//------------------------------//
// Chapter 41 
// Story: A New World, a New Way 
// by zeusdemigod131 
//------------------------------//



Editor/Writer Notes: (helped me with their characters as well as ideas)

TDN- I greatly enjoyed reading and helping with this chapter. I think its no exaggeration to say that this chapter may just be the best chapter of the entire story so far.

Bubba- Love the story thus far, and am helping Zeus’ pump out chapters. And for my readers, I will do my best to spoil anything of my story, seeing as I am on day 8 and not on day 15. And to those who do not read my story, how did you like John, Flubber, Holly Heart, and Volt? Want more of them? Come and check out “A New World, Burning an Old Way.”

Also, Bubba was here.

V- I only can say one thing: I am damn honored to have my guys here, my story is one of the further from Zeus, but still I am glad I managed to sneak a few of my characters here. Besides of that: I like this kind of chapters, characters interactions as far one can see, I simply love that. But now is time for politics to took place!

KingofSouls - I want to give the a massive shout out to Zeus, TDN, Bubba, and everyone else whom write and read this wonderful series! I enjoyed putting my two pokedollars in this chapter and personally feel that this is the best chapter of the story so far. X and company loves you also, since Bubba said it...

Why is Bubba always here?

Evowizard25- As a writer, I am privileged to be working with each and every one of you. Long have I wished to write such an epic tale, such as this and work with the best of the best. The great Commander Sev’s journey, in the story ‘A New World, A New Conflict’, has been one of my favorite stories to have ever written and to see you all here before me, ready to give this a chance, I finally understand the feeling of greatness. 

But remember this, Commander Sev’s journey is far from over….Be wary and wish the best of luck to everyone else. They’ll need it when dealing with him.



As the sun crept over the horizon, the early morning light illuminated the town of Ponyville. 

As the sunlight crept into the Golden Oaks Library it illuminated the room of one Princess Twilight Sparkle, who, as if driven by some unseen force, opened her eyes just as the sun’s rays peaked through her blinds.


Quicker than should have been possible for someone so early in the morning, Twilight leapt from her bed saying. “Today’s the day!”

Twilight trotted over to her dresser, and opened the locked drawer at the top. Opening it, she pulled out her crown, and her golden hooflets. 

Twilight positioned her crown on her head and slipped on each hooflet, she’d gotten better at putting them on recently.

Smiling, Twilight checked to make sure that Spike was still asleep. Smiling at the baby Dragon’s sleeping form, she made her way downstairs.

“Let’s see,” She said as she picked up the checklist she had prepared the night before. “Royal regalia, check. Spike’s still asleep, check,” 

Next on the list was a quick breakfast, followed by leaving a note for Juniper and Spike telling them that she’d already left for Canterlot.. 

Putting a piece of bread in the toaster, Twilight started on her note. She had asked Juniper and Spike if they wanted to come the night before, Spike had refused, saying he’d seen enough dignitaries growing up in Canterlot, and Juniper had said she would have, but she had a meeting with Cheerilee today regarding teaching the foals about Pokémon. But both had promised to come up to Canterlot in a few days.

The toast popped from the toaster and Twilight caught it in her magic and buttered it in one smooth motion. 

Munching on her breakfast as she made her way out of the library, Twilight placed the note on the kitchen table. 

“Breakfast, note, check,” She said with a smile. “Next up, I need to get the girls.” The day before, Twilight had told her friend that she was going to the World Summit and, that as national heroes, it would make a good impression if they showed up.

Secretly, Twilight just wanted her closest friends around for support, but her point still stood.

Twilight exited the library and closed the door behind her, it was still early, so nopony was up yet, and most Pokémon were asleep as well, or at the very least, just waking up.

As she made her way to Sugarcube Corner, Twilight realized just how alike this was to the first day the Pokémon had arrived. 

Twilight was about to knock on the door, but it swung open before her hoof hit the surface. “Hi Twilight!” Pinkie said with a smile. “We’re ready to go!”

“We?” Twilight asked. 

“Hi!” Zap popped out of Pinkie’s mane and landed on her head. “I’m Zap!”

Twilight had forgotten about the Rotom that Pinkie had befriended. “Nice to meet you Zap,” Twilight said, as Pinkie exited Sugarcube Corner, Twilight noticed that Pinkie had a cake box on her back. “Pinkie,” Twilight sighed. “You can’t throw a party for the world leaders.”

The party pony giggled. “I know silly, you told me like, a dozen times last night.” Pinkie smiled softly and patted the box. “This is for someone else.”

Twilight eyed Pinkie curiously for a second, but pushed the train of thought from her mind and focused on the task at hoof. “I’m going to go get Rarity,” Twilight said. “Applejack’s going to meet us at the train station with Fluttershy, could you get Rainbow?”

"Yepper deppers,” Pinkie said with a salute before trotting off. 

Twilight smiled and made her way towards Carousel Boutique. “If I time this right, I’ll get there after Rarity’s finished putting on her makeup and doing her hair, and I’ll just have to convince her that her Gala dress still looks lovely and tell her that I’m not going to wear my coronation dress to this.”

As Twilight approached Carousel Boutique, she was surprised to see that Belle and Gene were standing outside the shop, along with Draco. “Hi guys,” Twilight greeted. “What are you doing up so early?”

“Just getting ready to go,” Gene explained, rubbing Draco on the head. “We’re coming to Canterlot with you guys.”

“Really?” Twilight asked. “Any particular reason?”

Gene and Belle looked at each other. “Ever since we got here, everything’s been happening so fast, and we haven’t had much time to ourselves,” Gene explained. “So were going for what we hope will be a romantic few days, away from this crazy town... no offense.”

“None taken,” Twilight said, then smiled. “I can recommend a few restaurants if you two are planning any dates.”

Belle smiled. “We might just take you up on that,” She turned to Draco. “Ready?”

The Flygon nodded. “Sure, Gene probably weighs less now anyway, so we should be able to get there in no time.” Draco knelt down.

“I didn’t weigh that much,” Gene said, climbing onto Draco’s back. “And it’s not like I rode you that often anyway.”

Twilight watched as Belle climbed onto Draco behind Gene and wrapped her arms around him. “Wait, you’re going to fly to Canterlot?”

“Yep,” Gene answered. “Pretty sure if we leave now, we’ll get there before you guys.” He smiled. “See ya at the castle.”

With that, the Mystic Pokémon spread his wings and took off. 

Twilight watched as they flew off towards Canterlot. “I guess that’s one way to travel.” She said before knocking on the door to Carousel Boutique.





Twilight watched the landscape roll by her window, thinking on what was to come. 

She’d be lying if she said she wasn’t nervous, and excited, or as Pinkie might say, nervicited. 

She was less than a year into her Princesshood and she was about to take part in one of the most important events in the history of Equus. 

“Hey Twilight? Twwwiiiliiiight?” Pinkie poked her friend. “You alright?”

Twilight couldn’t help but smile. “Yeah Pinkie, I’m just thinking.”

“About the meeting?” Pinkie asked. 

“Yeah, to be honest I’m feeling a little nervous.”

Pinkie smiled and hugged the Alicorn. “That’s why we’re here,” She said. “We might not be able to go in with you, but you can rest assured that you’ll have all the support we can give.”

Twilight smiled and looked around the train car. Rarity and Fluttershy were talking, the dress Rarity had worn to Twilight’s coronation carefully packed in the suitcase next to the unicorn. 

Rainbow Dash, wearing her Wonderbolt cadet uniform for some reason, was talking with Lucario and Korrina, both of whom had decided to tag along, Korrina wanting to get away from Ponyville for a while and explore the city, and Lucario not wanting to leave Korrina’s side, though Korrina oddly didn’t seem too happy about that (she noted that the air around those two had felt...awkward lately).

Nick and Elena had tagged along for that same reason, the Zoroark seeming very interested in seeing the city, and possibly meeting the Princesses and maybe even Arceus.

Of course, with those two coming with, Terra had as well, along with Mage, both of whom were sitting across the aisle from Nick and Elena, whispering to each other while occasionally glancing at them.

Twilight chuckled. “I guess you’re right,” She said. “But still-”

“Shhh,” Pinkie said, stroking Twilight’s mane. “No buts, just relax.”

Twilight tried to get out of Pinkie’s grasp, but found she couldn't escape. Sighing and resigning herself to her pink, huggy fate for the time being, Twilight decided to look on the bright side.

“You’re right, Pinkie. And at least I’ll be able to see Cadance and my BBBFF.”

“That’s the spirit!” Pinkie said happily.





Princess Celestia stared at the door before her, it was a normal door, on the outside it didn’t look anything special, but looks can be deceiving. “Just knock,” She told herself. “How bad could it be?”

She didn’t want to think about how bad it could be as she knocked on the door. “Just a minute!” The familiar voice of Discord called. 

Celestia held her breath, as she waited for Discord. After a moment, the door opened, and Discord popped his head out. “Well hello Tia,” He greeted with a smile. “What brings you here?”

The solar Alicorn sighed. “I need your help with something,” She admitted.

“Oh?” Discord asked, teleporting out of his room and in front of Celestia. “And what might that be? Some ancient evil escaped from Tartarus and you need me to track it down?”

Celestia didn’t even bother looking confused. “No Discord, it’s about the meeting.”

“Ohhhh,” Discord said. “Don’t worry, I promise I won’t mess with your royal friends.” Not too much anyway. He thought to himself.

Celestia smiled softly, then said. “Thank you but... that’s not it.”

Discord raised an eyebrow at Celestia and said. “Tia, as much as I love playing twenty questions with you, I’m guessing this will go quicker if I just ask what you need.”

“I want you to make sure nothing goes wrong in Canterlot while the meetings are going on,” She said. “In case anyone tries to use all these dignitaries in one place to their advantage, or if a more dangerous Pokémon attacks the city.”

Discord blinked once and looked at her in disbelief/confusion. “Really? You want me to guard Canterlot?”

“Just until the meetings are over, and only if the Royal Guard aren’t able to do it themselves.” 

Discord didn’t know what to say. He expected her to say something along the lines of ‘don’t get in trouble,’ or ‘just stay out of the way, and keep your head down,’ But not this. 

“Really?” He asked again. “This isn’t some prank that ends with the guards trying to arrest me?”

“No,” Celestia said. “You’ve been reformed for a while now and you’ve been... moderately well behaved, so I’m deciding to trust you with a little responsibility.” The Princess didn’t completely trust Discord yet, though he had livened up the castle ever since he moved in, for which she was thankful, but she hadn’t given him any real task to do ever since he was released.

Discord stroked his beard, considering his options. On one hand, it was responsibility, which he wasn’t a fan of, on the other, he hadn’t been doing much for the past few days, just absorbing chaos magic and checking out the greater multiverse, then on the other hand he might get to boss some guards around, which he loved to do, then on the other, other, other hand...

“You know what? Sure, I’ll help you out Tia.” He flashed a toothy grin. “What are friends for?”


Celestia smiled softly. “Thank you Discord. Now if you’ll excuse me I have to go prepare.”

“Oh don’t you worry Tia,” Discord said, disappearing, then reappearing in a suit of purple and gold armor, with a pink starburst on the chest. “Just leave everything to me.”






Twilight and her friends made their way through Canterlot castle, and headed for the landing platform behind the castle where they were told Princess Celestia and Princess Luna were waiting. 


“This place is awesome!” Nick shouted, his voice echoing off the walls as they walked through the castle. 

Elena chuckled at his reaction. She had a feeling that he would react this way, especially since he had reacted a similar way about a month ago when they visited Parfum Palace in Kalos. 

“So when do we meet the rulers?” Rarity, now wearing her dress, asked. 

“As soon as they arrive you’ll get to see them,” Twilight answered. “But we’re not all going to meet them right away, the first meeting will probably start as soon as they all arrive.”

Rarity pouted slightly but accepted the answer. 

It wasn’t long before the group exited the castle and walked out onto the landing platform, the platform was large enough to dock at least a dozen fair sized ships at, and was currently empty. 

What really drew everyone’s attention was the Solar and Lunar Guards flanking each side of the walkway, spears held at their sides. The line reaching all the way to the ramp that led to the platform.

At the top of that ramp, Celestia and Luna stood on opposite sides of a red, gold fringed carpet, that had been rolled all the way out to each of the sky docks, branching out to each one like branches on a tree. 

