//------------------------------// // Chapter 2: The Night Mare. Part 2 // Story: Ponies of the Five Rings // by Simon_oSullivan //------------------------------// More than a dozen ponies filled the Imperial throne room. Aside from the Empresses, five of the six clan leaders and a couple of representatives from each clan were talking in low voice, trying to argue their points. They had all received the letter requesting their presence concerning the dreadful threat. Rainbow Dash whispered something to Commander Spitfire while Scootaloo tried to overhear what they were talking about. Derpy Hooves, the clan’s spymaster, smacked the young mare weakly on the neck and shook her head in disapproval, making the leader’s apprentice grumble. Lyra, BonBon and Pinkie had been trying to find a solution, but to no avail. The Party Clan magistrate had brought some documents that could help to throw some light at the mystery. On the other hoof, her  wife had been talking about offering herself as a bodyguard for the Empresses until the disappearances came to an end. Their leader, however, was still focused on the prophecy, though she had been able to tie up some loose ends. Fluttershy hadn’t uttered a sound since they arrived. Only her trusted magistrate, Carrot Top, stood by her side. She had been considering several possibilities, but she needed to compare her thoughts with the rest in order to find something more solid. The Lore Clan’s representatives were also only two. Twilight refused to look up, and Spike was not in a very good mood, looking suspiciously at everypony who could dare say something against his leader. Rarity was escorted by Zircon and Hoity Toity, the latter examining the rest of the attendees with a smirk, whispering something to his leader that made her smile. Next to them, Sweetie looked around like somepony out of place. The doors opened after a few moments with a sound that made everypony look up. Two mares walked slowly into the room, the largest of them being Applejack, who bowed apologetically to the Empresses, and so did her companion. “Ahm sorry, Empresses,” she apologised without looking up. “We had to reorganize our troops back at the Diamond Bulwark.” “I understand, Apple Leader. I know you’re the ones who are suffering the most with the disappearances,” replied Celestia in a sympathetic voice as she bowed back slightly. Next to Applejack, the other mare stood up, showing a mournful expression. Sweetie Belle looked at her in disbelief. “Apple Bloom?” she said in a low voice. Rarity heard her sister and looked at her, then at Apple Bloom, then to Scootaloo. Comparing the three friends, the pegasus looked happy, even joking with Derpy and Rainbow Dash. Sweetie Belle had become a beautiful mare and half of Equestria was begging for her hoof in marriage, and though Rarity knew that those gestures made her uncomfortable, she was happy too. But Apple Bloom looked so different from the other two. She was by far the largest of the three, with a strongly-built complexion and donned in heavy armor like a typical Apple warrior. But her face was discouraging, bearing a sorrowful expression. Whatever innocence the young mare had in her filly years had been long lost. “Sweetie Belle,” she whispered to her sister. “Would you like to go out and talk with your old friends?” “But sister, I can’t leave, the Empresses are here, it would be a-” “No worries, I’ll handle it. Do you want to?” Sweetie Belle looked at Apple Bloom with serious concern, the sorrow surrounding her old friend being too obvious. Scootaloo, as she had noticed, was jolly and playful. Looking back at Rarity. She nodded with pleading eyes, to which her sister responded by stepping forward and bowing to the Empresses. “Empress Celestia, Empress Luna,” she started. “I consider that the young students, who are still not full-fledged samurai, don’t need to stay here while we discuss this issue. Would it be too brazen if I ask you to allow them to leave the room?” Both empresses nodded gently. “Certainly, they may leave if they wish to,” Celestia offered, pointing gently at the door. Sweetie Belle thanked her sister and walked towards the door. Scootaloo wanted to stay, and it took both Dash and Spitfre to convince her to leave. Apple Bloom just nodded without looking up and turned around. The door closed behind them, leaving the rest of the ponies ready to discuss the situation. That poor filly, lamented Rarity in her thoughts. What amount of horrendous atrocities she must have seen. It was hard to fully appreciate the Apple Clan’s sacrifice and duty with the Empire, but that day, Rarity had a slight idea of how big it was. “We have brought thee here,” Luna commenced, getting everypony’s attention, “because our soldiers art being abducted by an unknown creature. Thou have tried using thine own resources, but now we ask thee to work together to find a solution. What information have thou gathered about these incidents for now, clan leaders?” “We’ve scouted through most of the Empire, but have found nothing,” Rainbow Dash said ashamedly, scratching her neck. “We don’t know where that creature’s taking them, but they leave no trace and don’t seem to be anywhere among our lands.” “We also have a lack of witnesses,” added Spitfire. “Whatever it is, it acts in such a way that nopony spots it. The only report about something that may have something to do with this creature mentions a loud scream and a huge blazing light in the Imperial Gardens several weeks ago.” “Commander Spitfire, was