//------------------------------// // Hope/Fear And Other Afflictions Of The Mind // Story: Long Live The King // by Morpheus Sandman //------------------------------// If the Crystal Empire was the heart of Equestria than Canterlot would be its mind. Built into the mountainside the royal sisters ruled from Canterlot Castle from the highest peak. They served Equestrians benevolently and as princesses strived to perform their duty to teach ponies and lead them to betterment. In this regard, no one ruled better than Princess Celestia. Her sister, Princess Luna, would be a close second, if not her equal. Celestia had sent for Luna to see her out on the balcony that overlooked the royal castle gardens. “Sister?” Princess Luna, sovereign of the Moon and curator of the night came out of the castle and onto the balcony. Together, the alicorns had previously just finished the Sun and Moon movements for the final time that day. The Sun had been sent on its path of descending from the sky and the Moon was beginning to shyly peek over the mountain view, colouring the land in golden hues. Fireflies, glowed yellow light, could be spotted fluttering throughout the garden; probable seeking a fellow comrade to have a conversation with. Celestia was deep in thought as she scanned the letter in front of her. Sensing her sister’s approach Celestia turned and levitated the letter over to Luna to read. Luna read and was immediately mimicking her sister’s concerned expression. The letter was dishevelled and hastily written but evident the letter was from Spike about Twilight Sparkle having been abducted. A frown creased Luna’s forehead. “We cannot allow a day to go by while Sombra gathers his strength.” She announced rolling the parchment back up with her magic. Princess Celestia, sovereign of the Sun and curator of the day, said with an air of peace and humility. “Sister, come with me. I want your insight on something.” She pasted Luna’s side and trotted back inside the keep Curiously, Luna follower her sister as they walked slowly to the highest tower of the Canterlot castle that served as an observation deck. Here they could view each town and village in Equestria. Luna felt anxious for the whole walk there. Celestia nodded to the large telescope stationed on the balcony. Luna walked over and spied into the viewing piece. Celestia waited for a moment before asking. “What do you think?” Luna pursed her lips. “Peculiar, at best.” She turned one of the many nozzles of the telescope to refocus the view. “I don’t think I’ve seen such a large one like this before. Not since Cadance’s and Shining Armour’s wedding day.” The telescope was aimed to the north. To the north was the Crystal Empire. In the golden hue of the twilight night, clear as clean water, a greyish dome stood out around the empire. “Some form of containment field. To keep things in and others out. Much like Prince Shining Armour’s own shield,” Celestia explained. Luna shook her head. “I can not guess as to what a monster like Sombra is planning at this time. Only that whatever the end is, it will do no good for Equestria.” Celestia nodded silently. “But still it is strange,” She paused for a moment gathering her thoughts. “With Sombra’s power and ability to influence the Crystal Heart he could easily turn Equestria into a state of fear and panic.” Luna hummed. “Perhaps the shielding is a faust, a distraction? During his long time banishment maybe he has forgotten how to influence the Crystal Heart?” “That would be hoping for too much, I feel. If Twilight’s report on the situation is to be believed. When Sombra reappeared with the Crystal Empire he still had a fair amount of aptitude to manipulating crystals with his dark magic. Thus I am certain he still can influence the power of Crystal Heart. “The situation is different from the first time we faced him. I believe he’s fortifying his defences and preparing for whatever plan he has in mind before enacted it.” Celestia predicated. “You’re right.” Luna nodded and flapped her wings and perched on the railings ready to accelerate towards the Crystal Empire with fierce determination in her eyes. Her horn rippled with a nightly glow, barding appearing around her frontal half as dark as the night. A larger than pony sized scythe heavily fell onto the railing, balanced against Luna’s wing. “What are we waiting for sister? Let us end this tonight!” Luna said exasperatedly noticing Celestia had not moved an inch to join her. Luna could see inscribed on her sister’s face an air of caution and concern. Luna too the large weapon, the head facing against her flank, under her wing and stepped down from the railings and stood to face her sister. “I don’t understand. Why don’t we just don’t go face him directly. We can not leave the citizens of the Crystal Empire to torment.” She said with hint of sadness and desperation in her voice. Celestia’s body sagged. She shook her head. “We cannot risk unknowingly walking into one of his traps either.” Luna raised a brow skeptically and said in a rampant, grave concern. “The longer we wait is not a great plan either. What of the subjects of the Crystal Empire? We can not leave them to be bound to Sombra and be his playthings. He will be weak now. No feeble unicorn conjured trap could hold us. Even for Sombra’s ability, it will merely be another troublesome obstacle to overcome.” She finished, cutting the air in front of herself with a hoof. Celestia regarded her sister’s words, her eyes closed and head slowly waving back and forth. “It’s true. His imprisonment among the crystals of the Crystal Prison would of kept leaching his magic.” She paused, looking towards the sky. “He is unlike any unicorn I’ve ever seen...do you remember? Luna, the time we faced Sombra to bring an end to his spree of fear and hatred?” “How could I forget.” Luna said fiercely. The millennium old event danced about in the two sister’s minds. What stood out in the memory was the lifeless, forlorn gaze of their subjects under the guise of Sombra’s influence. Sombra’s hold over the Crystal Heart disrupted the harmony of the land. Instead of peace and unity alive in the hearts of ponies instead fear and hatred boiled. “It was a trying time for everypony.” Celestia gazed seriously to the north. “Sombra may be weak against us both physically and magically but against normal ponies - he can easily still harm them.” Two brights stars emerged in the darkening sky. Each one twinkled in Celestia’s eyes beckoning to see things unclouded by shadow. “Then what should we do?” Luna asked having quickly composed herself from her own dark memories. “We hold onto hope Luna.” Celestia turned to Luna, smiling in her warm demeanor that comforted against the dark clouds of doubt and lifted spirits like they were a loose feather in the wind. “Twilight Sparkle has bested Sombra and his traps once already, nary a pony suffered. I have faith that she can do so again.” Luna looked sullenly. “So, we do nothing. Place all our bits on Twilight and hope for the best?” Celestia took two steps forward and rubbed her cheek against her sister’s. “No. Against Sombra we must be ready with all options available. Come morning I shall ask the attendance of all the heads of the royal guard. Our first priority is the rescue of the crystal ponies within Sombra’s grasp. Without them Sombra has nopony to feed emotions to the heart.” She said seriously. Celestia started back inside to the castle keep, her mood lifted slightly. “But first we should meet our guests. Twilight’s friends should be