“Twilight,” Celestia greeted with a smile. “I’m glad you’re here...” She looked at all the beings who’d accompanied her. “It’s good to see all of you.” Her gaze lingered on Nick, Elena, Terra, and Mage. “Though I don’t think I know you four.”

“I’m Mage,” The Mismagius greeted. “One of Gene’s Pokémon... speaking of which have you seen him?”

“Gene and Belle, as well as Draco, arrived some time ago,” Luna answered. “We had some guards show them to a few empty rooms... this castle seems to have plenty of those.”

Celestia smiled before turning to Nick, Elena, and Terra. “And you three?”


“I’m Nick, Your majesty,” The Zoroark answered, slightly nervous to be speaking with royalty. “And these are my friends, Elena and Terra.”

Celestia thought for a moment, then remembered. “Ah, of course. You three are the ones Twilight found in Manehattan.”

Everyone present, save Applejack, Rarity, and Fluttershy, suddenly became very interested in the sky, or the grass. 

“Oh, right,” Twilight had sent Celestia a letter detailing their time in Manehattan after she got back, and well...it could have certainly gone better. “I’d assume none of you really want to remember that.”

Twilight nodded rapidly. 

Celestia chuckled. “Very well then,” She turned back to Twilight. “Anyway, the world leaders will be arriving in a few hours.”

Twilight smiled, that still left her with plenty of time for the princesses to go over their plan with her.

Celestia glanced at the rest of the group and said. “You’re all welcome to stay until the other Leaders arrive. But do be on your best behavior, as while most of them are really quite friendly...most of the time...they still ARE the Leaders of the various races of Equus.”

“How long are these meetings going to last anyway?” Rainbow asked. 

“Considering what we will be discussing? I wouldn’t be surprised if they went on for days.” Celestia grimaced at that thought.

“Speaking of the meetings,” Twilight prompted. “What’s our strategy exactly? How are you planning to sell the idea that the Pokémon should stay?”

Celestia and Luna looked at each other. “We’re hoping some of the other leaders have had positive experience with the Pokémon,” Luna began.  

“And I know a few of them will likely be open to the idea,” Celestia continued. “But a lot if this is riding on Arceus, specifically him telling them why he did what he did and not acting like he did on our first encounter with him.”

Twilight stared at Celestia for a second. “You did talk to Arceus about that... right?” She asked worriedly.

Celestia nodded. “Of course. We only have one shot at this, and I’m not going to let a rash decision, pardon me, another rash decision, make this situation even worse.”

Twilight nodded. “Anything else I should know?” She asked.

Celestia smiled softly. “Just be your usual courteous, intelligent self and I’m certain you’ll do wonderfully, Princess Twilight.”

Twilight smiled at the compliment. 

“If anyone has any other questions,” Luna said to the entire group. “Now would be the time to ask.”

No one spoke up.

“Then I suggest you all rest for the next few hours, as it will be quite hectic around here after the rulers arrive.”

With that, Princess Luna turned and walked back towards the castle.

“My sister is right,” Celestia said. “We should all prepare ourselves for the days to come.” And with that they walked into the castle, all of them anxious for the hours to come.





A few hours later and once again, everyone was gathered at the landing platform. Standing at the front, ready to greet the various leaders was Princess Celestia, Princess Luna, and Princess Twilight.

Off to one side, the rest of the ponies and Pokémon stood, including Gene, Belle, and Draco, stood, all of them awaiting the arrival of the world leaders.

“Who do you think shall arrive first this time sister?” Luna asked.

“Arceus if he decides to be first, probably Empress Victoria otherwise,” She answered.

A few minutes passed before the first arrival was spotted on the horizon. 

“Ah, Victoria it is then,” Luna said with a nod as the airship approached Canterlot. 

The Griffin airship was larger than most Equestrian ones, and was marked with the Griffins insignia, a silver Griffin standing on its hind legs, wings spread behind it and claws in striking position, on both sides of the ship. 

As the airship approached the city, cries of awe, and a few of alarm, could be heard from the city below. Celestia wasn’t sure what the alarm was about, since she had announced the upcoming meeting the day before.

The ship decreased in speed as it approached the castle, coming to a stop above the landing platform.

The ship then dropped several ropes from either side, which fell to the sky dock below the ship. 

“How are they going to anchor it?” Gene asked. 

His question was answered for him when six Griffins leapt from the ship and glided to the dock below. 

“So that’s what a Griffin looks like,” Belle commented. 

It wasn’t long before the Griffin airship was safely secured in the sky dock. Once the final ropes were tied off, the side door opened and a ramp slid out, reaching the ground below it. 

First out of the airship were another half dozen Griffin guards, each one armed with a sword, a spear, or a crossbow. 

The twelve Griffins, including the ones who had tied down the ship, lined up on either side of the pathway as another Griffin exited the airship. “Announcing the arrival of her Majesty,” He stepped off to the right and bowed as he finished his line. “Empress Victoria of Griffinhiem.”

A solitary female Griffin exited the airship, her feathers a pure royal white save her wings, which were blood red, her fur was a silvery gray and aside from the silver crown atop her head, she wore silver armor over a red tunic. 

As Empress Victoria walked approached the end of the ramp, each of the guards bowed before her as she passed, the Empress’ didn’t seem to notice, as her gaze was locked directly on the Princesses. 

Everyone was so focused on the Empress, that they almost missed the next beings to exit the ship. First was another Griffin, again female, with a mustard yellow coat and white feathers, though not as pure as the Empress’ her feathers were mottled with purple chick-like dots and two tufts of feathers hung from her head, almost like pigtails.

Behind her exited two Pokémon, a Bisharp wearing a metal battle skirt, a sword on her waist, and a female Lopunny. 

“Greetings Princess Celestia, Princess Luna,” Victoria eyed Twilight for a second before adding. “Princess Twilight Sparkle.”

“Empress Victoria,” Celestia greeted. “It is good to see you again, though I wish the circumstances weren’t as such.”

“On that we can agree,” Victoria said. “You remember my clawmaiden Grizelda,” Victoria indicated the younger Griffin behind her. “And this is Shredder, and Roll, I hired them and the rest of their guild, Checkmate, to serve under my crown after they assisted Miss Do during an incident involving some Diamond Dog rogues.”

Celestia had to repress a smile. While Twilight looked shocked that apparently both rulers knew about Daring Do, it did explain a few of her mentor's cameos in the books.

“Shredder will be my advisor during the upcoming meetings,” The Empress informed.

“Very well,” Luna said. “Guards! Show Empress Victoria and her company to their rooms.” The Princesses had an entire portion of the castle coordined off for the visiting royals and their guards.

One Lunar and one Solar Guard stepped forwards and waited for the Griffins to follow them, after a quick glance back at the Empress and a nod, the Griffins began following the ponies.

“See you soon Princess,” Victoria said as she followed her guards, Grizelda, Roll, and Shredder following behind her.


Celestia, Luna and Twilight watched the Griffins until they had all entered the castle. “She seemed... nice,” Twilight ventured. 

Celestia sighed. “Victoria feels inexperienced compared to me when it comes to ruling, I think she might feel a little inferior.”

“Oh,” Twilight commented. 

Meanwhile, off to the side, Nick turned to Elena and smiled. “Pretty cool huh?” Nick asked. “When Octavia explained what a Griffin was I wasn’t expecting a half Pyroar-half Pidgeot.”

Elena smiled. “Yeah, I guess they are ‘pretty cool’,” She said with a laugh.

It was only a short while before the next arrival was made known, once again when an airship entered Canterlot airspace. 

The approaching ship was smaller than the Griffins, but still fairly large. It was dark silver and black, with bright green markings resembling a crescent moon with what appeared to be an ocean tide coming out, the markings of the Changeling Empire.

Celestia smiled as the ship docked in much the same way the Griffins had, several Changelings flying to the ground and tying off the ropes. Although there had been a... rough patch, after Chrysalis had invaded, Celestia still looked forward to seeing Carapace again.

Once the ship was tied down and the doors opened, several Changeling guards stepped out and got into a formation much like the Griffins had. Unlike the Changelings who had invaded Canterlot, these Changelings had different colored wings, manes, tails, and chitin saddles. “Announcing his Majesty,” The Guards said together. “Emperor Carapace, ruler of the Changeling Empire.”

A few seconds passed before an older looking Changeling exited the craft, unlike the guards, who had more or less the same build, he was of a slightly bulkier build and a slightly taller stature. His mane and tail were silver, with a lighter streak running down them, and his wings were a warm but translucent grey. His chitin saddle was also grey, but lighter and warmer and his horn, while crooked, curved softly instead of sharply. 

A small smile on his face, Emperor Carapace made his way down the ramp and towards the Princesses, another two Changelings, one with bronze coloring and one with white coloring exited after him. 

They, in turn, were followed by several Pokémon. First a Chesnaught wielding a tan and green spiked hammer, he was followed closely by a Heliolisk and a Trevenant, both females. A few steps behind them came a Zoroark, male and... the ship appeared to be shaking as something within approached the door. 

The gathered beings gasped as a red and orange head peeked through the doorway. 

“No way,” Gene said in a hushed tone.

The Tyrantrum squeezed through the doorway, it’s frame barely accommodating the Dragon-type. He roared as he exited, the sound echoing throughout the area. 

“Belle?” Applejack whispered. “What is that?”

“Tyrantrum,” The Gardevoir answered. “It’s a prehistoric Pokémon, and aside from Genesect, probably the most dangerous.”

“Princess Celestia, Princess Luna,” Carapace greeted, turning to Twilight, he smiled. “And you must be Princess Twilight Sparkle.”

“Yes... your majesty,” Twilight answered nervously.

Carapace smiled warmly, then turned to Celestia. “It is good to see you again, especially since our last meeting wasn’t under the best circumstances.”

“Nor is this one, I’m afraid,” Celestia said. “But I’m glad to see you as well.”

Carapace smiled. “Where are my manners,” He turned to the Pokémon behind him. “These fine Pokémon are the members of ShadowFox construction, they’ve been assisting my kingdom during the current crisis. This is my advisor on Pokémon matters, X,” 

The Chesnaught bowed his head. “Your highnesses.”

“Naruto,” He indicated the Zoroark, who nodded. “Azisa and Inti,” The Trevenant and Heliolisk smiled. “And Apocalypse.”

“Hello!” The Tyrantrum greeted, waving one of his diminutive arms. 

“And two of my royal advisors,” Carapace indicated the Changelings who’d exited behind him. “Rizen,” The white maned one bowed. “And Silver Heart,” As did the one sporting the bronze mane.

“It’s good to meet all of you,” Celestia said. 

Carapace smiled and glanced at the rest of the group. “Ah, of course,” He said, trotting over to them. “The exalted Elements of Harmony.” He greeted Applejack, Rarity, Pinkie Pie, Rainbow Dash, and Fluttershy, the last of whom was hiding behind Draco.

“Greetings, your majesty,” Pinkie said with an over exaggerated bow. 

“It’s an honor to meet all of you,” He replied. “You’ve done our world a great service many times over... and for what it’s worth, I apologize for any trouble my granddaughter caused you.”

The Ponies smiled nervously, while the Pokémon looked at each other, confused. 

Celestia cleared her throat and drew the Emperors attention. “Would you like the guards to show you to your rooms or...”

“That won’t be necessary,” Carapace said. “We’ll be sleeping on the airship for the duration of our stay.”

Celestia nodded sadly, after Chrysalis’ invasion, fear of Changelings had skyrocketed, and the Princess could understand if Carapace wished to be cautious. “Very well, feel free to look around the palace, but do be careful,” Celestia said. “The meeting starts around three.”

“Of course Princess,” Carapace said before heading towards the palace, his guards and the Pokémon following him.

Before they got far, X stopped, halting the group. He turned around and walked up to Luna. “....Have we met before?

“Pardon?”

“Sorry, but Its just that your name sounds really familiar.” The Chesnaught rubbed the back of his head sheepishly as the Lunar Princess was beginning to piece facts together. “Kinda like I had a dream about it.”

“A dream?” 

“Yeah. In fact, the more I think about it, the more I remember something that looked like you being in it.”