the blazing light you mentioned special in any way?” Twilight said, lifting her chin. “Like an explosion of some sort?” “Now that you mention it,” Spitfire replied as she looked among her reports. “Indeed, it was something resembling a huge blast of fire, like an explosion. Does it match with anything you know about?” “I remember reading something about a creature that might be able to do such a thing, but unfortunately something about the creature’s means of operation makes my theory invalid.” “And what is that ‘something’ if I may ask, Miss Sparkle?” requested Hoity with a sarcastic grin. Rarity looked at Hoity, who appeared confident and willing to outsmart a few ponies today, but his eyes were focused on Twilight. She knew that Hoity had some ammunition to politically stab her friend. However, she also was well aware that, considering the circumstances, she couldn’t do anything to stop him. If things went well, their clan could even gain some reputation and even be allowed to lead the investigation. “Are you sure you know what you’re doing, dear?” Rarity whispered at Hoity. “I know we could earn some points, but I’d rather keep the possible losses to a minimum.” Twilight was about to respond, but somepony knocked on the door. “Who could that be?” asked Zircon, raising an eyebrow. “Ah think Ah know,” said Applejack, lowering her head. “Empresses, Ah apologize for this interruption, but that must be mah brother. He decided to stay behind to organize the defenses himself.” “Let him in,” ordered Celestia, while Luna whispered something at her sister, to which she nodded. Rarity’s face turned white and her smile vanished as she saw the giant stallion walking through the door. Hoity’s proud smile only worsened her state. “Sorry for being late,“ said Big Macintosh, bowing to the Empresses. “Ah have relocated our soldiers along the wall. Our forces are limited, but Ah have prepared a squadron to replace the Imperial Guards until the situation is over.” “We appreciate thine effort,” said Luna as she nodded in approval with a smile. “We expected no less from the Apple.” “Ah heard voices when Ah arrived, so Ah guess the discussion had already started.” “Oh, you don’t need to apologize,” replied Rarity with a courteous smile. “We were just putting together all the pieces we already had about the creature.” “Thank you, Lady Rarity,” he said, nodding at her. “Our clan has suffered the most from the disappearances, and Ah was wondering if Ah could ask for some reinforcements to defend the wall.” “You don’t have to say it twice, Big Mac,” Rainbow Dash replied, hitting her chest with her hoof. “Give a number and you’ll have them ready by the end of the day!” “Uhm, I,” started Fluttershy, hiding behind her mane. “I’m afraid I can’t send help this time. A lot of our soldiers and farmers have disappeared too. We’re using the remaining warriors to help tend the crops, sorry.” “An army marches on its stomach, Lady Fluttershy,” quoted Big Macintosh. “Yer duty is important enough.” “I can send the Gemmed Gallants to help,” added Rarity while looking at Zircon, who smiled at her offering. “If your clan needs assistance, we’ll definitely send the best we can afford, darling.” Hoity cleared his throat loudly, getting everypony’s attention. “Though I admire your humbleness, I’d like to inform that we were discussing important issue before you arrived. Could we continue where we left it?” Big Mac nodded joined his sister at the table. Rarity threw a dire glare at Hoity, who didn’t pay attention at her. “As we were discussing,” Twilight spoke loudly, retaking the previous conversation, “my clan has gathered certain information about the creature. Spitfire’s report made me wonder about a possibility, but there are still some flaws that destroy our theories.” “Whadya mean, Twilight?” Big Macintosh asked. “The creature we thought responsible of this in the first place wouldn’t kidnap so many ponies. They always take only one, but now?” She shook her head in disbelief with a defeated expression. “We have several abductions daily for several weeks in a row! No common supernatural creature acts that way, especially one as uncommon as this one!” “Not that you know of, apparently,” joked Hoity Toity with a sarcastic voice. “Because we have something out there kidnapping ponies. We need facts, lady Twilight, not hypotheses.” “Then why don’t you enlighten us with what you have, Jewel?” Big Mac replied with a frown. “Just in order to let you know, the name is Hoity Toity. My reputation and manners are respected throughout my clan. And what do you have to say for yourself, warrior?” The giant stallion smirked, looking at his sister. “A worthy samurai does not need to brag about his position or merits; his actions should be the ones that talk for him.” Most ponies in the hall nodded at Big Mac’s statement, and some even smiled, covering their mouths with their hooves. Even Rarity had to bite her lip to avoid complimenting him in front of Hoity, who was grinding his teeth, apparently looking for seconds. “Gentlecolts, please,” pleaded Twilight. “We have more important things to discuss.” “Listen, Lore Leader,” Hoity replied in anger, but without raising his voice. “Before even considering the idea of correcting another clan member’s behavior, you should keep your own clan under control in the first place.” Twilight lowered her head in shame, but Spike stepped forward with his spear ready. “Now what just a minute there, I’m not going to let you attack her just like that!” “Ah’ll take