CHAPTER 4: THE MEETING
A shadow appeared in an abandoned library in Canterlot, and took the form of a mare in a black cloak, her golden eyes glowing underneath the hood. She observed her surroundings, making sure nopony was there to see her. She had just tracked the orange earth pony from Ponyville to Canterlot, and used her magic to follow her and Lieutenant Red Lightning.
She her eyes glowed as she concentrated, using her magic to sense the presence of guards. There were none. The mare sighed quietly to herself. The coast is clear, she thought to herself.
“Moonsong.” A voice whispered behind her.
The pony, Moonsong, turned to see a unicorn stallion with a pale coat, a gray mane and tail, and yellow eyes. His cutie mark was a green seven-pointed star surrounded by six yellow stars. Like Moonsong, he too was wearing a black cloak.
"Sagittarius,” Whispered Moonsong, keeping as quiet as she could. “You shouldn’t surprise me like that.”
“My apologies,” Sagittarius replied in a hushed voice. “I was following some of Celestia’s guards here from Fillydelphia. They had a yellow pegasus with them. From what I gathered from their conversation, the Princess wanted to see her.”
“The ponies I was following from Ponyville had the same reason for coming here,” Moonsong answered. “I figured I would follow them and find out more. They’re probably in the palace, already.”
“Then we should follow them inside. Remember to stick to the shadows.”
Moonsong nodded, removing her hood, revealing her identity. She was a female unicorn with an ocean blue coat, a mane colored with hues of cyan and white, and golden eyes. She closed her eyes as she concentrated, her horn glowing in a golden light.
However, her concentration was broken when a bright light flashed behind them. The two spies turned around in the direction, and saw Suri Polomare and Svengallop standing in the middle of the room.
The earth pony stallion was observing himself, checking to see if any part of him was misplaced. When he found no mismatched limb, he sighed with relief.
“Good,” He said, smiling. “Everything’s where it should be.”
“And, judging by the refined architecture of the buildings outside,” Added Suri, “We’re in Canterlot. Excellent. I knew I’d get us here without any trouble.”
The two then noticed Moonsong and Sagittarius glaring at them. Svengallop immediately cowered behind Suri, fearing the cold stares of the unicorns. There was just something off about them. Especially Moonsong.
Suri, however, was undeterred.
“What do you two think you’re doing?” Hissed Sagittarius. “You almost gave away our position.”
“An accident, I assure you,” Suri said bluntly, her arrogant expression unchanged. “But judging by the fact nopony’s noticed our entrance, and we're inside an abandoned warehouse, I’d say our position is safe.”
“Did you find anything of interest in Manehattan?” Asked Moonsong in her monotone voice.
Suri chuckled, a smug smile creeping along her muzzle.
“As a matter of fact,” She replied. “We have. A trio of guards came to old Mr. Stripes’ factory to pick up a unicorn mare named Rarity. They said that they were taking her to Canterlot to have an audience with Princess Celestia.”
“Similar events occurred on our end, as well.” Said Moonsong.
The four spies looked outside the nearest window at the castle, eyeing the structure from above.
“Any ideas?” Asked Svengallop.
“Sagittarius and I will infiltrate the castle and make our way to the throne room, where we can listen in on what the Princess has to say to these strange ponies.” Answered Moonsong.
Suri noticed that she and Svengallop were not mentioned in the enigmatic unicorn’s plan.
“And what about Svengallop and I?” She asked raising an eyebrow, her voice containing a slight hint of annoyance.
“Try not to be seen,” Moonsong dismissed casually. “Preferably, stay outside of the castle, but close enough to the throne room to hear the Princess.”
She then nodded to Sagittarius, the unicorn stallion returning the gesture. Their horns began to glow, and they disappeared in a flash of light. Suri could still feel Svengallop hiding behind her. She turned to face her cowardly partner, scowling at him, her eyes burning with annoyance.
Svengallop smiled nervously as he backed away.
“So, what do we do?” The stallion asked.
“Simple,” Answered Suri, her frown turning into a devious smile. “We go undercover.”
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There were no words to describe the sight that Twilight set her eyes upon. The chamber she stood in was truly massive, the walls made of stone, colorful tapestries and banners hanging from the walls and ceiling. The ceiling itself displayed a mosaic. The mosaic was that of Celestia and another alicorn, standing tall, and ponies of all kinds bowing to them in reverence.
Twilight’s eyes widened in awe, a big grin plastered on her face. She had always dreamed that one day she would be in Celestia’s castle.
And here she was, in the main foyer of the castle, waiting to meet the ruler of Equestria herself.
Shining Armor noticed the elated look on his younger sister’s face. He hadn’t seen her so excited since their parents enrolled her in Celestia’s school. To see her like this brought a smile to his face.
He cleared his throat. “I better head inside,” He said. “To tell Princess Celestia that we’re here.”
“Oh,” Answered Twilight, snapping out of her euphoric state. “Right. Of course.”
With that, Shining Armor left the chamber, the doors to the throne room closing behind him.
Twilight resumed observing her surroundings, taking in the wondrous sight before her. The tapestries were intricately woven, displaying Celestia in her glory, as well as the sun and moon. Hanging from the walls were portraits of famous ponies throughout Equestria’s history, from Clover the Clever, to Rubedo the Alchemist, to the Great Sage Orichalcum, to General Firefly, founder of the Wonderbolts. But there was one portrait in particular that caught Twilight’s eye.
In front of her was a massive painting of Princess Celestia and the other alicorn from the mosaic with her childhood hero, Star Swirl the Bearded. She trotted closer to the painting, taking in the image. She couldn’t believe her eyes. Star Swirl the Bearded knew Princess Celestia? She then saw a plaque under the painting. It read:
“In memory of Star Swirl the Bearded. Equestria’s greatest mage, and friend of the Two Princesses.”
I don’t believe it, she thought.
Suddenly, she heard the doors open behind her. She turned around swiftly to see an earth pony mare entering the foyer, accompanied by three pegasus guards.
The mare had an orange coat, freckles on her face, and a blonde mane and tail, her tail in a large hairnet, and green eyes. She was clad in a brown jumpsuit and camouflaged apron, the attire of a factory worker, Twilight believed. Resting on her head was a brown Stetson hat.
“Wait here,” Said one of the Guards, who Twilight recognized as Lieutenant Red Lightning. “I must go inside and speak with the princess.”
“Ah understand,” Said the mare in a Southern accent.