Luna eyes then lit up (literally) as she thought about it. “Wait, I believe I recall something. Did you pay tell, have a dream where you replaced the role of a Champion before your parents became monstrous shadows whom were eradicated by moonlight?”

“Yea, how did you know that?”

“Because I was there.” Luna grinned. “As I said then, I am the Princess of the NIght. Guarding the Dreamscape is but another of my duties.”

“Well I’m really glad you’re really real.” X grinned, kneeling down to her eye level. He then gave her a one handed hug, Luna acting a little surprised while Celestia flashe a playful grin. “I wanted to say thanks. That was a real rough night and without you, I think I might not have made it to the next day with my sanity.”

“You are welcome.” Luna replied. X moved out of the hug, flashing a smile before rejoining the Changelings towards the castle.

It was then that Celestia noticed several of the ponies appeared tense, Rainbow Dash most of all, as well as Applejack and Rarity. 

Celestia sighed inwardly, she had her work cut out for her, fixing the problems Chrysalis had caused.

“Everyone,” Celestia said. “I think that will be the last arrivals for a while, the rest of the nations are a deal farther from Equestria, so if you want to relax for a bit, I suggest you do it now.”





Not ten minutes later, most of the Ponies and Pokémon, save the Princesses par Twilight, Draco, Mage and Terra, were taking a break in something similar to a dining room they had found not far from the landing platform.

“I don’t know,” Rainbow, who was lying upside sitting upside down in her seat, began. “I still don’t trust them.”

“Rainbow Dash, you have no reason to be afraid of Emperor Carapace,” Twilight said. “He knew Celestia and Luna BEFORE Luna became Nightmare Moon.”

“I’m not afraid of him,” Rainbow defended, flipping upright. “I just don’t trust someone who can hide behind any face they want.”

Nick was going to say something, but Elena put a paw on his arm and shook her head. 

“Well I think Emperor Carapace seemed nice,” Pinkie said. “At least he didn’t seem as grumpy as Empress Victoria.”

“What’s with you guys and the Changelings anyway?” Korrina asked. “And who’s this Chrysalis I keep hearing about?”

“Queen Chrysalis,” Rarity began.

“Not Queen,” Twilight corrected. “After Emperor Carapace heard about the attack he revoked her title.” Twilight turned to Korrina and explained. “She’s a Changeling terrorist who tried to conquer Canterlot a while back.” The Alicorn grimaced. “During my brothers wedding, I might add.”

“Yikes,” Gene said. “Where is she now?”

“Imprisoned in the Changeling Empire,” Twilight answered. 

“I still don’t know,” Rainbow grumbled.

“Rainbow, Emperor Carapace was the one who tipped off the Princesses that someone might be attacking Canterlot,” Twilight said in exasperation.

“Ah thought that was anonymous,” Applejack said.

Twilight shook her head. “Celestia was just being cautious,” She turned to Rainbow. “Since most ponies don’t like Changelings from the get go.”

The room was awkwardly silent for a moment before Applejack broke the silence. “Alright, changin’ the topic here, what’s with the Pokémon those two brought with? Particularly the big fella’.”

Belle sighed. “The Tyrantrum you mean, not really that much to tell, Rock/Dragon-type, some of them can be temperamental, though this one seems quite well behaved.”

Applejack nodded. “Ya’ll called it somethin’ when I asked what it was... prehistoric?”

Gene nodded. “It means really, really old, like... millions of years or something.”

“So it’s one of the oldest Species of Pokémon around then?” Twilight inquired.

“Yeah,” Korrina said. “But the Prehistoric thing more refers to the fact that it was reconstituted from a fossil.”

The was a soft thud from where Twilight was sitting and everyone looked to see she had fallen from her chair. “Y-y... you’re kidding me right?"

The Pokémon looked at her in confusion. “Kidding you about what?” Belle asked.

Twilight shook her head. “You CAN’T actually be telling me you had the technology to revive extinct Pokémon from fossilized remains.”

Gene raised an eyebrow at her. “Yeah we are,” He said. “The technology is actually a few decades old already, and the ancient Pokémon have even successfully been reintroduced into the wild.”

Twilight’s bottom lip quivered and her eye twitched. “B-but... fossils and... DNA degradation over... energy needed to...”

“Twilight?” Nick waved a paw in front of her face. “Is she alright?”

“I think you broke Twilight.” Rainbow commented.

“Twilight... you’re going to have to pull yourself together, we have to get back to the platform soon,” Gene said, hoping to get through to her.

Twilight closed her eyes and took a deep breath. “Okay, I’m going to try to ignore what’s long been considered a scientific impossibility that you’ve apparently had for decades since more than half the world leaders have yet to arrive. But try not to tell me anything on the subject for now.”

The room was silent for a second before Gene spoke up. “Juniper once revived a Pokémon called Archen and reintroduced it to a wild flock.”

“Mother of-”





By the time Twilight managed to calm down, they had to return to the landing platform. As the next world leader would likely be arriving soon.

Grumbling to herself as she went to stand by Princess Celestia and Luna, Twilight put on a calm face and tried to push the thoughts from her mind.

Standing off to the side with the others, Gene smiled as Draco landed next to him. “Hey bud,” He said, rubbing the Flygon’s muzzle. “Where’d you get off to?”

“I was in the gardens, seeing if I could find a nice spot to relax,” Draco answered. What he didn’t mention was the annoying stallion he had run into while there. 





Flashback 

“I dare say, what is a creature like you doing in the palace gardens?! I’ll have you know this is not a place for your kind to run about, making a mess of things! I’m going to inform the guards at on- NO NO NO PUT ME DOWN!!!”



 

Draco smiled at the memory. He had left the unicorn stuck in a tree, a good way away from the main path.

“I don’t see Terra anywhere,” Elena pointed out. “Or Mage... oh no.” She facepawed.

Nick chuckled and grabbed her paw, leaning in and kissing her on the cheek when no one was looking. “I think those two are a little late, huh?”

Elena blushed softly and smiled. “I guess so.”

“Look! A ship!” Pinkie shouted, pointing out the airship on the horizon. 

It was smaller than the other two, and was light brown in color, with golden metal on its rims. The sails had ab symbol of a slashing sword, the cutie mark of the king, on them. 

Celestia smiled as she recognized the airship of King Trotankhamun. Celestia had had a close relationship with the young king ever since his mother had died giving birth to him. She had helped him a lot growing up, and had helped him get his bearings as a ruler and, when his father had died in his early teenage years, she had been there for him.

As the ship landed and was anchored, the door opened and, to Celestia’s surprise, not only did several Zebra guards exit, but several Pokémon wearing armor did as well.

“Announcing the arrival of his majesty,” One of the guards began. “King Trotankhamun of Zebrica!”

“And Commander Sev, of the Pokémon Liberation Army!” One of the Pokémon guards announced. ”Blessed warrior chosen by our mighty Lord Arceus.”

Everyone looked at each other in confusion, and a small amount of worry.

A young Zebra stallion who didn’t look much older than Twilight exited the ship. He wore a simple tunic and had a sword sheathed at his side. He also wore a smile on his face as he took in the scenery. 


As he trotted towards Celestia another three beings exited the ship. Twilight whimpered as a Seviper, cloaked in the same style of armor as the rest of the Pokémon, slithered out of the door next to a blue Pegasus mare with two tone orange and yellow hair. 

“Lightning Dust!?!” Rainbow said in alarm, covering her mouth to keep from screaming. “What the hay is she doing here?” 

Just behind Lightning and the Seviper, a Kirlia wearing a light blue uniform exited the ship. “Aww, look Belle,” Pinkie cooed. “It’s a mini you.”

Gene grabbed Belle and pulled her into a hug. “Nope, Belle was much cuter when she was a Kirlia.” 

“Princess!” Trotankhamun exclaimed as he trotted up to her. 

Celestia smiled and nuzzled Trotankhamun, much to Twilight and the others surprise. “It’s good to see you again, how are things going in Zebrica?”

Trotankhamun’s smiled faded. “Not all that great,” He admitted. “The Hyena Dogs are rebelling, and with the Pokémon showing up the isolationist sect has been more annoying than ever and...” He shook his head. “Where is this Arceus, I’d like to have a few choice words with him.”

Celestia sighed. “He’s yet to arrive... now why don’t you introduce me to your... friends?”

Trotankhamun nodded and turned to the Seviper behind him. “As you heard, this is Commander Sev, of the Pokémon Liberation Army, I recruited his organization to serve under my crown.”

“Ah, Empress Victoria did something similar,” Celestia said. “With a group known as Checkmate I believe.

Sev scoffed. “Checkmate? They’re nothing more than a group of mere mercenaries, whoever would require their help would be a sad ruler indeed.”

Luna glared at Commander Sev for a moment before looking away from the snake.

Celestia smiled awkwardly and continued. “So... Commander, that’s a title I haven’t heard from a Pokémon yet, nor have I heard of a... Pokémon Liberation Army.”

The Seviper smiled, causing Twilight’s knees to wobble slightly, another quiet whimper escaping her.

“You see Princess,” He began. “The PLA is an organization devoted to ending the tyrannical hold the humans have put our kind under.” He turned to the other Pokémon present and smiled.  

Immediately, Lucario stepped in front of Korrina, and Elena stepped in front of Nick, on either side of Gene, Belle and Draco took up an offensive pose. 

The Commander raised an eyebrow but shrugged. 

Celestia laughed nervously and Luna once again glared at the Seviper, Twilight, for her part, was too busy trying not to hyperventilate. 

“And this is my marefriend, Lightning Dust,” Sev introduced.

“Your highnesses,” Lightning Dust greeted with a bow of her head.

“And my little sister, General Lia.” 

The Kirlia smiled and curtseyed.

“Now,” Sev began. “Where are the other leaders?” He sounded... hungry, when he said that.

“Empress Victoria and Emperor Carapace have already arrived, we are still waiting on the rest,” Luna said. “We’ll have some of our guards show you to your temporary quarters.”

Luna motioned forward and two of her Night Guard stepped forward. 

“I’ll see you at the meeting Princess,” Trotankhamun said. 

“Yesss,” Sev hissed, turning back to the Pokémon, he said. “Worry not my brethren, for the great Commander Sev shall ensure that the other rulers see us for our greatness, and that none of you are ever bothered by humans again.”

At this point, Gene was trying to keep Belle from throwing the Seviper off the mountain. 

It was only once the Zebra King and the members of the PLA were inside that everyone let loose. 

“AH!” Twilight collapsed to the ground, her hooves covering her head. 

Belle growled and fired a Shadow Ball straight up before pulling Gene into a kiss.

“Okay,” Applejack started. “What the hay was that?” 

“And why was Lightning Dust with them?!” Rainbow shouted. 

“S-snake,” Twilight whimpered. 

Celestia sighed. “Of all the possible creatures... I’m going to ask Arceus about that one once he shows up.”

The group talked about the new arrivals until the next airship arrived, this one was much different than the ones they’d seen so far. 

For one thing, it was armored, as if they were flying into a warzone, and Twilight could see a harpoon gun mounted on the side. 

All together, it just looked more... military, than the others. 

As the ship was anchored via steel cables, several heavily armed Minotaurs exited the ship, each one wielding a sword, or an ax, or a hammer.

Celestia and Luna shared a nervous glance as a large, red furred Minotaur wearing dark grey battle armor and wielding a battle ax half as tall as he was. What really drew your attention were his horns, as his name would imply, they were bright gold.

As he approached the Princesses, Twilight was shocked to see he was actually a few inches taller than Celestia. 

“Princess Celestia,” Emperor Golden Horn greeted. “Princess Luna,” he eyed Twilight and smiled. “Princess Twilight.”

“Emperor Golden Horn,” Celestia greeted in turn. “How have you been?” 

The Minotaur snorted. “Ever since these creatures appeared, Minos has been in an uproar, as has the rest of the country.” 

Celestia nodded. “I’m sorry to hear that.”

“Bah, we’ll have it cleaned up once we force them back to where they came,” He hefted his ax onto his shoulder. “This Arceus creature will learn that you don’t step on a Minotaur’s hooves and get away with it eh?.”

Celestia frowned. “We shall see.”

The Emperor raised an eyebrow and was about to speak when he noticed the Pokémon standing off to the side. 

After staring at them for a second, he spoke. “I see,” He turned back to Celestia. “You had better have a good reason for this Princess.”