care of this, Spike,” offered Big Mac, to which the dragon nodded with a low grunt before stepping back. “Oh, the knight in shining armor comes to rescue the damsel in distress,” joked Hoity. “We’re trying to save the Empire. If you have nothing to contribute with, you’ll do best by letting the others talk.” “You don’t scare me, soldier. I’ve never felt intimidated by anypony worthy of praising, much less from such a mindless brute!” All of a sudden, the room became silent. Rarity tried to avoid eye contact with everypony. Big Macintosh frowned, his sight focused on the magistrate, but had to stop his sister, who was walking towards Hoity, glaring furiously at him. “It won’t be necessary, sis. Ah know how to handle these situations.” He approached the Empresses and bowed gently to them. “My Empresses, Ah know this is not the place, but—” “We know,” replied Luna. “We give thee permission.” She looked at her sister, who nodded with a sad gaze. Big Macintosh bowed again, then turned at the magistrate with a serious expression.“Hoity Toity, you have insulted mah honor as a samurai,” he started, stepping forward. “For that, I challenge you to a duel, right here, right now!”   -o- The three friends stayed next to the door. None of them knew how to break the ice, but both Sweetie Belle and Scootaloo looked at Apple Bloom. The two young mares approached her. “Hey, Apple Bloom,” Sweetie Belle said with a worried voice. “Are you okay?” “Yeah,” added Scootaloo. “You look pretty down. What’s up?” “Ah don’t wanna talk about it,” replied Apple Bloom, turning around. “Come on. We’re friends, remember?” insisted Sweetie Belle. “You can count on us.” Apple Bloom let go a long sigh and lowered her head. “You don’t want to hear it.” “Try us,” Scootaloo challenged, flying over her. She sat on the floor, looking at her two friends. Years had passed since they used to meet together and go on crazy adventures. Now as grownups, they were expected to behave and act as the samurai they would be when they passed their gempukku, the coming-of-age ceremony. “Girls,” Apple Bloom started, without looking up. “Ah have seen horrible things. Ah have seen creatures that I never imagined, not even in mah worst nightmares. Ah have seen soldiers fighting and dying next to me, day after day. Ah have seen the horrors of the Taint, consuming our warriors with almost no resources to avoid it.” She trembled weakly, which made her friends come closer and embrace her. “Ah have been able to stand there, because that’s what Ah had to do, what they expected me to do.” “Apple Bloom…” Sweetie Belle hugged her friend tighter, followed by Scootaloo. Apple Bloom hugged them back, smiling weakly. “Not everypony knows how much we sacrifice up there for the Empire.” “Is it worth it?” asked Sweetie Belle, trying to look at her friend in the eyes, but she wouldn’t look up. “Do you enjoy your lives in Equestria?” Both friends looked at each other, and nodded. “Yes, we do.” Apple Bloom looked up at last, still smiling weakly, and could see her friends staring at her, worried. “In that case, it is worth the effort. By the way, Ah hardly recognised you both in there.” “Aw, we haven’t changed that much!” Sweetie Belle said. She had grown to be one of the most beautiful mares in the Empire which, combined with her melodious voice, turned her into one of the most eligible ponies. “So, what else have you two been up to these years?” asked Scootaloo with her forelimbs crossed in front of her. The three young mares chatted joyfully about their lives on their own, remembering the time they spent together. Apple Bloom felt a comforting warmth in her heart as she shared anecdotes with her fillyhood friends. -o- “You dare to challenge me, soldier?” Hoity said snootily, offended at the idea of a simple thug questioning a high rank magistrate such as himself. “Laughable but, if you insist.” He turned around and pointed at Zircon. “Captain, defeat him quickly, we have to save the Empire.” “No,” Zircon replied with a frown. Hoity walked towards Zircon, his arrogant smile having vanished upon hearing the Gallant. “Do you refuse to be my champion?” “Yes,” he replied without hesitation. Hoity ground his teeth with anger, stomping his hoof furiously. “You will be my champion in the duel!” “Looks like so much arrogance has made you stupid as a rock.” Zircon stepped forward, forcing Hoity to move back. “First, you don’t demand a champion, you ask for one, like the huge favor that it really is,” he said, poking Hoity in the chest. Zircon ignored the other ponies who were now whispering to each other. “That means that I can decline your offer and could downright challenge you to a duel for further demanding it. Second, and much more important,” he continued, pointing at the sword that hung at the magistrate’s side. “If you have a sword, it means you can use it, so no champion for you anyways.” Hoity became silent for a moment. The sword! He gasped as he looked down to see a katana hanging on his side. I totally forgot about it. I should have left it at home after the training session before coming here, but I didn’t know I was going to get into a duel! “Well, Hoity?” Zircon taunted, patting the floor with his hoof. “But I’ve only been able to take a few classes at the dojo,” he whispered, not wanting to be heard by the other clan’s members.”I’m not ready to fight.” “Nonsense!” Zircon replied at Hoity’s statement. “Didn’t you just say he was a ‘mindless brute’? What makes you think that he’s a better duelist than you, who trained