Lieutenant Lightning and his guards walked to the doors, the two guards standing to attention as he approached. The doors opened and they entered, with the doors closing behind them.
The orange mare observed her surroundings, clearly amazed by the sight. She then saw Twilight, and her eyes widened.
“Twilight?!” She asked, her voice filled with shock and surprise.
Twilight was surprised by the pony’s outburst, but even more by the fact that she somehow knew her name.
“Uh, yes?” She answered, confused by this strange pony.
The mare quickly galloped to her, only to slow down as she observed her, her expression matching her own.
“Wait,” She said. “Where are your wings? And your baby dragon?”
Now Twilight knew this pony was talking nonsense. All of that factory work must have taken a toll on her mind.
“Wings?” Twilight asked, raising an eyebrow. “I never had any wings. And I don’t have a baby dragon. Well, not yet. He’s just an egg at the moment, but I’ll hatch him eventually.”
The mare’s expression became one of disappointment, her ears drooping.
“Oh. Ah see,” She said solemnly. “Ah’m sorry. Ah mistook you for somepony else.”
“That’s fine,” Said Twilight, still confused. “But I’m a little confused how you know my name. We’ve just met.”
The earth pony was silent for a moment, before answering.
“Yer gonna think ah’m crazy,” She began, “But earlier, when ah was workin’ at the factory, ah met a pony named Twilight. She looked just like you, except she was an alicorn, and she had a baby dragon with her. She told me that she was from another Equestria, where there wasn’t a war with King Sombra, and that you and ah were friends and defeated him, and now she’s trying to save her timeline from a pony named Starlight Glimmer. Apparently, this pony has been changin’ Equestria’s history, an’ now Twilight, that is t’ say, the other Twilight, has to set things right. And ah sure hope she does.”
Twilight’s eyes widened. An Equestria where there was no war with King Sombra? And where she was an alicorn? This sounded too good to be true. What also surprised her was that this other Twilight came here through time travel after fighting somepony named ‘Starlight Glimmer’.
“Ah understand you don’t believe me,” continued the mare. “But ah’m tellin’ the truth. There really is an alicorn version of you travellin’ through time tryin’ to fix the timeline so that this war never happened, and ah really hope she does.”
Twilight pondered for a moment, and then she answered.
“If you say so,” She said. “And even though you confused me for this alicorn, yes. I’m Twilight Sparkle. But I don’t know who you are.”
“Oh,” replied the earth pony. “Sorry. Ah was so surprised t’ see ya, ah forgot t’ introduce mahself. The name’s Applejack. Ah work at Sweet Apple Factory in Ponyville.”
“Ponyville?” Twilight repeated, hearing the name of the town Sweetie Belle and her family used to live in. “Do you happen to know Sweetie Belle by any chance?”
“You know Rarity’s sister?” Applejack asked in surprise.
“Well, yes,” Said Twilight. “She and her family moved to Canterlot for safety, and she did tell me that she had a sister. Why? Have you met this Rarity before?”
Applejack nodded.
“Yes, ah did,” She answered. “Last ah heard, she moved to Manehattan to help the cause.”
Twilight nodded, following.
“So,” Applejack continued. “Ah guess the Princess called fer you, too.”
Twilight quirked an eyebrow.
“You were called here, too?” She asked.
“Yep,” Said Applejack. “Ah was back at the factory, when Princess Celestia’s guards came an’ said that she needed me in Canterlot. They didn’t tell me why, but ah figured it was important. Ah hope it has t’ do with winnin’ the war. Ah was gonna join the E.U.P. Guard, anyway, so ah’m not complainin’.”
“I see,” Said Twilight. “And to answer your question, yes. I was summoned here, too. By here, I mean the castle. I’ve been living in Canterlot for a long time.”
Just then, another thought occurred to her.
“You said you were going to join the E.U.P. Guard before Lieutenant Red Lightning brought you here,” She said. “Why?”
Applejack hesitated, before she sighed and stood straight.
“After the Alicorn Twilight told me about her Equestria,” She began. “Ah started thinkin’ about how ah could do better to help the cause. Let me tell ya, makin’ sour applesauce to be sent to the frontlines ain’t somethin’ ah’m proud of. Plus, while some of mah relatives are on their orchards harvestin’ apples, others have joined the E.U.P. Guard, includin’ mah cousin, Braeburn from Appleloosa. The fact he’s out there fightin’ Sombra’s troops while ah was workin’ at a factory that used to be mah family’s farm, a farm that used t’ make the best apples anypony ever tasted, really frustrated me. Ah want to do more. Ah want to help go out there and fight Sombra, not can applesauce an’ haul it to the freight train. An’ when Lieutenant Red Lightning came and told me the Princess needed me, ah accepted it just like that. It took me a while to convince my family to let me go.”
Twilight nodded in response, the earth pony gaining her full attention.
“Ah know they’re worried about me an’ want me t’ be safe, an’ ah respect ‘em for it,” Applejack continued, her eyes narrowing in determination. “But ah don’t care if ah’m riskin’ myself out there. Ah know what ah’m gettin’ into. Ah won’t let my family down.”
Twilight felt a feeling of admiration for Applejack. She was just a factory worker, but her love for her family had made her determined to protect them, even if it cost her her life. After all, from what she told her, she had grown dissatisfied with her farm, her home, being turned into a factory that sacrificed quality for quantity because of the increasing demand for supplies, and working there while her relatives were risking their lives battling King Sombra’s Crystal Warriors. She had a lot of courage for such a little pony, even if her ramblings about a time-travelling alicorn made her sound a little mad.
The doors opened again, and another pony stepped inside, her escorts leaving for the throne room as well. She was a pegasus pony, with a bright yellow coat, a pink mane and tail, and moderate cyan eyes. She wore a tan jumpsuit and headscarf.
The two ponies saw her, and exchanged glances.
“Looks like we weren’t the only ones summoned by Princess Celestia.” Twilight said to Applejack.
The earth pony nodded in response. “Yep,” She answered. “She looks like she’s been workin’ on a wool farm. Fillydephia, ah think.”
“She also seems a little nervous.” Said Twilight.
“Can’t say ah blame her,” Applejack replied. “Ah mean, we are about t’ meet Princess Celestia. Ah’ve got butterflies in mah stomach, mahself.”
The pegasus mare nervously walked away from the doors, her expression that of anxiety. Twilight and Applejack couldn’t help but look at her with pity.
“Maybe we should go talk to her.” Whispered Applejack.
Twilight simply nodded as the two approached the newcomer.