“I do,” Celestia assured him. “And I promise, everything will be explained in due time, but for now, I must await the arrival of the other rulers.”

Golden Horn snorted and shook his head. “Very well Princess.” He stepped forward and pointed his ax at one of the guards. “You! You will show me and my men to where we may rest.”

Nodding silently, the guard made his way back towards the castle. While his guards went ahead of him, Golden Horn took another glance at Celestia. “A damn good reason Princess.”

Celestia watched as the Minotaurs entered the castle. “I knew he was going to be a problem,” She said under her breath.

“I do not remember the Minotaurs former ruler being that rude,” Luna said.

“That was Emperor Taurin and he ruled over a thousand years ago Luna,” Celestia reminded her sister.

“Princess?” Twilight asked. “Why did he act like that? I understand that he would be upset but,”

Celestia sighed. “The Minotaurs are a battle hardened people Twilight. Emperor Golden Horn came to power in the midst of his country's last civil war.” She looked back towards the castle. “He sees the Pokémon more as a danger to his people and their way of life.”

“Oh,” Was all Twilight could say. 

“The we’ll just have to change his mind,” Luna said with finality, stomping her hoof.

Celestia nodded. “We can try...”

The next airship to arrive was the most peculiar thus far. First off, it was completely sealed and the sails were set on either side. It had twin balloons above the body of the ship, keeping it aloft, and a large pair of windows at the front, the rudder, at least, was still set in the same place at the back.

What was truly peculiar was all of this gave it the appearance of a fish someone had tied balloons to. 

Rainbow snorted as the ship landed, and an actual anchor dropped to the dock. 

The side door opened, allowing some of the water inside the ship to spill out. “So... Hippocampi?” Pinkie asked.

“As if the fish ship wasn’t already enough of a clue?” Rainbow replied.

This time, instead of a ramp coming from the ship, a walkway made of water created a slow decline to the ground. 

The Hippocampi who exited the ship was a mare with a coat as white as Celestia’s, her tail was a brilliant sea green and whenever the scales caught the sunlight in the right way they would shine like a rainbow, she also wore a golden circlet atop her head. Furthermore, she was almost as tall as Celestia, and stood a bit taller than Princess Luna, or... she would’ve been, had she been standing.

Queen Oceania was surrounded by a clear sphere of water, suspended several inches above the ground. 

Behind the queen, a small contingency of four guards followed after her, like the ponies to Celestia, they were smaller than their Queen. All of them were encircled in their own spheres of water.

They, in turn, were followed by a pair of Milotic, one with the normal red and blue colors on her tail and Dorsal fins, while the other had pale blue Dorsal Fins and a gold and red tail. The Shiny one sported black and yellow clips on her Dorsal Fins.

“My word,” Rarity exclaimed. “They’re magnificent!” 

Gene smiled. “Yep, those are Milotic for ya. It’s no exaggeration that they’re considered the most beautiful Pokémon by most people.” He turned to Belle and smiled gently. “Though not by me.”

“Why are they different colors?” Fluttershy asked. “Is it like Vivillion?”

“No,” Belle answered. “The one with the golden scales is a Shiny Pokémon. They’re basically the same as normal Pokémon, except they have different coloration.”

“Neat,” Pinkie said with a smile.

“Greetings, your highnesses,” Queen Oceania said as she approached Celestia, Luna and Twilight. “I’m glad to see you all are well,” she smiled at the younger Princess. “Especially you, Princess Luna.”

“Queen Oceania,” Celestia greeted with a smile. “And I’m glad to see you’re in good health as well.” 

“Yes,” Luna agreed. “It has been... quite some time, since last we laid eyes on you.”

Oceania, along with Carapace, were the only world rulers, and some of the only beings, who remembered Luna from before her fall from grace. Changeling rulers were long lived beings, and Oceania was tied to the forces of the sea the same way Celestia and Luna were the Sun and the Moon.

“Allow me to introduce my advisor for these meetings, Lady Cynthia, and her-” 

There was a flash of blue and Gene and Belle were suddenly standing in front of the Milotics.

“Cynthia?” Gene asked hopefully. 

The Shiny Milotic’s eyes widened. “Gene?” She asked. “Is that... of course it’s you, what else would you be?”

Gene and Belle smiled. “Cynthia!” 

The Milotic laughed as the Gardevoir and Gallade hugged her, and she did her best to return it by wrapping her tail around them. 

“How have you two been?” She asked. “It’s been too long since we last talked.”

Gene smiled and pulled away from his friend. “Long story short, met some ponies, met some Pokémon, met Arceus, helped out a Princess... oh! And our weddings back on.”

Cynthia’s eyes widened again and a smile split her face. “That’s wonderful!” She exclaimed. “

“We know,” Belle said. “And we’d still love for you to officiate it.”

Cynthia chuckled and hugged the two again. “It would be my pleasure,”

“Ahem.”

The trio stopped and looked back towards the Princesses, all three of them, plus Queen Oceania, were smiling. 

“As much as I hate to interrupt such a heartwarming display,” Celestia said. “We do need to move this along.”

“Oh... of course Princess,” Gene said sheepishly. “Sorry everyone.”

“It’s no problem Gene,” Celestia assured. “I can understand being excited to see your friend again.”

Gene smiled and stepped off to the side. “We’ll catch up later,” Belle said before following him.

“Looking forward to it,” The Sinnoh Champion said with a smile. 

“Yes... well... I assume you’ll be staying on your ship for the duration of your stay...” Luna began. “Or would you like us to prepare rooms for you and your guards?”  

Oceania smiled. “Our ship will be just fine, thank you though. I would like it if I could have a guard to show me around, it’s be quite some time since my last visit.”

“But of course,” Celestia said, motioning forward one of her guards.


“See you soon Princesses,” Oceania said as she followed the guard. 

Cynthia turned to Gene and Belle and waved using her tail before following after the Queen. 

“That...” Korrina said, staring at the Champion. “That was Cynthia... THE Cynthia.”

“Yep,” Gene said with a smile. “And, besides my team, one of my closest friends.”

“So, looks like you found someone to marry you two huh?” Pinkie said with a grin, pulling a checklist from somewhere.

“Yep, she was going to the first time, and she’s going to finish the job here,” Belle said. 

“That’s great!” Pinkie shouted. “With an officiate, Oran Berries for the cake, your team back together, and Rarity being just about done with your dress and tuxedo,”

“Just need to put on the finishing touches,” Rarity said.

“We can have your wedding later this week!” Pinkie exclaimed. “I’ll talk with the Princess about getting a location tomorrow morning, but in the meantime,” She thought for a second, then gasped. “The rings!”  

“Don’t worry Pinkie,” Rarity said. “I have some high quality diamonds back at my shop we can get cut to fit... though we may need to get the bands specially made.”

Gene and Belle smiled at each other and shared another kiss. “You two are getting married?” Nick asked in surprise, since he had assumed that they were like him and Elena, a trainer and his Pokémon who had only just fallen in love.

“Uh huh,” Belle replied. “We tried once back on Earth. Things...didn’t go too well.”

“I can only imagine,” Elena muttered under her breath.

Celestia smiled. “So far so good,” She said. “Next to arrive would likely be the Deer… Though I don’t know if they will be arriving by train or by airship. After them would most likely be our good friends from Saddle Arabia. They shall be coming in by air… Then the Diamond Dog, and finally the Buffalo. Though I don’t know when Arceus is coming, nor Cadance for that matter, seeing as she is dealing with King Sombra, again...”

“WHAT?!” Twilight, as well as the rest of the former Elements screamed.

Celestia winced. “Oh... right, I forgot to mention that didn’t I?”

“Sombra’s alive?!” Rainbow Dash screamed. “How?! The Crystal Heart blew him up!”

“Who’s Sombra?” Belle asked.

“It would appear we were mistaken, Sombra somehow survived the damage dealt to him by the Crystal Heart,” Celestia explained. “And he’s recently been using Pokémon to attack the Crystal Empire.”

“What are you guys talking about?” Korrina asked.

“How come you didn’t tell me?!” Twilight shouted. “Shining Armor and Cadence are my family! I should be there helping them!”

“Twilight, don’t worry,” Celestia said. “Arceus sent one of the Legendaries to assist them... Yveltal.”

The Pokémon paled at the name. “A-as in the Pokémon of Death?” Nick asked, he had learned about the mythology of the Destruction Pokémon back in Kalos.

“Death?!” Twilight shouted. 

“Twilight, please calm down. I have faith in Shining and Cadence, and Arceus has faith in Yveltal.”

Twilight was about to say something when Luna interrupted. “It would appear our next visitors have arrived.”

Celestia and Twilight turned to see another airship arriving. This one was more streamlined and elegant than the others, the metal from which it was crafted shined brightly in the sunlight. 

“Ah, that would be the Deer,” Celestia said. “Twilight, we’ll continue this conversation later.”

Twilight wasn’t happy about it, but (with much difficulty) she accepted it and recomposed herself.

It took a few minutes for the Deer to anchor their ship but once they were safely secured to the sky dock, a half dozen guards, Does and Stags, exited and announced the arrival of Empress Serva of Stagland. 

Serva was a tall, thin Doe, she wore a wooden crown that resembled antler as well as flowing green robes. Walking beside her was a Lucario. A peculiar looking Lucario with very large eyebrows, and also looked notably older than Korrina, Lucario, and Elena. 

“No way,” Korrina gasped, recognizing the eyebrows.

“Hello Princess Celestia, it is good to see you again,” Empress Serva smiled at Twilight and Luna. “And it is good to meet you, Princess Luna, and you Princess Twilight.”

“Charmed,” Luna responded. 

Serva smiled. “I’d like to introduce my advisor and personal friend, Gurkinn,” she said, motioning to the elderly Lucario, who bowed slightly.

“Grandpa?” Korrina asked, stepping forward.

Gurkinn turned towards Korrina in shock. “Korrina?” He asked, recognizing her voice, as well as the skater gear she was wearing. 

Korrina smiled. “Grandpa!” She rushed forward and hugged her grandfather. “I’m so glad you’re here!”

Gurkinn chuckled and returned his granddaughters embrace. “I’m happy to see you too Korrina... and I see you received our families heritage as well,”

Korrina looked down at her paws. “I guess so,” she mumbled, though now that she thought about it, her form certainly made sense. After all, her family were descendants of the first person to ever Mega Evolve a Pokémon, and that Pokémon was a Lucario.

It was at this point that Lucario stepped forward. “It’s good to see you again sir.”

Gurkinn smiled. “And you as well Lucario, I trust you’ve been taking care of Korrina?”

Lucario looked to his trainer guiltily, she refused to meet his gaze. “I’ve... done my best.”

Gurkinn looked between his granddaughter and Lucario. He could tell something was off  between these two, and he could tell it was something personal, which meant he could either ask now and embarrass his granddaughter, or wait and ask her the next time he could talk to her alone. 

After a moment's contemplation, he decided not to embarrass her in front of whom he assumed were her friends. 

“Korrina,” He began. “I promise we’ll talk more after the meeting, but for now, I have to go.”

Korrina sighed. “Alright grandpa, but I’m holding you to that.”

Gurkinn chuckled. “Of course.” He turned back to the Princesses. “My apologies your highnesses.”

“No need to apologize,” Celestia assured. 

Serva smiled and walked over to Korrina. “So, you’re the young Gym Leader I’ve heard so much about.”

Korrina smiled. “I guess I am, your highness.”

Serva giggled. “Your grandfather speaks quite highly of you.”

Korrina glanced at her grandfather and smirked. “Is that so?”

Serva nodded. “Oh my yes, he’s told me everything about you, I’m quite impressed with all you’ve managed to accomplish at such a young age."

“Oh, go on,” Korrina said, flattered.

Gurkinn cleared his throat. “Well your majesty, I presume we should prepare for the meeting?”

Serva blinked once, then nodded. “Of course, I cannot wait to meet this Arceus fellow,” She trotted off towards the castle. “Tell me again, what does he look like?”

As the Deer followed after their Queen, Celestia sighed. “Speaking of Arceus, I wonder why he hasn’t arrived.”

“Perhaps he wishes to be fashionably late?” Luna suggested.

Celestia shook her head. He’d better not wait to appear in the meeting room once we’ve all gathered.

