//------------------------------// // Chapter Twenty // Story: Sunset Shimmer: Element Bearer // by ConningOfficer //------------------------------// “...and Aria was so much heavier than I thought she would be. She looks skinny, but she is all muscle. I’m glad Rainbow Dash arrived or I never would have gotten her to Sunset in time,” said Fluttershy, who twirled a lock of long, pink hair around her index finger as she drove. Halfway through the drive, she had begun telling the story of Aria’s rescue and had nearly drowned Discord in an uncharacteristic verbal tsunami. The Spirit of Chaos gripped the armrests tightly. Discord gulped and interrupted Fluttershy. “My dear, while I know it’s polite to look others in the eye when you speak to them, I would feel much safer if you would keep both hands on the wheel and your eyes on the road. We’re no use to those girls if we slide into the ditch.” “Oh, Apple Bloom, Scootaloo and Sweetie Belle are very inquisitive and resourceful! I’ve been babysitting them for a couple of years. The first time they came to the cottage, it didn’t go so well. But, they’re so open to trying new things that all I had to do is suggest that a chore was an adventure, and they were off and running!” Fluttershy’s teal eyes were practically gleaming in the reflected light from Pinkie’s car. A ride with Pinkie might have been quieter, thought Discord as the van rumbled along behind Pinkie’s Coltswagen. Rarity was right about her attraction to me! I’d bet that Fluttershy has never, ever talked this much. I’ll have to handle this delicately. He turned to his left and said politely, “I’m so glad that you feel comfortable enough to tell me all about this, Fluttershy.” She reached a pale yellow hand across the console and patted the Spirit of Chaos on his leg. “I just feel like you truly understand me, Discord! I’m so grateful!” Discord shook his head in confusion. He thought, I wonder if the ancient advice saying that ‘the man who has two women soon finds himself with none’ holds when the pair are essentially the same person! Where’s Scorpan’s insufferable gargoyle wisdom when I truly need it? Mercifully for Discord, Pinkie Pie activated her turn signal, gently applied the brakes and pulled off to the side of the road. Fluttershy brought the ancient van to a stop behind the pink Coltswagen. Aside from the headlights, the area was completely dark. Fluttershy’s enthusiastic behavior brought a memory to the front of Discord’s mind: “And perhaps these things just take time,” Discord said smugly, as he appeared in the center of Ponyville. Discord watched Fluttershy trot forward enthusiastically, her wings half-spread and the affection evident in her teal eyes. She leapt and embraced him. “You’re back! Did you bring the cucumber sandwiches?” Fluttershy hovered, gracing the Spirit of Chaos with an expectant smile. “I did,” Discord replied cheerfully. He caused a perfectly arranged plate to wink into existence. A menacing undertone crept into his voice as he added, “I imagine they’ll be your last decent meal for quite some time.” Selfishly thinking only of the power and rewards promised him by Tirek, he looked directly into Fluttershy’s eyes, seeing only bait to lure Twilight to his partner in conquest. Finally liberated of his amicable feelings, Discord upended the entire plate of sandwiches onto the ground. To ensure there was no mistaking his malicious intent, the Spirit of Chaos twisted his mouth in a mockery of a smile. Discord watched as Fluttershy’s eyes widened in shock. He witnessed her realize the depths of his betrayal. Her pupils shrank to pinpoints and her expression communicated that her heart had just been shattered into a million pieces. Tears of despair burst forth from Fluttershy as a steel cage sprang into being around her and her friends. Back in the present, Discord muttered, “I’ll spend the rest of eternity trying to make up for that moment.” Louder, he said to Fluttershy as she unfastened her seat belt, “I don’t see any clubhouse. All I see is a fence and a forest behind it.” Pinkie bounded out of her car and knocked on Discord’s window. Her voice was slightly muffled by the glass as she said, “I used to be a Nature Explorer with Fluttershy, until I learned you could only get one merit badge in baking! So follow her. We have to squeeze through the gap in the fence and find the path.” She shone a powerful flashlight up and down the roadside. “‘Nature Explorer’, eh?” Discord opened his door and exited the van. Fluttershy brushed her hair out of her face. She said timidly, “My parents thought it would be a good way for me to meet other children. I haven’t been very active lately, but I stuck with it because of the opportunities to help animals and people.” “So, what merit badges did you earn?” teased Discord, adding a wink. Enthusiasm returned to Fluttershy’s teal eyes. She activated her flashlight and said, “This will surprise you, but I became very good at archery.” Pinkie’s shout interrupted their conversation. “I’ve found something suspicious! Get over here!” Discord snapped his fingers and changed his clothing completely. His suit was replaced by a khaki jumpsuit, complete with an embroidered nametag and black steel-toed work boots. On his back, a black machine illuminated by blue lights made a high-pitched whine. A futuristic rifle was attached to the machine, safely stowed as part of an integrated backpack. He held a strange sensor in his right hand. The top of the device had several blinking orange lights embedded in a pair of antennae. Fluttershy stayed close to Discord but carefully swept her flashlight in an expanding square centered on Pinkie. “I see what she’s talking about. Look,” she pointed, “there’s the print of a pair of women’s hiking boots.” The antennae on Discord’s device perked up a bit, and the orange lights blinked more rapidly. “I have a bad feeling about who was wearing those boots, Fluttershy,” he said soberly. “I can see one set of smaller boots and two sets of smaller athletic shoes coming from the break in the fence,” said Fluttershy, shining her light at the battered chain-link barrier. Pinkie inhaled and complained as she squeezed through the break in the fence, “It’s times like this where I think I should eat fewer cupcakes.” Discord and Fluttershy followed with only a little less difficulty. They quickly followed the path. The trail of footprints became muddled because of the numerous trips that the Crusaders had made to ferry supplies from the roadside to their construction site. They didn’t hear any wildlife as they traversed the distance to the clubhouse. Fluttershy frowned and said softly, “It’s too quiet. This is a very active habitat, even at night. Something has spooked the animals very badly.” “I think I know what that thing might be,” said Discord. As they broke into the clearing, the meter in his hand made a high pitched sound and the orange lights danced wildly. He frowned and willed his clothing to change into a simple flannel shirt and jeans. He kept the safety boots from his previous outfit. Eerie shadows danced with pale white light inside the Crusaders’ clubhouse. Pinkie led the way inside, and she found a lighted flashlight that flickered because of its dying power supply. The trio examined the detritus spread out before them. “Looks like the maid service is on vacation,” said Pinkie, who forced optimism into her voice. She crouched down and picked up the plastic container that was filled to the brim with leftovers from Sweet Apple Acres. “And, they left before they had a chance to eat dinner, too. That’s not good! Their teenage tummies are probably growling.” Fluttershy looked up at Discord and frowned. She pressed her lips together and said gravely, “They just dropped everything and left immediately. What could have happened, Discord?” “She took them, Fluttershy,” said Discord sadly. His red eyes suddenly glowed ominously in the darkness and he punched his palm with his fist. “Damn you, Cassiopeia!” he swore angrily. Pinkie stood on her tiptoes and tapped the center of Discord’s