The choosing - phoenix-born ascendant
Sunset Shimmer’s eyes slowly fluttered open as she took a deep breath, the blissful oblivion of sleep slowly falling away as she returned to the waking world. As her mind began to fully awaken, the ten year old fire-caller took in her surroundings, a brief moment of panic filling her heart at the sight of the unfamiliar room and bed. Her eyes rapidly scanned the room as she desperately tried to figure out where she was. All around her were dozens of other young girls, each still blissfully sleeping in simple yet comfortable bunks.
This wasn’t the orphanage, and those weren’t her roommates. Her breathing became shallow, and she felt panic rising in her chest, before her rational mind took over.
‘I’m not in Golden Tree. I’m in Solaria.’ She thought to herself. As soon as she remembered that single detail, she felt herself calm down. Only for her panic to begin to come back a thousand fold.
Today was the big day. The one she’d journeyed all the way to Solaria to witness.
The day of the phoenix rite.
The once-a-century event where a new phoenix would hatch, and with it, choose one sun-gazer to become its immortal bond companion, and rise to one of the highest echelons of Solarian society. It was a momentous occasion, and one that few sun-gazers ever got to witness.
With a sigh, Sunset threw the covers off, and, as quietly as she could, made her way to the kitchen. If she was back home, she would get dressed, make herself a hearty breakfast, then head out into the chilly, early morning air to meet with Bronze Hammer, the forge master she was apprenticing under. There, she would spend the day helping him craft useful items for the residents of Golden Tree. Among all of his apprentices, Bronze expected the most from Sunset, as she, in his opinion, had the greatest potential of all his students. Sunset, for her part, had grown to enjoy the challenges he gave her. It wasn’t just an opportunity to show off her talent, but spend time with the closest thing to a father she’d ever known.
But now, Golden Tree was hundreds of kilometers away.
Entering the dormitory kitchen, she sighed. She missed Bronze so much, but she couldn’t pass up this opportunity. No matter how homesick she was. Taking a bowl, Sunset served herself a medium helping of oatmeal, then grabbed an apple, and sat down at one of the benches. Sunset was glad the other girls were still sleeping. She wasn’t sure if she could deal with them right now.
‘Eight more hours, and then you head back to Golden Tree.’ Sunset thought as she ate her oatmeal and mediocre apple.
‘AJ’s are better.’ She thought with a frown. The quality of the fruit just made her miss home even more, with her thoughts once again turning to her friends, and the events of the last three months.
*****
Sunset stood in line with the other children of Golden Tree, her hands trembling. A year ago, Lumina, the phoenix queen, had laid an egg, heralding the beginning of the search for worthy candidates to bond with the newest phoenix. Inspectors from Solaria soon began to journey out from the capital and to each of the cities, towns and villages, seeking out children with strong inner fire, for only those with the greatest of flames could win the approval of a phoenix.
Sunset could barely contain her excitement. Ahead of her in line, she could see the distinctive forms of her friends Pinkie Pie, Applejack and Rainbow Dash. Each girl had potent inner fire, Sunset knew, so one of them might be chosen. Sunset’s heart sank a little at the thought of losing one of her friends, but soon swelled back to full. How cool would that be to have a friend that had ascended. And as much as she wanted it herself, she wouldn’t be mad if it was one of them. They deserved it just as much as she did. Maybe even more.
The hours passed slowly as the inspectors tested the children. Soon it was Sunset’s turn, and she found herself standing before a stern, unpleasant looking earth-weaver with purple skin and magenta hair.
“Name?” She said.
“Sunset Shimmer, ma’am.”
“Hmm.” The woman said, looking at her list. “Says here that you’re an orphan, and you’ve apprenticed under forge master Bronze Hammer. Is that right?”
“Yes, ma’am.” Sunset said.
“Hmph. Very well, come with me, and we’ll get this over with.”
Sunset found herself led into a small tent, where two other inspectors, a dour looking sky-runner with silver hair, and blue skin / wings, and waspish fire-caller with yellow hair / spirit gem and green skin, were seated behind a desk, each one looking at Sunset with dispassion.
“Very well.” The earth-weaver said as she took a seat next to the others. “Step forward and stand on the bronze disk on the floor. This will measure the quality and quantity of your inner fire.”
“Okay.” Sunset said as she obeyed. As she did, she felt a wave of energy pass over her, filling her with radiant warmth. She found herself smiling at the sensation, as it filled her with a sense of peace and contentment that she rarely ever felt. All to soon, the warmth left her as the power of the disk died down. Opening her eyes, she looked at the inspectors, only for her heart to sink. The three of them were whispering in hushed tones as they wrote down some notes on their clipboards, their frowns deepening further as they glared at her.
“That will be all. Leave now.” The sky-runner said, before dismissing Sunset with a wave of his hand.
*****
Sunset sat in her room, looking out over the courtyard of the orphanage. Her test had come back negative. Her flame wasn’t strong enough. She’d wanted to cry, but had held back. Only nine candidates were ever chosen for the phoenix rite, three from each race, so her chances were always slim.
Still, she’d hoped.
A foolish hope, perhaps, but it had been there. But, she was still determined to witness the phoenix rite. The problem was that she had no money to purchase a ticket to the event. So, with no other options, she’d sent in an application to work at the ceremony as a server. Like being chosen for the rite, she knew the chances of her being selected were minuscule, but it was her last chance.
After she’d sent in her application, she’d gone back to her regular routine: waking up, heading to the forge, and working until sundown. And every evening, when she got home, she’d held out hope that there would be a letter from Solaria, saying her application had been approved. But, as the days to the phoenix rite drew ever closer, her hope fell further and further.
