So, that’s the way it’s going to be, is it, Celestia? Trying to bait the trap?
Canterlot was a glimmering jewel in the sunlight as he stared through the open window. It was a cloudless day, and the blue sky was so pristine that it would have seemed inviting enough for a hippo to try and take flight.
Celestia had left the city under the guise of going to investigate the attempted theft of the Crystal Heart, but it was obviously a feint. Sky Streak and Celestia were perfectly aware of the threat that still existed, and they were smart enough to put two and two together. The Crystal Heart wasn’t the goal; that was merely a distraction. The true goal lay somewhere else in Equestria.
And Celestia had left it ripe for the taking.
Oh, she thought she had left Canterlot safe. She had left behind the royal guard. She had left behind her precious Alicorn Guard, the most elite squad of ponies tasked with defending Equestria. And, most of all, she had left behind Luna, her dear sister, whom she trusted with ruling the empire in her stead.
And if she thought that any of that would be enough, she was drastically mistaken.
The figure smiled and observed the city. It was a typical enough day, with ponies busily scurrying about with appointments and errands that needed doing. But the lovely weather made it hard not to smile, whether one’s intentions were good or evil.
I wonder…do you know how long I’ve waited for this chance, Celestia? How long we have worked from the shadows, silently plotting and waiting for our opportunity to strike? But our patience has been rewarded: for every moment we waited, we were able to strengthen our grip in this city. We grew stronger and drew closer, until failure was unimaginable. And now it is impossible.
Laughter became nearly impossible to hold back. Success was inevitable. Order would be restored, and the balance of power that had been absent in Equestria for a millennium would return.
Have a safe trip, Celestia. Remember how it looked when you left. It will not be the same when you return.
So much to do, though. Time was of the essence. So, what do I take care of first?
Another glance out the window revealed a pair of pegasi, seated several hundred feet away on top of the observatory. Both were donned in the all-too-recognizable golden armor of the royal guards. One was gray with a sandy mane and tail (and a red bird on top of his head), while the other, despite the dull gray cloak he was wearing, was unmistakably Sky Streak…with a noisy blue jay sitting on his shoulder. A chuckle reached the air, but it was permissible. It was only logical.
What was the easiest way to ensure victory?
Eliminate the opposition.