magic toward the kitchen and retrieved the required item from the fridge without leaving her food from sight. Who knows, maybe Pinkie would show up and eat her pancakes if she relented for a single second. For some the feat of manipulating several items without them in line of sight could seem impossible, yet long years of creative work trained Rarity’s coordination and visual memory to perfection.

She added a large blob of whipped cream on her breakfast and scrutinized it thoroughly. “Hmm. Will that suffice? Probably not.” She glanced at the mannequins around the room and giggled lightly. “You won’t tell anypony, will you?” The mannequins didn’t move a single muscle as they didn’t have any to begin with. Rarity took it as a confirmation and added another serving of whipped cream on her plate. Not losing any more time she dug in, still maintaining decorum and keeping her manners. The eagerness was obvious in her moves though.

The mannequins watched Rarity’s feast with their featureless faces. In contrast to the past, most of them were naked, just like the citizens of Ponyville. Sadly for the business, it didn’t signify successful day of sales. In fact, they had been bare of clothes for some time now. Rarity tried her hardest to create despite or maybe because of the saddening events half a year ago, yet it seemed her inspiration vanished along with Twilight. 

Combined with the lack of customers who rather opted to patch their old clothes at home instead of spending their meager saving on new once meant Rarity’s income decreased significantly. She had a lot of money saved for similar situations, but she still chose to step back from her lavish lifestyle at least a bit. She would pretend everything was alright in front of others, but the coffee steaming in her kettle was brewed from much less exclusive brand than she would like. Every time she would take a sip, she would curse the griffons and their outrageous trade limitations.  

Rarity relished the last remaining morsel of her breakfast and leaned back in the sofa with a content sigh. “Well, when life closes some door for you, at least it has the courtesy of opening a window. Still, I should probably get ready; it’s not healthy to lazy around the whole day and inspiration comes only when it finds us woking.”

She reluctantly got up and levitated the used dishes back to kitchen, immediately washing them. If the leftovers dried on the plate, cleaning it would take much more effort. She was just putting the utensils away when she heard the bell above the door chime. Despite the worsened situation across the land, Ponyville remained fairly safe town, so most ponies didn’t bother to lock the door. Especially when their home was their workplace at the same time.

“Welcome to Carousel Boutique, where every garment is chic, unique and magnific!” she called still in the kitchen. “I will be with you in a second.”

“I certainly hope your claim is true, Grand Galloping Gala would accept nothing less,” a deep melodic and apparently amused voice with Canterlotian accent answered from the atelier. 

“Fancy Pants?” Rarity’s ears perked up and she galloped from the kitchen at decidedly unladylike speed. “Oh my goodness, it IS you! And Fleur, darling I haven’t seen you in ages! How have you been?” 

“As always, darling. So little changes in good old Canterlot. One would almost wish for some excitement, whatever it would be,” Fleur said as they embraced with Rarity briefly. “I must say, once we got to Ponyville, it was quite easy to recognize your home. The most beautiful building in town.”

“Why thank you, a lady must live with style and hold her manners, wherever she resides after all. Charmingly rustic may make for a pleasant company, but living that? Never.” Rarity waved her hoof as if farmlife was trying to assault her and she was beating it away. “Speaking of manners though, would you care for some refreshments? Tea comes without saying, but maybe some biscuits or fruits?”

Fleur sniffed the air lightly and eyed Rarity before giggling. “Oh thank you darling, no fruits for me today. But would you happen to have some pancakes left?”

Rarity blushed, being caught with her hooves in the cookie jar, so to speak, but with grace and nonchalance of true aristocrat went to save the situation. “Sadly no, but I will make you some in a jiffy. If I may ask though, what betrayed my sin?”

“The whole place smells of sweets from a mile away for one. And besides that…” Fleur stepped forward Rarity and lifted a hoof to Rarity’s nose. She wiped a small blob of whipped cream off it and licked her hoof, grinning like a schoolfilly sharing secrets about her crush.

“Why, I am shocked, Fancy Pants. You allowed me to walk around in such disorderly state while I was badmouthing farmer manners? I would expect you to at least offer me a handkerchief. Chm! I will be back with your pancakes and tea in a minute, darling. Make yourself comfortable in the meantime.”

Rarity trotted back toward the kitchen, leaving giggling Fleur and fairly dumbfounded Fancy Pants to their own devices. When they sat down on the sofa, Fancy Pants looked at his wife quizzically. “Fleur, love, did I just get scolded for your actions?”

“Are you surprised, dear? As a married gentlecolt it is your duty to act gallantly toward single mares and help them in any way imaginable. To think you would trespass against that at some official event…”

“I yield, I yield. Such thing will never happen again, I promise.” Fancy Pants exclaimed in mock horror. “To make up for it though, I will inform our cook to supply you with pancakes for breakfast on regular basis.”

“You wouldn’t! You know well I can’t fight temptation like that. What will happen with my figure?”

“Don’t worry, love, I am sure some married gentlecolt will discreetly inform you about it.” Fancy Pants shot her a winning smile which he kept even after she jabbed him with her hoof. 

“This isn’t over and you know it. I will have the last laugh!” Fleur warned, but joined in Fancy Pants’ laughter. “Do you have more distinct idea of what you will request to have made?”

