> Equestria Girls: Equine Inferno > by Dash Attack > -------------------------------------------------------------------------- > Beginning of the End > --------------------------------------------------------------------------  This story takes place during the climax of the movie Equestria Girls. After being crown Princess of the Fall Formal, Sunset Shimmer kidnapped Spike and ran outside. Twilight and her new friends chased Sunset to the horse statue right outside the school. After releasing Spike, Sunset and her henchmen threatened to destroy the horse saute unless Twilight surrender the crown. In doing so, the link between Equestria and this world would be severed. After a quick skirmish, Sunset got the the crown and revealed her true goal was too conqueror Equestria all along. This is where are story begins. “Finally the crown is mine.” thought Sunset Shimmer as she held her long awaited prize. The student’s of Canterlot High, watched the scene unfold from behind the glass doors of the school.  They were each clueless as to what was going on, but watched with anticipation as Sunset lifted the stolen crown for all to see.          Twilight and her friends watched in horror as Sunset lowered the crown onto her head.  Most of them were strangers to magic, but they all knew from Twilight that the crown was dangerous in the wrong hands.  The moment Sunset Shimmer put on the crown, a green light enveloped her.  Her skin turned bright red and equine features started to return to her body.  Large bat like wings shot out from her back and large white fangs adorned her face.   When her transformation was complete, Sunset shot two beams from her hands and turned Snips and Snails into demonic versions of themselves.   Afterwards she turned her attention to the school and the frightened children inside.  As she mocked them she blew open a hole using her new found power.  Even as a unicorn, she never had never this much power.    If this is how strong I am in this world, I can’t wait to see the devastation I can cause once me and my teenage army get into Equestria. Thought Sunset Shimmer. Yet will it be strong enough to fight Celestia and Luna head on? She began to cast a mind altering spell to take control the minds of her former peers.  As she did, she thought back too how far her plans had come, and all the setbacks she had encountered during her struggle for power.  It’s a shame I can only settle for one element.  When I originally decided to steal the crown, I was hoping to steal all six elements.  Sure I might have the most powerful of them all in my possession, but had I brought all six...  Oh I just get chills just thinking about it.  Ah well!  It’s time to kill that bitch Twilight once and for all. With the entire school at her disposal, Sunset was ready to be too finish off Twilight and the rest of her friends.  She began to charge her a massive ball of energy when suddenly... Twily A man with snow white skin dressed in purple armor flew out of the portal.  Seconds later a larger blue treasure chest hurled past his head and landed on the ground. “Shining Armor is that you???” cried Twilight. Shining looked up at his sister and gasped.  “Twilight why are you walking on two legs?” “Oh my!”  shouted Rarity.  “More Royalty from another dimension. Oh this is like something out of a fairytale.  Oh please sir knight!  Take me with you.” “Sorry mama, I’m happily married, and I highly doubt you're eighteen.” “Speak for yourself.” rebuked Rarity. “You look like you're a sophomore in college.  If you ask me that’s why too early to get married.” “I have you know I’m in my early thirties.” he continued.  “This dimension must have messed with my age.” “Look!” shouted Twilight. “None of this matters now.  What are you doing here Shining?” “When I heard what happened, I went to the library and took the remaining elements from the display case.  I figured they might come in handy should your crown fall into the wrong hands.” “No fucking way! You actually brought them.” shouted Sunset with a demonic grin. She turned to her trusty minons and pointed straight at the box. “Snips, Snails, open that case and bring their contents to me.” Shining watched as the twelfth grade hellspawns flew down toward the chest and ripped it open.  They each grabbed an element and flew towards their mistress. “I don’t think so!” shouted Shining stoically. Shining stretched out his hand and tried and focused his attention the boys.  When nothing happened, he  blinked dumbfoundedly. “Why isn’t my magic working?” “Normal magic doesn’t work here Shining!” yelled Twilight. “But the elements of harmony are even stronger in this world.  That’s why she wanted my crown.  Now you’ve given her the remaining five.” Shining started into his sister's eyes in shame. “Oh Sweet Celestia,” he said with tremble of fear and regret. “’I've doomed us all.  Please forgive me sis.  I had no idea.” “Gah!” moaned Dash.  “If only I had my soccer ball I could knock that demonic bitch out of the sky.” “I don’t want to die.” cried a shaking Fluttershy. “I don’t care how powerful she gets.” said Applejack with a look of defiance.  “Ah’m sure as hell not going down without a fight.” “Oh this this just offline.” shouted Rarity. “If this how hideous she looks with one magical piece of jewelry, what would five do?  It would be a travesty too all things glamorous.” “Don’t worry Rarity.” said Spike the dog.  “I won’t let anything bad happen to you, even if you're not the one from my world.” “Ooo Ooo,”  said Pinkie enthusiastically.  “I know things look really grim right now but I can’t pass this up .  Anyways, I guess you can say ‘this isn’t even her final from.’” Normally, this would have caused the entire group to roll their eyes, but shit was about to hit the fan really fast.  Snips and Snails offered the five remaining elements to Shimmer. “Once I infuse myself with them, no amount of friendship will ever be able to stop me.” Each necklaces flew out of their hands and onto her hands.  The elements of Laughter and Honesty wrapped themselves around her arms before the turning into red golden gauntlets.  The same thing happened with the her legs as Generosity and Kindness turned into red metal boots.  