forehead with a pink-tinted index finger several times. “What’s going on in there? Who’s this Cassie-Peon person? Why are you so angry all of a sudden?” The threatening light in the Spirit of Chaos’ eyes dimmed, and then winked out. His brow was still furrowed with anger as he explained, “Sunset remained silent, partly on my recommendation, because she was worried about scaring you. I see now that I made a mistake in guiding her in this direction. Your teacher, Ms. Raven, is actually a banshee named Shrieking Raven.” “You mean that Ms. Raven is like a vampire or a ghoul or something like that? I hate it when Rainbow Dash forces us to watch those movies during sleepovers,” said Fluttershy, shivering from much more than just the evening’s chill. Discord nodded. His face was uncharacteristically creased with worry as he said, “She has been undead for many centuries, but began her life as a unicorn in Equestria. Cassiopeia was the name Shrieking Raven’s parents gave her, but she rejected it long ago. We had a relationship of sorts several centuries ago.” Fluttershy crossed her arms, and raised her eyebrow at him. Discord added, “We did not part on good terms. This is exactly the sort of evil act she enjoys.” “So, let me get this straight, Raven has kidnapped Scootaloo, Apple Bloom and Sweetie Belle?” asked Fluttershy, her eyes wide with fear. Discord nodded. “Yes, and I’m sure that she’s manipulated Adagio into helping her. What Curly-Locks obviously hasn’t figured out is that the banshee only helps herself and her master. The time for talking is nearly past. I now see almost no way we can avoid a fight.” “Well, then what are we waiting for?” Pinkie shouldered Sweetie Belle’s heavy pack. Her blue eyes glimmered with excitement. “Let’s throw as much of this stuff as we can carry into the cars and get over to Rarity’s! We have so much time and so little to do!” Discord bent down to grab the toolbox and Apple Bloom’s supplies. When he straightened up, he smiled and a brown top hat appeared on his head. He wryly said, “Pinkie, strike that. Reverse it. So much to do and so little time.” Fluttershy shook her head in exasperation. “Let’s just get to the boutique. But first, I need to stop at the cottage and pick up my bow and quiver. Discord, you can tell me all about Raven over a cup of hot cocoa, once we get to Rarity’s.” ----- Applejack accelerated as her family’s old pickup left the Canterlot city limits. Rarity held on for dear life on the bench seat as she bounced along, pinched between Rainbow Dash, Applejack and the gear shift. “So, why did we go all the way through the city to come out here, just to turn around and go back to Rarity’s place?” asked Rainbow Dash suspiciously. “It’s awfully late at night for all this driving around.” Applejack arched an eyebrow in annoyance and replied, “First, I really want my own pillow tonight. But the important part is that from everything Sunset has Aria texting us, we need to fetch weapons and supplies.” “Darling, I’m glad that you saw reason, and didn’t put up a fight about gathering our group at the boutique,” said Rarity gratefully. She observed Applejack’s green eyes narrow slightly. The farmgirl shrugged her shoulders, and guided the truck around a curve along the dark road. “It seems a little like lying, but if ever there was a situation to bend the truth, this is it. By the time the hands realize there are no Apples at Sweet Apple Acres, we’ll be long gone.” Rainbow Dash smiled mischievously. “And, we know from last spring’s cider incident that Elegant can keep her mouth shut!” “The basement bathroom will never be the same after that unfortunate event,” growled Rarity. She turned to Applejack and asked, “You’re not worried that one of the hands will call Granny Smith?” Applejack turned on to Sweet Apple Acres’ long, gravel driveway. Exasperation entered her voice as she said, “Of course they’ll call Granny, and she’ll rush back from Appleoosa. But, all we really need is just a few hours to get away.” “I think Cheerilee and Big Mac will be able to talk her down. We’ll be fine as long as she doesn’t call the police before we get to the lake. The ‘damsel in distress’ routine might work to get us out of a speeding ticket, but not for six missing teenagers,” said Rainbow Dash. She smirked and elbowed Rarity in her ribs. Rarity sniffed and crossed her arms as they rumbled towards the farmhouse and barns. “Hmph! Lieutenant Shining Armor thoroughly understood my dilemma, and let me go with a warning. He was quite handsome, too, which always helps the quality of my performance.” “Just don’t double the speed limit next time, okay? I don’t need any more run-ins with the cops since the skateboarding accident,” said Rainbow Dash. She leaned over Rarity and said to Applejack, “Don’t forget about Father Scorpan. He said he’d cover for us.” Rolling her eyes, Applejack said, “He said he’d help us. He didn’t say he’d lie for us. But, if he can’t stop Granny from flying off the handle, nobody can.” Her voice grew angry. “What in tarnation is that doing here?” The truck pulled up next to the equipment barn and parked next to Rarity’s spotless, white convertible. Sunset’s backpack rested against the rear left tire. Rainbow Dash sarcastically broke the silence as she jumped out of the truck. “So, one more time, why did we go all the way through the city to come out here, just to turn around and go back to Rarity’s place?” “My home has no adult supervision until Elegant arrives to open the store. Here, we might not be discovered tonight, but we’d never make a stealthy escape from Sweet Apple Acres tomorrow morning, because all of the employees arrive near sunrise!” answered Rarity as she slid across the bench seat. Applejack continued to clench the steering wheel and gritted her teeth. “I’m not happy that Sunset brought Sonata here.” “Darling, we’ve been over all this at the hospital. Look, the house is dark. They went straight to the smithy. Sunset has to balance your anger with necessity. All of her magic supplies are here!” Opening the door, Rainbow Dash grasped Applejack’s arm. The farmgirl’s powerful muscles coiled in submerged anger. “Listen, AJ. Let’s get our weapons, your pillow, and any other stuff we need. Then we’ll have time for an awkward reunion,” she said convincingly. Applejack’s smile illuminated her green eyes. She said to Rainbow Dash, “You’re right, this time. Just don’t make a habit of it, because I couldn’t stand you being any cockier! Let’s go into the barn and see what we can find.” Rarity wrinkled her nose at the mingled smells of manure, livestock, oil and gasoline. “And please hurry, darling. While Sweet Apple Acres is quite, um, vintage, the ambient aroma is a taste I have failed to acquire.” The three girls split up in the equipment barn. Rainbow Dash went straight to where her makeshift quarterstaff was stowed from her sparring session with Aria the previous night. Applejack approached a large pegboard where dozens of sharp harvesting implements were safely hung. Rarity remained in the entrance with her arms folded and a frown slowly spreading across her face. After a minute or so, Rainbow Dash emerged from behind a tractor, absently twirling her staff in one hand and holding a handaxe in the other. She said, “I’m all set, and I even found Pinkie’s hatchet!” Applejack removed a seven-foot-long scythe from the pegboard and gave it a couple of test swings. The two-foot-long steel blade cut viciously through the air. “Oh my gosh, please pick that, Applejack!” squealed Rainbow Dash excitedly. “With your hair, you’d look just like that vampire-killing girl!” The farmgirl flipped her ponytail back over her shoulder, frowned in frustration and put the scythe back in its place. “Nope. The balance is off, and I have no control. I’d knock myself over trying to use that thing. Besides, it’s a little too lethal for my taste.” As she selected a steel sickle, whose blade was a little more than a foot in length, Applejack smiled and said, “Now with this, I can put a hurting on anyone that gets too close.” A female voice