“Howdy,” Applejack greeted. The pink-haired pegasus yelped in surprise, jumping a little. She turned to face the two ponies, her eyes wide with fright.
“Oh. Sorry,” Apologized Applejack. “Didn’t mean t’ startle ya. Mah name’s Applejack.”
“And I’m Twilight Sparkle,” Twilight introduced herself, smiling awkwardly.
A silence filled the chamber as Twilight and Applejack waited for the pegasus to respond.
However, the mare remained quiet, giving them the same, nervous stare.
“What’s your name?” Asked Twilight, breaking the silence.
The pegasus mumbled something in response. It was barely audible, but the two could make out the word ‘Flutter’.
“I’m sorry,” Said Twilight, “What was that?”
“Fluttershy,” The pegasus said a little more clearly. “M-my name is Fluttershy.”
Applejack’s eyes widened.
“Fluttershy,” She repeated. “That was one of the friends other Twilight told me about.”
“Seriously?” Asked Twilight, raising an eyebrow. “You’re bringing up that again?”
“Trust me on this one.” Applejack whispered to her.
“Well, her name is pretty appropriate.” Said Twilight.
The two then turned their attention back to the newcomer.
“So, Princess Celestia summoned you too, huh?” Asked Applejack.
“Um, y-y-yes.” Said Fluttershy, her voice barely above a whisper.
Twilight sighed. This pony certainly lived up to the name ‘Fluttershy’. Then again, she was a little socially awkward herself. She could understand Fluttershy’s situation perfectly.
The doors opened once more, and two unicorns entered the room. The stallion, Iron Vigil, took his leave, heading for the throne room. The three mares turned their attention to the other unicorn.
She had a white coat, a purple mane and tail, blue eyes, and light blue eye shadow. She was clad in a gray working jumpsuit and headscarf.
Twilight and Fluttershy didn’t recognize her, but Applejack did.
“Rarity!” She cried.
Almost immediately, Applejack rushed toward the unicorn, who noticed her.
“Applejack,” She called out, “Am I glad to see—waaaaaait, no I’m not.”
Immediately the two stopped approaching and turned away from each other.
“Hmph. Yeah,” Scoffed Applejack, “Me neither.”
Twilight, who was smiling earlier at what she thought would be a touching reunion, frowned, left confused by what she just witnessed.
“Ummmmm, Applejack, did I miss something?” She asked. “I thought you and Rarity were friends.”
“Yeah. We were friends,” huffed the earth pony. “Emphasis on ‘were’.”
“Sorry to disappoint you, darling,” Rarity said, holding her nose high in the air, “But I no longer associate with her.”
“And ah don’t associate with her, anymore.” Said Applejack, pointing her hoof at Rarity.
“But, why?” Asked Twilight.
“Let’s just say that Applejack is a stubborn, arrogant mule.” Rarity huffed.
Applejack seemed to have taken offense as she immediately faced Rarity, eyebrows furrowed.
“At least ah’m not a coward!” She retorted.
Rarity let out a noise of disgust as she turned around, glaring at Applejack with anger burning in her eyes.
“Well excuse me, Applejack,” She snapped, “If I’m not in pursuit of experiencing the glory of battle! I still stand by what I said years back! If you really wanted to help Equestria, you’d swallow your pride and help your family back on your farm!”
“Ah can’t just stand by while the rest of mah family’s fightin’ Sombra! Besides, the fact the War Production Board wanted us to optimize our output isn’t helpin’ matters.” Retorted Applejack.
“Either that, or you’re too lazy to actually use better apples.” Rarity replied in a snide tone.
Twilight had an idea what was going on. It sounded like they had a falling out some time ago, apparently over how to help in the war against King Sombra. From what she could tell, Rarity didn’t approve of Applejack enlisting, believing she would be better help back on her farm, or rather, factory. And it sounded like the Board had wanted Sweet Apple Factory to optimize production time, something Applejack was against because it meant they would produce less quality apples.
Before they could continue, they heard the doors open once more. They turned to see five more ponies, one of which Twilight recognized as Commander Stratos, accompanied by two of his Blue Wings, one of which was staring at her with wide eyes. Twilight noticed, and she blushed. The blue-haired stallion blushed in return.
Stratos spoke to one of the new ponies, a pegasus. “You two wait here, Captain,” He said. “We’ll go on inside and speak with the princess.”
The pegasus saluted.
“Yes, sir.” She said in a rather raspy voice.
Commander Stratos turned around and headed for the doors, noticing one of his soldiers gazing at Twilight.
“Flash,” He said. “Come with us.”
The stallion, Flash, snapped out of his trance.
“Uh, yes sir.” He said, following the commander.
Soon, the three entered the throne room, the doors closing behind them. Twilight stood there for a minute, and then turned her attention to the two new ponies.
The first was an earth pony with a pale pink coat, a long, dark pink mane, a short, dark pink tail, and light blue eyes. She wore a gray jumpsuit and dark gray battle armor, the uniform of the E.U.P. Guard Rock Trooper Corps. Judging by her expression, she was the veteran of many battles.
But the second pony was what really drew Twilight’s attention.
She was a pegasus mare with a cyan coat, magenta eyes, a short, rainbow-colored mane with a bit of hair that hung over the right side of her face, and a short rainbow-colored tail. She was clad in a light blue flight jumpsuit with yellow trims running down from the sides of her lower torso to her hind legs, with dark blue body armor covering her torso and shins just above her hooves, her uniform held by a gold clasp on her collar, a dark blue belt around her waist with a yellow pouch on each side. A blue combat helmet was tucked under her right wing. Over her left eye was a scar, and a notable chunk of her left ear was missing. But her most distinguishing characteristic was her prosthetic left wing.
Twilight’s eyes widened at the sight of the pegasus. She recognized the uniform she wore. It was that of the Wonderbolts, the most elite air warriors in the E.U.P. Guard.
A Wonderbolt? Here? She asked mentally. This meeting must have been important if Celestia summoned a Wonderbolt, let alone a Rock Trooper. She heard stories about the Wonderbolts. They were the greatest fighters among the Princess’s armies. Their speed was the stuff of legends, and like lightning, they struck the enemy quickly and without warning.
Rarity and Applejack stopped arguing and turned their attention to the new ponies. Their eyes grew wide at the sight of the pegasus.
“Land sakes,” Said Applejack. “She’s a Wonderbolt. Ah didn’t think Princess Celestia would summon one of ‘em here.”
Rarity scoffed, as if the earth pony said the dumbest thing ever.