The only element that was left unchanged was Loyalty which remained a necklace.  Once on her neck the necklace itself turned from gold to black. With the elements now fully corrupted and upon her body, it became more hellish.  Her body grew about two more feet in height, her hair just barely reaching the second floor windows.  Her devilish wings grew longer about seven inches longer.  They were to the point that they were wider than the doors of the school.  Her fangs, hair, and tail also increased in size and volume. When the changes were complete she landed on the ground and admired herself. “This power is intoxicating.” She said with a new hint of corruption in her voice.  “Already I feel like I am capable of anything in this world.  Once I cross that barrier, my overwhelming power will increase tenfold.  Now I can take on Celestia and all of Equestria with a mere fraction of my new power.  I got to say this feels a little bit like overkill but I’m not complain...” She put her hands to her head as she began to crouch in pain. What is this? she thought.  I feel like my brain about to explode.  Oh, wait I see what this is.  With the power of harmony at my disposal, the secret’s of their power are flooding into my head.  Wait... Err.... yes.  Ah I understand now.  If I try to attack a bear when they are together their power will turn on me.  Well, no matter. It’s not like they can stop me like this. Shining Armor, who had  finally adjusted to his human body, stood up to face his sister.  “You  need to go back to our world and warn everypony about what’s coming.  Breaking the mirror from the other side should save Equestria. “But what about this world Shining?” cried Twilight. “What about you.” “I’m sorry Twilight, but if we can’t save this world, we can at least save ours.  As for me...” With a little practice, Shining unsheathed his sword with both his hands.  It wobbled in his hands as he tried to get a feel for this form of combat. “This whole mess is my fault anyway.  If I’m going down as the stallion that damned Equestria, it won’t be without going out in style.  You’ve been a wonderful little sister to me Twilight, and I wish there was time for me to give you a proper goodbye.  Also tell Cadence that these last few years of marriage have been the happiest days of my life.” “Shining I can’t let you...” Before Twilight could finish, Shining used his free hand to push Twight through the portal. Sunset Shimmer laughed. “That was a very touching scene, too bad I’m going to have to kill you all now before that mirror is shattered.  I no longer need this army, I’m more than strong enough to take on everypony in the world now.” “We see about that bitch!” cried Rainbow as she charged her head on. “Rainbow don’t!” cried Applejack. Before anypony could even blink, Sunset vanished and reappeared right beside Rainbow Dash.  An angry expression was frozen on Rainbow’s face.  She felt so much rage inside her, yet she couldn’t move.  She looked down and panicked inside.  Sunset had lodged her hand right through her chest.  The other’s watched in horror as Sunset’s hand waved back at them while her arm was still lodged in Rainbow’s chest. “Just to be safe I didn’t use any magic to finish you off.” gloated Sunset.  “Now if that will be all, I have a kingdom to conquer.” Everyone watch in horror as Sunset Shimmer flicked her arm and sent Rainbow Dash hurtling straight into a tree.  The sound of bones breaking could be heard in the distance. “Rainbow!” shouted Applejack. -------- Back In Equestria “Rainbow speak to me!” shouted the pony Applejack. It all happened so fast.  One minute they had been talking about Twilight, the next, a large gaping hole appeared on Rainbow’s chest.  Then before they knew it, she was sent flying into a wall and her body impacted with the sound of a hundred bones crunching at once. Now everypony in the castle was gathered by this horrific scene. Rarity and Pinkie were doing there best not to look at all the gore.  However, both Fluttershy and AJ couldn’t take their eyes off their friend, even if they felt sick to their stomach. “How could this happen?” asked Fluttershy.  “All we were doing was eating dinner and then...” Fluttershy broke into tears on the spot.  She just couldn’t take her seeing her first and oldest friend in the world die in such a matter. “I’m afraid something terrible must have  happened to her counterpart on the other side of the mirror.” Answered Celestia concerningly.  “The lives of our alternate selves are linked together with ours.  Should one die, I’m afraid the same will happen to the other.  Somepony has upset the balance, and I’m afraid that all of Equestria is in jeopardy.” The sound of hoof steps to echoed in the hall.  They all turned around to see that Twilight had returned. She panted for a moment before she spoke.  “Sunset Shimmer has all six elements.  My brother brought them over thinking they could help but it backfired.  We have to destroy the... Sweet harmony!  Is that blood on the wall?!” Celestia nodded her head.  “I’m sorry Twilight.  The Rainbow Dash I assume you met in the other world has been slain.  When she died, the same thing happened to this world’s Rainbow Dash.  I’m sorry to have to tell you the truth like this, but right now we need to stand our ground.” “Rainbow’s dead?” repeated Twilight. “Oh no...  Wait, that means anyone of you could die at any minute.  We have to destroy the mirror.” “I’m afraid that won’t work.” Luna said shaking  her head.  “Sunset Shimmer has waited thirty moons to come back with the power she needs.  If she can’t get through, then she will try and get revenge on you in any manner she deems fit.  Having been to the darkside once before, I know how the mind of the wicked work.  The best we can do in this situation is...” Before she could finish her sentence, a large flash of light enveloped Rarity. “Rarity!” everypony shouted. Every magic user in the room tried to put out the flames with magic, but by the time they finished, it was too late. Rarity was dead, and the room fell into silence. ------- Back in the Other World, moment’s after Rainbow’s demise “Get out of my way.” shouted Sunset Shimmer.  “I won’t hesitate to waste you all right here right now.  You all have better chances of living if you let me pass.” “It’s my fault you got all this power to begin with Sunset!” shouted Shining. “I’ll be damned if I make your victory any more easier. Ladies, you need to get out of here.  Go to your local barracks right now and help get reinforcements.” “O, do you mean the cops.” replied Pinkie. “I don’t think their weapons would work against her.  They only have guns, and she’s a wizard-demon-pony-thing.” “Then at least go to these ‘cops’ so they can protect you.  This body is new to me, but I think I can at least stall her long enough for Twilight to break the portal.” “We promise we won’t get in the way handsome.” stated Rarity.  “We're staying until Rainbow’s death is avenged.” “But if we stay Rarity.” cried Fluttershy. “We could end up dying.  I’m sorry girls, but can’t stay here.  I’m going to go to the police station and get help. With that Fluttershy ran off down the street. “She’s smart you know.” said Sunset.  “Let’s see if any of you are smarter.  If you don’t leave soon, I’m going to burn each and everyone of you too a crisp until you move out of the way.  Let’s start with the the foolish knight in armor.” Sunset Shimmer flew a few inches off the ground  and pointed her left index finger toward Shining Armor.  She shot a small fire ball from her fingertip. As Shining Armor waited for death’s embrace to come, Rarity pushed him out of the way. “I not going to let her hurt you.” she said. “Rarity No!” shouted Spike. They all watched as the small fireball expanded outwards moments before impact.  The flames engulfed Rarity, and her body fell to the ground. “Rarity!” cried Spike.  Despite this Rarity not being his, the sight of seeing her person like this broke his tiny heart into pieces.  It had been hard seeing Rainbow Dash get killed, but this hurt so much more. He broke into tears. Why couldn’t I protect her?  If I were still a dragon my scales could have taken at least some of that blast. “Ahh, is the little doggy sad that her friend turned into barbeque?  Well go cry somewhere else mutt.  I spared your life once already and I’m not feeling generous anymore.”          Spike  turned his head and glared at Shining.  “Her death is on your hands Shining.  I will never forgive you for this.” “Deep down I know this isn’t really his fault.”  Though Spike as he growled at the knight.  “My Rarity always gets so star struck, and is always willing to make sacrifices for strangers.  Still, I never knew she could do something like this.  And if he never showed up, none of this would have happened.” Spike words pierced Shining like a dagger to the heart.  All his life, he had strived to protect the ponies of Equestria.  Even his cutie maker was a testament to that fact.  He was the shield of Equestria, it’s sworn protector.  Now, an innocent girl he barely knew had given his life for him. “Spike, go back with Twilight.” he said sadly. “I promise nopony will die from my failures anymore.  This sword I  hold in... whatever these thing are called , is a magical.  Both Cadence and I placed the enchantment on it.  I will avenge Rainbow and Rarity's deaths.  Yet blaming me isn’t going to undo the past.  The best you do now is go home.”  Both the man and the dog shed tears. “I always thought of you as a little brother Spike.” said Shining “And you my big brother.” replied Spike. “Go to Twilight, If I fail again, she will need all the support she can get to vanquish this evil.” Spike nodded. “Good luck soldier, and I don’t blame you for Rarity.  At least the one I love will be waiting for me on the other side.” With that Spike jumped through the portal. -------- Back in Equestria “What are we going to do?!” shouted Twilight. “There has to be something I can do.”  Any one of my friends could die at any minute, and it’s all my fault.  Why didn't I steal that stupid crown from the very beginning?  I could have ended everything on day one and prevented all of this.  Then again, it’s because of me that I was able to bring my counterpart friends back together.  Yet now they are dropping like flies. Celestia saw the distress on Twilight's face and spoke. “The only way to defeat Sunnet Shimmer at this stage point would be through the power of the elements themselves.  If she tried to attack you using them while the others were present, the elements would recognise their true bearers and grant you all the power needed to stop her.  The only option we have is to wait for her to come through the mirror and defeat her with our combined strength.” “But why can’t we just go through the mirror and kick her flank their in that alternate world?” asked Applejack. “Because.” answered Celestia. “Your magic is weaker on the other side.  Plus any visual contact between you and your counterpart will cause a major disruption in both fabrics of reality.  I myself have only made contact with my alternate self from behind the mirror.  If either of us were to meet physically, thousands of people and ponies would die.” “Sister!” stated Luna.  “We see no other alternative but to ask for his help in this matter.  Should we call him fourth?” “No need for that Luna.” echoed a familiar voice.  “I am already here.  Though I got to say, I’m not sure if want to help.” There was a bright flash of light which caused everypony to blink.  When they opened them, they saw Discord helping himself to some left over tea from before. “It’s just that, Equestria is so boring right now.  I would like to see what kind of chaos this Sunset Shimmer mare can cook up in this dull kingdom of ours.” “Discord!” shouted Fluttershy assertively.  “That monster has murdered two of my very close friends.  If you don’t help the princesses fight back, more ponies including myself could die.  Right now, I could be vaporized any minute and never see it coming.  I can image the few of us that are left are just as terrified right now.” Fluttershy took a deep breath and continued in a more cheerful voice.  “Besides, I promise the battle will be very chaotic.  This could be the one and only time where you can be chaotic and nopony will get mad at you.  As your friend I’m begging you to help everypony out before more ponies get hurt.” “Dammit Fluttershy.” huffed Discord.  “Why can’t I ever deny you?” “Because deep down you're a good friend.” declared Fluttershy. Discord made a fake gagging noise at Fluttershy's rebuttal.  “Let’s just get this over with.” “Twilight!” shouted a voice at the very back of the dining hall. Spike the dragon ran to his big sister and hugged her. “She killed that world’s Rarity.” he said.  His boiling tears trickled down his scales on onto Twilight's fur. “She sacrificed herself to save your brother.  I hate him so much right now even though it wasn't really his fault.  At least our Rarity is safe.” Twilight took the dragon in her magic and put him close to her neck.  I can’t tell him what happened. Not yet at least.  It’s a miracle he didn't see any of the bodies in this dining room.  Poor Spike must be so shaken up that he completely overlooked the carnage here. I have to take him out of the room before he spots any of the bodies or blood on the wall.  The last thing I want to do is upset him anymore. “I’m going to take Spike to my room.” she declared.  “Everypony else guard the mirror.  I’ll join you in a minute.” “Um, I hate to be the bearer of bad news.” said Discord has he pointed a claw at something on the ground.  “But I could have sworn Applejack was standing right where that pile of ash is right now.” --------- Back in The Other Word, just after Spike left. Sunset glared down from up high at the three people who opposed her.   “I’ve waited long enough Armor.” she said.  “The portal closes in two hours.  The longer, you make me wait, the angrier you're making me.  I need to get through that portal before your sister smashes it.” “We’ll finish this soon Sunset!” shouted Shining.  “Just as soon as I convince these girls too leave.” “Pinkie, you’ve been a good friend to me all these years. But there’s no sense in all of us dying tonight.  I made up my mind, and I’m going out fighting.  For Rainbow, and for Rarity.” said Applejack. “Look Applejack.” shouted Pinkie. “I’m trying everything I can to stay positive during this whole mess.  With everything that’s happened, you need my Pinkieness more than ever.” “There’s a time and a place Pinkie, and this is neither the time or the place nor the...” Before she could finish, a large beam of energy struck struck AJ in the back while she was facing Pinkie. In an instant she was nothing but a cloud of ash in Pinkie’s face. It was at that moment that Pinkie Pie completely lost it.  With only one of her friends left alive, she had no more reason to stay.  She ran for the police and didn’t look back.  Tonight was supposed to be magic, yet all it brought was a world of hurt and sorrow. As she cried she kept whispering to herself over and over again, “I was only trying to help.” “That’s the last straw Shimmer!” roared Shining with fire in his eyes. “Now you're going to pay for all the live you’ve destroyed.” Shimer sent a volley of energy beams hurtling towards him. With a speed he never knew he possessed, Shining dodged every one of them.  Shimmer cast spell after spell against Shining, shocked at how quickly he had adjetest too his bipedal body. Looks like I’m going to have put effort into killing this one. Sunset thought in her mind. Little by little, she increased the power of her spells, and they became harder and harder to dodge.  Finally, Shining’s foot got hit with a binding spell that held him like super glue. Shimmer flew closer to him, but made sure to keep her distance from the range of his blade. “I should really kill you right now for all the trouble you caused.” she said.  “But you did give me the elements.  So I can only see it fitting to send your body back to Equestria so your family can bury you.  That is, if I don’t bury them first.” Sunset broke into laughter, which caused Shining Armor to feel an intense rage.  Using the last ounce of his strength, he broke free of the binding spell and drove his sword right into Shimmer’s hest.” An aurora of magenta surrounded the sword, as Sunset roared in agony. “That’s the power of love you ugly sack of shit!” shouted Shining Armor.  “Without it there could be no friendship, and thus no harmony.  The love me and my wife have for each other is strong enough to defeat armies.  And it’s through this love, that I shall cleanse the elements that you have corrupted.” “It’s burning me.” she cried. I can’t believe it. This stupid sword is actually killing me.  The element’s are betraying me. Already I’m starting to lose control of their power.  “This for all the pain you have caused Shimmer.  I foolishly gave you this power, but now I’m taking it ba...” Before he could finish, Snips flew behind Shining and grabbed his face.  With a jerk of his hands he twisted Shining Armors head until his neck snapped.  As Shining body became limp,  the magic of the sword slowly faded away. When Snips finally decided to let go of the brave knight, the armor clanked upon hitting the ground. Snips and Snails turned to their princess, who was struggling to pull the sword out from her chest.  Eventually she was able to do it.  She tried to brush off the intense pain but to no avail. “Damn that Shining Armor.” She said as she turned to her henchmen.  “Even with all this power he was able to hurt me. But no matter.  This just a small set back.  Once I cross the portal, my powers will double.  I will become the alicorn of suffering and despair.  Soon all of Equestria shall revere the name Sunset Shimmer. She then turned to face her troops who waited her beck and call.  “Students and faculty of Canterlot High, today, we take Equestria.” > The Beast > -------------------------------------------------------------------------- “Woe to the inhabiters of the earth and of the sea! For the devil is come down unto you, having great wrath” - Revelation 12:12 Upon seeing Applejack’s disintegrate remains, Spike fainted. “We have to get to the mirror now!” shouted Cadance. “Before we lose any ponies.  Twilight! Take Spike to safety and hurry back to the mirror room. Pinkie, Fluttershy, I’m afraid this battle is too dangerous for the two of you.  