“Not really, I will leave the decision to Rarity. I just hope she isn’t too busy with orders.”

“Oh I have all the time in the world,” Rarity announced as she just crossed the threshold of her atelier, required pastry and drinks in her magic hold. “So I take it you came to get new attire for this year’s Gala?”

“That, and to check on a good friend,” Fancy said since Fleur was too busy with her pancakes to speak. “I take it you will accept our order?”

“But of course! I am flattered you would travel so far just to get the dresses made by me. I’m also very happy, the business has been slow… Anyway, let’s get started right away. Fancy Pants, please stand over there, I need to take your measurements first.”

Fancy Pants followed the instructions and stood on the small modeling dais Rarity had installed in the atelier. Soon afterwards, well fed Fleur joined them and watched Rarity’s professional work. She made sure to wipe her muzzle properly, not giving Rarity any opportunity to retaliate. Soon the spectacle became kind of boring though and her eyes roamed around the room.

“That’s an impressive collection of mannequins you have here, Rarity. Say, why aren’t they displaying more of your creations?

“That’s simple, darling,” Rarity said, jotting down Fancy Pants’ measurements on the side of her sketchpad. “There isn’t more of my work. It’s like I got some sort of artistic block. Don’t worry though, your outfits will be top notch.”

Fancy Pants stepped down and Fleur assumed his previous place. “Do you know of any particular reason for such condition, dear?” 

“Yes actually. You will certainly recall the events with princess Twilight Sparkle. She was my close friend and I took her disappearance rather badly, particularly so since it was partially my fault.” Rarity noted the second set of numbers, though she placed the paper under another, so Fancy Pants wouldn’t see it. “Ever since that day, creating lost some of its luster, and the creations even more so.” She moved to her drawing board and started sketching possible designs for the new outfits.

“I am sorry for your loss, Rarity, I really am,” Fancy Pants said as he stepped to Rarity’s side, studying the lineart with trained eye, “but it has been more than half a year. You shouldn’t dwell in mourning for so long. Maybe you just need a vacation.”

“Or a change of scenery in general. I can’t imagine too many ideas stemming from surroundings like Ponyville,” Fleur called out from the other side of the room where she was looking through the bolts of luxurious cloths.

“Please, don’t speak about my hometown in such manner. The ponies around here are wonderful and I am happy I got the chance to live among them.”

“Sorry, I didn’t mean to insult them or you. But didn’t you say the business has been slow recently anyway?”

“Yes, hardly anypony comes by these days. Ponies earn just enough to pay for food and home. They can’t afford stylish attires of my provenience. Or even the simplest of dresses for that matter,” Rarity explained sadly. “This crisis takes its toll on all of us.”

“You would be surprised how little the nobles were touched. It’s almost disgusting. The land is being drained and their vaults are filling more each day. They make it known too, spending like mad as if conspicuous consumption was a competitive sport. This year’s Gala is expected to be one of the most garish events ever recorded. You would make for a good living there and I certainly wouldn’t mind having somepony decent to talk to on daily basis besides Fancy.” 

“Hmm,” Rarity mused as she added some frills to the sketch of Fleur’s dress, almost done with the design, “I am not sure I could leave like that. I have family and friends here.”

“Who says you couldn’t visit them? Or invite them for a small vacation to Canterlot?”

“And I would have to get used to unfamiliar society and city.”

“You know Canterlot like your mane and you wouldn’t be alone there, we would always be in reach for support. Aside from that, you already embody everything that a proper Canterlotian aristocrat should be.”

“Watch your steps, Rarity. Fleur decided that you should move to Canterlot, and no living force will stop her from turning it into reality,” Fancy Pants said with a chuckle. “I must say though that you would make for great addition to Canterlot social life.”

“I’m glad you think so highly of me and I must admit your arguments are convincing, but I’m afraid I am in no position for such endeavour.” Rarity beckoned them both to her drawing board and presented them the result of her work. “Do you have any idea how much it would cost to establish an entirely new boutique and to rent sufficient living quarters? I do have some savings, but definitely not enough.”

“I could easily help you with that. There is certainly some property in my ownership that would strike your… fancy. As for rent, you wouldn’t need to worry about that. Who am I to ask that from a friend?”

“You two simply made your mind and nothing I say or do can change that, correct?” They nodded like one pony and Rarity couldn’t help but chuckle. “That was rhetorical question, you know. Oh well. I promise I will think about it. Are the designs to your liking?”

“Definitely,” Fleur answered for them both, Rarity’s work once again surpassing her expectations. “But you should think quickly. The Gala is in three months and we could get you quite a huge clientele. What better start for business could you wish for?” 

Rarity led them to the door; Fancy kissed her hoof and Fleur embraced her once again. “True, that’s nothing to sneeze at. Tell you what, come in three days for the fitting. Either you will find me with my things packed, or with my determination to stay steeled.” With this promise they left and Rarity sat down on her sofa again. “Probably the first though,” she added for nopony in particular.





“Who’s the most beautiful unicorn in the world? Well, who is it?” Twilight Velvet cooed on the newborn foal lying on the changing table in the bathroom. She blew a raspberry on his belly and wrapped him in a fresh diaper. “Who is it, hm?”