“Of course she would,” Said the unicorn. “Only the best in the Air Corps are worthy enough to go on… whatever assignment the princess has in mind for those two.”
“I think it’s for the same reason the Princess summoned us.” Twilight said.
Rarity eyed Twilight.
“About that,” She said, “I understand her summoning military personnel, but why would she summon us?”
“I don’t know,” Answered Twilight, “But it must be something important.”
Rarity, nodded, and decided to change the subject.
“Anyway, my name is Rarity,” She began. “And you are..?”
Twilight hesitated, but answered the white unicorn’s question.
“Twilight Sparkle,” She said, a little nervously, “You’re Sweetie Belle’s sister, right? She’s told me all about you.”
Rarity’s eyes widened like saucers at the mention of her sister’s name.
“You know my sister?” She asked, completely shocked.
Twilight was taken aback by Rarity’s change in mood, but she nodded in reply.
Rarity rushed towards her, getting right up in her face. Twilight nearly fell over on her flank in response to the unicorn’s reaction, as Rarity launched a flurry of questions.
“How is she? Is she alright? Is she getting along with the other children? What school did she join? Has she been taking care of Opal? She hasn’t run into any bullies, has she?”
Twilight was silent for a moment, before regaining her composure.
“Yes, she’s perfectly fine,” the lavender unicorn answered, “She’s been getting along just fine with the foals in her class. As for school, she joined Comet Tail Magic School. Yes, she’s been taking good care of your cat from what I’ve heard. And as for bullies, well, not that I know of.”
Rarity sighed with relief. “That’s so good to hear. I have no idea what I’d do without my sister.”
“Well, I’m pleased to hear that.” Said Twilight. “I think you’re lucky to have a sister like her.”
Her gaze returned to the prismatic-haired pegasus. She recognized her from one of the propaganda posters. The image of the poster came back to her, displaying the pegasus standing tall, holding the flag of Equestria in one hoof, and a spear in the other, with a pile of Crystal Warriors lying beneath her. She remembered the words on the poster accompanying the image:
THE IRON PONY, HERO OF EQUESTRIA
Although, she looked a lot more confident and heroic on the posters. Now that she saw her in person, she looked… sad.
The pegasus must have noticed her, because she looked her way, her stern expression unwavering. There was a tense silence between the two.
“Can I help you?” She asked in a calm tone.
Twilight gulped. She could practically feel her knees buckling. She had to say something, but what? She had never spoken to a Wonderbolt before, especially not a Wonderbolt whose face was on many propaganda posters hailed as the hero of Equestria.
The pegasus raised her eyebrow.
“Are you alright?” She asked.
Twilight struggled to find her voice. Finally, she found the strength to speak.
“YOU’RE THE IRON PONY!”
It came out so suddenly. She wasn’t even thinking. The pegasus stared at her with wide eyes, shocked by the unicorn’s sudden outburst.
After an awkward silence, the pegasus recomposed herself, clearing her throat.
“Er, yeah. That’s me,” She said, embarrassed, “I am the Iron Pony.”
Twilight blushed.
“Uh, sorry,” She said, smiling nervously. “It’s just that I’ve heard so much about you, and I’ve seen the posters and everything. You’re a legend, from what I’ve heard. Is it true you fought at Trottingham?”
“Yeah.” Said the pegasus, her voice containing a bit of sadness. Already the memories were returning.
Twilight noticed her change in demeanor.
“Is something wrong?” She asked, concerned.
“Nothing,” The pegasus replied, “It’s just that Trottingham isn’t something I’d like to talk about.”
Twilight’s ears drooped. She felt a bit of regret in her heart.
“I’m sorry,” She apologized. “I didn’t mean to bring back any bad memories.”
“That’s alright,” the pegasus replied. “Just be more careful. I can’t tell you how many times I’ve been told not to lose my temper whenever the journalists ask me about my exploits.”
Twilight nodded, still feeling a little sad. She looked at the pegasus with pity. She always heard that the Iron Pony was a fearless warrior, a courageous hero who was unafraid to die. But now that she saw her, she seemed… broken. Instead of a bold, noble war hero, standing before her was a stoic, unhappy pegasus who looked like she had flown through the Underworld and back again. She was even missing a wing, for Celestia’s sake. And her eyes… her eyes were that of a pegasus who carried the burden of watching her comrades fall.
There was a tense silence, until Twilight spoke again.
“Allow me to introduce myself,” She began. “My name is Twilight Sparkle. What’s your name?”
The pegasus straightened up, standing stock still.
“Rainbow Dash,” She answered. “Captain, Wonderbolts 1st Squadron, Serial Number 4132249.”
“It’s a pleasure to meet you, Captain Dash,” Said Twilight, shaking Rainbow Dash’s hoof. “You know, you’re not exactly what I expected.”
“Let me guess,” Chuckled Rainbow Dash, “You were expected a proud, fearless warrior who boasts about her victories every chance she gets.”
Twilight could practically hear the cynicism in her tone. “It’s just that the posters made you out to be a hero, but in person, you seem a little… grim.”
“Trust me,” Said Rainbow Dash. “If you saw as much death as I have, you’d have a grim outlook, too.”
She then realized what she said, and sighed, gazing at the floor. Her scowl softened as she looked back at Twilight.
“Sorry,” She apologized. “It’s just that a lot has happened lately, and a lot of ponies I’ve cared about have been hurt, or worse. So I hope you can forgive me if my attitude seems a little down.”
Twilight glanced at the pink earth pony, whose stoic expression remained unchanged.
“Who’s she?” She asked.
Rainbow Dash followed her gaze, seeing her companion, who approached them.
“1st Lieutenant Pinkamena Diane Pie,” She began in a monotone voice, “Rock Trooper Corps 7th Regiment, serial number 2477310.”
Twilight was slightly unnerved by Pinkamena. Her voice lacked emotion, and her expression was unreadable. She was like a machine. She must have been through a horrible experience. But then again, it couldn’t have been as horrible as what Captain Dash went through.
Speaking of the Captain, she already turned her gaze back to Twilight.
“You’ll have to excuse her,” She said. “She’s not much of a talker.”
“I can see that,” Replied Twilight.
“So, you girls were summoned by Princess Celestia, as well?” Asked the prismatic pegasus.
Twilight beamed with elation.
“Yes!” Shouted the unicorn, startling Rainbow Dash, who jumped back. Soon, Twilight began to ramble, much to the Captain’s dismay.