admiringly said, “Good choice.” Aria stepped into the equipment barn, entering on the side closest to the smithy. She unzipped her gym bag and removed Chainbreaker. Her purple eyes flashing, she brought the glowing mace up to a guard position, and added, “You’re wise to know what you can handle and what you can’t.” Sunset and Sonata followed Aria into the barn. Sonata flinched and moved to hide behind Sunset, who was wearing Discord’s enormous backpack. Composing herself, Sonata stepped into the open with her hands clasped over her stomach. A rectangular piece of white gauze covered her left temple. Her mouth dropping open from surprise, Rarity pointed at Sunset and asked, “Why are you wearing the necklace?” “I’ll explain everything at the boutique, Rarity,” she replied. Her green-blue eyes glimmering with determination, Sunset strode across the barn. She met Applejack’s gaze and evenly said, “I’m sorry. I know you didn’t want Sonata to come to Sweet Apple Acres. I should have asked you before we stopped by.” Glancing momentarily at Sonata, who nervously shifted her weight from one foot to another, Applejack pointedly said to Sunset, “You don’t need to apologize for a thing, sugar cube. I’m glad you let us know that the girls really are missing, and not just horsing around. We’re here doing the same thing – gearing up. I know we’ll all need your magic supplies to get Apple Bloom back.” “I’ll take full responsibility for Sonata’s presence here. Just give us a couple more—" Sonata stepped forward and interrupted. “No, Sunset.” Sunset’s eyes nervously darted from Sonata to Applejack. “You don’t need to do this right now, Sonata.” Aria lowered Chainbreaker and walked back towards Sonata. She cautiously said, “Sonata, I think later would be better.” “After I was shown all the terrible things that could have happened right here at Sweet Apple Acres, you both dare to tell me what I need to do or not?!” Sonata said angrily. Applejack icily replied, “The terrible things that would have happened to me, my family and my friends?” “There’s no excuse for my behavior, Applejack. I see that now. While you helped free me from my hunger for negative emotions, old habits die hard. I was good at making people want things, and I wanted you all to accept me,” said Sonata earnestly. Her anger starting to bubble up once more, Applejack raised her voice. “We did accept you! You were a great help at the farm and I enjoyed having you here! Apple Bloom thought you were the best thing since cobbler. And then, all of a sudden, you broke that trust, and that’s mighty hard for me to get over.” She stomped her foot and gestured angrily with the sickle. Sonata looked down at the barn’s floor, then raised her head, and met the farmgirl’s angry stare. She said, “We are both stubborn, so I hope you understand. I wanted you to accept me, but only on my terms, which I now know is wrong. I held on to my scheme to hurt Adagio, and it screwed up everything,” Her voice undertook a passionate crescendo, and she clenched her fists. “I am furious at myself that I didn’t listen to advice. All of you told me in your own way, but I ignored it all and hurt your brother. By the Maelstrom, I needed magic to finally show me how my selfish hopes would turn into something horrible!” The outburst eased the tension in Applejack’s eyes. She folded her arms and gestured with her chin. “Go on.” Sonata’s arms spread wide, and her apology spilled forth in a torrent of words. “I can’t properly express how sorry I am for all that I’ve done to you and your family. I betrayed your trust, again and again. I took advantage of your hospitality and generosity by mistaking your love for one another as weakness. I nearly succeeded in seducing your brother, and did succeed in getting him badly hurt while trying to seek my own greedy revenge. Worst of all, I’m sorry for causing a distraction that made it possible for…” she stopped herself, and looked at Sunset. “It’s not my place to tell you the last part, Applejack. The only way I can think of to make it up to you and your family is to work here, for free, for at least as long as it takes Big Mac to heal.” “I’m still upset at you, Sonata,” said Applejack. Her grip tightened on the sickle’s handle. “I’ll be blunt with you. Part of me still wants to beat you to a pulp for what you’ve done.” She looked at Rarity. “But, thanks to some things that Rarity and my brother said, I’m nearly calm enough that I know that we can talk more about all of this, especially about whether I’d let you come here to work. But that has to wait until Apple Bloom is safely back with us.” Aria interjected. “Did Rarity tell you about Sonata’s vision, Applejack?” “Yes, I did, Aria,” said Rarity, attempting to jump into the conversation. Applejack adjusted her hat and tweaked the brim. She walked up to Sonata and angrily jabbed an orange-tinted finger into her chest. To her credit, she stood her ground as Applejack growled, “Rarity told me every word they heard from you, which is exactly why I’m not kicking your behind right now.” Rainbow Dash and Rarity exchanged worried looks. They both took a step forward to intervene, but stopped when they saw Sunset serenely raise a hand, palm outward. “Can I tell you something about what I saw, Applejack?” said Sonata as she stared into the angry green eyes. Applejack withdrew her finger and tossed aside the sickle. She crossed her arms and said simply, “Shoot.” “I thought I could make you and your family happier. What I would have done would have destroyed everything that’s wonderful about you… the honesty, the pride in hard work... And most of all, I would have ruined your family by being part of it. My gifts, just like my old Master’s, would have been pure poison. "So" —Sonata extended her hand to Applejack— "here's my promise to make amends in the future, once you’ve saved your sister and the other girls. I’ll just need your advice to make sure my ‘help’ doesn’t cause any more pain.” Applejack took the blue-tinted hand and shook it once. She muttered, “I’m not saying ‘yes’, but I’m not saying ‘no’, either. We’ll discuss this again later, Sonata. I need to get my pillow, and a couple more things,” she said. As she left the barn, her right hand went to her eyes. “What just happened?” asked Rainbow Dash. She scratched her head and gave Sunset a quizzical look. Sunset smiled confidently. “A big step forward happened.” She walked up behind Sonata, squeezed her shoulder, and said, “Even though I would have preferred a different time for you to have that conversation with Applejack, I’m proud of you. I know that wasn’t easy.” Sonata put her blue-tinted hand over Sunset’s and gave it a squeeze. Her lilac eyes looked back admiringly at Sunset. “So, what weapon are you bringing, Rarity?” said Sunset impatiently, stepping away from Sonata. The fashion designer flipped her purple hair and stepped back towards the gravel driveway. She waved a perfectly-manicured hand dismissively, and said, “Oh, there’s nothing here that works for me. I’ll just remove the safety tip from my rapier when we get back to my home.” Aria snorted derisively. “A piercing weapon? No way. I’m sure you’re quite a sight at a fencing tournament, but you’re thinking style over substance. A rapier would stop a living opponent by causing pain or impaling vital organs. Our likely enemies are already dead.” “What?!” shouted Rainbow Dash incredulously. Sunset rolled her eyes, “I thought we agreed that I would tell everyone about this when we were together, Aria!” Aria absently twirled Chainbreaker. “I couldn’t let Rarity make a big mistake!” She stopped practicing with the magical mace, and rummaged through her gym bag. “Here, take the club I found.” Rarity accepted the eighteen-inch-long piece of brass, and tested the weight in her hands. “This looks like a belaying pin from a sailing ship! Where did you get this?” The length of brass had a wooden handle with an intricately knotted grip made of twine. “Let’s just say that defending Sonata’s honor from the sailors in Baltimare took some extra precautions,” said Aria, who