arriving soon.” She smiled knowingly what her sister’s reaction would be. “Then we shall meet and greet them with post-haste and good cheer.” Luna beamed. That thought pushed aside the worrying ones. She was always excited to mingle with friends. Celestia smiled amusingly. They meet with Twilight’s comrades in the royal throne room. At this time of the night Luna’s own night guard had taken over from Celestia’s day guard. As the castle darkened fireflies came inside to mingle together in the lanterns scored throughout the castle. Where there were no firefly homes, oil lamps burnt throughout the night. The throne room was empty of everyone else save for the royal sisters. Until three ponies and a dragon; Rainbow Dash, Rarity, Fluttershy, and Spike the dragon, entered into the room after Celestia bade the guards to let them in. “My little ponies, welcome. I hope you trip was uneventful and comfortable?” Celestia asked. “Oh, of course your royal highnesses. Most comfortable and not so uneventful…,” The unicorn, Rarity, said bowing extravagantly to the royalty. She still managed to give Rainbow Dash a quick stink eye from this position. “What?” Rainbow Dash said dispassionately. The pegasus had hovered into the room and remained midair. The raucous event of Rainbow Dash seeing how fast she could dash from one end of the train to the other still fresh in Rarity’s mind and windswept mane. She did it as a warm up for facing Sombra. “...but we are here now.” Rarity finished as she stood back up. Luna noticed the presession was lacking to what she was expecting. “Where is the rest of the usual following?” Speaking up, the yellow pegasus, Fluttershy, said. “Oh, umm. Applejack is in Appleloosa for a farming convention. Pinkie Pie went with her for support.” “No matter. You are here to discuss Twilight’s recent abduction.” Luna talked on. Four heads nodded. “Some of us decided it would be best to seek your advice on the current situation.” Rarity said passing accusing eyes over to Rainbow Dash. Rainbow's eyes fluttered to look at the far more interesting ceiling. “Princess Celestia what are we going to do? Twilight’s been pony-napped by Sombra!” Spike burst hysterically, jumping onto Celestia’s leg. He looked up at her pleadingly, little pools of tears on the edges of his eyes threatening to break free and pour out at any moment. Celestia brought her other hoof around Spike’s shoulder and nuzzled him. “Your worry is not unfounded Spike.” Celestia said. She picked Spike up off her leg and placed him back in front of her. “It wouldn’t be right to ask you, as friends of Twilight, not to worry.” Celestia looked at the ponies and dragon. “But unfortunately I must ask you this; to do something more difficult…” Everyone held their breath unabated. “...to do nothing.” Everyone gasped and stared in disbelief. Luna eyed her sister curiously. “As a master of mind manipulation, risking an Element of Harmony to him would be a dangerous situation to find ourselves in. Which is why Twilight is among our initial priority.” Rainbow, Rarity and Spike were about to interject but Celestia cut them off with a sweep of her hoof. She explained herself. “At this moment the Crystal Empire is inaccessible. Sombra has established a magically shield, no doubt making it so nopony can enter or leave the domain of the empire. He has essentially put himself into a corner. One which we can watch him and be ready for when he does makes his move. This ideal situation Luna and I plan on making the best of... ” “What? Wait! No way. We can’t just bird watch someone as dangerous as Sombra,” Rainbow Dash was ready to unleash some pent-up energy. She flapped her wings audibly to keep herself in mid-air and at eye level to Princess Celestia. “Oh. B-But what about those poor ponies trapped there? I bet they’re just miserable having to live with Sombra watching their every move.” Fluttershy said. “This is truly awful. How can we possibly help save Twilight if we don’t do anything to help her?” Rarity said. “The Princess may be right…,” everyone turned to see Spike. He had already came across a problem in his anxious mind-worrying state on the train ride over. “We don’t even know Sombra, what he’s like, what he’s not like. How are we meant to face a pony who’s said to be fear itself?” A twinkle of a star lit up in Luna’s eyes. “But we do.” The two princesses of Equestria stood stoic and unmoving. Their audiences’ eyes widened in sudden realisation. “We know what he’s like and what his biggest weakness is.” Luna smugly grinned, post-triumphant confidence in her voice. “Sombra is a perfectionist - unable to let others take control of certain matters. He always has a hoof in everything and keeps himself constantly busy. With his return he’ll be unavoidably busy establishing his own sense of order in the Crystal Empire before he tries anything extravagant. This will give us ample time to find a way past his shield to rescue Twilight and bring her back to us. Once she is back and safe can we focus on extraditing Sombra.” This new information caught the friends by surprise. “How will even rescue the crystal ponies though? They don’t really have that get up and go spirit with Sombra in there heads.” Spike asked. Princess Luna hummed. “This is where the Crystal Heart comes into play and a major failing on Sombra’s part. His spell, I would say, is flawed. When he first appeared in Equestria his spell was truly devastating, covering the whole land and causing ponies to fear. But the outcome had not gone fully to plan as Sombra had wished.” Celestia continued. “While, true, Sombra become more powerful with each new pony ensured in terror. The psychological effect of the spell on ponies isn't what he had originally planned. Equestrian’s walked about as in a daze; husks of their former selves - fearful and confused as to what their purpose was or how to function normally. Only from a outside prompt would these ponies attempt to do anything at all.” Rainbow Dash’s face was all scrunched up processing exactly what was being said. “So, like, they’re a puppet pony, or something?” “That would be an apt description.” Luna nodded. “Many smaller towns and villages fell into disrepair. The pegasus controlled weather was also a large problem. Unattended rain clouds flooded some parts of the land. Crops withered…” Celestia’s train of thought down memory lane stopped her abruptly, her chin drooped, almost touching her collar bone. Luna stepped closer to her sisters and lifted Celestia’s chin with her own muzzle and smiled gently at her. Celestia’s small frown wound back up to her usually soft smile. “So Sombra plus Crystal Heart equals bad times for everypony.” Rainbow Dash surmised, flapping her wings heavily in mid-air. Her anxiousness still wanted her to take some action immediately rather than wait around for something to happen. Some of that action seeking anxiousness had washed onto Rarity as well. “Surely we can be of some use here Princesses? Twilight is our friend.” Celestia regained the little composure she’d lost. “Our priority is the safety of the ponies in the Crystal empire, Twilight included. Just like in it’s original state the Crystal Heart is powered by the ponies around it. With them out of the picture the effect of Sombra’s spell will be significantly reduced to almost nothing. I feel this matter can be handle appropriately by the Canterlot royal guard.” The friends of Twilight Sparkle wore concerned expressions for her. Celestia took a moment for herself to regard the matter. Sombra had abducted