“Grandpa Night Light, of course,” an amused voice came from the door and Velvet was soon joined by her husband. He was giving her a cheeky smile and nuzzled the foal’s cheek lightly.

“I believe a mare can judge that better, mister,” she countered with a frown, but her eyes were smiling. “You and the most beautiful unicorn? Hm. Most charming? Certainly. But most beautiful is definitely our little Regal Luster. Is that right, sweetie?” She promptly blew another raspberry on Luster’s belly, causing him to giggle and flail his legs.

Night Light covered his eyes with one of his forelegs and threw his head back in mock despair. “My standing in the world is ruined! Take my crown, you little stealer of mares’ hearts!” While he didn’t understand what has happening at all, Luster sensed the situation was set for his amusement; and amused he was.

Velvet stepped to her husband and exploiting his self-imposed blindness went for a nip on his neck. Earning a small yelp she kissed the spot better and stretched her neck to get close to Night Light’s ear. “Don’t take this defeat too harshly, love,” she whispered. “You still hold other titles. Maybe you should make sure to renew them though, for example the one of the sexies stallion around.” She rubbed her neck against his and nipped his ear when he was distracted enough.

“N-not around the little one. What would he think of us?” he protested weakly, but didn’t pull away from his wife.

“He’s the son of the princess of love. He would surely find understanding for us.” Despite her words, Velvet ended the contact and returned her attention to Luster, who was intently watching their every move, obviously enraptured. “Once he learns to walk, Shiny and Cadance will have a hard time to find some time for each other.”

She lifted Luster with her magic and set him on her back, not relenting in her hold in case he would shift too abruptly. Following her husband out of the bathroom and into the living room of their assigned guest apartment in the Crystal Palace, she sat down on the couch and picked Luster with her hooves. 

“I think it is feeding time, am I right, cutie?” She turned to her husband who shared the thought and was already making his way to the door to call a servant. “Would you bring me that bottle, love?”

“Right away.”

“Mommy is busy right now, but she left us some milk in the bottles. Will it be ok, sweetie?” she cooed at the foal again and took the bottle from her husband. “It is too cold. But don’t worry, granny knows just the spell.” Concentrating on the bottle for a second and sending a short pulse of magic she warmed the contents to body temperature. Then she licked the nipple and put it in Luster’s mouth. He murmured contently and started sucking. 

“He is definitely taking after Cadance. Do you remember what a ruckus Shiny used to do when we were feeding him? So many glass shards…” Night Light said and shared a chuckle with Velvet as he sat down next to her  

“And what about the time when he learnt to talk? it was taking no end! Mommy! I wan mowe candy, no wan veggies. Daddy, I don’t wike bwoccowi! You said it back then, the army would set him straight.”

“It sure did. He went far. I just can’t believe it was all so long ago.” Night Light sighed and wrapped a hoof around Velvet’s midsection. “Now we are grandparents, of a prince no less.”

A knock sounded on the door and after few second Shining Armor entered his parents’ temporary apartment. “Hi mom, hi dad! Do you like the apartment? And has Luster behaved nicely?”

“Of course he was, Shiny. He’s a sweetheart. Is that right, sweetie?” Velvet said and nuzzled Luster for the unteenth time that afternoon. 

Luster let the nipple slip out of his mouth and grinned widely. “Bwowowi!” he babbled and started giggling happily. The three remaining unicorns in the room exchanged looks, two of them amused, one deadpan.

“You were telling him about my eating habits, weren’t you? Couldn’t you two find some other story to tell everypony at any occasion?”

“We haven’t told Cadance, son. Watch your tone or we will revoke the promise we gave you about that,” Night Light warned and waved his free foreleg. Shining gave an exasperated sigh and took a seat in the armchair opposite to his parents.

“Speaking of Cadance, how is she doing with all the preparations?” Velvet asked, holding Luster against her shoulder to let him burp. 

“She is really stressed. All the rules and phrases she has to follow… It’s really obvious the coronation ritual was created more than a thousand years ago.” He pressed his back further into the armchair and closed his eyes. “I will be returning to her soon, I just wanted to check in case you needed anything. It is a great help that you are looking after Luster for us, really.”

“Oh don’t mention it, Shiny. We love him to bits. Besides, we would be horrible grandparents if we weren’t ready to foalsit at any moment, day or night,” Velvet assured and pressed Luster closer to her chest. In the meantime the foal decided to take a nap, suckling on a strand of Velvet’s mane. “Everything is under control and we will return him to you after the coronation.”

“Thanks. I can’t imagine how hard this would be for Cadance if she were to get up to him during the night in addition to all this mess. Well, I hope you will enjoy tomorrow, it will be a great show. See you then.” He got up, shook hooves with Night Light and gave a light kiss on Velvet’s and then on Luster’s cheek. 

“Take care, son. And say hello to Cadance from us. We know she will shine tomorrow,” Night Light said walking his son to the door and then returned to his wife’s side. “You know, I wonder what they will be serving at the banquet. Definitely not bwoccowi.”





“Is my mane orderly? Aren’t there any folds on the dress? Does everypony know what to do? Oh my gosh what if I forget the words?” Cadance was running frantically about the preparation room, her mind drawing all the worst scenarios of the minutes to come for her. Shining Armor and Spike, adorned in a dress uniform and a complicated silken suit with vertical violet and orange stripes respectively, watched her actions with a mix of concern and amusement. 