While Celestia was wondering where Arceus was, as well as who would be arriving next. A guard rushed out of the castle and up to the Princesses.

“Your highnesses,” He began. “There’s an... issue, with one of the visiting dignitaries.”

Celestia sighed. “What’s gone wrong now?” She asked.

The guard leaned in an whispered something into the Princesses ear. When the Princess pulled back, her eye twitched and her mane seemed to glow a little brighter for a second. “... I see.”





“-And all shall bow to the combined might of the Zebrican army and the Pokémon Liberation Army! Led by the glorious Commander Sev!”

“Will someone please shut him up!” Empress Victoria shouted, he royal guards had been attempting to capture the snake and take the megaphone from him for the past ten minutes. For whatever reason, no matter how close they got to him, he always managed to slip away from them.

“What in Harmony’s name is going on here?!” Celestia asked as she ran into the room.

“That snake,” Carapace said, rubbing his temple. “Has been screaming propaganda for the last twenty minutes!”

Celestia frowned. “Where’s Trotankhamun?” 

“Some of his guards said he went out to see a bit of Canterlot before the meeting,” Victoria replied.

“Lightning Dust?” Celestia inquired.

“Went to quote, 'Visit some of her old hang outs',” Carapace replied.

“General Lia?” The Princess asked hopefully. 

Both rulers shook their heads. “We can’t find her.”

Celestia groaned. 

“Princess?”

Celestia turned to see Twilight and Rainbow Dash standing behind her.

“I thought I told you to wait with Luna back at the platform,” Celestia said.

“We thought you could use some help dealing with... what’s happening anyway?” Rainbow inquired.

“Lord Arceus shall bless my army with unbeatable strength and I shall rule with an Iron Tail!”

“That,” Celestia said. “That is what I am dealing with.”

“What the heck is he-”

“We shall lead this world into a new golden age!” Sev continued to rant, somehow managing to avoid the Griffins, Pegasi, and Changelings trying to catch him. He even somehow managed to avoid Roll who looked more than ready to skin him, if the look she was giving him was any indication.

“I gotta admit, that snake's got skill,” Dash said in admiration.

“Not helping Rainbow,” Twilight deadpanned. 

“None can stop the might Commander Sev!” The Seviper announced with a laugh. “Mountains tremble befo-!” he didn’t get to finish as he was promptly snapped up in a pair of large orange jaws.

“Thank you, Apocalypse,” X sighed, rubbing the side of his head.

Princess Celestia stared in abject horror at the large dinosaur who had just seemingly eaten Commander Sev. 

There was a muffled cry from within the Tyrantrum’s mouth. “Let me out of here you beast... it’s slimy!”

“Hah hah! Good job Apocalypse!” Carapace said with a smile.

“Are you gonna eat him?” Victoria asked, flying up to and knocking on the Tyrantrum’s jaw. “Just out of curiosity.” She was REALLY hoping the answer was yes.

”Do not eat me you cretin!” Sev shouted from inside Apocalypse. ”Arceus will punish you for a thousand years if you eat me!”

Apocalypse seemed to consider this for a second, then bent down and opened his jaw, allowing a very perturbed and slimy Seviper to fall out (the other occupants of the room groaned in disappointment at that). 

“You will pay for that!” Sev shouted. 

Before he could do anything else, Celestia walked up to Sev, took the megaphone from him, and picked him up in her magic.

“You can be assured King Trotankhamun will hear about this,” She warned. “But in the meantime, guards!”

A pair of Pegasi guards flew to meet the Princess. “Take him to wherever the rest of the Zebrican company is staying... and keep a guard posted outside his room.”

The guards reluctantly took hold of the slimy, squirming Seviper and made their way out of the room.

“You’ll rue the day you messed with Commander Sev!” He shouted as he was carried away. “Rue I say!”

Celestia turned to the rest of the rooms occupants. “I am so sorry about that everyone, I had no idea he was so... egotistical.”

“Try insane,” Inti muttered under her breath. She had no idea how the snake had managed to avoid every last one of her attacks. Including Shockwave, which was supposed to be impossible to dodge.

Celestia sighed again. She was REALLY going to have to speak with Arceus about that one. 

“Yes well, I must return to the landing platform. The Saddle Arabians will be arriving soon and I must be there to meet them.” With that, Celestia left the room, followed by Twilight and Rainbow Dash.

“You should’ve just eaten him,” Azisa said. “I don’t think there would’ve been a great loss if you had.”

Apocalypse shook his head. “I can’t eat him, he’s a poison type. What if he gave me indigestion or food poisoning?” 

“I... you’re a dinosaur!” Carapace shouted.

“Can you even get food poisoning?” Inti asked. “You never did before as far as I remember, and you've eaten plenty of things that you probably shouldn't have.”

Apocalypse shrugged.

“It’s going to be one of those days...” X groaned.





Celestia, Twilight and Rainbow arrived back at the platform just a few moments before another airship arrived.

This one was was gold and royal purple, with an intricate design and silver rimming. A silver star over a horizontal golden crescent moon was set on the sails.

“The Saddle Arabians,” Luna stated. “As extravagant as always.”

The ship landed and was anchored just like the rest and the guards who exited the ship announced the arrival of King Faris and, to Celestia’s surprise, Princess Amira.

The first to exit the ship was an elder stallion with a light silver coat and a mane of a slightly darker grey, the saddle he wore across his back was gold and royal purple, just like the coloration of his ship. And he wore a golden crown with purple gems set in it.

Twilight was surprised to see that the mare who was apparently the Princess was the same mare who had come to watch her perform in Ponyville. Looking closer, Twilight noticed the stallion who had accompanied her standing at the front of the guard contingency. 

The Princess wore the same blue and purple outfit she had worn the last time Twilight had seen her.

“King Faris,” Celestia greeted. “I’m glad you could make it.”

The stallion nodded. “Yes well, I found it necessary to come and speak out against what has been forced onto us by this Arceus,” Faris glanced at the Pokémon. “I felt compelled to fight for our way of life.”

Celestia nodded, then smiled at Amira. “Princess Amira, what a wonderful surprise, I did not expect you to come.”

“I figured it was about time my daughter start learning the finer details of ruling a country,” Faris explained. 

Amira sighed. “It’s good to see you as well Princess.”  

Celestia smiled, she had been working to set Amira up as a ruler who would bring about change to the old traditions of Saddle Arabia, as while there was nothing wrong with traditions, it would be bad for a nation to remain completely unchanging, especially when the rest of the world was changing, and she didn’t just mean the Pokémon.

The rulers exchanged a few more pleasantries before Faris excused himself and his daughter, saying that they were going to go speak about the situation in private before the meeting.

“That just leaves the Diamond Dogs, the Buffalo, and Cadence,” Luna said. “I do hope our niece isn’t in too much trouble, I would have thought she would have arrived by now.”

“I hope so too,” Twilight said under her breath. 

The group didn’t have to wait long before another airship appeared on the horizon. What struck out about this one was its simplicity, it had no vibrant colors, instead it was a light grey, the only thing that stuck out about it was the design on the sail. 

A mountain, with paw holding aloft a crown underneath it. 

“I was expecting something more... flashy,” Twilight admitted. 

“Why is that?” Luna asked.

“Well, I know that the Diamond Dogs are largely a mining based culture, and I assumed they would use the gems they mine to decorate their ship.”

Celestia nodded. “A good prediction Twilight, but let me ask you this,” She smiled and turned to Twilight. “What would be your number one fear if you brought a gem ladened airship to another country and left it unattended, even if it was in a castle?”

Twilight opened her mouth to answer, then laughed. “I guess I didn’t think of that.”

The Princesses watched as the ship was anchored into place and a half dozen Diamond Dog guards filed out of the ship. The last one to exit held a scroll in his paws. 

“Announcing the arrival of his majesty, King Grimm Halfpaw, the king under the mountain.”

As the introduction was completed, a single Diamond Dog with a light brown coat exited the ship. He wore a suit of light blue armor, which had a blue starburst gem set in the chestplate. At his side hung a broadsword, a red gem ladened in its hilt. His most distinguishing feature, however, was that he was missing two fingers on his left paw.

“Princess Celestia, what a pleasure it is to see you again,” Grimm said with a smile. “And likewise to finally meet you Princess Luna, as well as you Princess Twilight.”

“Glad to see you as well King Halfpaw, how go things in Canida?” Celestia inquired.

The King under the mountain waved his paw. “Eh, a few incidents with the Pokémon on the first few days but for the most part order has been kept.” The Diamond Dog gritted his teeth. “I wish that this Arceus fellow had given a warning before dropping the Pokémon on our heads, a few of the burrowing ones caused cave ins in a few of our mines and nearly caused a structural disaster near one of our cities.”

“I hope no one was injured,” Celestia said.

“Hmph, nothing fatal, but almost Princess, almost.” The king shook his head. “Anyhow, we’ve had a long flight so I think I’ll rest up a bit before the meeting.”

“Of course, I’ll send a guard to fetch you before we begin.”

“Much obliged.” With that, the Diamond Dogs left for the castle, but he decided to add a little bit of good news on his way. “But for all its worth, this isn’t the worst that’s happened before. I can certainly see some of the Pokémon being something we could greatly benefit from.”

Celestia smiled at the news as the king continued towards the castle. 

“Well, I must say he was quite the gentle... dog,” Rarity said, finishing with an awkward smile.

Celestia nodded. “The Diamond Dogs of Canida are nothing like the ones you’ve encountered.”

Twilight nodded and was about to say something she had learned about Canida when a ruckus in the streets below drew her attention. 

From this height, she was unable to hear what the ponies below were saying, but she did manage to make out one word. Stampede.

“Princess?” Twilight began. “I think the Buffalo are here.”

Celestia raised an eyebrow and looked down at Canterlot, she could just make out a faint dust cloud drawing nearer the castle.

“Ah Thunderhooves, right on time.” Celestia’s horn glowed gold for a second before she loosed a teleportation spell. 

Once the light from the spell cleared, Celestia found herself standing in front of the castle gate. 

“Open the gate,” She told the guards bowing behind her. “We’re about to have more guests.”

Celestia watched for a moment as the dust cloud rounded a corner and came barreling towards the castle.

The guards tensed when the Princess didn’t move out of the way of, nor did she seem to worry, the cloud barreling towards her.

When the dust cloud was only a dozen or so feet from the Princess, and the guards were all but ready to push her out of the way. The cloud just stopped. 

It took a moment for the dust to settle, but once it did Celestia was finally able to see the beings who had caused it.

“Chief Thunderhooves,” Celestia greeted with a smile. “Glad you could make it.”

The Buffalo snorted. “Princess Celestia,” He said with a bow. “We bring good tidings from Appleoosa, and I too am glad to be here.”

Celestia looked over the half dozen or so Buffalo warriors Thunderhooves had brought with him.  

“Why don’t I have my guards show you and your bulls to your rooms? I assume you must be tired after such a long journey.”

“You are most gracious, your highness,” Chief Thunderhooves said.

“It’s no trouble Chief,” Celestia had only met with the Buffalo tribes a few times, but she noticed their leaders always held her in high esteem.

Celestia motioned for one of the guards to take the Buffalo into the castle, once that was done, the Princess sighed and flew back to the landing platform where her sister and the others were waiting.

“Sorry about that,” She apologized. “But the good news is that everyone’s here now except Arceus and Cadence.”

“You would think a being like Arceus would be able to show up on time,” Luna said.

Celestia was about to respond when a flash of gold illuminated the platform. Sighing, Celestia turned to see that Arceus had appeared in the center of the platform, Uxie floating next to him. 

“Greetings all,” Arceus said, approaching the Princesses. “I am Lord... oh, hello Princess, where are the other rulers?”

Celestia glared at Arceus. “Inside, and I thought we agreed you wouldn’t do anything like that.”

The Alpha Pokémon thought for a second. “Let’s see, no intimidation, no showing off, don’t erase anyone from existence... nope, nowhere was it said that I couldn’t announce myself.” 

Celestia shook her head and instead turned to Arceus’ daughter. “You are Lady Uxie correct?”

“Yes Princess, I am Uxie, bringer of knowledge, and one of the Lake Trio of Sinnoh. It is nice to see you again.”

The Princess almost mentioned that her eyes were closed, but decided against it. 