You're going to have take the next train out of here.” “We… can’t.” stuttered Pinkie, her whole body shaking from the shock. “Isn’t it obvious.” replied Fluttershy in a surprisingly bitter tone. “Since we don’t have magic and the others are dead, we are useless to them.” Twights heart cracked a bit at the harsh cold words coming out of Fluttershys mouth.  Worried in this sudden change in her surviving friends, she stepped forward and walked toward them. “I’m sorry girls,” she said with tears of lament, but with half the elements gone. “I’m afraid that there isn’t anymore you can do for us.  I despise myself for saying this, believe me I do but… I don’t… I don’t…” Fluttershy lifted herself right into Twilight's face until her eyes locked.  “You don’t what Twilight. Come on say it. “I don’t think friendship alone is going to be enough this time.” she screamed as the output of her tears increased. “Please, take Spike and flee the Empire while you still can, if not for your own well being than for the ponies back home.  If we fail, the ponies of Equestria need to know what’s coming while they still have time.” Twilight leaned forward and hugged Fluttershy with all her might. “I know you're angry Fluttershy,” she said softly, her tear filled eyes closed shut. “But Shimmer’s power is beyond anything we’ve ever faced, and she’s only going to get stronger once she returns.  We may have lost the others, and we may not be able harness the raw power the elements anymore, but even now all five of you reside in my heart.  Shimmer may have killed our friends, but our bond is eternal.” She took a few steps back and looked up at Fluttershy, her eyes filled with anger and determination.  “I don’t know if I can stop her, but you can be damn sure I’m not not going to go down without a fight.  Not after all she’s done.” Moved by Twilight's words, Fluttershy gave her a small salute in memory of the one Dash gave all those years ago.  “I’ll take care of Spike and Pinkie, Twilight.”  She flew over to Twilight and lifted the unconscious dragon onto her back.  She then looked up at Discord, who had been watching them. “Discord.” she said softly. “I want you to protect Twilight and the others.  You have my permission not to hold back during the upcoming fight.  Also, I want you to know that even though we are only friends.” Discord nodded. “You have my word, though you should know by now to never rely on that. But don’t worry, this time I mean it.  Your princesses are in good hooves.  And if you don’t mind,” he pointed to Pinkie Pie, who was shaking all over and stroking her ‘not so poofy’ mane.  “I think I better send you three of you back myself; I doubt that one can make it to the train station fast enough.” With a snap of his claw, Spike and the surviving elements vanished.   Cadance then turned to face the group.  “Everypony, go to the mirror. I need to rally my subjects and power the Crystal Heart.  While me and Shining agreed never to use it as a weapon again, we are running out of options and time.” Without any further communication, the five beings exited the dining room, knowing very well that that the battle to come may very well be their last. ---------- When Twilight, Celestia, Discord, and Luna entered in the mirror room, they saw a handful of royal guards battling a battalion of the green ponies.  The four of them watched with horror as more ponies began to flood the room through the mirror. “Do not kill them!” Shouted Celestia as she zapped one of the green eyed ponies with a spell that knocked him out. “If you do their Equestrian counterparts will die. Knock them out.” “Also avoid making contact with their cutie marks or their eyes!” Shouted luna as she casted a sleeping spell on three charging minions.  “Right now their minds are asleep, but if you so much as recognize your other self reality will breakdown slightly.” “Understood your majesties.” replied one of the guards whose voice sounded familiar to Twilight. “Stallions, don’t think, just fight.” “Private Sentry learn your place.” replied one of the unicorn captains as he zapped two charging zombies. “Everypony, focus only on the battle.” Wait! though Twilight.  If he’s this worlds Flash Century then that means. Twilight watched in horror as a yellowish pegasus with a spiky blue mane pooped out of the mirror.  Panicking, Twilight charged her horn and shot a powerful bolt of magic towards Mirror Flash.  It hit the other worldly stallion square in the chest, and sent him stumbling back through the mirror. Sorry Flash, thought Twilight sadly, But I can’t dance with if you being here means reality will crack.       However, just before Twilight could catch her breath, a zombified Big Mac tackled her.  She watched in horror as the emotionless stallion lifted his hoof and loomed it over her face.  Twilight froze as the pony who looked like Big Mac began to lower his hoof.  Right before his hoof could make contact through, Twilight heard a loud bang and watched Mac’s body get flung to the other side of the wall.  She turned her head to see Discord floating in front of her with a large black mallet. “And you said I couldn’t be trusted.” he snickered as he smashed his mighty hammer into the skulls of other ponies. Twilight gave Discord a light smile.  “For once I’m glad I was wrong.” “Just don’t get used to it.” He said as if he had just finished a tedious chore.  “This whole, ‘good guy’ thing really isn’t my style.” Wave after wave the princess of Equestria fought the incoming hordes, knowing very well that this the true battle had yet to start.  The ponies Shimmer had sent forward were poor excuses for an army. Even while brainwashed, they could barely stand on four legs, and as far as anypony could tell, they didn’t know how to use magic.  Some of the pegasus zombies would try and fly, only to crash into the zombie's below and break their formation.  Had the situation not been so dire, the warriors of Equestria would have found this seen comical.  But with a much larger shark lurking behind the mirror, nopony could spare even a moment to chuckle. Then at last the ground shook. Twilight and the others looked as two devilish looking ponies - one a pale green, the other a slightly dark orange - flew out of the mirror with hellish wings.  