gave Rarity an unnerving wink. “Let me teach you a thing or two, Rarity. First, don’t stand with your feet together. You need to build a good base….” Rainbow Dash nervously chuckled and approached Sunset while Aria taught Rarity the basics of swinging a heavy club. Sunset shook her head and said, “You weren’t supposed to know until later that we’re probably going to be living through one of your horror movies tomorrow night.” “Well, now I can watch everyone else be all freaked out, while I stay awesome and cool,” said Rainbow Dash. She tapped her quarterstaff nervously on the barn’s concrete floor. “Nice necklace, by the way.” Sunset’s hands glowed brightly with eldritch energy. She used telekinesis to take the staff and handaxe away from Rainbow Dash, and gently set them in the truck’s bed. “I’m getting much better at using the magic that it unlocked. But there’s more.” Rainbow Dash stifled a laugh as Aria delivered a particularly personal insult to Rarity in an effort to motivate her to swing the club harder. Aria jumped back as Rarity’s next attack nearly struck her. Returning her attention to Sunset, Rainbow Dash implored, “Come on! Spill the beans!” Sunset used her magic to levitate Discord’s backpack over to the truck. She smiled mischievously and shook her head. “Not this time! I’ll wait for everyone to be together for this one, but just know that Twilight and I had a great chat.” “Fine, I’ll wait, I guess,” said Rainbow Dash, slumping her shoulders in resignation. Aria hauled Rarity to her feet and said, “I know you have better balance than that!” “Let’s see you spar in heels and a skirt next time!” retorted Rarity, her blue eyes flashing angrily. The whole group heard the front door of the farmhouse slam shut. Applejack, carrying her pillow and lariat, jogged briskly towards the truck. The backpack weighing her down was filled to bursting. Sunset stepped between the two combatants, ending the brief sparring session. "Alright, that's enough of that. Everyone, let's pack up and get out of here!" As the others moved to gather their gear, Sunset glanced at Rarity and teasingly added, “I like your new look, Rarity, it really speaks to me: it says 'I need a shower and I'm angry with Aria!'” “I’m ready! Let’s go, girls!” Applejack tossed her sickle, along with all the other items she carried, into the truck’s bed. As the others loaded their bags, Rainbow Dash yelled, “Shotgun!” She slid into the truck’s passenger seat and slammed the door shut. Brushing the dirt off of her arms, Rarity held out her hand expectantly. Sunset laughed and placed the keys to the convertible in her palm. Aria and Sonata followed them to the white car. The Sirens squeezed into the back seat, and Sunset yielded the driver’s seat to Rarity. As the fashion designer started the car and adjusted the seat to match her height, Sonata timidly asked, “Rarity, can we stop by Taco Chime? I haven’t eaten since breakfast.” Sunset, Rarity and Aria erupted with badly-needed laughter. Aria reached over and patted Sonata’s knee. “No matter what happens tomorrow, please don’t lose your sense of humor, Nata!” ----- “It’s unlike Elegant to leave the lights on by accident,” said Rarity as she tried to peer through the closed blinds of the Carousel Boutique. “I just hope there’s not a problem.” She unlocked the door and let the group inside. Rainbow Dash entered the clothing store first and laughed loudly. “There’s a problem, all right!” “Surprise!” announced Discord, his mouth full of food. He, Pinkie Pie and Fluttershy sat at Rarity’s sewing table sharing an enormous portion of fried rice and spring rolls. Each of them had a steaming cup of cocoa in front of them, and a small sheet cake sat off to the side. The first floor of the boutique reeked of soy sauce. Rarity rushed forward, her horrified gesture encompassing the “borrowed” plates, dirty silverware, rearranged table and spilled food. “My inspiration space! It’s ruined!” “Don’t worry, Rarity. I’ve already spoken to Discord. He’s convinced me that cleanup will be a snap,” said Fluttershy soothingly. The Spirit of Chaos winked at Rarity and transformed his mismatched suit into a butler’s tuxedo. “I certainly wasn’t going to sit in the van and wait, Rarity. The food was getting cold! If you didn’t want visitors, you’d have a better lock. May I get you anything?” He offered her a dainty teacup, its contents steaming. Rarity accepted the teacup, then shook her head in frustration as the others filed into the boutique, heavily laden with supplies. “I’ve lost all control, it seems,” she moaned. “Just remember, they’re good houseguests and will have this cleaned up before the shop opens tomorrow,” said Sunset, who smiled and briefly rubbed both of Rarity’s tense shoulders. She shouted to everyone, “It’s time for all hands on deck! Let’s get to work!” She returned outside to Applejack’s truck for another load of equipment. Aria had moved two clothing racks to the side, cleared a large area in the center of the floor and guided each young woman to place equipment neatly in an assigned place. Pinkie’s indomitable effervescence was on full display. She asked, “Rarity, don’t you like the cake? It’s in your favorite colors!” The dessert was iced in white and purple, with sugary blue diamonds adorning each corner in rich frosting. The writing said, “Thank you for letting us conquer your store!” The “i” in “letting” was dotted with a tiny balloon. Rarity massaged her temples, closed her eyes and groaned. “Pinkie, I have nothing to say to you right now. I need to get my things from upstairs to placate Aria’s martial tendencies.” She jogged up the staircase. Struggling under the weight of Discord’s enormous backpack, Sunset re-entered the boutique and pointed at the trio still seated at the sewing table. “I said ‘all hands on deck!’ Break time is over. You three chow hounds need to help unload the truck. When we’re done, move it and the van around to the storeroom door out back.” Discord wiped his face with a napkin and transformed his clothing into a diagonally-striped golf shirt and garish plaid pants. The butterfly pin flew around his head and landed above the shirt’s breast pocket. Discord approached Sunset, tapped his throat and said, “I see you’re wearing the amulet openly now. That’s the sort of significant detail I have made a habit of noticing.” “Aren’t you supposed to be helping unload the truck?” asked Sunset, raising her eyebrow as she scratched her neck underneath the Element of Harmony. Her expression softened as she explained, “Twilight and I traded several messages a little while ago. Under the circumstances, I think it’s only right.” As the others continued to stack supplies on the boutique’s floor, the Spirit of Chaos clapped his hands together and gleefully said, “Oh goody! A surprise! I love surprises!” “You’re going to have to wait until everyone else hears it, Discord,” Sunset said playfully. Her hands glowing with aquatic luminescence, she telekinetically pushed the Spirit of Chaos towards the front door and added, “Now, quit stalling and help us out!” Sunset walked towards one of the clothing racks that Aria had moved. She removed a hanger holding a short-sleeved, light turquoise blouse adorned with a gold-tinted, transparent silk fringe. Sunset laid the unassuming, yet attractive garment on the cashier’s table and admired it. Rarity bounded down the stairs, holding a small bundle. She set it on the floor with her metal club, then noticed Sunset looking at the blouse and glided towards her. In her best saleswoman voice, Rarity said, “Darling, that would look fabulous on you, and would set off your eyes beautifully. A set of leggings in a somewhat darker shade of blue would complete the outfit, and we must certainly talk about makeup—” “Maybe we can plan my summer wardrobe later, Rarity,” interrupted Sunset. She gave Rarity a strained smile and looked deep into her blue eyes. “We have to worry about Sweetie Belle first.” Rarity looked down and wiped the corner of her eye. She sniffed and said, “I know, Sunset. Despite the chaos and my