“Well, with you here we’re only waiting on my niece,” Celestia said. “She’s running a bit late, so I think I’ll go wait for her at the train station.”

“I shall as well,” Arceus said. “In hopes that Yveltal accompanies them, or at least so I can receive an update on his status.”

Celestia took a deep breath. “Of course,” She said with a nod, remembering how he treated the Legendaries.





“I do not like this Princess,” Arceus said, watching the still empty train tracks. “By all accounts they should have arrived by now.”

“Patience Arceus,” Celestia said. “I’m sure they’re alright, probably just a snow buildup on the tracks.” The Princess felt like she was trying to convince herself more than she was Arceus.

Arceus shook his head. “That does it,” He stated, stomping his hoof. “I’m going to find Yveltal.”

“Arceus wait, you should-”

“No more waiting Princess,” Arceus said. “I wanted to handle that monster Sombra myself from the beginning, instead you convinced me to send one of my children after him. Now we both have no idea what is going on up there.”

Celestia wanted to retort, but she had to admit, Arceus had a point. In wanting to avoid having to involve him, she may have ended up endangering both their families in the process.

As Arceus began to track Yveltal’s energy, he was surprised to find that the signature seemed to be close by, very close by in fact. 

“Princess? I think that-”

“Dragon!” 

Arceus was interrupted by the sound of screaming ponies. “What now?!” he grumbled irritably. He wasn’t in the mood to deal with whatever random problem decided to pop-up. 

Celestia felt the same way herself. If a Dragon had appeared, now of all times... no matter what its intentions were, it wouldn’t end well. 

Exiting the train station Celestia turned her attention to the sky and spotted a red and black wyvern like creature flying towards the castle.  

Beside her Arceus chuckled, his earlier irritation having seemingly completely vanished. “There you are.”

Celestia turned to Arceus. “What do you mea...” The Princess’s question died in her throat as the scenery around them seamlessly shifted from the train station back to the landing platform. 

Trotting closer to the edge of the platform, Arceus watched as Yveltal came in for a landing. “Princess, this is Yveltal,” He introduced as the Dark-type landed. 

“Aunty!”

Celestia noticed that Yveltal had several beings on his back, Cadence fluttered to the ground and ran over to her, she was soon followed by Shining Armor. 

Also accompanying the Destruction Pokémon was a Pokémon that looked like a large monkey...which was on fire, an Infernape, and one that seemed to be wearing a black trench coat. Probably this ‘John’ Cadence told me about. She thought. He seemed to move rather slow. As if his body was stiff or in pain. On the Infernape’s shoulder was a small yellow spider-like Pokémon, a Joltik. And by the Infernape’s side was a unicorn mare with a dark green coat, a silky black mane that was pulled back into a ponytail, light green eyes, a pair of square glasses on her nose, a braided tail that ended in a white bow, and a Cutie Mark depicting a large four leaf clover, with four small light green ‘six pointed stars’ behind it, and behind them was a large dark green twelve pointed star. Like John, she moved slowly.

Both the mare, and the Infernape looked like they had been in some kind of fight, and, from what she could see, Yveltal did as well. Bruises could be seen all across their bodies.

“What happened to you?” Arceus asked Yveltal, leaning in and using his power to heal the Dark-type’s wounds.

“Thank you, father.... The train… it was attacked,” Yveltal said. “By King Sombra.”

Celestia gasped. “Are you alright?” She asked worriedly. 

Cadence nodded slowly. “He surprised us, but John and Yveltal managed to drive him back far enough so that they could...” Cadence’s voice quivered at the end.

Yveltal chuckled. “That stallion will not be bothering anyone ever again...”

Arceus sighed with relief. “That’s good to hear, now why don’t I send you back to the temple to get some rest? You’ve more than earned it my son.”

Yveltal nodded, and with another flash of gold, the Pokémon of Death disappeared.

“Cadence! Shining!” Cadence and Shining Armor turned in time for Twilight to grab the two and wrap her wings around them. “I’m so glad you’re alright! The Princess just told me about Sombra.”

While Twilight chatted with her brother and sister-in-law, Celestia turned her attention to her own sister, who, along with Twilight and her friends, had exited the castle after Yveltal showed up.

“Not a Dragon?” Luna asked.

Celestia shook her head. “One of his.” 

Arceus, meanwhile, had turned his attention to John and the mare he was with. “Heal Pulse.”

The wave of energy washed over the pair, healing their wounds. They both smiled as their wounds, and the pain, vanished. “Now that that’s taken care of,” Arceus said. “I believe some introductions are in order.”

John nodded and turned to the Princess. “Princess Celestia, Princess Luna, and Lord Arceus… My name is John Williams, International Pokémon Police, it is a pleasure to meet you, and this,” He reached out a hand and drape it over the green mare. “Is my marefriend Holly Heart.” Holly Heart smiled nervously and bowed. John smiled with her and continued. “I’m looking forward to the relaxing life of politics while I’m here…” He paused for a moment, before adding. “Oh, and this little fellow,” He pointed at the Joltik. “Is Volt. Please do not give him sugar...” Volt then let out a cute little snore. The fight with King Sombra must have made him tired.

“Relaxing life in politics...?” Rainbow muttered to herself.

“John’s going to be our advisor during the meetings,” Cadence explained.

Over with the rest of the group, Gene and Belle gave each other worried looks. 

Celestia smiled and nodded. “Very good,” She did a mental check to make sure everything was in order. “I believe that’s everything. Luna? Please show Arceus and Cadence to the meeting room, I’ll have the guards track down and alert the other rulers.” Heading back towards the castle, Celestia added. “It’s time for the Equus World Summit to commence.”





Deep within Canterlot Castle, Arceus stood facing a pair of stone doors. “So, this is it,” Arceus said.

“I guess so,” Uxie replied. “Don’t worry dad, I’m sure everything will go... honestly? There’ll probably be a lot of yelling at first.” Uxie put a hand on her fathers shoulder. “But I have confidence we’ll be able to find a solution.”

Arceus sighed. “I hope you’re right... and Uxie? If I start acting... like how I did with Celestia when I first met her, stop me, okay?”

“Sure thing dad,” Uxie said with a smile. “Now come on, we can’t keep them waiting.”

“I suppose not.” Arceus stepped forward and the door swung open, revealing the Equus World Summit hall. The rest of the World Leaders and their advisors had already entered, Princess Celestia had asked Arceus to wait outside for a moment while she explained a few things to them.

Mainly that Arceus hadn’t acted so rashly out of malice, that he had been unjustly imprisoned and had only just escaped, etcetera. Just some background that she hoped would help smooth things over a little bit.

As Arceus entered the room, every set of eyes turned to him, and the few conversations that had been going on fell silent. 

“Greetings your majesties,” Arceus said, making his way to an empty seat left of Princess of Equestria and right of Queen Oceania. “I am Lord Arceus, and this is my daughter, Lady Uxie.”

“Hello,” Uxie greeted.

“So you’re the one who’s responsible for the Pokémon’s presence on Equus,” Empress Serva stated. 

“Yes, and I would like to apologize for the trouble I’ve caused in doing so. I acted rashly upon my release and...” Arceus shook his head. “I did not think my plan through.”

Celestia smiled, so far so good.

Emperor Golden Horn snorted. “I don’t know what I was expecting when I heard a god would be attending this meeting,” He scoffed. “But I thought you would be a little more... impressive.”

“Silence knave!” Commander Sev hissed from his place beside Trotankhamun. “None shall speak to Lord Arceus in such a manner!”

“Sev!” Trotankhamun snapped. “At least try and act civil, alright?”

Arceus chuckled. “Truth be told I could have appeared in any form, be that an ordinary Pony or a swirling mass of energy, but this is the from I was born in and thus the one I call myself.”

“Enough idle chit-chat,” Victoria said. “I think it’s time we got to the issue here. We are going to need to deal with it first before we can even hope to make any progress.”

Victoria turned to Arceus and pointed an accusatory claw at him. “Why did you bring the Pokémon here?”

“And us,” Cynthia added. “Humans I mean, well former humans now.”

Arceus looked over the assembled beings, some looking upon him with anger, some with curiosity, some with knowing, and some with admiration.

“To protect them,” He said. “Allow me to explain, long ago, over five thousand years in fact, I had full reign of my home world of Earth.” Arceus paused for a moment to ensure there were no questions yet, then continued. “Back then, humans and Pokémon lived as equals to one another, they worked together, lived together, and the world was peaceful.”

Arceus seemed to develop a darker tone. “Until a single city in the Hoenn region changed everything, they treated the Pokémon not as equals, but as slaves. They forced them to work, to serve them, to... to ‘service’ their every need.” Arceus shook his head. “And when I went to... correct them, they were less than receptive of me,” Arceus chuckled. “But rest assured that those who deserved it faced my Judgement and got what they deserved.”

“What did you do?” King Halfpaw asked, resting his elbows on the table and pressing his paws together. 

“As I said, they faced my Judgement,” He explained. “After that... incident, some of my less faithful sages saw fit to remove me from power,” Arceus sighed. “And that plane of existence.”

Celestia looked around the room and gauged the reactions of the various rulers. Most were keeping their expression blank, though Serva still wore a look of curiosity, and Sev appeared... angry.

“It took five thousand and seventeen years, eight months, two weeks, five days, two hours, thirty six minutes and fourteen seconds for me to finally escape,” His eyes scanned the room and he continued. “And during that time, during that entire time, all I was able to do was watch as my world fell apart. The humans began to treat the Pokémon as mere tools, taking the battles that made them grow and twisting them for their amusement.” Arceus’ breathing became more rapid. “War and senseless violence set in, Pokémon were treated as second-class citizens, and even that is putting it nicely!”

A golden glint flash in Arceus’ eyes as he talked. Meanwhile, the former humans in the room remained silent, as whether they like it or not, what he was saying wasn’t a lie. Anyone who read a history book back on Earth would know that what he was saying was the truth...at least the part about the wars and stuff like that.

“One human created a Weapon of Mass Destruction, and wiped out tens of thousands of Pokémon in an instant!” Arceus continued. “They attempted to use my Legendaries to further their own standings, tormenting and torturing my children!”

“Dad, calm down,” Uxie said, placing a hand on her fathers shoulder, only to pull it back as the energy emanating from him proved to be too hot for her to touch him.

“And I remember every. Single. Second!” As Arceus said that, the room became less solid than before, and it appeared something had been lain over the room.

Images flashed before the assembled beings. Of stone slowly creeping up Regigigas’ body, and crystals encasing Jirachi, of battlefields were Pokémon fought each other, of a flower like crystal machine, draining energy from the surrounding area.

“These... these are memories,” Cadence said in realization.

The leaders watched as more images faded into view, they watched as more battles, between Pokémon and humans alike, raged on, they saw the first Pokéball being invented, and then used, they watched the mistreatment of hundreds of Pokémon, Cadence and a few of the others averted their eyes. 

“Then those damned organizations,” Arceus seethed.

They saw a man in an orange tweed suit, various illegal dealings being committed by men and women in black suits with the letter R on them.

John let out a low grown at the sight of them.

They saw a man in blue, dressed like a pirate, facing a man in red, one with Groudon and one with Kyogre, each Legendaries eyes glowing red as they screeched at each other.

They saw a blue haired man in a grey outfit, laughing insanely at a swirling portal before him. 

They saw a white haired boy in a blue trench coat, an odd red and black gauntlet on his arm, facing off against Pokémon who’s very souls seemed to radiate darkness. 

They saw a green haired man wearing intricate robes laughing at a young, green haired boy, holding an injured Zorua in his arms. The sequence of images that followed, all relating to the two, made several rulers gasp. 

They saw a man with vibrant orange hair, standing before the same machine from the earlier images.

“And my children,”

The scenes shifted to Zapdos, Articuno, and Moltres trapped within orbs of electricity. To Celebi, her mind fogged with darkness as she tore apart the forest she called home. To Mewtwo and how he suffered at the hands of Giovanni. To Latios, sacrificing himself to stop the destruction that two thieves had wrought. To Jirachi, trapped in the center of a colossal beast.

“Enough!” Celestia shouted, the images quickly becoming unbearable. “You’ve made your point!”

At her words, Arceus stopped, the memories fading. Realizing he may have gone a bit overboard in his memories, he chuckled sheepishly. “In one way, I suppose I have.” The images disappeared as his eyes softened. “But there’s a second side to every coin.”