And so, she found herself sitting in the orphanage’s bunk room, watching the evening sky as her roommates gossiped. Normally, she’d have joined in. Or gone to visit one of her friends. But now, she just wanted to be left in peace.
“Sunset?”
Sunset turned her head towards the voice of Tender Heart, the orphanage’s matron, who was standing in the doorway to the bunk room.
“Yea, I’m here.” Sunset said.
Tender Heart made her way into the room, before handing Sunset a letter, a subtle smile on her lips.
“What’s this?” Sunset had asked.
“Open it.” Tender Heart had said.
Looking at the parchment, Sunset broke the wax seal, and unfolded the letter. As she read, tears began to fill her eyes as a high pitched shriek of joy erupted from her throat, startling the other girls in the room.
“They accepted me! They accepted me! I’m going to the rite! Oh Celestia! I’m going to Solaria to see the phoenix rite!” Sunset screamed as she stood and threw her arms around a smiling Tender Heart.
“I’m so happy for you Sunset.” The matron said as she returned the hug, petting the young fire-caller’s crimson and gold tresses.
*****
That had been over a week ago, and today was the big day. With a heavy sigh, Sunset thought back on her time in Solaria. Like the other children chosen to assist with the event, Sunset had gone through a crash course in proper etiquette and protocol. Like all of the others, Sunset had dutifully memorized every tiny detail she could. She knew all of the children chosen were walking on wet parchment, and one mistake would get them sent back home. So she threw her all into her assignments, hoping against hope that she wouldn’t mess up.
Somehow, she’d made it through.
And now? Now she stood on the precipice of a once in a lifetime experience. One that someone like her could only dream of seeing.
Soon, the other children began to filter in and get their breakfasts. Sunset greeted the few that said hello or good morning. Finishing up her own meal, Sunset rose from the table and, walking to the kitchen, washed her dishes, then made her way to the locker-room.
Stripping off her night-clothes, she pulled the serving girl’s uniform from her locker. It was a simple affair: a white blouse with red vest, and knee-length, pleated, red skirt. A pair of simple, golden Mary Janes and red socks rounded out the outfit. With a determined nod, Sunset got dressed, making sure to keep her outfit as impeccable as possible.
Once she was dressed, she went to one of the mirrors, and began to brush her hair, and put it into a high ponytail, as she’d been instructed. Once she was satisfied with the results, Sunset made her way out of the room and to her final destination of the morning: the auditorium where they would receive their assignments. Then, it was a short carriage ride from the dorm to the amphitheater where the event would take place.
Pushing the door to the classroom open, Sunset saw she was the only one present. With a relieved sigh, she took a seat near the front of the room. Not too close so as to appear over-eager, but close enough that she’d be ready when called. Once she had settled herself, she pulled out a server’s manual from under the chair, and began to review the protocols she’d be following. They were labyrinthine in their complexity, but, she admitted to herself, compared to learning the steps to a forging dance, they weren’t that hard. It was just that there were so many of them.
Soon, her nerves began to get the best of her again, and she found herself getting antsy. Closing her eyes, she allowed herself to drift back to home. To her forge. There was safety and familiarity in the memory. The sweltering heat of the furnaces. The rhythmic beating of hammers on hot metal. The rush of her inner fire as she channeled it through her spell-dances to aid in the forging process. Losing herself in memories of forging, she set the manual aside and let her mind drift to a happier place.
At the minutes passed, more and more of the children filed in and took their seats, breaking Sunset’s trance with their chatter. Sunset did her best to make small talk with the other girls that had taken seats near her, but she found it a poor substitute for her hammer and tongs. That was where she belonged. At her forge.
‘This was a mistake.’ She thought to herself with a sigh. ‘I don’t belong here.’
Hearing the door open and the room go quiet, Sunset looked up to see a familiar woman walk into the room. She was pale skinned, with a pair of large, red glasses, a no-nonsense business suit, and simple yet functional black shoes. But, most striking of all, was her hair: instead of the normal tresses of a mortal, her head was topped with a crown of blazing black flame. And perched on her shoulder, on a special leather pad, was a magnificent red and gold bird. All of the children present went silent as she walked to the front of the room, for they knew who this was: Raven Inkwell, senechal and right hand of the Sun Queen Celestia, and the oldest phoenix-born in existence, with her bond partner Dilys.
This was the woman who would be overseeing the phoenix rite. And, the one who had overseen their training for the event.
As she approached the podium at the head of the room, Dilys took to the air and landed on a specially made gold and ruby perch, while Raven turned to her assembled charges before clearing her throat.
“Thank you all for your efforts over the last week. Now, today is the big day.” She said to the assembled children. “Under your chairs, you will find a small slip of paper. In a moment, I will give you your assignments. If you have any concerns, please see me after the assembly, and we can address them. Are there any questions?”
None of the children raised their hands.
“Very well.” Raven said as she stepped back from the podium. Raven closed her eyes as her body began to sway, her hands weaving through the air as she began to dance. Sunset and the other students watched in awe as Raven wove her magic, her body moving with a precision born of centuries of experience in spell dancing. Soon, Raven’s inner fire began to manifest, and a wave of light burst forth and spread through the room. As her dance died down and the trance of watching her passed, the children looked to their assignments. Most seemed pleased, others elated. A few let out disappointed groans.
But for Sunset, none of that mattered. All that she heard was a sharp ringing in her ears as her mind nearly collapsed in pure terror. This couldn’t be right. There had to be some sort of mistake. There was no way that this was her assignment.