“Please, Cadance, calm down. If you forget what to say, either they will hint you or just say something pompous and silly. You have a good chance of guessing the right phrase. And don’t worry, you look immaculate.” It was true, the lavender dress embroidered with gold with a miniature version of the Crystal Heart on the front accentuated the color of her coat and mane brilliantly and added even more elegance to her stance. Her mane combed upwards shone with in the sunlight with all the little crystals places strategically in it.

“He’s right, Cadance,” Spike added. “You really look perfect. Besides, this event takes place to honor you, not to examine your worth. They did that before they offered you the keys.” He walked to her and polished the Crystal mini-Heart with a handkerchief. “As for the tasks, I will leave you now. Thanks for choosing me as the majordomo, by the way.” With that he ran out of the room, his ebony staff with huge rose quartz sphere on the upper end and silver hoof on the lower one under his arm. 

“We should get ready too, the ceremony will start in ten minutes. Everypony is probably already in the ceremonial hall,” Shining said and offered his wife a hoof. Seeing her trepidation, he chose to postpone their departure with a brief but loving hug. “It will be ok, you will see. You managed more complicated affairs in your life virtuously, this will be just another in the line. Besides, we have Spike to look after us.”

“True, Spike will protect us.” Cadance returned Shining’s smile and took the once more offered hoof. “You have the honor of escorting me, my prince.” They left the preparation room and were immediately greeted with twelve salutes. Cadance returned the greeting of the guards standing in a double line with a nod and continued walking. The guards fell in step behind the married pair. 

The small procession stopped in front of a pair of high door of polished obsidian. it was left slightly ajar so they would know when to enter. They could hear a lot of commotion and ponies talking among themselves. Then three loud knocks of metal on stone echoed and all the noise died down.

“It looks like we made it just in time,” Shining whispered to Cadance. She nodded and tried to hide her rising nervosity, failing miserably. A kiss on the cheek helped where words couldn’t.

“For too long ruled the regents over our peaceful land. For too long lay the crown abandoned. For too long stood the throne vacant,” an authoritative voice boomed in the hall and the echo moved through the corridors of the castle, now empty as most of the ponies attended the ceremony or were waiting by the Crystal Heart.

“Yet the grace of Crystal Heart is infinite and we were given a new protector. One worthy of our respect. One worthy of our love. One worthy of our obedience. Rejoice now, brothers and sisters, as today we will no longer stand orphaned!”

“May our ruler live forever. We respect. We love. We obey.” The chorus of ponies present reverberated through the crystals and they hummed quietly even after the voices fell silent.

“May our ruler step forth,” the first voice said and another three knocks were heard. 

“Princess of Love, Defeater of horrid Sombra, Beloved Liberator of Crystal Empire, Princess Mi Amore Cadenza!” They recognized Spike’s voice and soon saw the young dragon standing to the right of the door as it swung open to allow them in. All the ponies in the hall stood up to honor the soon to be queen. The procession walked at a majestic slow pace through the aisle in the middle of the hall and stopped in front of an elderly stallion in high hat and a cloak covered with gemstones, the master of ceremonies of the Crystal Empire himself. They greeted each other with a small bow and Spike stroke the ground with his staff again. 

“Beloved ruler, the nation decided. In all wisdom and clarity of crystal ponies you are worthy of our crown. Yet before the crown is passed to you, your worth must be assured.” He waved with his right forehoof and another knock followed. “May the ancients come forth!”

Four ponies stepped forward from the opposite direction Cadance and her entourage came, each carrying a crystal dose. “The honors to our ancients must be paid in order to bestow you with the crown. Our beloved ruler, pay your respect to the first crystal we ever found.”

Cadance stepped to the pony holding a jar with a small ruby inside. She bowed to the ground and upon rising still gazed downward. “I honor you and by the Crystal Heart I swear all crystal ponies will be cherished like you.”

“Our beloved ruler, pay your honors to the water of the first spring we drank from in the Crystal Empire.”

Cadance repeated the moves. “I honor you and by the Crystal Heart I swear I will nourish crystal ponies like you did and that my rule will flow calmly like a kind spring.”

“Our beloved ruler, pay your honors to the fire that lit our path on our way to the Crystal Empire.

Cadance stepped to the pony holding a jar full of magically kept fire. “I honor you and by the Crystal Heart I swear I will lead crystal ponies to better days like you led them all those years ago.”

“Our beloved ruler, pay your honor to the scent of flowers from our long lost paradise.”

With the last bow Cadance smiled to herself, managing to follow the required phrases to the dot. “I honor you and by the Crystal Heart I swear I will hold the traditions of crystal ponies in reverence just like you are kept to always remind them of our lost paradise.”

“Our beloved ruler, may you never bow again till the day our paradise returns. Yet your oaths must be accepted. The Crystal Heart is waiting.” He walked past Cadance and through the aisle, Spike by his side. Cadance and her entourage followed closely and the ponies from the hall fell in step behind the guards and all made their way through the corridors of the palace outside and to the Crystal Heart.

By the size of the crowd around, Cadance realized just how important the event was in the history of the Empire. It parted for the master of ceremonies and the Crystal Heart came in view. It was pulsing with warm light and spinning slowly, wide circle of empty space around it left out of respect.