More images began to appear. 

Of a young boy, no more than ten, shielding a Pikachu from a flock of Spearow, never once even showing a hint of wanting to run away even as dozens of razor sharp beaks were headed straight for him. Of the same boy, less than a year older, on Lugia’s back, riding to save the Legendary Birds. 

Of a black haired boy in a black and red outfit, wearing a white hat, riding on the back of Rayquaza to the city where Kyogre and Groudon fought. 

Of a girl with large purple hair calming down and helping an injured Dragonite.

Of the same green haired boy (now a young man), helping various Pokémon.

Of a man with purple hair and a woman with an outrageously large red curl, standing against a Tyranitar as an Arbok and Weezing lead a herd of Ekans and Koffing away to safety, while the two humans continued to take attack after attack, till they couldn’t even stand, yet they still continued to struggle. 

More images blinked by, a man in a black trench coat, similar to the one John wore, facing off against a squad of Rocket Goons with a Luxray and an Absol. The Infernape stared wide eyed at the image. 

Of the same white haired boy from before, playing a gentle tune from a flute sitting next to a Makuhita that shivered as darkness seeped from its body.

Of a young man conversing with a group of school teachers, while an Absol and a Sylveon played with the students nearby. 

Of a boy with gentle emerald eyes, holding a scared, wounded Zorua in his arms, comforting the Pokémon as he walked through a forest. The Chesnaught’s eyes widened at the image, before softening at the memory.

Of a young boy on the banks of a river, snuggling with an Espurr, the small Pokémon comforting the distraught boy as best as it could.

Of a Pokémon Ranger, walking alongside a golden Arcanine, holding a crying Kirlia in her arms, comforting the Pokémon.

Of a young girl, cradling an Eevee as she ran from a pair of red suited men, exiting from whatever building they were in just in time. 

Of a blond haired boy, holding a sleeping Houndour in his arms as he walked down the path, a Kirlia at his side. 

And so memory after memory played, images of countless humans and Pokémon helping each other, respecting each other, co-existing peacefully together, just as Arceus had intended for it to be all those millennia ago. 

“I had originally planned, on the day of my eventual escape, to obliterate the humans for what they had done.” John, X, Cynthia, and Gurkinn all froze, while Sev smiled. “But... I couldn’t. I couldn’t punish the innocent, the heroes, for what the worst of their race had done,” Arceus explained. 

“I sought to preserve humanity’s goodness, while cutting off the darkness that stemmed from it,” Arceus chuckled quietly. “Such an odd race, capable of such horrors, and yet such greatness as well.”

The former humans smiled, while Sev frowned slightly, but quickly shook his head It is not my place to to question Lord Arceus’ will, he thought.

“Well why didn’t you just retake your own world?” Emperor Golden Horn asked. “You claim to be more than powerful enough to do so.”

“While that may be true Emperor, the humans would not have taken too kindly to me wresting control from them, especially the likes of those I have just shown you,” Arceus shook his head. “Could I have reconquered Earth? Forced my rule unto the humans? Of course I could have, I’m a God, and the one who created them and their world at that.”

The Alpha Pokémon sighed. “But they would have fought back, the bad ones would have lead the movement against me. Sure, some humans would have sided with me, N perhaps, and the remaining followers of my religion, but more would have stayed neutral. And the resulting battles would have seen the deaths of thousands if not millions, be they both human and Pokémon.”

“And it all would be on my hooves,” Arceus said. “In the end, by the time I retook Earth, I would have left a staggering mountain of corpses in my wake, while the Earth would have been left charred and smoking from the war that would have ensued. It wouldn’t be worth it. A Pyrrhic Victory like no other...”

After that, no one spoke for a few moments. “I would like to propose a short recess,” Empress Serva suggested. “So that we can... consider, what we have just seen.”

“I second that,” Cadence said.

“Third,” Queen Oceania added.

Celestia nodded. “A short break would do us some good, we shall reconvene in an hour, see you all then.”

With a shuffling of hooves, paws, claws, and feet, most of the leaders and their advisors left the room.

“That was... somewhere between touching and horrible,” Twilight said, shaking her head, though inwardly a part of her wanted to curl up into a ball and cry after the first set of memories. She just couldn’t understand how anyone could be so needlessly cruel, as the closest she had ever seen was Sombra, and even that paled in comparison. 

“Indeed,” Luna agreed. “We thought you said you spoke with Arceus sister.”

“I did,” Celestia said. “But... what he just did, he was presenting evidence.”

“You think he could have gone with less traumatic memories,” Cadence said, walking over to her aunts and sister. The look on her face was that of someone who had just seen something she could never un-see. “And for the record, John vouched for most of the memories. In fact, he was actually in one of them.”

“I barely even recognize myself…” John pointed out, as he stared at his hand.

Celestia looked to where Arceus still stood, completely unmoving, Uxie floating next to him. 

“Somehow I don’t think we were the only ones disturbed by those memories,” she sighed, shaking her head. For all it was worth, she was finding it harder and harder to fault Arceus for what he did (not that it excused how he did it). If something like that had happened to Equestria, she doubted she would have done differently...assuming moving the ponies to a new world was an option that is.

“What do we do now Princess?” Twilight asked.

Celestia looked at Twilight and saw the fear and pain in her eyes. “For now Twilight, go find your friends, I can tell you need them.”

Twilight didn’t even try to protest, instead she slowly walked out of the room, her eyes never leaving the still motionless form of Arceus.

“Cadence, Shining, why don’t you go as well,” Celestia suggested. 

The princess and prince of the Crystal Empire looked at each other before nodding at Celestia and following after Twilight. 

Celestia turned to Luna and was about to speak up when her sister interrupted. “Don’t even think of asking me to leave.”

Despite herself, Celestia chuckled. “Very well.” She turned to Arceus and took a deep breath before walking over to him, her sister at her side.

“Hello Princesses,” Arceus said quietly, his voice telling her that he wasn’t all that focused at the moment. “Did you need something?”

Celestia and Luna looked at each other worriedly. “Are.... are you alright?” Celestia asked. 

Arceus shook his head. “Of course, I usually keep the bad memories locked away, not healthy to dwell on such things right?” he chuckled. An empty humorless sound.

“Arceus,” Celestia began. “Do you... do you truly remember everything you’ve ever experienced?”

“Save for when my powers clouded my mind, before I birthed my sons,” Arceus replied. 

“That is... a slightly horrifying thing,” Luna commented. 

“Only when I have to remember,” Arceus responded. 

Celestia sighed. “Arceus, the meeting won’t reconvene for another hour, why don’t you go be with your family.”

Arceus blinked once before smiling softly. “I think I shall,” he said. “See you again soon Princesses.” In a flash of gold, Arceus and Uxie disappeared, leaving Luna and Celestia alone in the meeting room.

“Tia,” Luna began. “What are we going to do?”

Celestia looked at her sister, sadness in her eyes. “What we were planning to do from the start Luna,” She put a wing around her sister. “Convince the others to accept the Pokémon and hope they can live in peace here on Equus.”

“Yes, but how, is the question.”

“Anyway we can Luna,” Celestia said. “Anyway we can.”





“So Twi how'd it go?” Applejack asked.

“Yeah, Twilight. What happened in there?” Rainbow added.

“Well… everyone now understands why Arceus did what he did… but it’s hard to imagine that humans can be so cruel…” She answered.

“Details, darling,” Rarity asked. “You’re being very vague about what happened in there.”

“What she means is that Arceus kind of… shocked us about what humans are capable of.” Everypony turned to see Cadance and Shining Armor walking to them. Along with John and Holly Heart.

“Yeah, that’s one way to put it…” Twilight sighed.

“Was it really that bad?” Fluttershy asked.

“Arceus just had an emotional break down about how bad some humans can be,” John answered. “It’s understandable, considering all the horrible things humans have done.”


“I just can’t believe humans could be so cruel…” Twilight continued.

“Considering how Hastings acted when he learned about Belle and Gene, I can see them doing much more… violent things.” Rarity said.

“I can vouch for that,” John added. “I had to deal with those who committed a lot of those heinous acts for most of my life.”

“So John, was that really what you looked like back on Earth?” Cadance asked. He nodded.

“Wait…” Rarity placed her hoof on her chin. “Where did your trench coat go?”

“Oh, he and Volt got bored at the meeting and ran off.”

“He?” Rainbow asked. “You’re trench coat is a boy?”

“Well no… he’s a Ditto. He just transformed into that after the battle with King Sombra.”

“Then what’s a Ditto?” Pinkie Pie asked.

“Dittos are pink blobbed Pokémon that can transform into almost anything.” The group turned to see Gene and Belle approaching them.

“Oh, Cadance,” Twilight smiled. “Let me introduce you to Belle and Gene.”

“It’s nice to finally meet you Princess Cadance,” Belle smiled. “Twilight has told us a lot about you.”

Cadence smiled in return. “It’s nice to meet you two too, and please, just call me Cadence.”

“So Twilight, I take it your time with Pokémon has been better than ours?” Shining asked.

“About that,” Twilight stared at them annoyed. “I’m still mad at you two for not telling me about King Sombra.”

“Like we said before Twilight, we’re sorry.” Cadence frowned. “We had a lot on our plates. Between all the crystal ponies and King Sombra attacking. Not to mention getting a letter out is harder when you don’t have a Dragon.”

“Just look at the bright side, Twilight. He’s dead!” Pinkie stated happily, before pausing at what she said. “Wow, that sounds so messed up now that I think about it.”

“Dear Arceus, she reminds me of Volt.” John muttered.

“Yeah… Anyways, Twilight. How have you been?” Shining asked.

“Mostly good. The whole Pokémon thing is just more stress than anything, but my friends have been helping.”

“We’ve pretty much been dealing with rampaging Pokémon or crazy ponies using Pokémon for one reason or another,” Rainbow added.

John let out an annoyed sigh. “Great, there are those who would use Pokémon here too?”

“Not all ponies are that nice, John. Remember Winter Breeze and Green Horn?” Holly timidly reminded.

“Who?” Rarity asked.

“Just two stallions that John had to put in their places. Not to mention he was still recovering from his injuries from his first fight with King Sombra at the time…” Shining answered.

“Injuries?” Gene asked.

Stepping forward, John pointed at his stomach. A massive, yet faint, scar could be seen. Everypony let out a gasp.

“Don’t worry,” He said, before any of the could ask some questions. “It doesn't hurt, and healed up quite nicely.”

“But… But… what could even do that?!” Gene asked.

“A Gengar that King Sombra had taken over.” He answered. “Didn’t help that said Gengar was trained by Agatha, former Elite Four member.”

“Wait… aren't Pokémon supposed to be durable?” Rainbow asked.

“Yes, but King Sombra used his magic to… to… Sorry, it’s getting hard to talk about what King Sombra does to Pokémon. Mind if we… change topics?”

“Of course, John. We don’t need to talk about what happened if you don’t want to,” Holly said, placing a hoof on his side.

“Don’t they just make the cutest couple?” Cadance asked.

“Oh, please, Princess? We asked you not to do that…” Holly blushed, hiding behind John.

“Speaking of couples, how has your time in Canterlot been?” Twilight asked, turning to Belle and Gene. “Any romantic plans yet?”

“We’re going out for dinner later, and are planning on a romantic walk through gardens after that,” Belle smiled at the thought.

“Well I wish the best for the two of you,” Rarity said. “Can’t wait for all of this to blow over so I can get back to work on your wedding gown and suit.”

“Wait… Gene… Gene… That names sounds familiar…” John started. Belle and Gene gave each other a look again. “Ah… I remember now. Gene Phillips.”

Gene gritted his teeth and clenched his fists. “Don’t. Call me that.”

“...Sorry.” John started. “No need to get angry, I was one of those cops that didn’t care about what you were doing with your Pokémon.”

Gene glared at John for another second before sighing. “Sorry, I’m just sick of people treating me like a criminal because I love Belle,” He shook his head. “And I don’t want anything to do with my mother so...”

“No need to continue. Like I said before, I don’t really care what you do with her. As long as you’re both happy… and as long as you’re not really hurting her. It’s the reason you’re not in jail...”

“And what’s that suppose to mean?” Gene asked.