The corrupted pawns of Sunset Shimmer snarled at the group, there vampire like fangs shimmering as the room began to glow red. “Ponies of Equestria.” they chanted as if reciting a prayer.  “Day and Night shall no longer rule this land.  Hence forth neither the sun, nor the moon, nor the stars be your light.  Instead, your only light shall come from the fire.” An intense beam of orange light bounced off the mirror, one that forced even the mighty Discord to shield his eyes.  Although they could not see, the princess could here the wales shrieks of agony from the ponies around them. “I’M BURNING! Princess Celestia, help me!” “Lady Cadence, Lord Armor, why have you forsaken us.” “All I wanted was to for people to stop making fun of my eye, and to dance with Time Turner tonight.” Tears trickled down Twilight face, only to be evaporated by intense heat.  When the light simered down, she lifted her hoof from her face and opened her eyes.  Everypony except for Snips, Snails, the princesses, and Discord was now a pile of ash.  The only other pony that remained was a demonic red alicorn with wearing four bracelets, one necklace, and one crown.   Princess Celestia gasped at the perverted monstrosity her former pupil had become, bearing demonic wings fit for a dragon, and horn which length rivaled even her own. As if reading her thoughts, Shimmer looked down at her former mentor and chuckled.  “Looks like mines bigger. Heh heh.” “I see your sense of humor is as vulgar as your appearance.” scowled Luna, her eyes wide with anger Twilight looked disturbingly at the scorch marks that had all but covered the room.  She tilted her head up to her mentor.     “Princess,” she said sadly, “She killed her own army. Does this mean…” Clestlestia closed her eyes and nodded.  “Yes Twilight, their Equestrian counterparts have suffered the same fate. Twilight heart froze up.  How many human look alikes had she seen at Canterlot High. Apple Bloom, Granny Smith, Photo Finish, Vinyl Scratch, even Flash.  They and their counterparts were now nothing more the piles of black powder. Shimmer turned to Twilight and smirked.  “What’s the matter Princess? Why do you even care? Those humans were just pawns ment to tire you out.  Their not worth morning.  Besides, I don't think their counterparts were anypony important, otherwise they would have survived when I crossed over.  Invigorating isn’t it, I killed all these ponies just by walking into a room.  Imagine what I could if I ever catch a cold. Heh Heh! Oh not to be a bitch or anything, but we broke your brother’s windpipe on the other side. What’s that? Too soon.  Your are so pathetic. Celestia put her wing around Twilight. “We have to stop her Twilight, so that her evil may never harm another pony again. You have suffered more than anypony this day, but right now we need your strength to stop her.” Twilight looked up. “Let’s fry this fucking bitch, for my friends, for my brother, for everypony and human she’s killed tonight!” Twilight slammed her hoof down and narrowed her brows at Shimmer. “This ends now Shimme!” “Snips, Snails. Stand back.” she ordered. “Time to show you what a true alicorn can is capable of.” Cue Music  http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=LHuvcuu34cI Twilight shot a torrent of energy beams at her foe, only to have them bounce back. Meane while Celestia and Luna shout yellow and blue balls from there horns. However Shimmer was able to deflect both their attacks by swatting the balls with her wings. Luna and Celestia jumped backwards just moments before the barrage of projectiles hit them. “Sister!” Luna shouted. “She’s stronger than I thought.  How much power must we exert if we are to defeat her.” “I’m afraid all of it.” sighed Celestia. “We can’t afford to hold back anymore.” “No one’s telling you you can’t hold back, dear teacher.” taunted Shimmer as her horn began to glow along side the six corrupted elements. “But if you really do care for your subjects, I recommend not worrying about collateral damage.” “I could never forgive myself if I were to accidently take the life of another pony.” shouted Celestia, “Though I pray that won’t happen, I am no longer sure if it’s possible.” “The fight is still young, big sister.” replied Luna. “We still have more tricks to try before we resort to drastic measures.” She lifted her hoof and beckoned Twilight to come forward. “Everypony, put your horns together. Let’s hit her with a cosmic beam.” “Cosmic beam?” asked Twilight. “Just let your horn connect with ours and focus on channeling your magic into a spear.” Celestia reassured her. “Luna and I will take care of the rest. Twilight nodded and the three put their horns together.  Shimmer watched with amusement as the the colours of their magic blended together before taking on spherical shape.  That amusement quickly turned into fear as the spheres started to look more like a floating snow globes containing an entire solar system.  It was like space itself had been condensed into one giant spark. “Now everypony!” shouted Celestia. “fire your magic.” Seconds later, a giant cone of energy shot out from the sphere and struck Shimmer off guard.  She felt an immense pain in her chest as she lost her footing and was pushed backwards. She flapped her wings and used them to regain her footing as she tried to push back the attack, but the beam was too strong.  Then the elements started to spark again, and she was able to push the beam forward. “We almost had her!” The beam intensified and shimmer felt a burning in her chest as she was pushed back a few inches, before she was flying forward again. “The energy is too unstable!” shouted Celestia as a long crack formed on her terra. “Release it now!” They extinguished there and sent the cosmic sphere hurtling towards Shimmer.  It hit her dead center and exploded, causing the room to shake and sent a large crystal pillar to fall right on top of the mirror, forever destroying it. The thee princess panted, as they were overcome with exhaustion from executing such a powerful spell. Shimmer headed towards them and snarled. She was covered in scratches a some minor third degree burns.  Had the blast hit a normal pony, they would have been obliterated and transformed into dark matter particles.  