Sunset could barely hear Raven as she resumed her speech to the room, her hands trembling in terror as she continued to stare at the paper in her hands. She only broke free of her trance when she was poked in the shoulder by the girl sitting next to her. Looking up, she realized that the assembly was over.
Slowly rising to her feet, Sunset made her way to the front of the room, where at least two dozen young fire-callers, earth-weavers and sky-runners were waiting their turn to speak with Raven.
All too soon, Sunset found herself at the front of the line. Slowly approaching, Sunset couldn’t raise her eyes as she stood before Raven.
“Sunset. This is a surprise.” Raven said in her normal, professional tone, which slowly morphed into a concerned frown as she saw the young girl trembling. “What’s wrong, young one? You look like you’re about to faint.”
“I’m sorry Lady Raven, but… this can’t be right.” Sunset said as she held up her assignment.
Humming to herself, Raven regarded the paper. “No, that’s right.”
“But your Ladyship.” Sunset pled, “I’ve been assigned to the very front of the theatre. By the stage.”
“Yes, you have.” Raven said with a warm smile.
“But, that’s where the nobles are seated.” Sunset pled, finally raising her head to look at Raven, her face twisted with fear. “I… I can’t do it. I don’t want to end up getting tossed in the dungeon for making a mistake around them. You know what they’re like. They hate people like me.”
Leaning forward, Raven rested a hand on Sunset’s shoulder.
“Sunset, dear child, you may not know it, but you are the perfect person for the job. In the week I’ve been supervising your training, not once did you make a mistake when bringing orders to your table, fail an etiquette exam, or even once embarrass yourself.” Raven said, the flame of her hair wavering softly as she spoke, “You are one of the most qualified to handle the front rows. I trust you to do this job. Do you trust me and my judgement.”
Swallowing hard, Sunset looked up at the elder phoenix-born before her. A woman who had seen centuries of life, and overseen so many ascension ceremonies. And she trusted Sunset.
“I… I do trust you, your Ladyship.” Sunset said with less fear than before.
“Good girl. I know you’ll do fine. And, just think, you’ll have a front row view when the rite is happening. Not many can make that claim.” Raven said as she stood back up to her full height and patted Sunset reassuringly on the head. “Now, run along. You’ve got a carriage to catch.”
“Yes, your Ladyship.” Sunset said with a bow as she scurried off.
Raven watched as the young girl rushed to catch up with the rest of her peers. Unknown to her young wards, a small smile crept onto her face.
*****
“Here is your Verdant Grassland, your Lordship. And your 277 Silver-berry Wine, your Ladyship.” Sunset said as she placed the drinks on the table before the two finely dressed sky-runners.
Neither of them appeared to notice. Which was fine. Sunset knew that they knew their drinks were there. They just wouldn’t deign to recognize Sunset’s presence. She was far too far beneath them for that. Instead, Sunset simply bowed and moved on.
After her initial fear had worn off, Sunset found herself relaxing into her job. It was tough, but she managed to keep herself together throughout the event. Take drink orders, head back to the bar, collect said drinks, bring them back, move on. Don’t make eye contact. Speak only when spoken to. Use proper titles.
This was fine. She was fine. She could do this.
Compared to the rigors of a forging dance, this was easy.
Approaching the next table, Sunset winced inwardly, but kept her features schooled. The table was occupied by none other than Spitfire and Steel Sentry. Of the two, Spitfire had the most infamous reputation.
The youngest of the current four phoenix-born, she was captain of one of the most elite military units in Solaria: the Sun-blades. The young captain was notorious for her perfectionist streak, and her feats in battle. Sitting next to her was Steel Sentry, oldest living phoenix-born after Raven, and a ranking officer in the Solar Guard. Though not as hot-blooded as Spitfire, he was nonetheless an intimidating figure, having protected the capital for nearly eight centuries. Perched on special gold and ruby stands next to both were a pair of regal phoenixes, the bond partners of the two leaders, the one next to Spitfire named Akari, with the one by Steel Sentry named Vestian.
Both had hopefuls among the nine potential ascendants. Steel Sentry’s great-great-grandson Flash Sentry had been selected, as had two of Spitfire’s Sun-blades: her first lieutenants Fleetfoot and Soarin. Among the hopefuls, rumor had it that Fleetfoot had the best chances among the sky-runners.
Sunset pushed her thoughts aside as she approached the table. Bowing deeply to the two phoenix-born, she said “Bright day to you, your Lord and Ladyship. What may I get for you this day.”
Spitfire glanced at Sunset, “Get me a Solar Flare, extra vodka.”
“Long Road ale, chilled.” Steel Sentry said without bothering to look at Sunset.
“And for your honorable bond companions?” Sunset said, addressing the phoenixes.
“Akari will have a bowl of therminic.” Spitfire said, passing on her bond companion’s request.
“Obsidian scarab beetles, lightly toasted for Vestian.” Steel Sentry said with an almost bored tone.
“Of course. I will return with them momentarily.” Sunset said as she bowed one last time and made her way back to the bar to pass on the orders. Minutes later, Sunset returned with the orders, placing the drinks on the table and the bowls on special stands next to the phoenix’s perches. Bowing once more to the phoenix-born and their bond companions, she moved on.
Walking away from the table, Sunset let out an internal sigh of relief. The time of the rite was drawing closer. Soon, she’d have to retreat to the bar to watch the ceremony. But that was fine. She was far closer than she’d ever hoped. She just needed to keep it together a little longer.