“May the Crystal Heart accept your oaths,” the master of ceremonies said and gestured Cadance to come closer. She obliged with slow but firm steps and didn’t stop until she was inches away from the Crystal Heart. The whole crowd held breath in anticipation, as did Cadance. She tilted her head forward slowly and touched her horn to the surprisingly warm surface of the Heart.

A pale blue light started shining from the spot she was touching and it was gaining in force and brightness every second until it obscured both the Heart and Cadance from sight and all the ponies had to squint their eyes. Then four pink waves flew in all directions from the Heart. As they washed over the crowd, everypony felt warmth and calmness spread through them and as the light subsided they started cheering with all they got. They were so enraptured with their ruler that they didn’t even notice few stones moving to the side and forming a circular hole in the ground from which a silver lockbox rose.

Cadance was still panting from the unusual experience, trying to wrap her head around suddenly feeling the pulse of the whole Empire alongside hers, when three strikes of the staff resounded again. 

“The Crystal Heart has accepted you,” the master of ceremonies stated and levitated a cushion with three silver keys to Cadance. “Please accept our crown and rule over Crystal Empire with wisdom and kindness as you swore to.” He crouched low to the ground in sign of subordinacy and the crowd followed his example.

Cadance took the keys in her magic and opened the lockbox levitating in a magical field. Her magical field, as she suddenly realized, although she didn’t remember casting a spell. Then she noticed the Heart emanating the same aura. 

Inside the box lay a golden headband with a single sapphire in the shape of heart. She cherished the look on it before she walked over to the box and to show her honest intentions used her hooves to lift the crown from the box. She held it above her head and looked over the gathered ponies, expectation and joy apparent on their faces.

“I, Mi Amore Cadenza, hereby accept the crown offered by crystal ponies to me,” she recited and lowered the headband on her forehead, “as well as the title of Crystal Queen. Please rise, my friends. We will welcome the brighter days together.”





Celestia set the quill down next to the neat stack of papers and screwed the inkwell shut. In the shadows of her room the papers almost shone with the moonlight falling on them through the single open window. Even if the moon got hidden by the clouds, it wouldn’t hinder Celestia from working. Her eyes were capable to adjust to any level of lighting. She was tired though, having worked long past her usual bedtime to prepare everything for tomorrow’s court, her eyes now burning and squinting. She stretched and rubbed them. 

“This should be all. Hopefully it will sate them for a while. Disgusting vultures.” She got up and walked to the door of her balcony, so far concealed with thic curtains. She stepped out and took a deep breath of the cool night air. “I must have lost track of time. It’s colder than I remember. And the wind is blowing from the north.” 

She walked to the railing and leant on it, gazing against the wind. “You could have at least invited me to the coronation. It would lessen the humiliation, if only a little. Like this? I have to yield to them.” Her eyes drifted over the roofs of Canterlot estates and houses, quietly wishing they would collapse. “After all I did for you, I get nothing but hatred. Oh and demands, of course.”

She turned away from the city, the door of her room like a rectangle of pure black gaping at her. “I have only myself to blame. I should have reigned them when there was still time. And I should have definitely seen the signs with Twilight.” She returned to her room, but left the door open to allow some light in until she would find some candles. “Poor filly, she deserved a better life.”

She was about to light the first cadle when the room grew even darker. She turned and saw a silhouette framed in dark blue. It made few steps inside the room and Celestia finally recognised her visitor by sight, although she guessed the identity from the start.

“Good evening, Tia. Why are you still up? It’s past midnight.”

Celestia finally lit the candle and levitated it toward the others in the candle holder. Once they all were ablaze she set it on the table and sat down on her original place. “Hi, Lulu. I just had to finish some paperwork.”

“You sound tired and stressed, why didn’t you assign me to do it for you? I have nothing to do today.” Luna levitated a chair to the table, but instead of the opposite side of the table she chose to sit right next to Celestia. 

“This had to be done by me, Lulu. Though I wish it didn’t have to be done at all.” She moved the papers to Luna who picked them up eagerly. Her face went from curious to surprised after the first line.

“Dominion reestablishing act? Tia, didn’t you say that getting rid of this exhausted you more than Discord’s rule? Why would you allow them to pass laws again?”

“Because I have no other choice. Look at Equestria. As if it wasn’t enough that other lands are on our throat, the nobles do their best to sabotage our efforts for recovery.” She pulled a bottle of wine and two glasses from one of the lower drawer. At Luna’s quizzical gaze she giggled and uncorked the bottle. “Sometimes even a princess needs a little help with too grave world. Especially now that our neighbour is Queen Cadance.”

“You should watch for the quality of that help, Tia. This is hardly a preferable vintage.”

“And since when have you become a connoisseur?” Celestia teased and took a sip from her glass, contorting her face in disgust.

Luna giggled at her sister’s misfortune. “Since I was fourteen, if you have to know. But I wouldn’t have to be to recognise the lowest of Equestria’s production. Do you have any more bottles hidden around? Maybe you had luckier hoof with them.” Being gestured to one of the cabinets, Luna wasted no time and read the vintages carefully. “Well this will do. Pour that soapwater away.”