“I was asked to track you down, but said no because after reviewing your case I knew you were doing nothing wrong. That and I had to raid a Team Rocket base, so…yeah, it was a pretty easy choice...”

Belle chuckled. “Well, thank you for that, but I doubt you could have arrested us anyway,” She smiled. “We’ve gotten away from plenty of Rangers, and the International Police.”

“Rangers and most other police officers don’t have S.W.A.T. training, and neither have been dealing with Team Rocket for the last… I’d say thirteen years, give or take. That and you wouldn’t see me coming.”

“That might be true,” Belle admitted. “But I would sense your mind, and I will do anything to protect Gene.”

Before John could argue further, there was the sounds of a rumbling engine, and all eyes turned to see the Joltik known as Volt. He was riding a mini-motorcycle, and had on some cool looking shades. “They See Me Rollin’,” He squeaked, as he drove into the room. “They hatin, come on baby see me-” He then gave a sharp turn and crashed into John’s foot. Volt was launched from the mini-motorcycle and slammed into Gene’s face. While the mini-motorcycle flipped over and melted into a pink blob.

For a moment everyone was silent, then Gene sighed and pulled the Joltik off his face, holding Volt just at eye level. “I don’t remember Webber being this... hyper, when he was a Joltik.”

“Thanks for catching me.” Volt said, before turning quickly to the pink blob on the floor. “Flubber, operation Awesome was a failure! Quick! Plan B! Plan B!” He then jumped off of Gene’s hand and spit some webs in the air, using them as a parachute as he drifted down. Flubber then transformed into a Drifloon, which Volt grabbed onto before they slowly floated out the door.

“Do me a favor. Never give them sugar. Like… ever.” John deadpanned.

“I like them.” Pinkie started. “So… Cadance, are you and Shining going to go to the Gala after the meeting is over?” She asked happily. “The Princess asked me to set it up, if everything goes well that is.”

“You’re hosting a Gala after this?” Shining asked, before smiling. “Of course we’ll come, Twilight’s told us all about your parties Pinkie.”

“And the reception for our wedding was a blast,” Cadence added.

Twilight smiled, but frowned when she noticed the clock on the wall. “Shoot, the meetings going to be starting up again soon.”

Cadence sighed. “Oh well,” She looked back to the rest of the ponies and Pokémon. “It’s been nice meeting you all, or just seeing you again, as it might be.” She smiled at Gene and Belle. “And good luck with your wedding you two.”

The pair smiled. 

“Come on Shining, John,” Cadence said. “Time to get back to politics.”

Twilight bid her friends farewell as well before trotting after them.

“Guys?” Pinkie asked. “What do you thinks going to happen at these meetings?”

“What do ya mean Pinkie?” Rainbow asked.

“Well, what if Arceus agrees to move everymon to a different world, obviously he’s not going back to Earth, but still.” Pinkie's mane deflated slightly at the thought.

Several of the others frowned. “That... that ain’t gonna happen... right?”

“I don’t know,” Gene admitted. “I hope not, I happen to really like you girls.”

“Aww, thanks Gene,” Pinkie hugged the Gallade. “I like you guys too.”

The others chuckled but agreed with Pinkie’s statement. “And besides,” Rarity said. “I’ve put a lot of time into your outfits, and I’m not letting something as trifle as a god stop me from seeing you both in the finished results.”

This brought another round of laughter from everyone.

“I’m not kidding,” Rarity said with deadly seriousness.





The various rulers of the various countries of Equus, and Lord Arceus, had reconvened in the meeting hall and were currently in the process of figuring out what to do about the Pokémon. Having mostly moved on from why he did what he did. But one question still hung in the air. 

“Why did you bring the humans?” Grimm Halfpaw asked. “If you were so upset with them, why did you bring any with?” The Diamond Dog looked to Cynthia, John, X, and Gurkinn. “No offense.”

Arceus sighed. “I thought I explained that. I said I wanted to preserve what was good about the old world, this included a fair number of humans, the ones I showed in my memories were only a few.”

Sev grumbled from his seat next to Trotankhamun, he was torn  between speaking out against Arceus, and voicing the truth about humans.

“Heroes such as Ash, N, Ruby, Wes,” He smiled at Cynthia. “The champions,” 

The Milotic smiled back. 

“Those who were kind to Pokémon, such as young X here, and many more,” 

The Chesnaught sat up a little straighter at the compliment. 

“And of course, Cresselia would have killed me had I separated those who loved their Pokémon... and I am speaking of the love that Princess Cadence is the Princess of.”

“Ah yes,” Serva said. “I was told that such a union was illegal back on your homeworld.”

X scowled slightly and grumbled something while Sev looked visibly sick.

“Yes, but I’d prefer not to dwell on that now,” Arceus said. “The humans I brought with, as I said in my message, were the ones who were good and kind despite the world they lived in, thus, I rewarded them.”

“We’ve gone over this already,” Victoria said. “Let’s get to the real reason we’re here,” She gazed around the room and continued. “The Pokémon are on Equus, they’re in every country, and they’re like nothing we’ve ever seen before.” She turned to Arceus. “But that’s not necessarily a bad thing. So the question is, what do we do?”

Emperor Golden Horn snorted. “I say the Pokémon are too dangerous to stay here, if I understand you correctly, even some of the smaller ones are capable of killing.”

“So is every Pony, Griffin, Minotaur or Changeling, given the right circumstance,” Arceus argued.

“That doesn't change the facts. Pokémon are still dangerous, and they do not belong in Equus.” 

Arceus sighed. “While there may be some truth in that, given enough time you will find the Pokémon are quite helpful.”

“And what makes you think we need their help?” King Faris asked. “We’ve done just fine without them.”

“Then what would you propose I do?” Arceus asked. “Because I will not be going back to Earth, ever.”

To Arceus’ surprise, every leader in the room nodded in agreement. “No,” Carapace said. “You most certainly will not be going back to Earth.”

“We wouldn’t dream of forcing you and the Pokémon back there,” Oceania added. “After what you’ve showed us, only a heartless monster would still insist on you going back there.”

“Well, um... thank you.” He turned to King Faris. “Then what do you propose I do?”

The Saddle Arabian thought for a second, but it was Emperor Golden Horn who offered up an idea. “If you are as powerful as you claim to be Arceus,” He began. “They why don’t you move the Pokémon to another planet and shape it to your liking?” The Minotaur smiled.

“And then what?” John interrupted. “We Pokémon would be wished away to this new world? Well what about the relations we’ve made here? What would happen then? Would you let them fall apart? What about those Pokémon who’ve befriended those on Equus? Or those who have already fallen in love? What then? We, like back on earth, would have what little happiness we have now taken away as we moved again. No… I’m sorry, but I will not let that happen… I can’t let that happen… I can’t leave the one I love, just because we all can’t see eye to eye.” 

For a moment, everyone stared at John in slight awe. “I can’t believe I’m about to say this,” Sev mumbled. “But I agree with the human, I will not leave my dear Lightning Dust.”

Faris shook his head. “You’ve only been here two weeks, and you’re claiming to be in love?”

“Yes,” The Infernape and Seviper said at the same time.

“Love works in mysterious ways King Faris,” Cadence said. “It is best not to doubt that which none can truly understand.”

“And it’s not just love,” Twilight added. “You’d be destroying countless friendships if you did that.”

“I still maintain that the Pokémon do not belong here,” King Faris said. “Relationships aside, I do not want to be bullied into giving up our way of life.”

“Ah be a little open minded here,” Victoria said. “Look at me, I have an entire group of trained mercenaries serving under the Griffin crown to protect Griffinhiem and her people.”

“As do I,” Trotankhamun added. “Though mine aren’t mercenaries.”

“Me and my team are in construction.” X quipped. “So far we have a good reputation just by being helpful around town.” He then shuttered. “Especially with a Bug problem.”

“I’ve heard that a few mining operations are using Pokémon actually,” King Halfpaw said. “Some of them can be quite helpful, if you know how to ask.”

Emperor Golden Horn snorted again. “Yes, helpful until they start rampaging, then innocents are put in danger by creatures the like of which they have little chance against.”

“I wouldn’t say that.” Shining Armor spoke up. “The Crystal Guards in the Crystal Empire have been training nonstop since the Pokémon first arrived, so that we are prepared for when such a thing might occur, and I must say, they’ve improved quite a lot since they first started.”

Serva smiled and shrugged. “Stagland has had very few problems actually. A few panicked Pokémon during the first few days, but we managed to calm them down and have been helping them settle in.”

“Of course you wouldn’t have trouble,” Golden Horn said. “Your forest nation is more peaceful than Equestria, you probably just talked to the Pokémon.”

Serva blinked in confusion. “Of course we did, what else were we to do? It certainly worked just fine.”

“You do understand that, no matter the Pokémon, they are all sapient don’t you?” Arceus asked.

“Yes, and when they get mad, they tear down buildings,” Golden Horn said. “I do not wish to have to deal with cleaning up after every mess they make, simply because they don’t understand our ways.”

“They haven't had to follow any reall written laws since before I was imprisoned,” Arceus said absentmindedly. “The laws the humans made concerning them... treated them more like animals.”

“He’s not wrong,” Cynthia spoke up. “Most laws pertaining to trained Pokémon fault the trainer in case of an accident, and  Pokémon couldn’t be arrested in the same way humans were.”

“Ah yes,” Gurkinn said. “They were captured and given to a specialist for training.”

Several of the leaders looked uneasy.

“Anyway,” Arceus continued. “It will take some time for my Pokémon to get use to being treated as equals.”

“Oh,” Oceania blew a few bubbles in her sphere. “That’s actually a bit depressing.”

King Faris sighed. “You realize we’re not getting anywhere?! We’re suppose to be finding a way to solve this Pokémon problem,” 

“Do not refer to us as a problem,” Uxie said, arms crossed.

“Well sorry, but with everything that’s happened in the past weeks, you have been a problem.” Faris replied. 

“We still haven’t come to a decision yet,” Golden Horn said. “I want the Pokémon gone.”

“I sincerely doubt that’s going to happen,” Sev hissed. “Though I wouldn’t mind if some of the less pure ones were removed.”

“I’m going to assume you’re talking about us Pokémon that used to be humans...” John stated annoyed.

Sev glared at the Infernape. “Indeed, I fought for years to save my brethren from the tyrannical reign of our human oppressors, and now I find that you humans,” He spat. “Have taken on our forms? It is a disgrace to Pokémon everywhere, that you walk among us, that you could, eck, breed with us.”

Cynthia turned and glared at the snake. She knew how to use Ice Beam, and all she needed was a clear shot.

Arceus raised an eyebrow at the Seviper. “Um... who are you exactly?”

Sev stared at Arceus in shock and pain. “I... I am Commander Sev, leader of the Pokémon Liberation Army! Chose one of... of you!”

Arceus thought for a moment. “Oh yes, of course,” Sev smiled in relief. “Deoxys told me about you. He said something about a Pokémon version of Team Plasma, though minus N.” The smile died an instant death.

John and X snickered as a look of horror that came across Sev’s face, both of them quite enjoying how Arceus just wiped off the smug look on the snake’s face. 

“Oh dear,” Trotankhamun said. “This isn't going to end well.”

“We are not here to debate... whatever the snake is talking about,” Faris reminded. “We are suppose to be discussing the fate of the Pokémon."

“Well I, for one, am getting tired of the same ideas being thrown back and forth,” Victoria said. “I’d like to suggest that we end the meeting for the day and reconvene with new ideas and rested minds tomorrow.”

“Seconded,” Trotankhamun said, seeing Sev’s breathing begining to rapidly increase.

“Third,” Twilight chimed in. 

Celestia looked at her in shock. “I think everyone could use a break,” Twilight said.

“Very well,” Celestia said. “We shall continue our discussions tomorrow. Until then, I bid you all a goodnight.”

“That’s my line, Tia.” Luna added.

Celestia smiled and several of the leaders chuckled as they left the room, Trotankhamun being an exception, still trying to get through to Sev, who appeared to have gone catatonic.

Arceus sighed as he walked out of the room with Uxie at his side. “I suppose I’m going to have to talk to him later.”

“I think so,” Uxie looked back at the shock still serpent. “Probably sooner rather than later too.”

Arceus nodded. “Later. For now I’m just looking forward to spending time with my family.”