As her eyes fell on the next table on her route, Sunset nearly did a double take. The table had only a single occupant, but somehow, her very presence seemed to fill the entire space. Gorgeous, regal and perfectly poised, the earth-weaver woman gave off an aura of authority and motherly warmth, yet also held the power of razor-sharp discipline just below the surface. Her skin was a pale, alabaster white, almost like living porcelain, and her long, flowing hair was a warm, pink color. Sunset had no idea who this woman was, but she had no doubt that she belonged where she was sitting: front and center before the stage.
Somehow, Sunset found herself swallowing hard as she approached the woman.
“Bright day to you, your Ladyship. What may I get for you this day.” Sunset said as she bowed.
Raising her head, her heart nearly caught in her throat. The mysterious woman was looking at her with beautiful, warm magenta eyes.
“Oh, I have no need of anything at this time, young one.” She said, her voice sending warmth into Sunset’s soul. Then, raising an alabaster finger to her chin, she tilted her head as if in deep contemplation.
“Actually, that’s not true.” She finally said as she addressed Sunset, “It seems that my friends chose not to join me this day, and it's been quite lonely waiting for the ascension all by myself. Perhaps… you would care to sit with me? I could use the company.”
Sunset’s mind nearly stalled. Nothing Raven had taught her had prepared her for this sort of scenario.
“Please forgive my impropriety, your Ladyship, but I am not sure I am allowed to do that.” Sunset said as she lowered her head respectfully. “I am on duty at this time.”
“Nonesense, dear child. The ceremony will start at any moment. And nobody will be ordering drinks while they wait for the hatching.” The mystery woman said with a conspiratorial smile as she raised a finger to her flawless lips and whispered. “It’ll be our secret.”
Sunset’s mind raced. She shouldn’t. She couldn't. But, she couldn’t refuse either. The woman was a noble. And she had requested Sunset to sit with her. It wasn’t proper. She could get into so much trouble. But she could also get in trouble for refusing.
What was she to do?
Her choice was made for her as the mystery woman pulled out a chair and ushered Sunset to sit. Realizing that she had no choice, Sunset reluctantly placed her drinks tray on the table and sat down, her eyes glued to her lap as she wrung her hands.
“There, that’s better.” the woman said with a warm smile. “So, tell me, what is your name young one?”
“M…my name is S-sunset Shimmer, your Ladyship.” Sunset managed to stammer.
“Oh, what a lovely name for such a lovely young lady.” Her companion said airily. “And where are you from, dear Sunset?”
“I… I’m from G-golden Tree, your Ladyship.” Sunset replied.
“My my. You’re quite far from home, aren’t you, Sunset.” The woman said as she rested her cheek on her palm. “What brought you all the way here?”
“I… wanted to see the phoenix rite, your Ladyship, so I entered the lottery to serve at the event.”
“That took quite a lot of courage, young one. You are brave indeed. Your parents must be so proud.”
Sunset winced, but didn’t correct the woman.
“Oh, did I say something wrong?” She said, her voice filled with concern.
“No, your Ladyship. You said nothing wrong. It’s just… I don’t have parents.” Sunset said, now genuinely afraid. Orphans were painfully looked down on by the nobility, as they valued pedigree and lineage to such a high degree. Yet, there was something about this woman that just seemed to draw the answers out of her.
“You’re an orphan? Oh, dear me, I’m terribly sorry if I’ve made you uncomfortable.” She said with motherly concern, “Still, that makes what you’ve done so much more impressive. You should be proud of yourself, Sunset.”
“Thank you, your Ladyship.” Sunset said as she finally raised her head to look at the woman.
“Of course, Sunset.” The woman said with a smile, before lifting her eyes to the slightly raised stage before them. “Ah… I do believe things are about to get started. So, no more worrying. Let’s watch. I’m sure it will be something you’ll never forget.”
Turning her head towards the stage, Sunset spotted the immaculate forms of Duchess Roseluck, ruler of the eastern territories, and the final living phoenix-born, her bond companion Amara, along with Raven Inkwell and Dilys.
“Bright day to all of Solaria. May the light of Celestia’s sun shine forever in her glory.” Raven said, her voice carrying throughout the amphitheatre. “Welcome, noble and esteemed guests, one and all, to this, the most joyous celebration in our great nation, the phoenix rite. On this day, one among those with true inner fire will be chosen by phoenix Queen Lumina’s newest child to join the ranks of the phoenix-born, those most blessed by Celestia’s grace.”
Next, Roseluck stepped forward.
“In moments, the sun will reach its zenith, and its light will bring life to Lumina’s egg.” Roseluck declared with a smile, the raspberry red flames on her head dancing excitedly. “And from that life, shall rise not only a new phoenix, but one who shall be their bonded companion. Today, a new phoenix-born shall ascend, and join our ranks.
“So, without further adieu, let the nine chosen come forth.”
From behind Raven and Roseluck, nine youths strode forward, three for each of the sun-gazer races. Representing the sky-runners, Soarin, Fleetfoot and Flash Sentry came forth, each dressed in sky-blue robes that allowed their great wings to fold across their backs. Next to them the chosen fire-callers, Vladamir Blueblood, Fire Flare and Lemony Gems, arrived in their ash grey robes, the light glinting off the soul-gems embedded in their foreheads. And on the far right, Cherry Jubilee, Minty and Golden Harvest of the earth-weavers, resplendent in their forest green robes, came forward with purpose and poise.