Once their glasses were full again, they moved to much more comfortable sitting location in the armchairs, Luna levitating the stack of bills with her. “So, care to tell me why you decided to budge?”

“As I said, I had to. Besides,” Celestia smiled mischievously, if tiredly, “I am not giving them much. The Dominion can pass bills like it used to, but… Celestial ordinance number 1123, Princess Celestia has absolute veto on any legislation passed. Celestial ordinance number 1648 The matters of taxes, criminal law and property law are reserved to Princess Celestia to regulate. Celestial ordinance number 1530, houses represented in Dominion are to pay additional tax of five thousand bits annually.”

Luna was left slackjawed. “They… they can’t do anything. You are tricking them to accepting worthless position and even making them pay you! I applaud… you.” Celestia watched as Luna’s glee vanished. She looked through the rest of the documents and handed them back to Celestia. 

“Supervisor of the daycourt will be established in every town with the population of one thousand and above, holding direct power on behalf of Celestia? Criminal cases with potential penalty of seven plus years in prison and civil cases with demanded damages surpassing ten thousand bits are to be presented to the daycourt? Tia, what are you doing?”

“We need to keep order in Equestria. Ponies are restless and if we aren’t attentive, this situation can turn for even worse real quick. Especially now that nobles sense opportunity, Lulu,” Celestia said with pleading undertone, leaning a bit forward in her armchair.

“But-but why isn’t there a single word about me? We were meant to rule together, you alone said it when I returned. Why is everything written to your name?” 

Celestia flinched at the accusing and saddened look Luna was giving her. It would have been so easy to add to those documents, to include Luna in the bill. They both knew it. They both sensed it wouldn’t happen. Celestia was the first to break the eye contact.

“Luna, you know that I don’t make a single decision without you. You must understand what beasts they are. They would jump on your throat the first moment they would see you as a threat. We do rule together, I just sign the papers.” She finished her glass of wine and went for her final argument. “I promise you will get all your competences back officially when the situation settles a bit.”

Luna too reached the bottom of her glass too and placed it on the table. “Yes. Yes, I know that you don’t make any decision without me, yet I feel like I stand even lower than your council. Because all you do is ask the opinion without hearing it out.”

“You know that not tr-”

“Then when was the last time you did as I said when we didn’t agree on a solution?” Luna spat out, standing up. Not waiting for an answer that had no reason to come as they both knew it, Luna strode to the door. 

“Please Luna, it’s not like that. Please understand that I’m just trying to protect you,” Celestia cried after her and was a bit surprised when Luna actually stopped in her tracks. Though she wished Luna didn’t stop right after as she turned her head back to Celestia with tears in her eyes.

“You were just trying to protect Twilight. And you didn’t take my advice into consideration back then either.” 

When the door closed behind Luna, Celestia blew all the candles out. No need for the light to see her cry. Darkness was more merciful in general.




 
The Ponyville library was once again in pristine order. Well, not that the books were organized, far from it, but at least they weren’t lying around hasparasingly. Though maybe there still remained some sort of organization since not too many ponies were coming there these days, to borrow books or otherwise.

It was really strange, Pinkie mused, that they stopped reading so soon after Twilight disappeared. The townponies never paid much mind to books, but they still used to show up from time to time even before Twilight came to live in the town. Otherwise there wouldn’t have been a library in the first place, duh. But now? Not a single one would come for days.

She laid a fresh tablecloth on the last uncovered surface and straightened it. Perfect, she could start decorating. In fact, ponies started avoiding the library entirely. Some were even saying it was haunted. Those sillies! Pinkie bent down and looked under the couch. No, there was no ghostie hiding there. As usual. 

She would know if there were ghosts. She spent every evening in the library, well, almost every evening since sometimes the Cakes would ask her to foalsit the twins. When everypony gave up on looking for Twilight, Pinkie figured it would be up to Twilight to find herself and bring herself back to Ponyville. And then she would of course love to have a ‘Welcome Home Party’. So Pinkie took it on herself to have that party prepared. 

Two hundred and fifteen parties went past and Twilight didn’t show up for any of them. Actually, most of them were attended only by Pinkie, overseeing the decorations and snacks ready for Twilight’s return to the library. She didn’t mind. The world was big and Twilight simply had some difficulties learning where exactly to look for herself. Pinkie could wait. Either she would go back home around midnight, or on few occasions she would fall asleep on a couch in the lobby. Then early in the morning she would clean the decorations, pack the snacks and move everything back to Sugarcube Corner to have it ready for the evening again.

But today would be different. She could feel it. Her Pinkie Sense told her this was the last party she would have to prepare waiting for Twilight. It couldn’t come in better time either. Pinkie took a critical look around the walls now covered in pink, violet and lavender streamers and at the balloons of the same color scheme floating around. Yes, that was good. She could add the finishing touch.

During her last two hundred and fifteen party preparations she discovered where the best spots for anchoring banners were and she promptly threw the ropes there. Pulling on one of them, she lifted the banner up. Perfect. Right when she would cross the threshold, Twilight would be able to read ‘Happy Birthday, Twilight, and Welcome Home’ in bold lavender and pink letters. Pinkie took the effort to draw Twilight’s cutie mark to either side of the inscription. There could be no mistaking as to for whom the party was being held.