in the Swift Strike Dojo?” The magistrate turned to his clan leader to get some support. “Lady Rarity, could you spare—” He stopped as soon as he noticed the unicorn’s furious stare. She was grinding her teeth with such strength that it made him think that she would be able to break a sword in half with them. Hoity looked around, only to find that every single pony in the hall was staring at him in disappointment, anger or just refusing to look at him and choosing to whisper to each other instead. Even Celestia and Luna looked worried, but he couldn’t lay a hoof on what had happened. However, he shook his head and marched towards Big Macintosh, who was expecting him in dueling stance. Both stallions stared at each other, scanning every move, looking for weak spots. No matter, Hoity thought in order to restore some confidence. Even though I’ve only taken a few lessons in our dojo, it’s still far more than this warrior could surely stand against. Look at him, trying to duel with a huge mace, I almost feel pity for him. I shall strike him before he has time to unsheathe. For what seemed like an eternity, both ponies kept checking for weak spots. Hoity had started with an overall view, and was now focusing on specific details. The giant stallion stood motionless in a perfect stance, but there was something else that made the magistrate’s smile fade completely; the mace’s head was made of pure jade. Hoity’s confidence began to shrink. Who is this pony? Why does he have a jade weapon? And, to make matters worse, he seems to know perfectly what he’s doing. Sweet Celestia, what have I gotten myself into? “Strike!” Big Macintosh yelled. Hoity came back to his senses far too late, unsheathing his sword just to see it fly through the air when the mace hit it. The blow was so powerful that it dislocated the magistrate’s jaw. Big Macintosh bowed to his rival before turning back to his sister while most of the ponies were still staring in awe. “Yeehaw!” cheered Applejack. “That’s mah brother, the best tetsubo duelist among mah clan!” “Tetsubo duelist?” Twilight looked at her friend with an eyebrow lifted. “I know that weapon’s called a tetsubo, but I never thought you could duel with one.” “You betcha, Twi. Besides, that’s mah brother we’re talking about. During his younger days, anything he grabbed turned into a dangerous weapon. We seldom use katanas so, among the Apple, a group of warriors use their maces as dueling weapons. As you can see,” she added with a wink, “it’s pretty effective!” Hoity relocated his jaw with an audible crack that made several ponies turn away as he stifled a painful howl. “Such is the temperance and skill of an Apple General,” Zircon confirmed with an approving nod and a smile. "G-general?” Hoity stuttered, stepping back.”W-who are you?” “Big Macintosh, the Jade Stallion they call me. Former Apple Clan Leader, General of the Apple Clan, veteran war hero, thirty years of service as defender at the Diamond Bulwark.” “I-I'd never seen you in court!” “Mah soldiers defend the Diamond Bulwark and the Empire, and Ah led them every day back when Ah was the Apple Leader. Mah magistrates were the ones who took care of political issues following mah instructions. Our enemy could attack at any moment, and Ah had to be ready to fight.” “My most humble apologies, General,” Rarity rushed to say, bowing to the giant stallion. “I’ll make sure that you don’t have to go through such a disastrous moment ever again.” She walked towards Twilight with a serious expression. “Twilight Sparkle, you are the one who knows the most about the creature for what we’ve been able to discuss. My whole clan is at your service. If there’s anything you need in order to finish your research, just ask and you’ll have it.” “I’ll send my best informant to your castle, Twilight,” added Rainbow Dash. “She’s the best at what she does. I’m sure you’ll solve this crisis in no time with her help.” “We don’t have much to offer to Twilight,” started BonBon. “But our clan would be honored if the Empresses would accept some of our monks and warriors to replace the Imperial Guards. Right, Pinkie?” She turned to look at her, but she had her head lowered and her eyes closed. “Pinkie, are you okay?” Lyra pushed her softly trying to make her react, but the Party Leader left their side, walking slowly towards Twilight. Rarity stepped back, her face showing signs of discomfort  at the way Pinkie moved; so unnatural, so calmed, almost like she’d been mesmerized. Hoity jumped back when she opened her eyes, showing nothing but the white eyeball, before talking with a booming voice. “The cursed spirit will find peace when it’s confronted by those who wield something stronger than any iron chain. The one thing that no power can destroy, that no tempest can blow away and can overcome wars, plagues and even famine. Desired by kings and beggars alike, it is given freely to anypony no matter who.” Rarity rushed towards Pinkie as soon as her friend started stumbling clumsily. If not for Twilight’s quick reaction, she would’ve fallen to the ground. Both mares looked at Pinkie, who looked dizzy and confused. “I guess that’s the Party Clan’s help concerning the disappearances,” Twilight said, grunting as she tried to lift her friend with Rarity’s help. “We accept the Party monks as a temporary replacement for our Imperial Guards, as well as the Apple squadron,” added Celestia. “We trust your efforts. Meeting adjourned.” The ponies bowed to the empresses and walked out of the room. Most of them walked