Twilight Sparkle but the reason for that was unknown. With no word from either Princess Cadance and Prince Shining Armour it was likely they were being held prisoner to prevent them from taking action against him. Celestia surmised it had something to do with Twilight’s part in restoring the Crystal Empire. Revenge maybe? Celestia didn’t want to think of the nightmares and brainwashing Sombra could curse Twilight with; but the negative thought came to bear terrible images all too easy. Like a painting that never dried, cold to the touch, and seemed to sweat perspiration; the image of Sombra dominating Equestria was more frightful than Celestia could imagine. Yet there was still that glimmer of hope. “I have faith that Twilight is strong enough to handle herself, even against Sombra at his best. This is why I don’t wish for too many ponies to get involved. It is a mission that requires a few and to use stealth and incognito to our advantage.” Celestia spoke out loud. “Swift like the eagle capturing its prey.” Luna grinned. The room visibly relaxed but still an inkling of concern hanged by a thread. Sure, Twilight Sparkle; Princess of Friendship, went toe to toe with the powerful Tirek from Tartarus but this wasn’t a question of raw physical strength or magical prowess. This was King Sombra. Wherever he walked he was backed by the illusions of fear. Supposedly in the darker days Sombra had plans within plans; tactful and cunning as they were deceptive. His mastery of the dark arts, brainwashing and control of emotions of other ponies had been unheard before, or even after, his time. There wasn’t a creature alive that hadn’t been affected. Thankful or not, the true depth of his deception never came to fruition. The Princesses saw to that. The moment Celestia took to wonder her thoughts passed silently. When it didn’t look likely she would continue, Luna said. “Sombra is weak at this time. The best course of action is to free who we can from the Crystal Empire before he is strong enough to channel his spell to cover the whole of Equestria.” Celestia was brought out of her reverie and stared at her sister. “Luna…,” She said in a weary tone. “Today, Celestia and I will call to action the heads of the royal guard.” Luna didn’t hear her sister and talked over her. “If you wish to join the expedition I am sure the Elements of Harmony are welcomed to do so.” She shot a steely glance at her sister. To which she simply nodded, conceding to the fact even if she told Twilight’s friends not to go to Crystal Empire they would disobey even a order from the princess to rescue their dear friend. Celestia sighed. “Very well, if you four would like to assist in this mission, I will allow it.” She then looked sternly at them. “But avoid Sombra. He is not a pony to be taken lightly.” Rainbow Dash pumped the air with a hoof, seemingly unconcerned. She was happy and energised that there was going to be some action, even it was tomorrow. “Alright! I can’t wait to see the look on Sombra’s face when we kidnap back Twilight and the crystal ponies right under his nose.” “W-we’re not kidnapping Twilight though, are we?” Fluttershy stuttered. “No, of course no dear.” Rarity smiled to her. Fluttershy was always so kind and caring that the thought of kidnapping back Twilight probable sounded like a rough way to go about it. “We’re going to rescue her from that brute and see her home safe and sound.” “Yeah! Then we can sock that creep right in the nose with the elements.” Rainbow Dash said showing off her haymaker. Fluttershy squeaked, ducking the wild hoof. Even thinking about Sombra was scary enough but to face him directly, in real life, that was even more scary. “What are you talking about Rainbow Dash?” Spike asked, standing alongside Fluttershy as he patted her mane reassuringly. “You guys don’t have the Elements of Harmony anymore, right? And that thing where you all went rainbowfied against Tirek was a one off thing, wasn’t it?” Rainbow stared off into space as she landed next to Rarity, pondering this thought. They had had always had the Elements, magically artifacts, as a means of opposing anarchy and danger. But with the most powerful artifacts in the land embedded in a tree; the Tree of Harmony, it was highly unlikely that they would be able to use them again. “We may not have the Elements but we have each other and if we have each other to rely on there’s nothing we can’t do.” Rarity said determinedly. She turned to see Rainbow nod firmly in agreement. “Just don’t forget to be on your guard Rainbow.” Rarity’s tone changed. “Remember Twilight told us about that door that showed you your greatest fear?” “Traps smaps I say.” Rainbow Dash instantly rebutted returning to her mid air hovering. “Anything that boozo can unleash I’ll just dash circles around it.” She shrugged. “And what if he can do what somepony like Discord can do, hmm? And magic away your wings with a snap of his claws? You’ll dash right to the ground.” Rarity retorted hotly. Rainbow Dash deflated a little and glided back down to solid ground folding her wings at her sides. She hadn’t thought of that. She wouldn’t be much use to her friends if she couldn’t use her wings and speed to her advantage. The lull in conversation was broken with a large pop and prismatic display of colours. Discord, Lord of Chaos appeared. “You called?” Rainbow Dash had already dived and ducked behind Fluttershy from what she would say was a large explosion of fireworks ready to singe her hair. Gasps reverberated around the throne room. Fluttershy’s expression had lightened up happily to see Discord once again. “Discord?” Celestia looked bewildered. “Celestia.” Discord said matter of factly. “Discord!” Luna said disapprovingly. “Luna?” Discord said mocking shame. “Discord!” Rainbow Dash, Rarity, and Spike gasped. “Girls!” Discord said cheerfully. Opening his arms welcomingly to them. “You’re back!” Fluttershy cheered, jumping up and gliding into Discord’s embrace. “...oh and Spike, of course.” Discord said pointing a talon at the pint-sized dragon as he held Fluttershy with his lion-pawed appendage. “Silent!” Luna quaked. Secretly nursing a beginning headache. Fluttershy slipped down silently off of Discord seeing Princess Luna looked angry. “I’m sorry dear, what was that?” Discord said as he plucked two large pink cotton candy buds out of his ears. “Hey! Watch where you're appearing out of nowhere, mister! And no, I didn’t call.” Rainbow Dash said, flying up to Discord’s eye level and poked him in the snout. Discord scrunched his nose and clicked his talons. Rainbow Dash collapsed to the ground; her wings nowhere in sight. She quickly realized the absent feeling and sensation of new skin where her wings would be on her shoulders. “Hey! Give those back.” Rainbow Dash shook an angry hoof at Discord. “What do we owe the pleasure?” Rarity couldn’t hide the showing sound of disdain in her voice. “Why I am surprised. A friend in need is a friend in deed.” Discord clicked his talon and Rarity immediately stood with a large poofy dress on. The colour selection alone was a fashion crime, causing her to spring into a faint. Luckily, Spike was there to catch her before the floor did. “See now the fashion conscious one has a brand new dress to meet the Princesses.” Discord stood triumphantly. “What a friend I am,” he waggled his bushy white eyebrows to no one in particular. “Discord!” Fluttershy yelled, which was at a normal speaking level for most ponies. “Stop that and give back Rainbow’s wings.” Discord grumbled, deflating at Fluttershy