complaints, there’s no way I could have dealt with the silence here tonight. I can’t bear to think about what that quiet could mean.” With two fingertips, Sunset gently lifted Rarity’s face and met her eyes. She said reassuringly, “We’ll find her, Rarity. I’ll put it together for everyone once we’re done taking inventory and get some food.” On the other side of the room, Aria left her post as the group entered with another load of gear. She offered the handaxe to Pinkie. “I found something I think you’re going to need.” “Oh, you shouldn’t have!” After placing the items she carried, Pinkie took the hatchet and contorted her cheerful face into a fierce snarl. “You took the cake, so I’ll take your life!” In her unbound enthusiasm, she prepared to charge across the boutique. Aria gave Pinkie a small smile and gripped both her shoulders before she could pounce. “Soon, you’ll have a story your grandfather would be proud of, Pinkamena. But, don’t go berserk now. Rarity would never forgive us for destroying the shop for fun.” Fluttershy and Applejack entered the boutique from the back hallway that led to the storeroom. Fluttershy softly declared, “The van and the truck are parked out back.” Rainbow Dash nodded at Fluttershy, then shouted, “Okay, I think all of the stuff is inside the shop! It’s time to eat.” She rubbed her stomach, and started for the stairs. “I have a midnight meal for all of us,” offered Sonata, holding out a cardboard box filled with wrapped tacos, tortilla chips and various salsas. When she spoke, everyone fell silent, and her eyes darted nervously around the room. Sunset stepped to the center of the boutique and grinned. “Thanks, Sonata. Get some food, everyone. Sonata, Aria and I have finally figured out Adagio’s plan. But, this is news for a full stomach.” “Carry the food upstairs to the den, and make sure you have plenty of napkins!” ordered Rarity, who led the way. “Applejack, could you and Rainbow Dash help me find some additional chairs?” The farmgirl’s rapidly receding voice enthusiastically answered, “You bet! Come on, Dash.” The boutique emptied as the crowd ascended the stairs. Looking dejectedly down into the box of tacos, Sonata remained still, and didn’t make a move to join the rest of the group. Discord, who was the last one remaining on the first floor, set the container of fried rice on the bottom step and approached Sonata. As he approached, he realized that she was crying again. With a flash of white light and a flick of his wrist, he made a handkerchief with a butterfly embroidered on it appear in his hand. He took the box of tacos out of Sonata’s arms, trading it for the handkerchief. Sonata buried her face in the beautifully embroidered piece of silk. Sympathetically, Discord said, “It takes time, you know. If you stay true, they will come around. There will be good days, and there will be bad days. Just don’t hurt the ones you care about during one of the bad days.” Sonata lowered the handkerchief, and lifted her tear-streaked face. “Discord, I’m so afraid of letting everyone down again!” The Spirit of Chaos nodded at the box of tacos, which promptly grew wings and flew upstairs. He looked back and forth and said, “Here’s a little secret: I’m scared about disappointing my friends, too. If I didn’t tell you before, I’ll tell you now: I’m on a very stern form of probation.” The corners of his mouth rose, and continued sympathetically. “Sonata, battles are even more unpredictable than I am. But, if we do nothing, then Raven or Adagio, or even both, will win. What would you say if there were already tens of thousands of beings that admired your courage?” “I’d say you were lying, Discord,” said Sonata. Her bruised, bandaged face was awash in confusion. He raised an eyebrow and said, “I’m not lying, but I won’t tell you everything either. Courage takes many forms, Sonata. You could have easily hidden in Sunset’s apartment, but instead, you came here, with full knowledge of the risks. That doesn’t seem cowardly to me, but who am I?” The tears dried from Sonata’s lilac eyes, and she was about to reply when Rainbow Dash’s voice called from upstairs. “Hey, what’s going on down there? We’re ready for the food!” “Thanks, Discord. I…” Sonata’s voice trailed off. “You’re welcome, but we can’t keep them waiting any longer. I don’t want to learn the sort of violence that Rainbow Dash is capable of when confronted with an empty stomach!” Discord said, grabbing the container of fried rice and locking the boutique’s front door. He smiled and followed Sonata up the stairs to Rarity’s living area. ----- Sunset wiped the frosting from her mouth with a napkin and took a long drink of coffee. She looked at the assembled group and asked, “Has everyone gotten enough to eat? It’s time to lay it all out there.” Applejack tossed her hat on the coffee table and patted her stomach. She said, “I’m stuffed! Who would have thought that we’d have such a great midnight smorgasbord?” Aria smiled and said, “No more for me. I’m glad that Sonata suggested we stop, so we didn’t eat Rarity out of house and home.” “Wait, one second!” Pinkie Pie shoveled an enormous bite of cake into her mouth, and then set her plate on the tray in her lap. Sonata leaned forward and asked, “How are they doing at the hospital?” Smiling confidently, Rainbow Dash stuffed her mobile phone in her pocket and said, “They’re doing as well as I think they can. Cheerilee just texted me and let me know that she’s going to crash for a little while.” “It’s time for you to keep your promise, Discord,” said Fluttershy expectantly. The Spirit of Chaos winked at Fluttershy, furrowed his brow in concentration and snapped his fingers. All of the dirty dishes and leftovers disappeared in a flash of white light. Down the hall, the group heard a single piece of silverware clatter to the kitchen floor. Discord shrugged his shoulders and said, “Well, that was almost perfect. See, Rarity, I told you that cleanup would be a snap!” He wiped sweat from his forehead and breathed heavily from the magical exertion. “Thank you, I think. If I find rice all over my kitchen, you may return to Equestria without some vital body parts,” said Rarity. Sitting in her easy chair, she crossed her arms over her chest and narrowed her eyes. “I’m sure that your kitchen will be perfectly fine, Rarity,” said Sunset. She stood and took command of the room, blocking the dark flat-screen television. After briefly fidgeting with the amulet at her throat, she continued. “What I have to say will be very grim, but I’m glad to be here with my friends tonight.” Applejack gestured to Sunset with an open hand. She took a deep breath and said, “I’m glad that you’re here, too. All of us are.” “Thank you, Applejack, I appreciate that,” said Sunset, who spread her arms wide apologetically. “Let me begin by telling you something I should have passed along as soon as Discord told me. I’ve learned about the source of the dark magic I felt at the aquarium. Our teacher, Ms. Raven, is actually an undead monster. She’s a banshee named Shrieking Raven who is working with Adagio.” Rarity’s eyes dilated and she nearly fell out of the easy chair before recovering her senses. She placed an alabaster hand against her chest, which heaved up and down because of her rapid breathing. Pinkie moved to catch Rarity in case she tumbled to the floor. The others had less dramatic reactions, ranging from Aria’s determined frown to Rainbow Dash’s profane outburst. Sunset gestured for Discord to speak. The Spirit of Chaos cleared his throat. Omitting his customary theatrics, he said, “For everyone’s edification, Shrieking Raven was once a brilliantly intelligent, but hopelessly vain unicorn named Cassiopeia. When I ruled Equestria, I was impressed by her ruthless efficiency, and as such, I overlooked just how deep her selfish ambition ran. As Emperor, I appointed her as my Viceroy, and permitted her direct control over much of what is now Eastern Equestria.” “It seems like she can handle much more than just deathly boring literature classes then, right?” asked Applejack. She