“Of all the children in our great nation, these nine shine with the greatest inner fire.” Raven said as she gestured to the nine standing behind her. “And soon, the one who’s inner fire burns brightest and most pure will ascend.”
Raven turned away and walked off stage, leaving Roseluck standing on her own.
“Will you all please be seated, and we can commence the ceremony.” She said to the nine potentials, whom came forward and knelt on nine cushions set around a golden, ruby adorned altar in the center of the stage. Once each potential was situated, Raven reappeared, carrying a luxurious red and gold silk pillow with a medium-sized, similarly colored egg sitting on it.
That was it. The phoenix queen’s egg. Sunset and everyone else in the room held their breaths as Raven set the pillow on the altar and stepped back out of the circle of youths, a knowing smile on her face.
“Now…” She said with gravitas as she raised her right hand into the air, pointing to the sky. “let the light of the sun shine through and give birth to the future!”
As if on cue, the sun hit its zenith, and the dozens of light collecting mirrors sprang to life, channeling the light down in nine radiant beams onto the egg, which began to absorb the power of the sun. As the egg began to glow, everyone in the theatre held their breaths. This was the moment.
In moments, the light died down, and the egg’s glow with it. There was a tense silence in the room as they waited for any sign of life from the egg. For a painful few seconds, there was nothing. Then, with a small shake, the first cracks began to form on its surface.
As Sunset watched the egg begin to hatch, she felt a strange warmth begin to fill her chest. She couldn’t place the sensation, but it was almost as if a piece of her soul that she had never known was missing had returned to her. Was it like this for everyone witnessing the hatching? Sunset was so enraptured by the sensation that she didn’t notice the first flickers of fire begin to streak through her gold and red tresses. No, her mind was occupied by the continued hatching of the egg.
More cracks formed on the surface of the egg, and with one final push, the young phoenix’s beak broke through the shell, tasting the air for the first time. Flexing her wings, she pushed more of the shell off herself.
A murmur of confusion spreads through the room. This wasn’t what was supposed to happen. The chick had hatched, yet none of the potentials had been chosen. It was impossible.
“Look! There!” Someone yelled. “At the table in front!”
Sunset’s heart leapt into her throat as her head whipped around to see who had yelled. Her heart sank as she saw a young noblewoman named Fleur De Lis pointing directly in her direction. No, to Sunset’s horror she realized she wasn’t pointing in her direction… the swan grey fire-caller was pointing at her!
“What is the meaning of this!?” Steel Sentry bellowed as he rose from his table and slammed his fists on its surface. “What is that child doing there!? How did she get in here!?”
Sunset’s heart was slamming in her chest as she felt every eye in the room turn on her. Looking to where the mysterious woman had been sitting, Sunset only saw an empty chair.
“What… where did she go…?” Sunset mused aloud, her mind trying to find an anchor in the storm that she seemed to have become the eye of.
Before she knew it, a pair of rough hands grabbed her and yanked her out of her chair. As her shock wore off, she found herself face to face with a furious Spitfire, her hair blazing like a miniature inferno as thin tendrils of flame whipped around her head. Sunset was lost in a sea of terror. What had she done?
“Who… are… you… girl?” She snarled to Sunset’s face.
“I…” Sunset stammered, too afraid to form complete sentences.
“Answer me brat. Who are you, and how did you get in here?”
“My… my name’s Sunset Shimmer, your Ladyship. I’m one of the servers.” Sunset finally managed to squeak out.
“And why were you sitting at that table?” Spitfire snarled.
“I…” Sunset began.
“Spitfire, put her down. Now.” A calm, even voice said from behind Sunset. Sunset almost began to cry at the sound of the voice. It was Raven.
“You stay out of this Raven.” Spitfire hissed, looking at the elder phoenix-born.
“Or what?” Raven said, her tone still calm, but bearing more implied threats than Sunset had heard in her lifetime. Sunset’s blood ran cold at the sound. Spitfire was scary, no doubt, but right then and there, Sunset would have sooner faced a thousand Spitfires than the cold wrath of Raven Inkwell.
The effect on Spitfire was instantaneous. Every ounce of bravado and wrath drained out of her, leaving her looking shaken and ever so slightly afraid. Looking down at the young girl in her hands, she slowly lowered Sunset to the ground, before roughly shoving her back into the chair. With a dismissive “tch”, Spitfire walked back to her table. Now free of the enraged phoenix-born’s grip, Sunset curled up into a ball and began to sob, her terror finally getting the better of her.
“Are you alright Sunset?” The now calm and gentle sound of Raven’s voice cutting through her terror. Looking up, she saw the older woman kneeling down to look at her with a maternal smile. Lifting a hand, Raven wiped the tears from Sunset’s eyes. “There we go, dear child. No more tears.”
“I’m sorry Lady Raven.” Sunset finally managed to whimper between sobs.
“Oh, whatever are you sorry for?” Raven said.
“For whatever I did to make everyone so angry. Please, don’t throw me in the dungeon. I’m sorry.” Sunset begged as she grabbed Raven’s hand, causing an angry murmur to spread through the room.
“Sunset, dear child, you’ve done nothing wrong.”
“Then why is everyone so angry at me?” Sunset sniffled.
“Well, lets just say that you seem to have surprised us all a little bit.” Raven said, her smile turning mischievous. “Here, let me show you.”
Reaching up, Raven gently took hold of Sunset’s ponytail, and swung some of the hair around for Sunset to see. Only it wasn’t hair she was holding, but bright crimson and gold flame.