for telling him off. “Oh, alright Fluttershy.” He clicked his talons to reverse the effects he put into play. Rainbow Dash hugged one of her wings joyfully. Rarity regained her leggings with the help of Spike and tried to wash away the insult to her eyes and memory. She regained her poise with a slight clearing of her throat. “You know we’re here to resolve how to save Twilight,” Spike stated to Discord. “O-ho Twilight! Of course!” Discord burst out giddily. “Like I said: Twilight’s most recent abduction would suggest she needs a friend right now. Who better than me to gallantly save the young princess?” Discord smiled smugly. Rarity and Rainbow scoffed. He lifted his goat leg to rest across his lizard leg and began to levitate between the two groups of ponies. He relaxed in this position with his arms behind his head. “Discord.” Luna stepped forward away from her sister’s side. “This is no trifling matter. Sombra is a formidable opponent; cunning as he is strong.” “Ooh, pish posh Princess.” Discord mocked. “Just let me check my calendar…,” a pair of glasses appeared on the end of his snout and he made a calendar out of thin air. “Why yes, I do seem to be free at the moment to lend a claw, if I so happen to want to, that is.” “Well, less you can magic Twilight out of the Crystal Empire, I’m not holding my breath.” Rainbow Dash jeered. “Say no more.” Discord’s glasses and calendar popped out of existence hence they came. He readied his body’s position to click his talon. He clicked them. But nothing happened. “Hmm. Let me try the other one.” He clicked his paw instead. With nothing happening again he checked all the sides of his talon and paw examining them for flaws. When they didn’t reveal anything new to him he pulled them off his wrists to look inside of them. “While we are grateful for the unexpected help from you Discord - the Crystal Empire is protected by a shield. As it seems now, nothing can get in, and nothing can get out; magic or otherwise.” Celestia said. “Hmpt. What a party pooper,” Discord limbs rejoined the rest of him and he resigned himself to relaxing back, floating in mid-air. “Well that was a bust.” Rainbow Dash said, hoping that help from the draconequus would resolve the issue of Twilight’s abduction immediately. “Now what?” Celestia noted out of the corner of her eye that the sun had truly set and nighttime was taking place. “I suggest you all rest up for now. There will be a long day to have tomorrow if you all decide to leave.” Celestia said. Each pony agreed and emptied the throne room. All except one. “Hey! But I just got here.” The room was silent save for Discord’s own mutterings. In Celestia’s private room she sat penning in a notice to her royal aide to clear her non-urgent items from the schedule for tomorrow and make time for a meeting with the royals guards. She scribed it quickly and sent it on its way in a glimmer of her golden magic. “Sister?” Three short taps knocked at her door. “Come in.” Luna walked sorely into the room. Her face a clear expressions of concern. She sought Celestia’s gaze expressing a question to her silently. Celestia’s eyes wandered for a moment and she gave Luna an answer by nodding. Celestia got up from her desk and Luna stepped forward and embraced her sister. “Sombra is no normal unicorn,” Luna stated. “He is a monster,” Celestia said quietly. Luna looked at her sister’s face witnessing a moist shine in her eyes. “Is this why you gave me that look before? You don’t wish for the bearers of the Elements of Harmony to go up against him?” Celestia sighed. “I do not wish that upon any pony Lulu.” She withdraw from Luna’s embrace to stare intently at a crystal that stood stationed to one side of her desk. Luna could tell her sister had got into a depressed state. She decided she would stay with her for a long as it took to get her out of it. “The ponies will be saved. This time Sombra will be cast off this plane. For good.” Luna stared at her sister’s severe expression. She didn’t know what to say to her and tried to will her thoughts to change Celestia’s despondent state. “I still have it, you know.” Celestia said abruptly, through closed eyes “A fallen star?” Luna said in a hushed tone. Celestia opened her eyes again her pupils dilated. “W-why?” She knew exactly what Celestia was hinting at. “We never got the chance to see if it would work.” Celestia said grimly. “I hope we still won’t have to resort to using it. But...with the Elements of Harmony gone and the Crystal Heart in our enemy’s hand...” Luna shook her head. “We will not have to. We didn’t before and we will not now.” She stepped forward trying to pull Celestia’s attention away from the crystal. “Those dark days are behind us sister. Come morning when our ponies wake we will prepare them for what is to come if and when we can not prevent the Monster’s spell from infecting the land .” Luna made contact with Celestia’s eyes, though she didn’t look her way, and tried to reassure her older sibling with a steady and unwavering expression. Celestia’s breath was heavy as she stared at the unmoving crystal. Luna pursed her lips, undecided of what to say next. She instead roped her forelegs around her sister's neck to hug her gently. “Yet...it is strange.” Celestia said, still staring at the crystal. “‘Tia?” Luna watched the side of Celestia’s face. “That thing. He could shroud Equestria in a state of unrest and unhappiness with the help of the Crystal Heart in a single moment. Yet...we’ve never been able discern why he wishes for such a dreadful thing.” “Because he is a monster.” Celestia shuddered. It was a unique feat to corrupt the Crystal Heart. She felt assured that Sombra could, at any time, his will wanting, to unleash his curse throughout Equestria. While she was relieved that that terrible event had not suddenly occurred she felt apprehensive that at any moment that terrible event would happen. Celestia’s expression dropped to a tired state. Noticing this Luna stepped back down to four hooves and went to draw back the sheets of Celestia bed. “Rest Tia.” Luna asked nicely. “I shall guard the night and wake you if anything changes.” She left to leave her sister to get some much needed sleep. Come morning. It was good to have Spike around when it came to Canterlot. Rainbow Dash, Rarity and Fluttershy had been a bit stuck as to where they were going to stay for night. Luckily, Spike had organised everything and was able to procure rooms in the castle where important guests would usually stay. The castle attendants of course recognised Spike and were happy to help the little dragon out. Rarity was an early riser. She sat at a vanity desk brushing her mane. She sat the brush down and sighed. She recalled Spike bursting into her boutique the previous day panting heavily. She had swiftly gathered together Rainbow Dash and Fluttershy and recounted the details that Spike had told her to them. Rarity sifted through her small carry bag one more time that she managed to snag up with her in the rush to get the train from Ponyville to Canterlot. She pushed aside her mascara pen and skin foundation. A train that would leave from Ponyville station to Canterlot was scheduled to leave promptly after hearing about Twilight’s kidnapping from Spike. There was of course, no time to lose; Twilight’s life could be at stake. Though Rarity still felt a pang of regret for not being able to gather more essential items to upkeep her appearance. She at least still had the basics. Lip balm, skin moisturizer, skin foundation, 3-1 clear coat