clasped her hands tightly, and her orange-tinted skin was pale. Discord nodded. “Indeed, Applejack. Shortly before I was turned to stone, she tried to convince me to set up a co-rulership. Ironically, that’s what Princesses Celestia and Luna did after they defeated me, but that’s a topic for a less desperate time.” He nodded at Applejack’s hat on the coffee table and a tiny white alicorn chased a diminutive dark blue alicorn around the Stetson’s brim, like orbiting moons. “So, how did you two end up wanting to kill each other?” asked Rainbow Dash attentively, as she rubbed her hands together. He frowned, and his eyes flashed angrily. “I learned that Raven had betrayed me. She had always been in service to Vecna, the one-eyed, one-handed Lord of the Dead. Vecna promised Cassiopeia eternal youth and beauty in return for bringing his dark religion to Equestria. She mistakenly thought that my chaotic dictatorship and her dark Lord would be a splendid alliance, but as I said at last night’s dinner, chaos is a part of life.” Fluttershy reached forward, and briefly placed a hand on his arm. She looked up, with wide teal eyes, and softly said, “I loved that speech, Discord. Thank you for helping us understand your point of view.” “Thank you, dear Fluttershy.” Discord resumed, his voice steady and serious. “As such, I abhor Vecna and all his works. Raven had herself transformed into a banshee, and became a horrific undead monster whose voice has terrible power. I cast her out and forbade the worship of Vecna throughout Equestria. Now she’s revealed herself here. Whatever she has planned with Adagio will certainly involve death and dark magic.” Aria shook her head in disbelief and rocked back in her chair. She toyed with the ends of her pigtails and said, “We heard a little bit about Vecna in Aquastria, so I can guess the danger Raven represents.” Having recovered from her initial shock, Rarity took a sip of tea. “Darling, it sounds like Ms. Raven may still desire your heart.” Discord snorted and rolled his red eyes. He drew a large “X” on his coat with his fingers. “Oh, Raven wants my heart all right, Rarity. She wants it removed from my chest, served on a silver platter and garnished with parsley.” “Yuck!” shouted Pinkie Pie. Her face twisted in disgust and she stuck her tongue out. Sunset stood again and held up both her hands, palms out, to quiet the group. She said, “Thank you, Discord. So, I’ll say it as plain as day, now that we know more about our former teacher: Raven has allied with Adagio, and she kidnapped Scootaloo, Apple Bloom and Sweetie Belle earlier tonight.” Applejack was the first to recover from the group’s stunned silence. She clenched her fists and angrily said, “My sister, in the hands of a dead thing! Let’s go, now!” Rarity added to the din by furiously shouting, “Don’t forget the manipulative monster with that snakelike tangle of orange hair! We must rescue Sweetie Belle!” Tipping over her empty tray, Rainbow Dash stood and began to leave the room. She angrily postured. “If they harm one hair on Scootaloo’s head, I’ll—” “Stop!” Aria cried angrily. She leapt to her feet and made a violent horizontal motion with both arms. “Sit down and shut up! I’m sorry, but that’s about the nicest thing I can say right now. You don’t even know where we’re going, and there’s much more that you need to hear.” Pinkie gazed at Aria grimly, then said, “I read the book, so I have an awful guess, but the others need to hear from you what Adagio is going to try to do.” “Please go ahead, Aria,” encouraged Sunset. Sonata nodded her agreement. “It’s time we told them everything, Ari.” Aria surveyed the group with her keen purple eyes. She took a deep breath and began. “I trust that you all remember that Sonata, Adagio and I were changed into Sirens by He-Who-Swims-in-Darkness.” “Yeah, you got all shape-shifted more than a thousand years ago, and you caused all sorts of problems until last week. Twilight told us the basics, and you and Sonata filled in some of the holes,” said Rainbow Dash impatiently. Tapping her index finger on her own chest, Aria gritted her teeth, then said, “From my point of view, here are the essential pieces of information.” She held up her index finger. “One: Adagio’s mother, Blinding Dazzle, was the last queen of the Aquastrian Empire. She ruled according to Leviathan’s laws, which encouraged slavery, murder, deception, and a separation of the genders.” “A brutal society where females were considered superior, correct?” asked Rarity. Aria nodded gravely, and presented a second finger. “Two: We weren’t just changed into Sirens on a whim. We were sacrifices. Our mothers offered us to He-Who-Swims-in-Darkness for various reasons. I’m convinced my mother was bullied into sacrificing me by the Queen herself after Her Majesty heard me singing in my mother’s barracks room.” Gasping loudly, Pinkie Pie asked, “Your own mother gave you to Big, Bad and Slimy? How could she do that?” Shaking her pigtails from side to side, Aria gave both Pinkie and Sonata a small, sad smile. “Unfortunately, I’ll never know for sure, but take my word that the Queen could be very convincing as she served Leviathan. He required a sacrifice of three merfillies every so often, so it was unexpected that we were transformed into magical servants, instead of simply passing through the Trench Gate never to be seen again.” “So, Princess Adagio has been forcing others to do what she tells them to for her entire life, right? What does this sacrifice mean for Apple Bloom and the others?” said Applejack. She hugged her pillow to her chest, but Aria could see that her hands were shaking violently. Rarity leaned over and gave both of Applejack’s hands a squeeze. She calmly said, “Darling, I’m terrified, too. It’s all right to admit it, but we must let Aria finish.” Applejack silently nodded. “Thank you, Rarity,” said Aria. She squeezed her purple eyes shut for a moment, and then opened them after she composed herself. “So, here’s the third and final point: Tomorrow night, in a last-ditch effort to return to Aquastria to rule, Adagio means to wake my former Master. She will crown herself as Queen, and have her magic restored. Sweetie Belle, Scootaloo and Apple Bloom will feed He-Who-Swims-in-Darkness’ terrible powers as sacrifices. They will almost certainly be murdered.” The room erupted in a second round of bedlam. Applejack and Rarity disintegrated into tears. Pinkie, Sonata, and Fluttershy all barely prevented Rainbow Dash from sprinting downstairs and out into the night. Discord shrugged his shoulders and suddenly held a sign that said “What did you expect, Baconhair?” Aria made eye contact with Sunset and tapped the spot where her heart-pendant once hung. Sunset nodded. In a burst of green-blue light, she shouted, “Quiet!” Her magically amplified voice gained immediate compliance. The amulet continued to glow as she pointed at the couch, Rarity’s easy chair and the love seat, and the trio of chairs moved into the den from Rarity’s bedroom. “We aren’t finished yet. Neither are Apple Bloom, Sweetie Belle and Scootaloo. That’s all for the bad news. Now, I will tell you about our plan to save them.” “I knew that little trinket would come in handy, Sunset,” teased Discord as the young women returned to their seats. Sunset glared at Discord and said threateningly, “I didn’t see you do anything to calm them down!” “Old habits die hard, and I had ringside seats to some particularly excellent chaos!” said Discord, smiling sarcastically. With the entire group listening attentively once again, Sunset said, “So, Aria has learned that this sacrifice will happen at Lake Piebald tomorrow night.” “Um, if you don’t mind, could you tell us how did you found out?” Fluttershy asked Aria. Aria pulled out the prepaid mobile phone, and declared, “Adagio texted me and told me to arrive at the Park Headquarters before eleven tomorrow night.” Checking her watch, Rarity said, “Make that tonight, darling. It’s well past midnight.” “So, I still haven’t heard a good reason why we’re not packing up our stuff