Now for the refreshments. Pinkie trotted to the pile of boxes placed next to the door and started opening them. Bowl of punch, another one, cupcakes with blueberry frosting, three smaller cakes and one two storey cake - still packed in the same sized box as the rest - chips and crackers and wide assortment of other treats quickly made their way on the tables. Soon the utensils, glasses and plates lay ready next to the food as well and Pinkie wiped the sweat from her forehead happily. 

“Phew, I packed more than usually.” She looked up at the banner and grinned. “Well duh, it’s a double party! Too bad Gummy can’t come too, but this one will be too long for him. He needs his rest.” She trotted to the couch and jumped up, splaying on it comfortably. “Now to just wait for the guests to come, so we can plan a surprise for Twilight.”

While Pinkie stopped sending out invitations to the everyday ‘Welcome Home Parties’ long time ago, since nopony usually showed up and they all knew the party was held anyway, she made an exception of today. Sending invitations simple couldn’t be omitted when it came to birthday parties.

A hushed rhythmic sound intruded in the happy tune Pinkie was humming. “Oh! Isn’t it too early for the guests to arrive? I thought we weren’t to start for another two hours.” She got up and walked to the door. There was nopony out there, no movement in the dark of the evening. Pinkie walked out a few steps to look behind the corner to check if somepony wasn’t trying to prank her, and as she did, few heavy droplets fell on her nose. 

“It was just the rain. Hm, it is already dark and it will be hard to spot the library if the downpour starts for real.” She walked inside and returned with a lit lantern. She hung it above the door where it was still sheltered from the rain and returned to the warmth of the library. Soon she could hear the rain picking up force and drowning all the other sounds.

Pinkie waited patiently, humming to herself as the minutes ticked by. Occasionally, she would munch on a cupcake, but it was much rarer occurrence than during her previous parties as she wanted to leave as much as possible for Twilight. She surely didn’t have a single party thrown for her in the time she was lost somewhere.

When the time for the party to start neared, Pinkie got nervous. Nopony had showed up so far. She would expect them to arrive to the party where Twilight returned. 

“Maybe the lantern got extinguished.” She got up and checked outside. It was still raining heavily, but the flame burned brightly. “Strange… Wait, something’s moving out there!” The sound of hooves splashing in pools joined the one of the rain falling and soon enough Applejack sprinted to the space illuminated by the open door. 

“Applejack! You made it!” Pinkie exclaimed and threw herself around Applejack’s neck.

“Of course, sugarcube, Ah just had some trouble getting here. The town’s mighty dark tonight. But… could we go inside? Ah’m kinda cold.”

Not letting go of her friend, Pinkie walked backwards on her hindlegs back into the library, Applejack stoically following. “I was getting worried nopony would show up! That would be horrible. Imagine if you came to your party and nopony was there! You would be sad and angry and disappointed and maybe wouldn’t want to stay and you would go away to be lost again!” They finally made it to the couch and Pinkie pulled a towel out of nowhere. “And then the whole party would be for nothing.”

“Ya know we wouldn’ta missed this-” Applejack glanced at the banner while she was drying herself, “-’Happy Birthday, Twilight, and Welcome Home party’ for anything. Ah talked ta’ the girls and they’ll all come, too.” Applejack’s expression saddened as she read the designation. So Pinkie is still on the tangent. Poor girl.

Pinkie went on and on about what she prepared for the evening, not minding that Applejack tuned her out. Instead of listening, she was scrutinizing the library. Nothing changed except for the added decorations. She remembered the first party held in the library. She chuckled as she realized Twilight didn’t partake in that one either, but it was a sad sound. Only the events that followed later when the new day was supposed to come brought the six of them closer. And then three years later they drifted apart on the same spot forever. Applejack couldn’t shake the feeling she caused it and the guilt of what she last told Twilight.

Suddenly a creaking sound echoed from the second floor and they both shot to attention. There wasn’t supposed to be anypony up there. Pinkie gestured for Applejack to stay quiet and crept toward the stairs and up. She sneaked masterfully, not making a single noise. The creaking sound returned and this time they located it to originate in the bedroom. Pinkie moved to the door silently and counting to three threw them open.

At the same moment something big and white jumped forward and tackled Pinkie to the ground. “Wooooo! I am the ghost of the library and I came to devour you! Wooooo!” Applejack jumped back in surprise, but soon got ahold of herself and galloped to the stairs.

Pinkie’s eyes widened in shock and she drew a sharp breath, looking like she was about to scream, but as Applejack neared on the stairs she started giggling, quietly at first, but gaining in intensity with every second until she was guffawing like a madpony. Applejack froze in her step and watched incredulously as the ‘ghost’ joined in. Soon it was lying on the floor next to Pinkie, both trying to contain the fits of laughter and failing.

Applejack stepped closer and suddenly recognised the voice of the phantom. “Rainbow Dash! What in tarnation are ya thinkin’ yer doin’?” She shouted as she pulled the white sheet off of the still laughing pegasus.

“What-what does it look like, AJ? P-pranking Pinkie!” Rainbow managed to say between gasping for air. “And drying myself. Phew what a storm!”

“Ah see that, but don’t ya have some decency? Joking ‘bout things like… that!” Applejack let the sheet fall to the ground and walked back to the lobby. Rainbow helped Pinkie get up and joined Applejack on the couch. She handed Rainbow the towel, although it was still a bit damp. It would serve nonetheless.