“And you have no idea how amazing this is! It’s like a dream come true! Ever since I was a filly, I’ve admired the Princess! She and Star Swirl the Bearded inspired me to learn everything about magic, and I’m really good at it, too! I was the best magic caster in my class, you know! I always wanted to know the Princess, even become her student! And now here I am, summoned by the Princess herself for something important! I can’t wait to actually speak with her! This is going to be so great! Maybe all of my research in magic will impress her so much, that she’ll finally…”
“I think we get the picture, Twilight.” Interrupted Rainbow Dash. Twilight snapped out of her state of euphoria and smiled sheepishly.
“Sorry,” She said. “I’m just really excited.”
Rainbow Dash smirked. This pony reminded her of herself when she first arrived at Wonderbolt Academy. She could easily understand how she felt.
Applejack, who was silent throughout the scene, chuckled at what she witnessed.
“More excited than a mouse in a cheese factory, that’s for sure,” She commented.
Rainbow Dash then saw Fluttershy. Her eyes widened like saucers when she did.
“It can’t be…” She muttered, her voice filled with shock.
She couldn’t believe it. It was her. The same filly from Flight School, the filly whose honor she raced to defend. The filly she failed. Already, the memories of that day came back to her. She hoped she would forget. She prayed she would forget. Time, it seemed, decided to be against her. She felt a pang of guilt in her heart as she remembered returning to the school with shame, when she told her that she lost, and when she had written her farewell letter.
“Fluttershy.” She whispered, her voice barely audible.
A confused expression crept onto Twilight’s face as Rainbow Dash stood still, looking like she saw a ghost. She then followed her gaze to Fluttershy, who looked at Rainbow Dash with a shocked expression of her own. She looked at Rainbow Dash, then back at Fluttershy, then back at Rainbow Dash again. Finally, a thought occurred to her.
Do they know each other?
Twilight waved a hoof in front of Rainbow’s face, trying to get her attention. No response. It was like she was in a trance. Did something happen between these two?
Finally, Twilight had enough.
“Captain Dash!” She said firmly. It wasn’t a shout, but it was still pretty loud. Finally, the Wonderbolt snapped out of her catatonic state. She saw Twilight in front of her, wearing a stern expression.
“Sorry, Twilight,” She said. “I just zoned out a little.”
“I noticed you and Fluttershy were staring at each other,” Twilight noted. “Do you two know each other?”
“Yes.” A small voice spoke behind Twilight. She turned around and saw Fluttershy, a small smile on her muzzle. The yellow pegasus wrapped her forelegs around Rainbow Dash and pulled her into a hug. The action took Rainbow Dash by surprise.
“It’s good to see you again, Rainbow Dash,” Said Fluttershy. “I missed you so much.”
Rainbow was silent. Her shocked expression became one of guilt, while her foalhood friend embraced her. True, a part of her did feel happy to see her again, but another part of her still felt regret for failing her on that day. She was surprised she could still remember it. She could still feel the burning disappointment of losing.
Fluttershy seemed to notice Rainbow Dash’s melancholy demeanor, as she looked up at her.
“Rainbow Dash? Are you alright?” She asked, worried.
Rainbow Dash tensed up a little, but then relaxed a bit.
“I… I’m fine.” She answered, not really believing her own words.
If anything, she felt awful. Just seeing Fluttershy again made her remember her failure. After so many years, it was still fresh in her mind: Hoops’ boasting, the other foals’ hurtful cheers and taunts, Fluttershy’s look of pity. She was amazed how well she was holding back the tears. Then again, seeing so many pegasi under her command dying before her eyes had that effect on her.
So, why did she feel like the tears were about to flow?
Fluttershy then noticed her old friend’s left wing. Her eyes widened in shock.
“Rainbow Dash,” She gasped. “What happened to your wing?!”
The blue pegasus’s eyes widened once the question was asked. Once again, Twilight saw pain in those magenta eyes. Fluttershy’s question must have brought back painful memories. Rainbow Dash let go of Fluttershy and stepped back, looking down at the floor.
“I rather not talk about it…” She mumbled sadly.
Twilight looked at the Wonderbolt with pity. She didn’t know how Rainbow Dash lost her wing, but it must have been something awful if the young pegasus didn’t want to talk about. However, she was still curious.
Rarity, who was silent through the whole thing, cleared her throat, gaining everypony’s attention.
“Well,” She began, “Not that this hasn’t been a touching reunion, but I think it’s time for a few more introductions. I am Rarity. I used to work at Manehattan making uniforms, but like you, I was summoned by princess Celestia.”
Rainbow Dash turned her attention to the unicorn, taking a good look at her. She certainly looked like a factory worker, despite her elegant demeanor, but Dash had a feeling she had plenty of spirit.
Applejack then stepped forward.
“It’s a pleasure t’ meet you, Captain Dash,” She said, saluting. “Mah name is Applejack, worker at the Sweet Apple Factory, although, ah was plannin’ on joinin’ the Guard.”
“I see…” Commented Rainbow Dash, sizing up the earth pony. From what she could tell, Applejack was certainly strong, working at a food production plant ever since the war. All of that harvesting was sure to have made her legs strong enough to deliver a good kick to Sombra’s soldiers. If this assignment Celestia called them for involved combat, she was willing to see her in action. Perhaps she had what it takes to be a soldier.
Her eyes were then drawn to something peculiar in Twilight’s saddlebag: A purple dragon egg.
She quirked an eyebrow. Twilight noticed her expression.
“Is something wrong, Captain?” She asked.
“Um, Twilight?” Asked Rainbow Dash. “Why do you have a dragon egg in your bag?”
Immediately, all eyes turned to Twilight, the purple unicorn surprised by the attention she’d drawn.
“Oh, this?” She asked, using her magic to pull the egg out of her bag so everypony could see. “Well, it’s a long story, but my parents gave it to my after they requested the Princess to give it to me. You see, my mother is friends with Princess Celestia, so Princess Celestia gave it to her, saying that it might be of use in the future. Since then, I’ve been trying to find a spell that’ll hatch the egg. So far, I haven’t made much progress, but I’ll get there.”
She noticed the odd stares the other ponies, except Pinkamena, who merely scowled, were giving her.
There was an awkward silence, until Applejack spoke.
“Question. When you hatch the egg, what are you gonna do then?” She asked.
“Raise it, of course,” Said Twilight, a gleeful smile on her face. “Very little is known about dragons, and I intend to learn everything.”