Shimmer on the other hand, looked as if she just fell into a burning thorn bush. “My turn assholes!” she shouted as a wide wave of green energy spread from her horn and loomed over them.  The princesses braced themselves for the end but, before Shimmers attack could make contact with the group, Discord snapped his fingers  and a giant metal pot shielded them. As the energy and entered the pot, it began to settle in like boiling hot water. Discord made himself a chef hat and mustache and laughed. “Would you like to try the boiled demon Madam Shimmer.” replied Discord with a funny accident before snapping his fingers again.  Like a baseball bat, the giant kitchen pot swung forward and splashed Shimmer along with her minions.  Shimmer screamed in agony as she felt like she had just been doused with burning water. Meanwhile the three alicorns watched in horror and disgust as they saw the slowly and painfully dissolving Snips and Snails.  Seeing Snails’ face fizzled away till all she could see was his horned skull almost made her throw up. End song here! “Well done Discord!” Celestia said firmly. “Well done?” replied Twilight. “Princess, that counter attack killed this worlds Snips and Snails. What about their parents.” “You see Celestia!” stated Discord. “This why your ‘sugar coated’ method of running things is unhealthy. “How can you prepare your ponies for true suffering and strife when all they know is pink happy rainbows?  As much as I hate to break character and be serious, if Twilight can’t get her shit together we might all end up like those two dime wits I just boiled. No offense Twilight. Twilight was about to rebuttal when she saw Shimmer rise from the ground, glaring hatefully at Discord.  Green sparks of energy surrounded the black gems that once were the elements.  Shimmer pointed a hoof at Discord, who now bore a look of concern. “You will pay for that you pour excuse for a god.  In my new world, there will be no room for your antics.” Discords mismatched eyes widen as a small green energy pyramid formed at the end of Shimmer’s hoof.  He flinched as the the strange peace of magic leapt from her hoof and outgrew him.  Caught off guard, Discord was swallowed by Shimmers strange spell before he could even think to teleport. The princess watch as Discord struggled to break free as he wiggled around his tranguare prison. “I know I can’t kill!” said Shimmer. “But once I return you to stone, I’m going to grind you until you are nothing but pebbles.” Discord flinched as Shimmer doused him with fire. A familiar feeling began to wash over him, one that he felt two times before. Only this time, the energy felt did not reek of optimism and competition.  Instead, the once harmonic wave of magic only filled his heart with dread and despair. All the while he could feel his body slowly encasing him in stone. Knowing very well that this may very well be his third time turned to stone and last time he would ever speak, he turned to Twilight.  He stretched out his claw to her like a wounded animal begging for salvation, his face filled with despair. Twilight her selfe gasped as a tears trickled down his face.” “Twilight!” Discord pleaded, his voice trembling as he spoke “Tell Fluttershy I lo-” Before he could finish, his mouth turned to marble and Spirit of Chaos remained still.  He was once again, nothing more than a statue now.  Twilight peered up at the fearful face on the her former foe and felt a deep sense of remorse. She glanced at his open mouth, his widen eyes, the fear they portrayed captured forever like a photograph.  By far, what unsettled her the most were little stone bumps under his eyes which had moments ago been tears. “Discord!” she said softly as her own eyes began to water.  “I promise I’ll reclaim the elements and me and the…” She stopped herself as she saw that her proposal was no longer possible.  Twilight cured her own helplessness. Celestia put a wing round Twilight.  “We can find new bears, and break the seal. There are plenty of nobol ponies that could easily take up the mantle. While they may never replace them, you find that…” Cue Music http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=IBvg1lJkpeU “Oops!” shouted Shimmer as she a cone of energy shot from her horn. “No!” Twilight and Celestia shouted in unison. Smah Luna, Celestia, and Twilight watched in shock as Discord’s statue exploded into a trillion small pieces. Not a single pony moved as chunks of debris bounced off of them. “The break is over!” said Shimmer said with an impatient tone. “Time to get back to the fight.” The Alcorns violently spread their wings and lunged towards Shimmer.  Celestia tackled Shimmer as the two them broke into a struggle. There horns locked together as they hoved in the air, there hate filled eyes staring back at each other. “You're awfully sad Celestia!” said Shimmer as she levitated her teacher and threw her into a wall.  “What, were you two fuck buddies at one point.” Celestia lifted herself up from the the wall and sent a wave of divine light at her former student. Shimmer snarled like a feral animal as the holy energy of Celestia sent her hurtling towards the dining room. “While I may not had romantic feelings for him” scolded Celestia as she glided towards the dining room “I always knew that there was good in him underneath all of his darkness, so I sought his friendship.  Answer me this though, how can a draconequus show more competition and understanding then you.” Celestia shot another radiant attack at Shimmer who was lying atop the long dinner table. Not wanting to get hit again, Shimmer conjure a bearer to counter the attack. It ricocheted off the shield and blew a massive hole in the ceiling.  When the bearer lifted the Luna saw there chance to strike. Glided past the falling chunks of crystal that once made up the ceiling, they brought their horns together zapped Shimmer with a combined attack. “No!” she shouted. The demonic alicorn winced in pain as her defences began to crumple. “I will burn you all.” The three princess were sent flying backwards towards opposite ends of the room as a violent explosion of fire magic formed around Shimmer. “You and your kingdom will burn!” yelled Shimmer, her voice somewhat disordered by the intense amount of magic surrounding her. Meanwhile, as Shimmer’s attack began to spread to knocked down the crystal walls of the caste, Cadence felt her feet shake on top of her balcony.  