past the three young mares that were talking next to the door. Rainbow Dash approached her pupil with a serious expression. “Scoots,” making the young pegasus jump and salute her swiftly. “You’re going to help the Apple Clan to defend the wall.” “What? Why?” “It’s an order. They need support and we’re sending troops. I’m sure they’ll find a good job for ya.” “Ahm sure she can be a great runner,” recommended Apple Bloom, who was smiling broadly. “Pardon me, Applejack,” Rarity said in a low voice. “Do you think you could take Sweetie Belle with you?” “Huh? Ah dunno, sugarcube, it’s not a safe place, especially now.” “Please, Applejack, I wouldn’t ask it if it wasn’t really an emergency. I don’t want Sweetie Belle to see… What I have to do.” Rarity looked back, where Hoity stood, and he stood petrified by her furious gaze. “Ah see, Rarity. I’m sure the three girls would love spending time together anyways.” “Thank you for understanding, darling. Now I must leave.” She turned to her sister and gave her a tender smooch. “Take care and don’t disturb your friend’s siblings, okay?” “Thank you, sis! I’ll be a good ambassador!” she cried jumping around. “Yes, yes, ambassador, that’s it. Just be careful.” “Girls, we’re gonna be together like the old days!” “Yay!” the three friends chanted together and started galloping, followed closely by Applejack. With all the others gone, the only ones in the hall were Rarity, Zircon and Hoity Toity. The magistrate stepped back as the Jewel leader turned to him with raging expression. “Lady Rarity, we are civilized ponies, I’m sure we can—” “No, Hoity, we cannot!” she cried. Hoity noticed she was containing herself, but made him feel like she wouldn’t hesitate to kill him on the spot. “Do you have the faintest idea of what you almost did back there?! You insulted a war hero, one of the most respected and beloved of all the Empire, in front of not only every single clan leader, but the Empresses no less!” “B-but Lady Rarity, I didn’t know—” “You didn’t know what, Hoity? Speak clearly! You didn’t know he was a hero, a general? And you call yourself my second in command? You almost got us in a war against the rest of the Empire! And our clan’s reputation was almost ruined! And my career with it! Do you know how hard I’ve worked to become what I am now? Do you think you’re gonna get away with this!?” Rarity was breathing heavily, almost hyperventilating. Hoity tried to step back, but Zircon was on the way, with an angry expression too. “And what’s wrong with you? Why didn’t you help me back there?” “I already told you,” grunted Zircon. ”You have a sword, so you’re expected to know how to use it. Besides, I know Big Macintosh, we served together several years ago. He hardly ever left his place as a defender and he’s one of the most renowned tacticians I've ever met.” “I barely avoided political suicide, my plans were almost ruined forever,” Rarity responded acidly despite being visibly calmer, but her voice still made Hoity cringe. “I-I swear it won’t happen again, Lady Rarity!” Rarity let out a long sigh. “I know it won’t.” Hoity prostrated himself on the ground. “Oh, thank you, thank you! I knew you would understand!” “Hoity, Zircon, to the castle,” she ordered, turning her face away from the prone magistrate but still not looking up. “The ritual must commence.” “W-what ritual?” “Seppuku. I demand no less for this atrocity you committed.” Hoity looked at Rarity with his face frozen in fear. He wanted to say something to make Rarity change her mind, but words wouldn’t come. Following Zircon and the Jewel Leader, he brushed off his kimono and walked out of the castle.   -o- “What's happening to Trixie!?” she cried as she stared at her own reflection in a pond. The stories about the mutating bloodspeakers were truth, and she was witnessing them first-hoof. Her mane had changed, turning from hair to bluish fire that resembled a Will-o’-the-Wisp. It wasn’t hot and didn’t burn. She touched her face, noticing some rough areas on her skin. Looking at her reflection more closely, she could see that some parts of her body were slightly covered in scales. To make matters worse, not only she had grown fangs, but her hooves had turned into claws. Those would come in handy, though, for she had to wound herself in order to cast the tainted spells, and it was much better than having a sharp stone around. Her irises and pupils had bleached out, almost giving the impression that she was blind. “That is the prize of power, bloodspeaker,” the spirit replied from behind her. “Fear not, it means you’re doing well. It’s natural for Maho users to suffer certain... improvements.” “Improvements?! Trixie is a monster!” “Exactly, and you wanted to be feared all around Equestria. And you look intimidating now. You have what you wanted.” Trixie looked away from the pond. She knew that the spirit was right. During the course of several weeks, she had focused on mastering Maho, and the spirit had been more than willing to help her speed up the learning process. However, mutations weren’t part of the deal, or so she thought. She let out a long sigh, knowing that she was condemned to never having a normal life ever again. “I guess there’s no turning back.” “Not even death.” “Is there a way to, at least, stop mutating even further?” The spirit stared at her in silence for a moment before a smile covered his rotten face. “There is a way. There’s a shaman from faraway lands with special magic. I’ll show you the way.” Trixie followed the spirit closely, her mind overwhelmed with wonders and doubts. Remembering what she learned from the scrolls, she realized that the tainted spirit was not to be trusted in the long run. If she wanted to survive in her new form and fulfill her revenge, she needed to find a way to get rid of him as soon as she had no more use of him.   -o- That same night, in the Jewel Clan’s castle, Rarity was sitting on her throne, staring directly at Hoity, who was on his knees on the floor dressed in a white kimono. The previous prayers and ceremonies were already over, and he was holding his wakizashi with shaking hooves. Zircon was behind him, wielding a katana in his mouth. Rarity knew that it was going to be a horrible thing no matter what. If Hoity was able to perform the three slices without crying in pain, Zircon would behead him. If not, he had to be left bleed to death. Nevertheless, she hated having to take such actions, but her work was too important and Hoity had committed a terrible error. However, she knew she wouldn’t be able to watch. She prayed that Hoity would be able to stand the pain so everything would end soon. “Please, Lady Rariy,” Hoity begged without looking up, breaking the silence. “Show mercy for this humble servant of yours. Compassion is one of the pillars of Bushido.” “So is courtesy, magistrate, and you showed a lack of it back there” grunted Zircon. “Now show some courage here so we can finish. Though I’m still deciding which ending I’d prefer.” “Zircon!” Rarity scolded with a furious glare. “I understand that Big Macintosh was an old brother in arms of yours, but that’s absolutely no way to talk to a clan member!” “You’re right, Lady Rarity. My apologies.” He closed his eyes and raised the sword, ready to behead Hoity. The magistrate took a deep breath, moving the wakizashi away slowly, closing his eyes and pressing his teeth with strength. Before he plunged his stomach for the first time, Rarity turned her head away to avoid witnessing the scene.   -o- In The Lore Clan castle, Twilight was reading the scrolls about the creature she thought responsible of the abductions. During the reading, the oil lamp she was using to light the room started to run out of oil. Knowing that she would have to stay late, she got up and carried the lamp to the cupboard where she kept the oil. She blew into the lamp to extinguish the weak flames before using her magic to open the container and fill the lamp. When it was completely filled, she cast a small spark to light it on again. “Greetings, Twilight Sparkle.” A voice drifted lazily out from the shadows, making her stumble and almost drop the lamp. The Lore Clan leader turned around to see a female pegasus on the chair she was sitting on a moment ago, fumbling around with a muffin. She noticed that the mare had one eye focused on the pastry and the other one looking at her, analyzing every move. She couldn’t hide a smile when she recognized her. “Derpy Hooves, spymaster of the Rainbow Clan.” The newcomer nodded, smiling back. Derpy and Twilight had been friends for a few years, since the summoner decided to take the pegasus’ daughter as an apprentice. “Rainbow Dash offered my help to investigate these disappearances that have been taking place,” she started. “What have you found out so far, Lore Leader?” “Well, I…" Twilight felt the spymaster’s eye scanning her and couldn’t act properly. “I-I’m sorry, Derpy, but your… ahem.” The pegasus chuckled. “I know it’s hard to get used to my eyes, Lore Leader.” “Sorry, I didn’t mean to offend you.” “No problem,” she replied with a humble smile. “These beauties of mine helped me to become what I am today. But back to the point, if you don’t mind.” “Oh, right,” Twilight used her magic to spread a few scrolls and put the lamp over the table. Derpy bit into the muffin while looking at two different scrolls. "As you can see, we’ve been able to find out that the creature is a night mare. I’ve dug among some books and found that those creatures are spirits of female ponies." She pointed at one of the scrolls, which had a detailed sketch of a dark-skinned mare whose tail and mane were made of fire. ”Legends say that they were mares who died while in love. The burning passion of their love has prevented them from finding peace. They wander every corner of Equestria searching for a stallion to satisfy the desires that they couldn’t while alive.” “From what you’re telling me,” Derpy interrupted after swallowing the previous bite, “us mares have nothing to be afraid of.” “Most targets are male, yes.” “Most? So, some victims have been female ponies in the past?” “It’s not unheard of, but it’s rare.” “Do male ponies turn into... ‘night stallions’ or something?” Twilight shrugged. “I cannot be certain. Sightings of night mares are rarely documented. Witnesses report seeing a glowing light where the night mare appears. At least those who aren’t the spirit’s target.” “This picture would explain the glow the witnesses saw, having fiery mane and all,” Derpy added, scratching her head. “But you insinuated that these encounters were quite rare. Why, all of a sudden, have they become so common? I mean, we have been suffering disappearances for weeks now.” “That’s where everything goes wrong!” Twilight grunted, pointing at one of the scrolls. “It doesn’t make sense! Until this night mare, all recorded cases have only caused one disappearance.” “You mentioned that these spirits were mares that were in love but died without being loved back,” Derpy pointed out while tapping the table with her hoof. “Do