and getting on the road now!” said Rainbow Dash argumentatively, rubbing her elbow where she had smacked it against the wall during her escape attempt. Sunset sternly replied, “We’re not going now because we have no idea where they are. The lake is about 400 square miles, has dozens of islands, and the surrounding park is at least another 100 square miles. We need to stick to Adagio’s schedule so she tells Aria where to go. Don’t you get it? Adagio doesn’t know that Aria’s on our side now!” Hope bloomed on Applejack’s face. She said, “Of course! Adagio and Sonata had their fight, but Adagio hasn’t seen Aria all week.” Pinkie chimed in as she bounced up and down on the loveseat. “Aria fooled her while we were in the school’s pottery room!” “So, Aria will be able to text her again tomorrow to ask a question or two, but we need to be ready for anything, which is why we stacked all the gear downstairs,” said Sunset. The amulet was no longer glowing as she paced back and forth in front of Rarity’s entertainment center. Sonata held up the road atlas she took with her from Sunset’s apartment. She opened it to the pages featuring Lake Piebald and said confidently, “We think Adagio and Raven will use one of the big caves on the lakeshore. It’ll probably be one of the two closest to the Park Headquarters.” She jumped and suddenly placed a bruised hand in the pocket of her sweatpants. “Three points, before we get too far down the road,” said Discord, who produced a deck of cards and presented the three of diamonds. “First, as Sunset presents her plan, know that if Raven is involved, she is not helping Adagio out of the goodness of her black heart. The Siren princess will be betrayed. Second, it’s unlike Raven to rush a plan, so there must be something else we don’t know about.” Sunset snapped her fingers in realization. She enthusiastically said, “It has to have something to do with the Sirens’ magic slowly leaking away, I just know it!” “Twilight would be proud of your deduction, Sunset,” said Discord approvingly. He gestured with the playing card and continued. “Third, we will almost certainly have combat against undead tomorrow night. Even here, I fear Raven has amassed enough power to raise skeletons, zombies and such.” The group murmured to one another, but was interrupted by Sonata’s shout. “Hold on! Adagio just sent me a message. I can’t believe it! Listen. ‘Sonata, it’s Adagio. I regret how we parted. I hope the farmer lived. Now, you must live. Do not come to Lake Piebald tomorrow night, but encourage Discord to do so if you can. If I survive, I will find a way to return for you using the Master’s power. Sing, paint and remember.’ But, I don’t understand what she’s asking.” Sonata flipped her ponytail back over her shoulder. “Let’s not count Adagio out yet. She’s using me as bait, because she must have found out how much Raven hates me,” said Discord, who smiled as a huge plastic fishhook encircled his head. Aria crossed her arms and looked at Sonata thoughtfully. After a pause she said, “She’s thinking of her duty to you, even after your confrontation. This means something…” She drummed her purple-tinted fingers on her bicep. Applejack waved her arms in front of her face. “Sonata, let’s wait until we have the whole plan together and pick the right time to reply to Adagio,” she said. Nodding respectfully at Sunset, she added, “Keep going, sugar cube. I think we’re in the home stretch.” “So, here’s the travel plan, girls,” said Sunset authoritatively, removing her leather jacket and draping it over the television. “We’ll all sleep until midmorning, wake up, eat, load the vehicles before the store opens, finish our preparations and then leave in the early afternoon to arrive at the lake near sunset. We won’t have free run of the place until the rangers shut down for the night, but we can get the lay of the land.” Rarity raised an approving eyebrow at Sunset and said, “As a businesswoman, I have to ask: What do you count among our assets? You’ve covered the liabilities quite well.” Aria displayed the magical mace, which glowed with pale white light in her grip. She said, “We have Chainbreaker, which is a powerful weapon. Here, Rarity, feel this.” She held out the weapon, and Rarity’s hands joined Aria’s on the wood from the Golden Oak Library. “It feels warm, and pulses like a gentle heartbeat!” she said, her blue eyes shining with hope. With a toss of her pigtails, Aria declared, “I know that Chainbreaker is made to fight the dead and free the enslaved. I feel that it must offer some protection from dark magic.” “But only one of us can use that super duper flashlight of destruction!” cried Pinkie Pie. Fluttershy raised her hand timidly, and said, “But, we all have the weapons we brought along. That will help.” “Guns, Fluttershy! We need guns! Let’s crack into the safe at Sweet Apple Acres,” said Rainbow Dash, pantomiming a pistol with her thumb and forefinger. Applejack threw her pillow at Rainbow Dash and angrily said, “There’s no way that I’m trusting you with a shotgun or a rifle! This isn’t ‘Cavalry Warfare 3’. We couldn’t hit the broad side of a barn in a real fight.” “Here’s what I saw downstairs, girls,” said Sunset, who pointed to each of them in turn. “Fluttershy has her bow, arrows and belt quiver. Applejack has a sickle from the farm along with her lariat. The hatchet is for Pinkie, and Rainbow Dash fought Aria with the quarterstaff. Aria, of course, has Chainbreaker, and gave the old brass club to Rarity. Discord has his unique talents, and so do I.” Discord stood and bowed to Sunset. He reached inside of his jacket, and respectfully said, “I’m impressed with how quickly you’ve recovered your spellcasting skill, but please accept a mage’s emergency weapon.” Discord removed a silver dagger from his jacket. The simple bronze hilt’s only ornamentation was an eight-pointed star artfully etched into the pommel. “Vulcan Anvil sends his regards.” Sunset wiped her eyes, and then reverently accepted the weapon. “Thank you, Discord.” “Aren’t you going to take something, Discord?” asked Applejack. He reverted back to his normally sarcastic mannerisms, and said, “Of course, not! I have plenty of magic in reserve!” Discord grinned, opened his jacket and revealed a fuel gauge attached to his shirt. It currently indicated “full.” “Hold on…” said Applejack. She ran out of the room, the sounds of heavy footfalls thumped down the stairs, paused for a moment, and then ascended the staircase. Breathing heavily, Applejack said, “Here. Take Pa’s knife. You may need it.” Discord grasped the scabbard for the large hunting knife. The hilt design was of five apples, side by side, with the largest one aligned with the blade in the center. His mouth dropped open as he stared at Applejack in disbelief. “I honestly don’t know what to say…” “What about Sonata?” asked Fluttershy, breaking the silence. Sunset stepped forward and placed a hand on Sonata’s shoulder as she sat. The Siren’s lilac eyes grew watery once again. Sunset looked down and gave Sonata’s shoulder a squeeze, then stepped away and said, “Sonata will remain here. If we fail, she will write Twilight, and ask her to open the portal so that she can give a full report and get help.” “No!” Discord’s loud interruption startled everyone. Sonata sadly shook her head, and said, “I want to come, but I accept and understand Sunset’s decision.” Discord stood and stretched out his hand. He implored, “Sunset Shimmer, she is very important in all of this!” His hair stood on end, and his beard fanned out over his chest. “Thanks, Discord. I appreciate your concern, but I need to do the right thing this time,” said Sonata, resigned to her role. The Spirit of Chaos squatted down in front of Sonata and looked deep into her eyes. He produced the thick Aquastrian history book and gently placed it in her lap. He whispered, “While we’re gone, read this, and then seek ‘spiritual guidance’. You will need it.” Discord’s necktie momentarily disappeared and replaced itself with a black-and-white clerical collar. After his clothing returned to