products, facial cleanser, eye makeup remover, mascara pen and sunscreen; and the all-important, never leave home without, anti-aging night cream. Every bag in her home had a small bottle of it, so she never forgot it. Rarity calmly breathed in and out, putting her own worries away about herself and focused on the reason she was here. She lightly tapped her mane, bouncing it in her hoof; it still held its glamour and curved shape. Rarity smiled, that would have to do. She left her room to go see Fluttershy who she knew was also an early riser. As Rarity left her room she heard someone grunting from across the hallway. “One, two...one, two.” “Rainbow Dash, is that you darling?” Rarity asked to the door. The door burst open, inwardly. The smell of sweat extended an assault onto Rarity’s nostrils. “Pah! Rainbow...you smell.” She said, quickly protecting her sinuses by holding a hoof over her nose. “Well duh, I’ve been working out.” Rainbow said, as if it was the most obvious thing in the world. She flapped her wings. “Got to get these babies warmed up and ready to rescue some crystal ponies, you know.” Rarity winced as Rainbow’s sweat propelled past her face from the beat of her wings. “I was just going to see Fluttershy to remind her that we should meet the Princess sometime this afternoon to see when would be the most appropriate time to venture to the Crystal Empire.” “What for? It’s not like we need permission to put a hoof outside the front door.” “No. But this is a matter that concerns the whole of Equestria Rainbow. I doubt you or many other ponies know how to get through a magical shield. We need to make sure that if and when we get there we can actually get into the empire.” Rarity explained, almost sternly. Much to Rainbow’s chagrin. Rarity proceeded over to Fluttershy’s neighbouring door. She knocked. She turned and raised a questioning glance at Rainbow Dash. “Are you going to bathe?” She asked. “What for?” Rarity rolled her eyes. Fluttershy had been awake most of the morning. She laid in bed staring up at the ceiling. Her nervousness of having to go to the Crystal Empire, now a visage of nightmares, kept her mind alert. “Don’t be such a scaredy-cat Fluttershy. We can do this. For Twilight’s sake.” She encouraged herself. Her body jerked unexpectedly. A sudden knock at the door caused her to squeak and retreat under the bed’s blanket. “Oh!” Fluttershy realized it was just someone at the door and felt a bit silly. “Just a moment.” She called as she got out of bed to open the door. Rarity and Rainbow Dash came into the bedroom. “Good morning, dear. I am glad to see you are awake.” “I didn’t sleep very well last night.” Fluttershy said in her usual quiet voice, looking crestfallen. Having had many conversations with Fluttershy in the past Rarity could clearly make out what Fluttershy had said. “Dear, you are not still worrying are you?” “A little, yes.” Fluttershy said, looking upward from the floor. Rainbow exclaimed a noise of disbelief. “Pft.” She spatted. “Come on Fluttershy.” She grabbed Fluttershy by the shoulders and straightened out her posture; hovering almost at eye-level. “Who’s going to hoof-it to mister tall, dark and gruesome?” Rainbow winked at her encouragingly. “Umm…” Fluttershy was confused as to the who, or what, Rainbow was suddenly referring to but made a guess that it was probable Sombra. “...the Princesses?” Rainbow dashed put a hoof to her forehead. “I suppose, but that’s not who I was getting at.” She made a repeating pointing motion at Fluttershy, Rarity, and herself. “Oh? We are?” Fluttershy asked, unsurely. “You beat we are! He won't know his back hooves from his front once I whizz on into the empire and save all the crystal ponies.” Rainbow boasted. “Then we get Applejack and Pinkie, find Twilight, and go all friendship is magic on his sorry flank.” Rainbow Dash landed back to the ground and extended a hoof in a arc in front of herself. “I can see it now. Crowds cheering. A hero’s praise. My stunt of rescuing the crystal ponies so fast and so awesome it will be reported all across Equestria.” Rarity rolled her eyes, shook her head, and smiled at the back of Rainbow as she described her dream of joining the Wonderbolts; Equestria’s exclusive aerial acrobatic team. Fluttershy also giggled warmly at this, her worries subsiding to Rainbow’s antics. “So, what should we do for the morning?” Fluttershy asked Rarity, since Rainbow Dash was off in another world; hoping one day her future world would be her today world. “We don’t have much in the way of supplies or the like. So we should ask Spike if he could help us find what we need to travel out to the Crystal Empire, before we find the Princess again.” Rainbow spun around to the duo and hovered closer to them. “Then what are waiting for? Let's do it.” Rarity lifted her hoof, to pause Rainbow. “First, bath. I do not wish to be seen by important ponies with you looking like you just participating in a rodeo.” As Rarity talked she walked out of the room with Rainbow Dash following along. She stopped at the door to Rainbow’s room and motioned for her to go inside. Rainbow slowly flapped her wings and they pushed her along into the bedroom and into the room’s en suite. With Rainbow Dash taken care of and Fluttershy getting herself ready for the morning Rarity went to see if Spike would join her out in Canterlot to get supplies for their journey. Elsewhere in one of the furthest ends of the castle Princess Celestia and Princess Luna awaited for the remaining heads of the royal guard to attend the meeting for the morning. Though Luna was feeling tired having been awake for over a day she didn’t show any outward signs of fatigue. The dank room was small and spotless of any furniture. A spartan room where guards were briefed with their daily tasks. It’s only defining feature was a large hearth that roared a hearty life into the room and a podium for holding papers. It was usual routine for the guards to meet here first thing in the morning. This morning however was a bit out of the ordinary. The Princesses had ordered a wakeup call and attendance of all the heads of the guard. They came willingly and excitedly for whatever their rulers wanted to announce. Earth ponies, pegasi, and unicorns, stood shoulder to shoulder, gathered around the Princesses. Only slight murmurs of curious theories shifted from pony to pony as to why the meeting had been called. Celestia and Luna was happy to see everypony was in attendance. Luna raised her hoof to signal silence from the ranks. The murmurs died off and Princess Celestia addressed them. “My little ponies, good morning. Thank you for promptly attending this morning. I am sure you are all aware this a matter of great importance.” Celestia said. She paused momentarily, furrowing her brow unintentionally. “King Sombra has returned to the Crystal Empire.” Eyes lite up in all directions, some wide, some winced, others a mixture of both, flames from the hearth in all their eyes. Yet no one said anything. Celestia was pleased with that. The heads of the guard knew of the urgent importance when the Princesses called them all together like this. This wasn’t a small matter. “He has already usurped the throne in the Crystal Empire and has made the crystal ponies prisoners in their own empire. The Crystal Empire is now considered a threat to the whole of Equestria while King Sombra controls it.” Celestia said. “This is a situation where no resource shall be spared.” Luna stated. “The guards’ priority is the rescue of our fellow ponies.” Luna