Sunset’s heart all but stopped in her chest as she stared at the brilliant fire Raven was so effortlessly holding. Slowly reaching up, Sunset touched her hair. It was still slightly solid, and warm to the touch, but there was no doubt in her mind. It was living flame.
The living flame that signified a soul bonded to a phoenix.
“No… impossible… I can’t be…” Sunset whimpered.
“Oh, but it is. And you are.” Raven said as she rose to her feet and held out her hand to Sunset. Pensively, Sunset reached out and took the offered hand, and was gently pulled from the chair by Raven.
Leading Sunset by the hand, Raven brought her up onto the stage. As Sunset set foot on the raised platform, the nine potentials rose to their feet and turned to face her. Sunset winced as she looked at them. Most of which were scowling at her with pure hate in their eyes. Of them, only Fire Flare, Cherry Jubilee, Minty and Golden Harvest seemed to accept the turn of events.
As Raven led Sunset towards the alter, she stopped as Blueblood, Flash Sentry, Fleetfoot and Soarin stepped forward. Sunset retreated behind Raven as the four children advanced on her.
“Who the hell do you think you are, you little thief.” Blueblood growled as he approached Sunset. “You think you’re so clever, don’t you, taking what wasn’t yours out from under your betters. Well, I’ll see to it you’re locked in the deepest, blackest dungeon in Solaria for this impertinence.”
“Not if we just tear her apart.” Fleetfoot growled, causing Sunset to cling to Raven even harder.
“Yea. She hasn’t touched the hatchling yet, so if she dies now, and the phoenix will have to choose another.” Soarin growled. “I say we just beat her to death. Isn’t that the punishment for theft of royalty?”
“Or, I’m sure we could find a sword somewhere and slit her throat.” Flash said venomously as he continued to advance. “Heck, I’m sure my great-grandpa has one lying around.”
“And what makes you think we’d let you?” A voice came from behind.
Turning, the four furious children were confronted by the sight of the other five hopefuls.
“Stay out of this.” Blueblood said through clenched teeth. “This doesn’t concern you.”
“Doesn’t it?” Cherry Jubilee said, her eyes hard. “Do you think we don’t know what’s going on?”
“Shut up.” Fleetfoot said.
“The five of us were just here for show.” Golden Harvest said with a sneer. “Our inner fire isn’t anywhere near yours. So how did we get chosen?”
“Be quiet.” Flash hissed.
“Face it, you and your families turned this sacred ceremony into a farce.” Fire Flare spit. “I’ll bet Steel Sentry, Spitfire and archduke Highblood rigged things so that only you four were the only ones with any chance of being chosen.”
“You don’t know what you’re talking about. You dare accuse our families of treason?” Blueblood hissed.
“Then explain her?” Minty said, pointing to Sunset, who retreated further behind Raven. “How was it that someone with a great enough inner fire to become a phoenix-born somehow was passed over? After all, a phoenix chooses the strongest, purest inner fire near it when it hatches. What better way to ensure that one of you four got chosen than to make sure that anyone with a stronger flame wasn’t anywhere near the egg when it hatched?”
“Ahem.”
All of their eyes turned to Roseluck.
“It seems that there are things that perhaps Raven and I should discuss with queen Celestia… at a later date.” She said with a dangerous smile. “But, for now, I think the nine of you should head off the stage. There is someone waiting patiently for her new partner to finish the bonding process.”
“Indeed.” Raven said as she looked at the assembled children and young teens. “I think there are plenty of things that we can discuss… later. But for now…”
Each of the former potentials exited the stage, the four that had almost accosted Sunset with looks of barely contained contempt, while those that came to her aid gave her slightly warmer looks.
Once the stage was clear, Raven turned to face the crowd. Taking a deep breath, before she began to speak. “It seems that we have had a surprise this day. Somehow, a child with the purity of her inner flame to be chosen by queen Lumina’s newest child was not among those the test said were the most worthy. Instead, this young girl from Golden Tree has proven herself worthy of the honor. Strange that her name was not on the list of potential candidates submitted to myself and Queen Celestia.”
“Most strange indeed.” Raven added in a low, dangerous tone as she surveyed the nobles sitting before her, some of whom squirmed uncomfortably in their seats.
“Regardless,” Raven continued as though nothing had happened, “today the newest phoenix-born has arisen. Praise be to the sun and flame.”
“Praise be to the sun and flame.” Roseluck and five of the former hopefuls repeated. Sunset winced at the deafening silence that followed. Nobody in the room repeated Raven’s declaration, save those six.
Raven looked out over the crowd with a cold, calculated glare.
“Praise be to the sun and flame.” Came an unenthusiastic response.
“I see.” Raven said, before turning to Sunset. “Now, Sunset, if you would please go to your bond partner and tell us her name. I can see she’s eager to meet you.”
Sunset turned to face the altar, and laid eyes on the phoenix chick. An overwhelming sense of longing filled her heart as her eyes met the young phoenix’s own. Slowly, mechanically, she stepped forward towards the young firebird. All around her, she could feel the angry glares of the others in the amphitheater, but somehow, they didn’t bother her. Not when the young phoenix’s siren song was so loud in her head.
Reached the dias, she slowly lifted her hands and gently began to pull away the last remnants of the shell of the egg. Once the hatchling was free of her red and gold womb, Sunset cupped her hands under the young bird and lifted her off the cushion.
Holding the chick in her hands, something finally fell into place. The bond between the two fully sprang to life, and she felt her inner fire intertwine with that of the newborn firebird. New sensations flooded Sunset’s mind, new thoughts filled her head. Curiosity. A touch of fear. But also love and warmth. And the feeling of safety in the hands of the strange giant that now held her so gently in her grasp.