On instinct she took to the air just as the balcony and the castle began to sink. Both her and the crystal ponies who had gathered to hear her speak watched as there pressions began to topple over. “The Heart!” Cadence shouted. The Crystal ponies watched with horror as the small court yard  under the castle was crushed by the deberry, and with it, the Crystal Heart. As the fire stretched outward, the crystal walls of the castle began to collapsible. The rest of the princess flew to Cadance, each one panting. “Is she dead?” asked Twilight. Twilight’s question was quickly answered when up from the derby rose Shimmer, leaving a trail of fire behind her as she rose into the air. “We can’t let this battle escalate in the city!” shouted as she unfurrowed her wings and charged her horn.  “I’ll try and lure her out into the tundra and away from the Empire, when we’re far enough away, attack her from behind.” The princess nodded as Cadance took off, with the other princesses training behind. She zapped Shimmer with a low level spell, hoping to get her attention.  Growling like a feral beast, Shimmer soared towards Cadance and gave chase.  She shot volleys of fire balls at the pink mare, which she did her best to dodge them.  One of the fireballs scorched her mane a bit, making her wince in pain.  Even so she kept on flying, doing her best not only to out fly Shimmer, but to not get scorched by her relentless attacks. The crystal ponies watched as helplessly as the monster which had destroyed their castle chased after their beloved ruler.  Although the heart of the empire had been lost, the ponies of the empire silently prayed for young Cadence, hoping that she would once again conquer the evil that had befallen their small kingdom. All the while Twilight and the Royal Sisters followed Cadance and Shimmer from a safe distance, preparing to attack their foe as soon as it was safe.  When at last they were well beyond the city limits, they fired, sending shimmer hurtling to the icy ground below. Cadance flew downward, hoping to finish the fight once and for all and avenge her husband. Suddenly, Shimmer made an aerial recovery and lunged towards her, hooves wrapped around Cadences neck.  The pink mare gagged as she desperately tried to brush the the devil off, but to no avail. “Time to join your husband in hell.” She snickered as Shimmer’s body became a giant mass of fire. Cadance cried in agony as her coat turned as she caught fire, the flames traveling through her mane like a match. Seeing her childhood friend in pain Twilight lunged forward and prepared unleash a devastating spell. Shimmer levitated Cadance’s burning body and chuckled. “How about a little fire book worm!” she said, as she tossed Cadence in the air toward Twilight. Twilight gasped as she tried to move out of the way, wishing she had practice flying more with Rainbow Dash.  Shimmer’s laughter echoed in her head as Cadance crashed into her and sent them falling. ---------- Switch Music! http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=CxSXm8qGjS8 “Twi… light...” echoed a soft voice. The purple alicorn opened her eyes and looked at Cadance. The two of them were laying in the snow, both severely burned.  While she couldn’t tell what damage the fire had done to her body, but she felt the pain it had left behind. She looked at Cadance, her beautiful pink coat now charred black, and her long creamy mane all but burnt way.  For Twilight, seeing her childhood friend like this was more painful than any physical pain Shimmer could inflict on her. “Cadance.” she said, her voice faint and raspy. “I’m… I’m sorry I couldn’t save everypony. I’m sorry this happened to you. All of this.” Cadance struggled to place a hoof around her, but stopped when she was agitating the burns. “Twilight, cough, you have nothing, cough, nothing to apologise for.  I thought the heart could have stopped her, but I didn’t activate it in time!  Now, I don’t think I’m going to make…” Twilight eyes began to tear up. “I don’t think I am either, but until I do I’ll be with you, Cadance. You won’t have to be.” The two of them smiled faintly and gave each other a gentle hoof bump. “I’m not sure if you remember.” said Cadance. “But I once told you you were more than an ordinary unicorn.” Twilight nodded. “I remember.” “I meant it.” she said as her own eyes began to cry. “You’ve meant more to me than you may know.  I know I only became your foal sitter in the beginning in order to get closer to Shining Armor, but know that you're really were the filly I loved to sit for the most.  I’m just glad I won’t have to die alone.” “Please Cadence!” Twilight pleaded. “I don’t want to either.” Twilight felt Cadence press on her off. She looked up and saw she was trying to say something.” “Sun…sun…lady…wake...” Twilight smiled as another large tear dripped down her face. “Clap your hooves and do a little shake.” she said, trying her best to smile for Cadance. Cadance let out faint giggle and smiled.  She giggled for about two whole minutes before she fell silent. Twilight laid there and looked at Cadance, grateful that the two of them were holding together. “I promise we’ll survive Cadance!” she said. “Our love for eachother will get us through this.” Cadance didn’t respond, her eyes still facing twilight and her mouth still smiling. “Cadance?” she cried worriedly. After minutes without hearing a response, Twilight had to except the worse. Princess Mi Amore Cadenza was dead, and despite what she said, Twilight knew it was her fault. Her body felt cold as the wind blew snow on top of their bodies.  She too could feel that her time was almost up.  She closed her eyes and waited for the end, silently thanking Cadence for being there with her. As her heart beat began to slow down, she looked out into the snow and saw something.  Rainbow Dash, Cadance, Shining, Rarity and Applejack were all standing there in a golden light calling her forth. Her lips curled into a smile as her heart beat halted to a stop.