Rainbow Dash quirked an eyebrow. She was starting to wonder if Twilight might be a little… loopy. Then again, after a lost empire reappearing in the Frozen North, and its king declaring war on Equestria, a pony raising a dragon wasn’t completely farfetched.
Just then, the doors to the throne room swung open, and Shining Armor stepped out.
“The Princess will see you now, girls.” He said.
Twilight grinned eagerly. Rainbow Dash could practically see the excitement in her expression.
Yep, she thought, definitely me on my first day of training.
“Thank goodness,” Said Rarity. “I was starting to get impatient. After all, it’s not every day somepony like myself gets to have an audience with royalty.”
“Ah’m pretty sure this is the first time for all of us.” Said Applejack bluntly.
Twilight stored her egg back into her bag, and the six mares followed Shining Armor into the throne, the doors closing behind them.
The sight before them was truly one to behold. The throne room was a massive chamber, the walls and floor made of white, polished stone, tall pillars supporting a violet ceiling. Colorful tapestries hung from the ceiling; large stained-glass windows rested on the walls between them, displaying breathtaking images, particularly of events from Equestria’s past. On the floor was a magnificent red carpet leading to the throne. The throne itself was massive, made of gold and red velvet. On each side stood a pegasus guard clad in golden torso armor and blue-plumed helmets.
Twilight felt herself at a loss for words as she observed the room, her eyes filled with awe and wonderment. She took a glance at the other ponies, and saw that they too were taken by the sight. Rarity, in particular, looked like she would faint at any moment. Even Captain Dash couldn’t help but admire the architecture.
Twilight drew her attention to the throne… or rather, its occupant.
Sitting on the throne was an alicorn mare. She had a white coat, and her eyes were a light magenta. Her long tail and mane were a combination of light cerulean, turquoise, pink, and cobalt blue, flowing mystically behind her as if she were in water. She wore a golden collar around her neck, an amethyst in the center, along with golden slippers, and a golden crown on her head. Her cutie mark was a golden sun.
Twilight widened her eyes, a combination of shock, surprise, and amazement washing over her.
This was Celestia, the alicorn who raised both the sun and the moon, and benevolent ruler of Equestria.
She was accompanied by the guards who had brought the other five to Canterlot, along with two unicorn stallions. The first had a grayish blue coat, a turquoise mane and tail, and brown eyes. His cutie mark was a quartet of blue stars. Twilight recognized him as Stardust, the head of the Equestrian Royal Office of Strategic Services. The second had a white coat, an azure mane and tail, and light blue eyes. He wore a monocle and black tuxedo. He had three golden crowns with purple jewels as his cutie mark. He was Fancy Pants, recently made a member of Celestia’s inner circle.
The six ponies approached the throne, bowing before the royal alicorn. Twilight could barely contain her excitement.
“Nervous?” She heard a voice next to her whisper. She glanced to see Captain Dash giving her a glance of her own. “It’s okay. I know how you feel. Let’s keep it together, okay?”
Twilight nodded nervously as she tried to contain her joy.
The princess smiled at the six young mares, and stood up from her throne, towering over everypony in the room.
“Greetings, my little ponies,” She said, her voice carrying a kind and gentle tone. “Welcome to Canterlot Castle. I have been expecting you. You may rise.”
The ponies did just that, and Rainbow Dash stood to attention, setting down her helmet and raising her right hoof in salute.
“Captain Rainbow Dash of the Wonderbolts 1st Squadron, reporting, Princess.” She said, her voice carrying the tone of a disciplined soldier, with a small hint of admiration. It was almost similar to Twilight’s own admiration. Of course, everypony admired Celestia, but this particular pegasus seemed to have special admiration for her, as if she owed her life to her.
“At ease, Captain Dash.” Said Celestia. The pegasus lowered her hoof, nodding in reply.
“I take it you’re wondering why I summoned you here.” The princess continued, seemingly reading the thoughts of the gathered mares. The six ponies nodded in reply, although Twilight and Rarity nodded a lot quicker than the others.
“You are here because I have a special mission for you.” She said. It was then that Twilight raised her hoof.
“What kind of mission?” The lavender unicorn asked, “And why exactly would you call four civilians and two soldiers, rather than high-ranking officials?”
“Normally, I would,” The princess replied, “But you are especially needed for this mission. I know you might be confused, but I believe you just might hold the key to winning this war.”
Twilight nodded, still confused. She and the others were so focused on the coming conversation, they did not notice two suspicious ponies on a window cleaning scaffold outside one of the windows. Celestia cleared her throat.
“I trust you are all familiar with the war against King Sombra and the Crystal Empire?” She asked.
The ponies nodded.
“Yes, princess.” Said Rarity.
“Recently, the E.U.P. Guard managed to push back Sombra’s forces at Borealis Fields, Sombra himself wounded in our duel.” Began the princess. Rainbow Dash smirked proudly, remembering the injured Shadow King being taken back to Imperial territory. Applejack, on the other hand, wore a shocked expression.
“Really?” She asked.
“You mean you didn’t know?” Asked Rarity in a flat tone. “It was in the news all over Equestria.”
Applejack gave the unicorn a glare that could have sliced through concrete.
“Excuse me, Rarity,” She retorted. “Ah was distracted with work an’… other things.”
“Like what? Making plans to escape your factory and go to the nearest recruiting center?” Asked Rarity snidely.
Applejack growled angrily. She sounded like a bear. She was about to say something, when Stardust cleared his throat.
“Please refrain from arguing while the princess is speaking.” He said.
The two mares cast dirty looks at each other and turned their attention back to Celestia, who resumed her speech.
“However, even though we have managed to strike a major blow against him and reclaim lost territory, King Sombra is far from defeated. His resources are vast, and he still has a firm grip on much of Equestria, and his influence in the Crystal Empire is stronger, still. His magic has already twisted the lands he has conquered, as you may have noticed from the crystals everywhere.”
“Oh, I most certainly have, your majesty,” Said Rarity, her tone posh. “They are absolutely tacky. Razor sharp, dreary colors, and they don’t even sparkle. I wouldn’t even consider them crystals.”
“I see.” Said Celestia, before continuing. “As I was saying, this was only a minor setback for Sombra, especially with Commander Spitfire his prisoner, and the Hyperborean Pegasi serving him willingly. Our recent victory has only bought us time to bolster our forces, and Sombra is sure to double the strength of his own. If we do not act, the Crystal Empire will control all of Equestria.”
