//------------------------------// // Prologue - Abdication // Story: The Light of the four // by hoodedfigurine //------------------------------// 24th of the season of Luna -- 25 AE “To all whom it may concern It is with a heavy heart that I speak to you now, but the events that have brought terrible hardship to us all whether directly or indirectly weighs heavily on me, thus I have concluded drastic measures must be taken to ensure this cataclysm ends and the wounds scarring the land and indeed its people be given the chance to heal; therefore, with immediate effect I rescind my claim to the throne. With my abdication, I abolish all positions and titles I have held and as my final act I order the city-wide evacuation of the capital city of Canterlot to the neighbouring empire in the frozen north. I feel the little magic left in the land wax and wane, I fear it won’t be enough to support Canterlot for much longer. It may seem like I’m abandoning you in these perilous times, I would not blame you for believing it, do not be disheartened, I assure you I have read every book in every ruined, frozen, burnt out library and sought out the wisest of creatures. I know now what I must do, I do not know how long I will be gone, but when I return I will bring tomorrow with me. In my stead I leave His Royal Highness Prince Shining Amour in command, his expertise in times of war and hardship will serve you well and to those with the freedom from burdens, with the strength and the will to assist I humbly request you report to what’s left of the armoury to await orders. Preparations have been made for the exodus, but we are underequipped, undermanned and underprepared. I will not lie to you it will be a long, difficult and dangerous trek, but your safety is of paramount interest. There is little alternative, but those wishing to stay behind on their own terms, no one will stop you. Stick close to your loved ones, take care of the weak the vulnerable and together we may yet see a brighter dawn. May the four smile down upon you. Good luck” Former prince and protector of the Realm of Equestria Spike the Dragon -------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- He took a deep breath in and with a flash of heat and an unmistakable green glow the letter was nothing but ash floating in the air on its way to anyone and everyone. Stepping out onto the balcony the dragon looked up at the twilight glowing softly in the sky. “I will find you, I promise I will find you all.”