normal, he winked and returned to his seat. Pinkie Pie moaned, “This is taking forever! Are we done yet? I feel a food coma coming on!” Sunset clenched her fists and they began to glow with green-blue light. “There is one more thing, Pinkie. I have relearned powerful magic, but that’s only part of it,” she said, once again taking command of Rarity’s den. The others looked on expectantly. “Remember Twilight’s crown?” An illusory copy appeared in a flash of light and floated above Sunset’s outstretched palm. It disappeared as she tapped the glowing black-and-white gemstone at her throat. “My friends, this is a new Element of Harmony.” Rarity leaned forward with rapt interest and asked, “So, which Element is it?” Sunset began casting another illusion spell. The necklace and her hands glowed once more. The seven symbols representing the Rainbooms appeared, circling a column of pale green light. Loudly and confidently, she said, “These, we already know.” Each cutie mark floated upwards and passed through the ceiling as she called it by name. “Pinkie’s Laughter, Applejack’s Honesty, Rarity’s Generosity, Fluttershy’s Kindness, Rainbow Dash’s Loyalty, and Twilight’s Magic.” Each of the symbols, excepting Twilight’s, descended from the ceiling and floated over the corresponding woman’s head. Pinkie giggled and poked her finger through each of the three balloons hovering above her cloud of pink curls. The symbol representing Sunset Shimmer’s Equestrian cutie mark — a red-and-gold sunburst, the colors split by a sinuous horizontal line — floated out of the column of light and placed itself atop the glowing amulet. “I am proud to have finally earned the privilege of standing with you, and grateful that you are now my friends. After finally emerging from my dark personal journey, which I could have never done without your help, I now bear the Element of Redemption!” The group erupted in cheers, applause, fist bumps and even an impromptu shower of glitter, which earned a stinging rebuke from Rarity. Joyous tears replaced excitement as the magic dissipated. “We’re proud to call you our friend, too, Sunset,” said Fluttershy when the initial pandemonium abated. Applejack pounded her fist on the arm of the couch. “And, I’m proud to follow you in rescuing my sister.” “Let’s not overdo it, ladies. I’m done with putting it all together for you. It’s time for us all to get some rest,” said Sunset. Rainbow Dash laughed and said, “Sunset, how in the hell do you expect us to sleep after all that?” Smiling, Sunset rummaged through her backpack. Showing a mischievous smile, she said, “With these!” She displayed one of Princess Luna’s dusky blue feathers and a vial of white sand. “You wouldn’t dare use magic to put us all to sleep!” cried Discord. He watched Sunset’s unflinching expression, and then uncertainly added, “Right?” Sunset met Discord’s inquisitive gaze sternly. Suddenly, her face broke in a broad smile and she lowered the spell components. She said, “Not right now, but don’t push me!” The others giggled at her threat, so Sunset continued. “Listen, we can’t win this fight if we’re exhausted before we begin. So many of the mistakes I made this week were because I was tired and uncertain. I’ve only solved half of that problem.” “Sunset, you’ve done a wonderful job. Nobody could have done better under the circumstances,” said Fluttershy encouragingly. Embarrassed by the praise, Sunset was eager to change subjects. “If you find yourself having trouble nodding off because of the excitement, come find me, and I’ll cast a spell. So find a horizontal surface where you can sleep, and I’ll see you in the morning!” The group grumbled, but followed Sunset’s instructions. During the next few minutes, Discord claimed the den’s couch while the young women changed clothes and prepared to sleep. They spread themselves throughout the second floor of the Carousel Boutique, seeking any comfortable spot. Sonata steadfastly refused to let anyone sleep in Sweetie Belle’s bed. She stubbornly repeated to anyone who greedily looked at the sumptuous duvet, “It’s my fault that Shrieking Raven had the chance to take the girls, so I’ll guard her bed until you bring her back.” Amid a chorus of “good nights”, Rarity ambushed Sunset as she left the bathroom. The fashion designer fluttered her eyelashes and said coquettishly, “So, where do you plan to rest, darling?” “I need to write Twilight one more time. I’d planned to guard the equipment downstairs and just use one of the Crusaders’ sleeping bags,” replied Sunset delicately, removing a stray piece of lint from her comfortable pajamas. She nodded and said, “I think I understand, but I can’t have you freezing to death. The store floor is so cold,” said Rarity, sticking out her bottom lip in a pretty pout. “Don’t force me to use this, Rarity.” Grinning, she shook the vial of white sand. “I’ll be just fine. But, I think you should go grab Fluttershy and get her out of the den. I see how she’s been looking at Discord,” said Sunset. Rarity gave Sunset a tight hug. “Sweet dreams, darling.” “I somehow know that they will be. Nighty night,” said Sunset, returning the embrace. She extinguished the hall light and tiptoed toward the stairs. Glancing into Sweetie Belle’s room, she noticed Sonata intently reading the Aquastrian history book with a flashlight, with her eyes emitting a pink glow in the darkness. Sunset smiled to herself, and quietly descended to the first floor. After she unrolled Scootaloo’s sleeping bag and grabbed Apple Bloom’s pillow, Sunset sat at Rarity’s sewing table. She uncapped her pen, opened her journal, and began to write: Dear Princess Twilight, We are ready for battle, once we get a good night’s sleep. Aria, Sonata, Discord and I told our friends everything about the dangers we face. If you have additional advice and instructions, please pass them along soon. We will depart for Lake Piebald a little after noon tomorrow. I am exhausted, so I will keep this brief. Once we leave Canterlot, I will entrust my journal to Sonata. While I’m certain she has finally turned away from He Who Swims in Darkness, questions remain about how she would react during combat. If we fail, I have left her instructions to write you and request that you open the portal. I want her to return to Equestria and make a full report to you. Finally free of Leviathan’s influence, Sonata’s like a foal just learning to stand on shaking legs, but she has an inner strength that Adagio has been unable to touch, even after all this time. I wish you could have seen it - her apology to Applejack was so powerful and sincere. I have to save those girls and stop Adagio, no matter what. Thank you for giving me the tools I need and for showing me a path to victory. While I regret so many of my previous choices, my path has strengthened me for this fight. If this is my last message, please tell Princess Celestia that my past no longer defines me, and that I feel I’ve finally risen from my own ashes. Your faithful friend, Sunset Shimmer The moonlight streamed into the store windows, illuminating the collection of equipment spread across the store’s floor. Sunset slid into the sleeping bag and fluffed the pillow. Reviewing the message one last time, she closed the tome and sent her message to Twilight. As she did, an image flashed through her mind of Twilight standing in front of the trunk of a huge tree that appeared to be made from living crystal. Circular leaves hung from its branches, identical to the one she used to forge the Element of Redemption. Sunset tried to examine the strange markings on the tree’s trunk, but her view was obstructed by Twilight, standing at the edge of a circular pool of water. She looked to her left at Princess Luna, whose horn glowed with sea-green radiance. The Alicorn of the Night was singing an entrancing lullaby. The beautiful melody and the poetic words kept slipping away from Sunset, no matter how hard she concentrated. As sleep overtook her, she heard what could only be Luna’s voice say, “Rest well. Tonight I have the watch, Element Bearer.” *****