addressed one pony directly. “Captain Roar, will be leading steed in this mission. Celestia and I will speak to you of the finer details afterwards.” She nodded in the direction of the pony mentioned. He nodded silently. Celestia and Luna then recounted the effect of what the Crystal Heart could do to ponies to their audience and the importance of avoiding it along with Sombra himself. With the objective outlined Celestia opened the room for discussion. “What can we do against the mad spell on the Crystal Heart?” One voice asked. “Thankfully not all ponies are subjected to these effects. Ponies with stronger minds are able to withstand its effects for greater periods. In the Crystal Empire these are ponies he coerces to help control those affected by his spell.” Luna replied. “No wait. Wouldn’t it be true then that Sombra himself actually fears? We could use that fear against him somehow.” Another suggested. “It’s unfortunately more complex than that.” Celestia explained. “Through his mastery of dark magic Sombra has truly become the embodiment of fear. As such I don’t believe he has any the effects that fear would invoke on a normal pony.” “A pony who doesn’t fear? H-How are we meant to fight that?” A voice stuttered. “Like any other!” One said boisterously. “I don’t get it? Why don’t we just go kick his flank while he’s all non-powerful and such.” Another said out loud. “Sombra is to be avoided at all cost while he has the advantage of using the Crystal Heart to corrupt other ponies’ minds when they are too close to it.” Luna said. “Do you think that maybe, we could just ask Sombra really nicely if he could let the Princesses and Prince go?” Another suggestion, searching every other ponies eyes for approval. “Unlikely.” Luna said. “No. Sombra’s current intentions while unclear. He no doubts hold the Crystal Empire and its citizens captive to erect a fortification for himself.” The guards stood stoic and rigid for most part of the discussion. Celestia and Luna did their best to alleviate any fears and draw attention back to the objective. The discussions eventually ended with a few murmurs still around the room. “Captain Triumphant Roar. If we could speak to you for a moment.” Celestia asked while other ponies shuffled about. Both Princesses left the small room, the guards allowing them a path through, with the Captain. He was brave and bold soul who stood strong for justice and taking necessary action. He took to the role as Captain of the royal guard, like a duck to water, after replacing Shining Armour when he left to permanently live at the Crystal Empire to be with his wife. The Princesses were very grateful to have an earth pony such as the Captain. A first after a long line of unicorns in the key role. He was both reliable and capable. Not to mention, besides his outstanding ability, stood out from the crowd; his impressive blazing auburn mane and an impression of lion head, mouth opened in a roar, as a cutie mark. The Princesses lead the way to the captain’s office. Roar closed the door behind him. Luna was quick to materialize a large stack of parchment. She had written the necessary details of the mission throughout the night and presented it to Roar. “A reconnaissance team will be the first move made to resolve the issue of passing through the shield that blocks entrance to the empire.” Luna stated. Roar took his place behind his desk and leafed through the parchment curiously. It was about a hoof deep. “It’s all here?” He asked, placing a hoof on the stack. “Yes.” Luna replied. “Speed is of the essence Captain. Before days ends that shield is to be made passable or at best obsolete. Understood?” “Understood Princess.” Roar nodded calmly and without expression. Celestia regarded Roar’s demeanor. He rarely questioned the Princesses and had a determined attitude and passion to getting things done. She felt confident that he would follow the plan to the letter. Triumphant Roar, much like Shining Armour before him, had been privileged to hear out the ideal of the Princesses. As to the whys and hows they themselves lead the ponies of Equestria. The royal sisters confided in Roar that they were teachers. That the way to continued peace and happiness for the students; their ponies, was to learn by doing. It wasn’t that they were cruel or wanted to play a joke on them. Ponies had to learn to grow by themselves. Nurturing someone could have the opposite effect desired if they were smothered by it. The sisters were teachers and this is how they wanted ponies to learn. “I bid you good morning Captain.” Luna announcing in her usual brief and to the point regal manner. She left to go rest for the day. “I shall see you later tonight Luna.” Celestia bade her sister farewell as she left the office. The morning progressed smoothly and Celestia hoped it continued to do so. Her next task was to issue a statement through a delegate to the citizens of Canterlot, who would sooner or later learn of the situation in the Crystal Empire. She left Triumphant Roar’s office for him to go over the mission statement in peace. Celestia made her way to the throne room. Along the way her royal aide, Raven, joined alongside her. “The discussion with the guard went five minutes over schedule.” She stated dryly, her eyes not leaving a piece of parchment floating ahead of herself. “Yes, there were numerous comments that needed addressing by myself and Luna.” Celestia replied. “The delegate for royal statements to the public has been waiting in the throne room for you Princess.” Raven said. Celestia smiled warmly. Schedules were amazing, a true artistic practise. She was vastly impressed that her royal scheduler, Kibitz; as was his name, had managed to reorganised and organised today so swiftly. Celestia had once managed without schedules. Court hearings went on for hours at a time, if not, the whole day. Then there would be odd gaps in the day where nothing happened at all in her royal duties. Schedules kept the momentum of ruling under control and always moving along smoothly. It wasn’t comprehensible to go back to a time without a schedule. Schedules were amazing after all, a true artistic practise. “Very well, I shall see to that now.” Imagining a pony, cold and alone, in the winterscape of of the Crystal Empire wasn’t a common conjured imagine for most. A Prince of Equestria in such a situation even less so. Shining Armour coughed and shivered in the snow. After the guard’s had escorted him out of his own empire he was left on the train tracks where it would be considered the border for the Crystal Empire’s domain and Canterlot. Determined to get back inside the castle and rescue his wife and sister he trudged back. The snow he was digging up was a lot thicker now. Probable from a flash snow storm. Shining eventually made it to the dome and rested his hoof on it. A solid shield. On the inside and on the out. Shining was exhausted, his magic blocked off by black crystals. Shining drooped against the shield. There was no way he could get through it in his current state. He turned his weary eyes to the train tracks that faded into the distant night. He knew where he had to go to. He flexed his shoulders, took in a shuddering cold breath and exhaled vapor and begun the long trek to Canterlot. Shining Armour travelled the whole night without stopping, testimony to his royal guard training at Canterlot. Late morning broke as he drew long laboured breaths as he entered past the Canterlot drawbridge and under the guarded walls. A sickly cool liquid was dripping off his