you think the night mare’s targets might be the stallions they loved when they where alive?” “Maybe, or maybe she just took one randomly, but it was always just one. But now we’re losing several stallions daily!” “Mostly Imperial Guards and Apple soldiers,” confirmed Derpy. “Replacing those soldiers is giving the Apple Clan more problems in addition to what they already have.” Twilight lowered her head, with a sorrowful expression. She wondered how Big Macintosh was doing with less ponies to defend the wall. Though she remembered that Rainbow Dash and Rarity were going to send reinforcements. “Not to mention clan rivalries,” Derpy added. “Lots of ponies want to get credit for finding a solution to what’s happening now.” “Now’s not the time to think about glory or promotion!” Twilight roared, her sorrow and worry turning to anger and causing her to pound the table with both hooves. “What’s wrong with these ponies?” She breathed heavily with her eyes focused on the table. Little by little, she came back to her senses, and noticed the surprised look on Derpy’s face. “Twilight—“ “I… I’m sorry, Derpy. I hate when ponies have to see me lose my temper. I’m doing my best, but this is too much for me. Am I the only one who focuses on doing her duty, instead of looking for praises and glory?” She got up with a quick move and began pacing from one side of the room to the other. “I didn’t become the leader of the Lore Clan to be a prestigious mare, but to help to create a better empire for all of us. I already had a lot of work with the bloodspeaker rumors hanging around, and now this?” “Oh, I’m glad you mentioned that,” Derpy said as she looked for something inside her bag. “Where would that… here it is!” she announced, showing Twilight a sealed scroll. “What’s that?” “The reports concerning the rumors about blood magic you were worried about and were working on finding out.” “How did you know—” “Twilight, I’m Rainbow Dash’s personal spy and informant,” Derpy said with a smirk. “These two eyes can spot twice as much as most ponies’.” She winked at Twilight, who scratched her head with a weak chuckle as she used her magic to lift the scroll over to her. “You’re right.” “I’ve also heard some of those, but as you can read there, after the victory at the Diamond Bulwark, we haven’t heard anything about bloodspeakers anymore.” “So it’s over?” “Let’s hope so, Twilight.” “What about the night mare?” Derpy shrugged. “There are no documented cases of night mares on Cloudsdale, so the Rainbow Clan library cannot shed any light here. Aren’t there any wards or protections against them? I mean, there should be.” Twilight shook her head for a second, but suddenly widened her eyes. She returned to the table and started looking at the scrolls. “I just remembered that there was a documented case about somepony who met a night mare and didn’t disappear!” she looked for the specific scroll, moving her eyes at top speed. “Where is it? It must be... here!” She grabbed the manuscript and started searching for the part she was looking for. “Here it is! Two centuries ago, a stallion was visited by a night mare and she didn’t take him away.” “Good, we have something!” Derpy cheered. However, signs of joy in Twilight’s face vanished as she kept reading. “No, we don’t. We have no explanation or reason for why he wasn’t abducted.” “Drat, we were so close!” Derpy tapped the table with her hoof, trying to come up with something. “Hey, Twilight, do you have at least the name of that pony?” She nodded. “His name was Whirlwind. As far as I can read here, he was a student of the Twin Blades Dojo.” Derpy smirked, letting out a mild snort, "The Party Clan is full of surprises. I'm sure I can gather some information about him for you." “Thank you, Derpy;” Twilight replied, bowing slightly. “Don’t mention it. I’m indebted to you anyways. Remember that you took my little muffin as one of your students. By the way, how’s she doing?” “Oh, she’s wonderful.” Twilight gave a broad smile. Talking about something not concerning duty was a welcome break. “She’s a fast learner, and some of our highest-ranked summoners are really impressed. It’s rare to have a void summoner born out of the Lore Clan, but she’s doing a great job. I’m sure she’ll be ready for the next coming-of-age ceremony.” Derpy applauded with enthusiasm. “I’m so proud of my little Dinky! I remember that, when she was just a little filly, she already wanted to be a spy, just like her mommy.” Both mares giggled, the previous tension having disappeared, leaving two good friends talking about charming things. “She can be a spy in court,” Twilight said. “Void magic can be used to detect lies, and it’s the most subtle of all the elements. She loves the idea of following her mother’s steps, so she’ll do a marvelous job.” “You know? I’ve always wondered something. May I ask you a weird question?” Twilight lifted an eyebrow, leaning forward to get closer to Derpy. “Sure, we have to wait for the new reports to come, so I can spare some time.” “Have you ever…” she started, moving her hoof in circles, giving the impression that she was looking for a certain way to ask. “Have you ever considered the idea of having a foal?” It would appear that Twilight had been frozen into a statue, if it wasn't for the constant blinking of her eyes and the rise and wall of her chest. “Twilight, are you okay?” Derpy asked, breaking the uncomfortable silence that had sprouted. “Y-yes, yes, I’m fine, sorry, I just-” “No, no, I’m the one who should apologize, it was