The six ponies’ reactions to what Celestia had just said varied. Twilight’s eyes widened with fear, Applejack wore an expression of worry, Rarity looked like she was ready to faint, and Fluttershy’s eyes shrank to the size of pinpricks, her knees shaking. Pinkamena’s expression was unchanged, but if one looked closely, they could see the fear in her eyes. Rainbow Dash, however, didn’t show any fear. Her brow was twisted into a scowl, her eyes burning with anger.
I won’t let that happen, she thought, I’ll die before I let that happen.
Twilight recomposed herself and cleared her throat, raising her hoof.
Celestia noticed the unicorn raising her hoof.
“Yes, Twilight Sparkle?” She asked.
“Princess Celestia,” Began Twilight, “What exactly is the Crystal Empire? I know they’re the enemy, but other than that, there isn’t anything about it in my books, or the books in the library.”
“There wouldn’t be,” Celestia answered. “Few even remember it even existed. Even my knowledge is limited.”
Twilight’s eyes widened with surprised. Celestia knew little about the Crystal Empire. She could hardly believe it. Celestia was over a thousand years old. Surely she would know everything about it.
The alicorn nodded to Stardust, who used his magic to pull a small gold box out of his uniform. He handed the box to Celestia, who took it and opened it, pulling out a smooth, pink crystal. She placed the crystal on the floor, in front of the six ponies. Celestia’s horn ignited, and she fired a beam of light at the crystal, causing it to glow, and create a three-dimensional image of a massive city. The six ponies took a step back, shocked by the spectacle.
“Holy smoke…” Muttered Captain Dash.
The girls stepped closer, gazing upon the miniature city before them. The structures were made of gleaming crystal, shining with illustrious colors, a tall palace in the center. They saw ponies walking to and fro in the streets, going about their lives in happiness. Applejack couldn’t help but smile a little at the sight. What astonished the six, however, was that the ponies did not have normal coats. In fact, they shined like crystal. Rarity’s eyes widened, her jaw dropping in shock.
“But I know that it contains a great power,” They heard Celestia say. “One thousand years ago, King Sombra took over the Crystal Empire.”
An image of a unicorn stallion’s head appeared. His coat was dark gray, his mane was black like a starless night, and his eyes were blood red and bright green, purple mist surrounding them. His horn was blood red, curved and sharp, and upon his head rested a gray, spiked crown with a red crescent. The stallion bared his teeth, revealing them to be fangs, as he growled in a way reminiscent of a dragon.
Fluttershy squealed with fright, backing away from the horrifying image.
Applejack yelped in surprise, falling on her rump.
Rarity shrieked in terror.
Pinkamena cringed.
Twilight stared on, horrified by the appearance of the monstrous unicorn.
Rainbow Dash however, glared at the image, baring her teeth in anger. She could feel her blood boil. She recognized this unicorn.
“Sombra…” She hissed under her breath.
The image changed, revealing the city in a different way. Instead of the shining city they saw before, they saw a twisted mirror of it, the buildings made of black, sharp crystals, torches lit with green fire, and a sinister castle standing ominously in the center of it all. The crystal ponies from before walked down the streets, but unlike before, they marched in a straight line, shackled in chains, their coats and manes dull and dreary rather than bright and shining, and in place of joy, their faces displayed sadness and despair. From a balcony on the castle, they saw the unicorn again, gazing upon the crystal ponies, wearing a malevolent grin on his muzzle. Twilight could feel the evil he gave off.
“He was ultimately overthrown, turned to shadow, and banished to the ice of the arctic north.” Celestia continued, as the image changed once more, showing Celestia and the other alicorn blasting Sombra with beams of light. The evil king’s body began to change, morphing into formless shadow, and then he was pulled down into a ravine. He gave the princesses a spiteful roar, and then the ravine closed.
“But not until he was able to put a curse upon the empire,” Celestia said, her voice filled with sadness. “A curse that caused it to vanish into thin air.”
The image changed again, showing a frozen wasteland where the city once was. And then, the image disappeared, the crystal dimming.
“After Nightmare Moon vanished the night she returned,” The Princess continued, “The Crystal Empire reappeared. I sent my niece, Princess Cadance, to try and reclaim the throne. I haven’t heard from her since. Then, the Empire attacked, with Sombra in control. I wanted Cadance to rule the Crystal Empire so she could lift the spirits of the Crystal Ponies.”
Twilight’s ears perked at the name of her old foalsitter. She knew she was an alicorn, but she had no idea that she was the princess of the Crystal Empire.
Celestia lifted the crystal from the floor. “With her pure heart, she would be able to lift the spirits of the Crystal Ponies.” She said.
Her horn began to glow once more, and she fired another beam of light into the crystal, causing it to create an aurora of colors. “When the Empire is full of hope and love,” She said. “These things are reflected across Equestria.”
The six ponies stared at the aurora with awe, amazed by the display of colors. Celestia closed her eyes, an expression that was a cross between anger, fear, and sadness forming on her face.
“But if hatred and fear take hold…” She said. She opened her eyes, revealing them to have turned into the same sickly green as Sombra’s, a purple haze surrounding them. Her horn was engulfed in a black and green aura, and she shot another beam of magic at the crystal.
This time, the crystal changed from pink to black, and casted a shadow towards the six young ponies. Three black, jagged crystals sprang out of the shadow, close to the ponies, who stepped back in shock.
Then, Celestia’s eyes glowed white, as she unleashed an array of light which shattered the crystals.
After what felt like an eternity of silence, Applejack spoke.
“Is that what’s been happin’ out there,” She asked, her voice shaky. “Is that why all of those crystals have been poppin’ up? Sombra’s rule over the Empire is causing all of this?”
“Yes,” Answered the Princess, feeling weary from her usage of dark magic. “If he is not defeated, all of Equestria will be changed, turned into a reflection of his hate.”
“That is why we gathered you,” Spoke Stratos. “As she explained to you earlier, her majesty believes that you just might be the key to ending this war.”
Twilight’s ears drooped. She was excited when Celestia had summoned her. But now she had been told that she and five ponies she just met were needed to defeat Sombra.
“But how?” The unicorn finally found her voice. “How can we defeat him? What can six ponies do that an entire army couldn’t?”
Celestia stepped down and approached them.
“Tell me, Twilight,” She said. “Are you familiar with the Elements of Harmony?”
Twilight’s ears perked up at what she said. Elements of Harmony. That name sounded familiar. She remembered hearing about them in the Tale of the Two Sisters.
“I’ve heard about them,” She answered. “But other than their role in the banishment of Nightmare Moon, I’m not sure what they are exactly.”