muzzle from his nostril. Two royal pegasus guards glided down to inspect the newcomer. Upon closer inspection they recognized their former captain of the guard even under his dishevelled appearance. “Captain?” Shining Armour now knew what is was like to be a sack of potatoes. A single sack of potatoes surrounded by fruit and vegetables; an abstract, out of place. His ragged appearance drew attention from other ponies as he pursued the straightest line to Canterlot castle; walking straight on by the guards that greeted him. Truthfully the guards had never seen their former captain with such a elsewhere gaze. Whatever was wrong was something serious. They decided to give themselves the permission to escort Shining Armour to wherever he was going, flanking closely behind him, and in case he passed out. He looked like he had travelled all the way through the tangled Everfree forest at night. Every guard Shining passed recognised him and felt the ambiance of a stallion on a mission. Shining’s vision blurred and warped but his legs knew where they were going. The guards stationed outside the throne room for the hearing court noticed the odd unannounced appearance of Prince Shining Armour coming towards them. The guards didn’t reprimand him as he passed his way by other ponies in line, waiting to be heard, and walked between them and begun opening up the double door with both forelegs. The hearing sessions fell silent as the doors slowly creaked open and the musky smell of body odour and earth entered in. Celestia was about to demand an answer to the uninvited intrusion till she saw Shining Armour’s face that had entered. She turned to her royal duty aide. “Raven could you please post-phone today’s hearings.” Raven made a note with her quill on parchment. “Of course Princess.” Celestia descended the dais and approached the slowly approaching Shining Armour. As Celestia went to her new matter Raven announced to the room. “The day court hearing by Princess Celestia has been declared postponed. If you have an urgent matter please feel free to seek the official delegation officer in charge. If anypony requires assistance in their matter I can help you out where possible.” As Raven repeated formalities and information on correct form filling Celestia and Shining Armour ducked out of the throne room by the private exit and entrance so as not to upset the other ponies waiting to be heard. They would be slightly upset, of course. Raven was the best when it came to handling things like this though. As the throne room begun to slowly clear with mutters and grunts Raven joined Celestia and Shining Armour. “Raven could I get you to seek out the castle doctor, please. I believe the Prince here will require some medical hospitalities.” Celestia requested. Raven looked up and down at the Prince, very slowly. To her, the Prince of the Crystal Empire looked like a rugged, ragged, bear-fighting, volcano-surviving, stallion of a stallion! Wow. She hid behind her parchment as her cheeks inflamed. “Y-yes, of course Princess.” Raven stuttered. Celestia watched with a knowing smile as Raven trot quickly down the hallway. “Ah to be young.” She mused. Shining cough and spluttered, a fresh rope of liquid hanging from his muzzle. Celestia smiled warmly and levitated a handkerchief to dab away the mess. Celestia’s brow raised. Dabbing wasn’t working. She squeezed the handkerchief around Shining’s muzzle and roughly pulled out the offended mucus. “‘ankyou.” Shining mumbled. Celestia shook her head wistfully. She then noticed how much mucus Shining had had on him. Her handkerchief no longer felt like her own. She was going to selflessly gift it to Shining Armour, but he had no where to place it. So she flicked her horn and summoned it out of existence; probable somewhere to be thoroughly cleaned. Celestia quickly regained her regal composure to address Shining. “I must apologise Shining Armour. I did not believe even a pony of your talent could have broken through Sombra’s shield.” He shook his head sorely. “You know of Sombra’s return then?” She nodded. Shining continued. “I didn’t break out Princess, well sort of, but he let me go…” Celestia’s eyes widened slightly in disbelief and curiosity. “...on the condition that Twilight stayed.” Shining felt weak and depressed. He slowly made his way to a couch placed outside the private entrance to the throne room. “Tell me what you’ve seen Shining Armour.” Celestia’s tone turned stoney and serious. As if anything she could attain from Shining Armour about Sombra was of utmost value. Shining Armour’s tone dulled more and croaked slightly. “Similarly to the last time; when the Crystal Empire reappeared and Sombra too. Instead this time…,” he swallowed dryly, “I know it was him that has caused the crystal ponies to lose their crystal coats, along with their sense of self. To be replaced with fear and confusion, a mind set ready to be manipulated.” He stared across the way at the meeting point of the floor and wall. The dark things Shining Armour said weren’t lost on the environment around him. The whole room seemed to bend in and on itself and darkened gradually, like a twisted mad dream. Celestia brought her neck down to brush her cheek against Shining’s cool fur. He blinked starry-eyed as if by a comforting touch brought him out of a nightmare. Celestia raised her neck back up and smiled reassuringly down at Shining Armour. A weight was lifted from Shining Armour’s shoulders. He trusted the princess explicitly. At this time Raven had returned with a doctor and nurse. “Go with the doctor Shining Armour and get some rest.” Celestia cooed. He nodded weakly. The doctor and nurse dipped their heads respectively to the princess before leaving with Shining. As they left her sight Celestia turned to Raven. “Clear the schedule for the rest of the day Raven, please.” “Princess?” Though not unheard of. The Princess Of The Day clearing her schedule threw a spanner in the works that Raven would have to see to. Not to mention it was annoying to have a whole well thought out and planned day thrown out the window. “I won't be available for the rest of the afternoon. I have some a personal matter to attend to.” Personal matters usual meant things that the public need not know about. As the Princess left Raven scrolled a big X over her parchment and sighed. The morning had progressed quite smoothly for Rarity, she believed. Supplies had been gathered with the helpful guidance of Spike and Rainbow Dash didn’t complain on and off again about the time it was taking to get back to the castle. She only complained periodically. “Come on Rares. Are we done yet?” Rainbow whined. Spike scratched his cheek with the ink point of his quill. Marking a blot of black on his scales. “Well lets see…,” Spike double checked the to-get list Rarity had penned. “Food. Check. Camping equipment, all checked. Water. Check. Clothing for a perilous trek through horrible icky, wet, cold snow...uhh, check. I think we’re done Rainbow.” “Are you sure Spike? I can’t help but think we may have forgotten something.” Rarity exclaimed looking at the cart tied to Rainbow Dash scrupulously. Though a small sized cart the supplies that had been gathered made a small mountainous peak of objects and other things. Rainbow sighed in boredom. “Well if Spike says we got everything on your list, that’s good enough for me.” Rainbow said. “One can never be too sure.” Rarity said, still examining each edge, shape, and line of the objects in the cart. “We still have the rest of the day Rarity. We