“Sorry… But what’s the big deal? Can’t I joke about anything? A bit of black humor never killed anypony,” she defended as she kept drying her coat and especially her wings.

“It’s not proper so soon, Rainbow. At yer age ya should know that,” Applejack countered, but softened her gaze. It wouldn’t help anything to argue now.

“Um, I told you, Rainbow, that you shouldn’t have done that. You could have come up with something less offensive.” 

“Hi Fluttershy! When did you come in? And black humor? What was black on that joke? I think it was white since the sheet was white!” Pinkie turned to the yellow pegasus who opted to sit in one of the armchairs, nibbling on a cupcake.

“Um, the door was open and you were busy laughing with Rainbow so I let myself in. I hope you aren’t angry…”

“Of course not! And tell me if that cupcake is good. I made several batches and tried different spices for every batch and I need to determine which to stick to.” Pinkie beamed and pulled another box of cupcakes from behind the couch. “We have enough, you can all sample as you want.” She passed the box around and counted the ponies present. “So now we are waiting only for Rarity and of course for Twilight. This party will be awesome!”

“Yeah, awesome,” murmured Rainbow and bit into her cupcake to mask her frown. “What’s taking Rares so long anyway?”

“Um, she wrote to me that they had changed the timetable and the train arrives a bit later than it used to, but that she will definitely sho-”

“I’m heeere!” the pony in question called from the door, shaking droplets of water from her stylish silvery umbrella. “Thank you darling for vouching for me.” She walked to Fluttershy and pecked her lightly on the cheek. “I knew you would pass the message alright. Hopefully I am not too late?” She flashed them all a charming smile and took a seat in the other armchair. 

“Not at all. We just settled down. Here, have a cupcake.” Pinkie offered her the box and Rarity politely took one of the remaining treats. “I think I will call them Twilight cupcakes because they are the same color as her coat. Or maybe Cupcake Sparkle hmm… Well, I will ask Twilight which she prefers later.” She jumped from the couch and ran to the table with punch. “Something to drink while we wait for her?”

“She hasn’t dropped that yet?” Rarity whispered toward her friends.

“Not a single bit. She still thinks that Twilight will miraculously show up today,” Rainbow whispered back and waved her hooves in exaggeration. “Just look at that banner!”

Rarity looked up and just like Applejack before, she lost some of her remaining mood. “By stars…”

“Here are the drinks, girls!” Pinkie chimed in. “Now we can wait comfortably.”

Long uncomfortable silence followed as everypony except Pinkie was trying to drown their looks in the cups of punch, until Applejack couldn’t take it anymore. 

“So, Rarity, how’s the life treatin’ ya in Canterlot?”

“Oh it is simply splendid! I have never had so many orders. And the city is wonderful as well. I found a sweet little café I will have to take you all to one day,” Rarity said with a fond smile.

“That’s great ta’ hear, sugarcube,” Applejack said and the awkward silence returned full force. 

“How about we play pin a tail on a pony while we wait?” Pinkie suggested and immediately went to prepare the game. Not seeing any use in declining, the others joined her. 

The hours went by in the same manner then. From time to time somepony would try to strike a conversation only for it to fail after few sentences. Pinkie would come up with an activity and the others would humor her, but there was no joy for them in the game. Slowly, even Pinkie Pie was losing her enthusiasm and her smile seemed more forced every minute. 

Eventually they just sat there and occasionally chose a treat from what Pinkie prepared. Fluttershy was leaning against Rainbow and by her even breathing they could tell she fell asleep. Rainbow soon followed suit, leaving Rarity, Applejack and Pinkie alone. Rarity felt no need to sleep, she had to work long into the night many times in her life. Applejack, however, would pay in gold for an option to sleep, yet her dark thoughts and feeling of duty toward her friend were keeping her up. Pinkie didn’t move, not even her gaze left a streamer that fell to the ground from the opposite wall.

The silence of the room was broken by the old clock hanging on the wall striking midnight. While Applejack and Rarity were slightly startled by the sudden noise, Pinkie didn’t move a muscle. She remained statuesque until the last of the chimes died down, then she lifted her eyes to her two friends.

“She isn’t showing up, is she?” she asked quietly, her voice trembling slightly. 

“No sugarcube, Ah’m sorry, but she isn’t showing up.” Applejack bowed her head tiredly. She couldn’t stand the pleading look Pinkie was giving her.

“She is…. She is gone, isn’t she? Nopony would miss their birthday party,” Pinkie asked again and tears began to form in the corners of her eyes.

“She is in a place where every single day is like a birthday, darling,” Rarity said and moved next to Pinkie, mimicked by Applejack from the other side. They wrapped now sniffling Pinkie in their hooves and held her close. “She is happy now, darling. Far from pain and worries.” She joined Pinkie’s quiet crying for now that the last pony accepted the truth, Twilight’s death became much more real for her as well.

“But… but what about us? What about the party? Who will unwrap the presents I prepared for her?” Pinkie weeped, returning the hug she was being given. “What are we supposed to do without Twilight?”

“We’re supposed ta go on, sugercube. We still got each other. Twilight would want us ta go on.”