‘Who are you, my other soul.’ Sunset heard in her mind.
‘My name is Sunset Shimmer. And who are you?’ Sunset replied with a thought.
‘I do not know yet.’ The voice that Sunset was sure came from the hatchling in her hands replied. 'I… don't have a name.'
‘Do you want me to give you a name, or do you want to choose one for yourself, my beloved friend.’ Sunset said back through her bond.
‘I am your beloved friend?’
‘Yes. You are. You are my beloved friend. You are the missing half of me that I didn't know I needed. You are the light of the flame that I can feel giving me the strength to move forward.’ Sunset said with a smile and a tear in her eyes.
‘Beloved friend. Your strength. Missing half of your soul.’ The hatchling mused, before perking up and chirping happily. ‘I… think I know who I will be.’
‘Please, tell me.’ Sunset thought.
‘You may call me Philomena. It means “friend that gives you strength".' Philomena thought proudly.
“Philomena.” Sunset whispered as tears of joy formed in the corners of her eyes. Bringing the chick up to her face, she gently pressed her forehead against the little phoenix, who pressed her back, nuzzling Sunset’s face as the now phoenix-born savored the warmth of the little bird’s downy feathers. “Welcome to the world, my beloved Philomena. It’s so very nice to meet you.”
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This is so cool and interesting, I can’t wait for the next chapter
9879950
Thank you. Per the contest rules, this story's only going to be ca. 15k words long. But, depending on how well this world is received, I have an idea for a larger story in it, so there may be more to come.
Wow, this is great! Can’t wait for more!
I like the look of this so far, though some of kids seem a bit viscous. Seems like an interesting world looking forward to seeing where this story goes.
9880010
Thank you. I'm glad you're enjoying it.
Well, in that regard, they are kids, and they're acting like kids do. I mean, they just had potential immortality and a guaranteed place among royalty "stolen" from them when they were told that one of them was sure to get it. It's like having the biggest, most amazing prize ever hanging in front of their faces, and then it's taken away and given so somebody who wasn't even supposed to have a shot at it. If I was 8-13 years old again, I'd probably react the same way.
Nice.
9879969
Gut feeling says I'm going to really hope you write a larger story for it later. But, I'm going to wait until it's finished before I dive in to read it.
9880401
As always, I hope to not disappoint when the time comes.
9880411
You haven't yet, so there is no reason to fret. You're a talented writer with good ideas, hard to disappoint with that in mind.
A fantastic start to a, as far as I know, completely original alternate universe.
Looks like celestia pulled the wool over the nobles eyes. Trying to teach not to mess with the rite, by finding someone with greater fire to put near the egg.
I'm going to go out on a limb here and guess you were inspired by Anne McCaffrey's Dragonriders series and the weyr Hatching ceremony?
It was obvious from the assessment scene that the game was rigged against Sunset, and it was still probably shear dumb luck that she was even picked as a candidate for the servants, but I'm betting now that Celestia sensed Sunset's power the moment she set foot in the palace/wherever the Rite was being held and conspired with Raven to make sure she was close enough to the hatching to have a fair chance, both because Sunset was a better candidate than all the others to begin with, as well as to teach the ones who tried to rig the ceremony in the first place a lesson.
As for the more agressive reactions of the "Chosen" candidates, On the one hand, disappointed children or no, seriously proposing Murder with full knowledge of the consequences of such an act... Might be going a bit far for 8-13 year-olds, but then again on the other hand, other than knowing Sunset's ideas of what the "Nobility" of this version of Equestria apparently think of people without a pedigree we have no idea what the political situation is actually like, or how said "Nobles" tend to bring up their children. For all we know, "Assassinating Your Opposition While Avoiding the Consequences" could be covered in their Politics 101 Tutorials, and they're still at that age where they don't quite grasp the nuance of the necessity of subtlty.
Very reminiscent of the White Dragon of the Pern series. Decidedly worth keeping an eye on.
9880593
Thank you.
9880695
9880748
I did read the Pern books when I was younger, but I wasn't actively thinking about them when I was coming up with the world.
9880616
*Whistles innocently* I have no idea what you're talking about…
9880747
Getting a bit into the expanded politics of Solaria, the nobility have been becoming increasingly brazen over the past few centuries, which is something Celestia and Raven are trying to reign in. The problem is, they're only two beings, and as powerful and influential as they are, they can't be everywhere at once. This was the first time that the nobles actively tried to derail a phoenix rite, which did not sit well with either of them.
9880802
Not saying it's just like it , but i got that feeling.
9880847
No worries.
I am fucking sold.
Please don't make us wait. Or do. I'm not your boss.
~Skeeter The Lurker
9880938
Thank you, I'm glad you're enjoying it. I'm currently editing the second chapter, so it should be up in about a week or so.
I'm going to try finishing up my current project, Wings of Dawn, before I start expanding on this world.
The woman sitting by Sunset said something under her breath. "I try to make sure of it"? That couldn't possibly be right.
"You're saying all of this out loud while on stage, and Sunset is literally standing right next to the oldest phoenix-born in the nation."
"It's true," said Raven, "she is."
In any case, you had to pack a lot of world building into a little space, and it does bulge at the seams a little, but you've established a rich world and a very intriguing conflict for Sunset. Looking forward to seeing what happens now that she's been crowned in flame.
So I take it the characters in this story are humans, correct? Might want to add the "human" tag in that case.
Aside from that this was an interesting start, I'll be keeping my eyes on this.