“Then allow me to explain.” Celestia closed her eyes, and her horn glowed once more. She used her magic to summon an image of six gems.
“The Elements of Harmony are artifacts of great power,” She began to explain. “Power great enough to defeat any evil. Long before you were born, my sister and I used them to protect Equestria from any threat, from Discord to Tirek. The six Elements are Honesty, Kindness, Laughter, Generosity, Loyalty. and Magic. After Luna’s banishment, I hid them away in our old castle, located in the Everfree Forest.”
Rarity’s eyes widened and her face grew pale. The Everfree Forest? She thought.
Applejack gulped as she remembered all of the stories Granny Smith used to tell her about the Everfree Forest. It was a place of untold danger, where nopony had dared to venture into. And those that did… never returned. She hoped that she would never go there, not after all the things she heard about it.
Rainbow Dash heard of the Everfree Forest, herself. She only knew a few things about it, but one thing she knew was that there was something strange about it. Something… unnatural.
After being silent for a few seconds, Rarity spoke.
“So, you want us to go into the Everfree Forest and find these Elements of Harmony, come out alive, and use them against Sombra?” She asked.
Celestia nodded. Rarity’s response was to let out a frightened whimper. The Everfree Forest was the last place she wanted to go. She could already imagine what would happen to her there. Starvation, eaten by a monster, her coat covered with dirt and grime…
“How can you be sure that we can find the Elements?” Asked Twilight. “What if we fail?”
“You won’t,” Said Celestia, “I know you have your doubts, young Twilight. It’s hard for me to explain, but I believe that you six ponies were destined to find them, to turn the tide of this war. I won’t lie. This mission will be perilous, and I’m sure that some of you are afraid, and I will not blame you. But, I know that if the six of you work together, you will succeed. A week from now, you will go through a special training program, not only to test your physical and mental strengths, but also your ability to work as a team. I cannot leave anything to chance. Once you have completed your training, you will be taken to Ponyville. There, you will make your base of operations. Then, you will begin your mission.”
Her expression softened as she gazed upon them.
“I understand that you may have your doubts, but you must understand that if you fail, King Sombra will destroy everything we know and love. Know that many of you have loved ones, ponies who will be depending on you, and Sombra will not hesitate to take them away from you.”
With that, the ponies exchanged glances with each other. Celestia was right. Many of their families had suffered ever since the war began. They had been given an important task, a mission to end the war once and for all. Their families would be counting on them. They couldn’t let them down.
Applejack was the first to speak.
“Ever since the war started,” She said, determination in her voice, “Many of mah relatives have been at the front takin’ the fight to Sombra. Ah won’t stand by an’ let 'em risk their lives for nothin’. Ah won’t let anythin’ happen to mah family.”
“I don’t know,” Muttered Fluttershy. “It sounds awfully dangerous. But, if it means my family will be safe, I’ll do it.”
Pinkamena stood straight, her eyes burning with determination.
“My family’s already had a hard life,” She said. “And I’m not gonna stand here and let Sombra make things worse.”
“Fighting’s not really my thing, I’m more of a seamstress,” Said Rarity casually, before she gritted her teeth, furrowing her eyebrows, “BUT I’LL RIP SOMBRA TO PIECES IF HE TOUCHES ONE HAIR ON SWEETIE BELLE’S HEAD!”
Rainbow Dash furrowed her eyebrows, standing tall as determination welled up inside her.
“I’ve lost too many friends to Sombra,” She said. “Thunder Flash, Stormflight, Whirlwind, Summer Breeze, Spitfire… They laid down their lives for Equestria. I won’t let their sacrifice be in vain. And I won’t let my squadron down. I’ll fight Sombra with my last breath!”
Celestia then faced Twilight, who wore a look of uncertainty. Celestia felt nothing but sympathy for her. She knew how much she wanted to be in her school, and she knew that she had much potential.
For a moment, she imagined Sunset in her place. Like her former student, this little pony possessed the strongest magic she ever sensed. She just needed somepony to stir her in the right direction. She just hoped she wouldn’t wind up like Sunset.
She walked closer to Twilight, looking down upon her.
“I understand you failed your entrance exam some years back,” She said. “This is a chance, Twilight Sparkle, to prove yourself to Equestria. But this is also a chance to protect the ones close to you. Do you accept?”
A tense silence hung over the throne room. Twilight hesitated. Thoughts rushed through her mind. Rainbow Dash glanced in her direction, a concerned look on her face. She may have just met her, but her gut told her that Twilight had the means to actually pull this mission off. When Twilight gave her answer, a small smile crossed her face.
“Equestria is my home,” She said, a new fire blazing in her eyes. “And I won’t let Sombra take it away. If it means protecting my family, I’ll take on this mission. I’ll do whatever it takes to protect Equestria.”
Celestia smiled. She had hoped she would say that.
“Thank you, Twilight,” She said. “The six of you are sure to bring hope to Equestria.”
Twilight noticed Rainbow Dash smiling at her. The Wonderbolt nodded, agreeing with Twilight’s decision. Twilight smiled back.
“You should go get some rest,” Said the princess. “Tomorrow, your training will begin.”
The six ponies nodded. Twilight then noticed the same stallion from before. Flash Sentry, she believed his name was. Her cheeks turned bright red when she saw him. Rarity noticed this and smirked slyly.
“Why, Twilight,” She said playfully. “Do you have a crush on one of Commander Stratos’s troops?”
“No!” Twilight quickly denied, trying to hide her blush.
The heroes were too preoccupied with the meeting, that they didn’t notice two unicorns hiding behind the throne vanishing in a flash of light, nor the two window cleaners outside hurriedly ascending to the next floor.
********************************
Suri and Svengallop removed their disguises, putting on their regular clothes. The two then faced each other, exchanging smug expressions.
"Elements of Harmony? This is sure to get us into King Sombra's good books." Said Svengallop, rubbing his hooves together.
Suri grinned deviously as she tossed away the apron to her disguise and tied her scarf back on. This was indeed a good day for her. She (and, technically, Svengallop) had just gathered information that could help Sombra win the war. Not to mention they discovered that Celestia had already gathered a team to find these so-called Elements of Harmony. Although, it struck her odd that the Princess would gather four civilians and two soldiers for such a task, instead of an entire squad of warriors.
Regardless, it was best that they returned to the Crystal Empire and report their findings to Sombra.
Suri pulled out her teleportation crystal. She closed her eyes and concentrated, and in a flash of light, she and Svengallop vanished.