a rude question.” “No, it’s not that,” Twilight said hastily. “It’s just that… I have never thought about it.” Derpy smirked while tapping on the table. “Well, that’s weird.” “What do you mean?” “Not even once? Never thought about the idea of having a young foal of your own flesh and blood who to teach what you know?” “I…” Twilight lowered her head with her eyes closed. “I don’t remember having that feeling, ever. Is that bad, Derpy?” “No, no, not at all,” Derpy replied, trying to cheer Twilight up. “I was just curious. I know I gave birth to Dinky when I was still quite young myself, but most mares I know have thought about it.” Twilight let out a sorrowful sigh. “Perhaps my duty and studies kept me from thinking about those kinds of things.” “Perhaps.” Somepony knocked on the door, breaking the comfortable aura that had invaded the room. Twilight apologized and trotted towards it, opening the door with her magic. “Sorry, Twilight,” murmured Spike, who she noticed was holding a scroll in his hand. “I hope I’m not interrupting anything.” “Don’t worry, Spike. I was just talking with Derpy here.” “Derpy?” he asked, lifting an eyerbrow and looking inside the room. Where? “She’s right… there?” She looked back to see that the room was completely empty aside from herself and the scroll-covered table. She let out a short sigh and shook her head weakly and turned back to Spike. “Never mind that. What brings you here?” “Oh, right, I saw a weird pony back there. She seemed lost and asked me to help her, though when I approached her, she ran away.” “That’s odd. How was she like?” “Well, she was black coated and had a—” “Fiery mane?!” finished Twilight in disbelief. “Do you know her?” he asked surprised. “And you weren’t surprised about her having a mane made of living fire?” “Well, at first I was, but then I noticed that she was a spirit, so I guessed that was natural and all.” “Not a single scream of terror or anything?!” “I love how much trust you put in your personal bodyguard and Inquisitor’s courage,” Spike joked, crossing his arms in front of him with an amused smile. “I saw quite a few things during my pilgrimage, a ghost is not even among the most horrible things I’ve seen.” “Okay, tough guy, now’s not the time,” scolded Twilight with a playful smirk. “What happened, why did she run away?” “Beats me. The first minute she walks towards me begging for help in a seductive way, the next one she runs away from me as if I were Discord.” “That doesn’t make any sense.” Twilight turned and walked back inside the room, followed closely by Spike, who closed the door behind him. “What clues do you have?” “Only Pinkie’s riddle back at the meeting.” “Can we trust that?” “She was really scary back there, like being possessed or something. She has a gift for prophecies.” Spike chucked weakly. “Okay, I’ve been thinking about that one.” “Really? And what have you found out?” she asked, turning at him with expectant eyes, only to frown at Spike’s shrug. “Not much, Twilight. It’s complicated, but one thing’s for sure; it cannot be something material. Not an object of any kind.” “What do you have there?” She noticed that Spike was holding a scroll in his left hand. “Oh, this?” he asked, passing the scroll to her. “It’s a letter from the Apple Clan. The messenger  didn’t seem to be in such a hurry, he said they had the situation under control”. “Let me see.” Twilight unrolled the scroll and started reading it. She could see the message was clear and directly to the point. “It’s definitely a night mare,” she announced with a broad smile. “Big Macintosh saw her and wasn’t abducted.” She had a relieved tone when saying that last sentence. “It also says here that Sweetie Belle solved Pinkie’s riddle.” “What was Sweetie Belle doing at the Diamond Bulwark?” “I don’t know, but Celestia bless her. This could save countless lives in the future! Okay, let’s see, the answer to the riddle is… love?” Spike scratched his chin looking up at the ceiling. “Makes sense to me when you think about it,” he admitted. “Love is stronger than iron chains, can withstand famine, wars, plagues. Everypony wants it, but it is given freely no matter who you are! It makes perfect sense!” “But why fighting her with love?” Twilight wouldn’t look up. “Hmm maybe a couple who are in love can challenge her? I’m not really sure either.” Big Macintosh loves somepony, wondered Twilight, ignoring Spike’s theories. Could that mean that he still… he still loves me? After all these years... She kept reading the scroll until she reached a part where they asked her to go to the wall. Apparently Big Macintosh had a plan. “So what do you think about it, Twilight?” He looked at Twilight to see her mumbling in a low voice. ”Twilight?” “After all these years…” She looked up with a sincere smile, despite having closed her eyes to hid the tears threatening to spill. “Twilight, are you okay?” he asked with concern, kneeling to her height. She jumped towards him and gave him a strong hug, letting out a few sobs. “I’m great, Spike. I… I’ve received the best news they could give me. A beacon of happiness in a sour, dark ocean.” “But what is it?” She didn’t answer his question, but released him from the hug and galloped towards the door. Stopping at the doorway, she turned around and dedicated a few words to his bodyguard while her horn glowed fiercely. “Follow your dreams, Spike. No matter what you do, no matter the obstacles. Sooner or later, you’ll get them. If you love somepony, don’t let fears turn you away. I’ll be back.”