9881065
"Well, in our defense, we live in a nation of millions, were told that we were the only nine candidates out of the entire population that were worthy of something that comes around every five or so generations, and that we were all but assured to be chosen. We're… a little upset right now and not thinking clearly. And lets be honest, the room is filled with high ranking nobility. They'd be on our side."
"And yet, I'm still standing right here." Raven said coldly.
TBH, the scene with the potentials was tricky, but it felt wrong not to have some of them not be almost homicidally pissed as hell about the situation. And, as members of the nobility, they're kinda used to just getting their way.
From a biologist to a physicist, getting a lot of information across in as little space as possible is kinda how we do, yes? And minor spoilers for what else I've got planned once Wings of Dawn wraps up, but we haven't even seen the other side of the coin, which is Luna and Twilight's end of things. Well, lets just say that this whole ordeal was the easy part. If my previous stories have established anything about my writing style, things tend to go pear-shaped for my characters.
9881094
Thanks for the heads up. Technically, they're just humanoid, but if it's appropriate, I'll add it. And thank you. I appreciate your interest.
This is one of the greatest story and i hope this story has lots of chapter cant wait for more:)
The title had me curious, the description peeked my interest, the chapter was amazing.
You have my attention!
I have no words, this is absolutely fantastic writing. You deserve every bit of the feature box.
9881730
9881733
Thank you. I hope the second chapter can live up to the first.
This story is a special kind of something that I need more of. There's something good here.
Now I know. It is the kind of warm hearted story that you could read in a log cabin with fresh wood in the stove and snow coming down outside.
im not Crying your crying
I Hope to see more
I'm not sure why this needs to be a fanfic, but I'm very glad to get to read it and would very much like some more. It feels very Sanderson-esque.
Well that was cute, and dark, and steeped in so much world building that It could make for an entire, longer and very interesting story.
PRAISE THE SUN.
I am intrigued.
Awesome!!!!
I really hope you continue this story because this first chapter is very intriguing.
This is great. Hoping you do a full sequel once this story is finished, as iirc you're capped at 15k words.
Though one thing I'm interested in...
A new Phoenix Born is chosen every hundred years or so. Raven is the oldest at about 1000 years. There are only 4.
So...With Sunset being the sixth, what happened to the other 5?
I am very intrigued, and would very much like to see where this is going.
So much in just the first chapter:
Plenty in world building
Descriptors of this world's version of the three tribes
A rich and strong foundation for Sunset's background, from which a grounded and confident version exists despite the orphan origins.
Early signs of political intrigue from the beginning to the climax of her mortal life
Dangers and enemies have been established, followed by equally powerful allies
Really, I look forward to see if she can rise above the pecking order and blatant corruption or fall just as hard as the canon Sunset.
Love what you did but PRAISE THE MOON.
9882132
Praise the Sun! If only I could be so GROSSLY INCANDESCENT!
9882577
Good catch. A phoenix-born stops aging once they reach their prime, and while they're tougher than mortal creatures, they're not invulnerable, so they can be killed. I haven't decided who the other phoenix-born were, but they were all killed in some way.
9882718
The Lunar side of the coin will be addressed, don't you worry.
very interestingt star i look forward to more
9882768
So, is Raven simply that badass to survive, or were the others executed by Celestia? (Or did they do something dumb like a Leeroy Jenkins?)
9882796
I haven't decided yet, but it's unlikely they were executed.
9882813
One last question, if you don't mind.
What happens to a Phoenix if it's bond partner dies?
(And the same if the Phoenix dies)
9882829
If one partner dies, so does the other. There are two exceptions to this. One is if the phoenix-born dies before the bond is fully established, i.e. right after the phoenix hatches, but before the phoenix-born has touched the hatchling. In that case, the phoenix will seek a new partner. The second is when the phoenix dies as part of its rebirth cycle. This has no ill effect on the phoenix-born, other than briefly stripping them of their phoenix granted powers.
9882855
a moment of vulnerability
9882892
That's a good point. Guessing that's when quite a few of them were killed. Plus, do they age at that point, seeing as they might not have the anti-ageing they get from the Phoenix?
9882892
It's one of the most dangerous times for a phoenix-born, which is why they usually seclude themselves until the regeneration is complete.
9883145
It is the best time to target a phoenix-born, yes, which is why they usually seclude themselves while their companion is regenerating. They are still ageless, but lose access to all of their phoenix powers, and effectively revert to their original tribal form. For example, Spitfire would revert to being a sky-runner while Akari is regenerating. She'd regain her wings, but wouldn't have access to the other tribe's spell dances, her hair would revert to its normal state, and she wouldn't have her near immunity to fire.
9883155
Wait, so they lose their tribal parts when bonding with a phoenix?
9883257
To a degree. Upon becoming a phoenix-born, a sky-runner's wings will vanish, fire-callers lose their soul-gems, and earth-weavers typically drop some muscle-mass. However, they also gain the ability to fly without wings, develop greater flexibility in their spell dances (the three tribes all have their own spell dances, with fire-callers having the greatest flexibility and power), improved strength, stamina, dexterity and ability to encourage the growth of plants. They also gain certain powers unique to them, including their flaming hair (which has a few properties that I don't want to spoil just yet), a near total immunity to fire and heat, agelessness, and the ability to telepathically communicate with their bonded phoenix, including sharing their senses.
How exactly is one chosen to be phoenix-born? It refers to a purity of their inner flame, but what does that mean? The power of their magic, purity of heart, or both? If it's purity of heart then most of the phoenix-born have lost their way.