can drop this off at the castle and see if we have everything.” Fluttershy said encouragingly. Rarity agreed and Rainbow and Spike rejoiced, raising their respected limps with a woo and yeah. Spike lead the way back through the castle to a private storage room where Rainbow could unload all their belongings for the trip. “You two go if you like.” Rarity said. “I’ll look over everything here and see if we have all that we’ll need for the trip.” “I can help if you like.” Spike beamed at Rarity. Rarity tittered behind her hoof at Spike enthusiasm. “Of course, Spike, thank you, darling.” “Cool. Awesome. I am out of here then to grab a bite to eat then.” Rainbow Dash said. “Want to come with Fluttershy?” “Ok.” Fluttershy said simple. “If you’re sure you’ll be alright Rarity.” “Thank you Fluttershy. With Spike assisting me we should have this all under control.” Rarity reassured her. So Rainbow Dash and Fluttershy left Rarity and Spike to take care of organising the gear. Rainbow Dash and Fluttershy made their way to leave the castle. As they were about to head out the main entrance they spotted the odd sight of Shining Armour. Looking like a beat-up sack of potatoes. His white coat was a mess with tufts of fur sticking out and stains of dirt and grass throughout. “Hey, isn't that Twilight’s brother or something?” Rainbow asked. Fluttershy followed Rainbow’s eyesight and noticed the doctors and nurses with him. “Oh my, he looks like he’s in really bad shape.” “Yeah...” Rainbow scratched her chin. “...like he just escaped a evil king. Come on Fluttershy, let's go see him.” Rainbow took off into a flight pattern straight for Shining Armour. The doctor and nurse escorting Shining saw a rocketing pegasus suddenly rearing towards them and braced themselves for impact. Rainbow Dash halted mid-air straight in front of their faces. The kick back of her wings blowing back the mane and tails. The nurse looked like she was about to pass out. Rainbow landed in front of Shining Armour. “You’re Twilight’s brother, right?” “‘ou ‘r Ra’nbow Dash?” He drawled and snorted, drawing back a long string of snot escaping his nose. Not only did he look like a wreckage he sounded sickly too. Fluttershy trotted up next to Rainbow. “Rainbow Dash.” She said sternly. Rainbow was brought out of her stupor and noticed she had completely blanked out the doctor and nurse. She scratched the floor with a hoof timidly. “Sorry about that.” “Would the Prince like me to call the guards on them?” The doctor asked. “What?” Rainbow shouted. “Nuu ‘eed.” Shining said. “If you’re sure but we must get you looked at right away. You may be on four hooves now Prince but honestly you don’t look fit for two.” The doctor stated. The nurse gawked at her superior, stunned he talked so boldly to a Prince. “As ‘ou say doctor. P’eas lead the way.” Shining didn’t object. He did really want to lie down for a bit after the night he had had. Outside the castle gate a hospital carriage waited. The doctor and nurse watched over Shining as he got in first. The nurse apologised that there would be no room for Rainbow Dash and Fluttershy but said they could visit the hospital when they had settled the Prince into a hospital bed. Rainbow Dash stared sternly as the carriage pulled away from the castle gate. “I am sure Twilight’s brother will be alright at the Canterlot hospital. We should visit him when he’s feeling better.” Fluttershy said. Rainbow didn’t say anything and looked like she was lost in thought. “Are you okay Rainbow?” Fluttershy asked. “Yeah…” She begun, her voice wavering slightly. “It’s just, Shining Armour is, or was, the Captain of the royal guard here in Canterlot. He was even the one that casted and held the spell that shielded Canterlot from the changeling invasion. You remember?” Rainbow’s thoughts went to dark places. She regarded the captain as the linchpin of strength of Canterlot. His worse for wear appearance didn’t bode well if it was that monster’s doing. Fluttershy rested a reassuring hoof on Rainbow’s shoulder. “Even though it’s hard not to worry about her. I bet Twilight is doing fine. She really does well in difficult situations.” Rainbow Dash grinned mock smugly. “Hey, when did you become so confident.” Fluttershy tapped Rainbow’s shoulder playfully. They laughed briefly. “We should get something to eat. We got to meet the Princess later.” Fluttershy said. Rainbow agreed and they continued on their previous plan to find some food. Night approached Canterlot as Rainbow and Fluttershy rejoined the rest of their group in the castle. Princess Celestia and Princess Luna finished talking to Captain Roar. “You are sure of your mission then?” Luna asked. “Crystal.” Roar nodded with a cheeky grin. Luna regarded the captain unsurely. “You all have made the decision to go to the Crystal Empire then?” Luna asked, noticing each pony with backpacks on. Everyone nodded. “Very well then. You shall accompany the captain and his small team to the tundra and assist in his mission.” “Alright!” Rainbow cheered. Roar led the ponies and dragon away to the train station. “Good luck.” Celestia spurred on as they left. At the train station the quad that was Fluttershy, Rainbow Dash, Rarity and Spike waiting on the train station platform as numerous other ponies bustled to and fro from the train. Captain Roar stood amongst the noise overseeing the movement of everyone. The sound of rapidly approaching wagon wheels caught his attention. A thick dust sprayed over the station platform. As the dust settled down the newly arrived pink earth pony on top of the wagon shouted out. “Hi girls!” She gleefully shouted. “Slow down filly!” Applejack grumbled as she stood up from the wagon’s tub. She spotted her stetson outside the wagon. As she climbed and dropped off from the wagon to retrieve it the two robust stallions, who had been pulling the wagon, plummeted down also. “Sheesh, I don’t think you needed to push ‘em that hard sugarcube.” Applejack said as she dusted her hat off before placing it on her head. “But we needed to get here super-duper quick, my left eyelid told me so.” She said pointedly. Applejack grumbled. “Hmm.” She noticed the eyes on them. “Oh, hey girls. What’s, uhh, happenin’?” She chuckled weakly. Rainbow was the first to get over her initially shock. “Did you guys just come from Appleloosa by wagon?” Applejack turned and winced at the stallions that had be shanghaied by Pinkie Pie. “Something like that.” Pinkie said nonchalantly after prancing off the wagon. “So, I guess the gang’s back together?” Fluttershy asked timidly. Pinkie gasped. “That coulda been my line!” Rarity interrupted everyone with polite cough, “As wonderful as it is to see you both I believe we are being waited on.” Everyone turned to see the train ready with Roar waiting stoically by one of the train carts, looking unperturbed. “To answer when, we are leaving now.” Roar said. Rarity turned back to Applejack. “You can reveal to us the who and how on the train, yes?” Applejack nodded. “Can do, and ya’ll can fill us in with the what and where?” She smiled good naturedly. One of the train windows rolled open loudly to draw attention to it. “Yeah, and somepony can explain why there’s no cake anywhere on this train!” Pinkie yelled. Captain Triumphant Roar’s small team had boarded the train. Their destination set for the Crystal Empire. Captain Roar was the last to board the train. His head jerked to look behind him, swearing he heard the beating of wings. He shrugged it off predicting it was a pegasus or something flying overhead.