It has been a less than a week since Greg Sanders returned to Earth. He was found in a park in Colorado. He didn't think he'd get a lot of attention just by being dropped off in a park, but boy was he wrong.
For the last two days, he thought he was going to be held captive once again, this time by his own government, but he was surprised to get free meals as well as a shave and haircut before being put into an interrogation room. He knew that there was someone behind the one-way mirror and he just stands in front of it.
"Cy, you go talk to him." A woman in the room says.
A minute later, the door opens up and in comes a man roughly his age, dressed more casually, wearing a pair of khaki cargo pants, a black shirt and a brown leather jacket. It wasn't one of those biker jackets. No, it was heavier. "Have a seat." The man suggests. Greg complies and the mystery man sits down across from him. The man sets a file folder in front of him. "Your name is Greg Sanders, right?" The man asks. Greg nods. "My name is Cyrus Stark. I work freelance for the Universal Security Organization. They've been piecing together your puzzle since you came back."
Greg was shocked by what this Cyrus man knew. "What do you know?" He asks.
Cyrus clears his throat as he opens the folder. "Gregory Alexander Sanders. Born May second, 1990 in Cook County Hospital at three-fourteen AM; part time writer; disappeared along with Chicago's Daily Herald editor Katherine Lawrence August of 2011 while vacationing in the Rockies." Greg's shock was more apparent after Cyrus said all of that. He knew this and forces back a smile. "The USO knows a lot, Mister Sanders, but we don't know everything." He admits. "So... would you mind telling me what happened?" He asks. "Even if you think it would sound absurd, tell me."
Greg looks Cyrus in the eye. "Can I get a cup of coffee first?" He requests. Cyrus looks to the mirror and nods.
A few minutes pass and a man carrying a paper coffee cup and a pot of coffee enters the room and sets it on the table. "Would you like sugar and cream?" He asks.
"No, thank you." Greg says, pouring his first cup of Earth coffee in... "What's today?" He asks Cyrus.
"Today is Saturday, June seventh, 2014." Cyrus answers. "I'd say you had a lot to catch up on, but I'd be lying. Barack Obama was reelected and is in the middle of his second term; Republicans managed to shut down the government for a while, threatening to allow the country to default on its debts; the Affordable Care Act is in full effect, et cetera, et cetera."
"That's quite a bit already, Cyrus." Greg notes, taking a sip of his coffee. "But we're here to talk about me."
Cyrus nods. "Yes. Now... shall we begin?"
I stare into my coffee and let out a quiet sigh. As he said, Kate and I were abducted almost three years ago. Our immediate reaction was typical: we were afraid and confused. Neither of us knew why they took us or what they had planned. They separated us and put us into different rooms, each with its own occupant. My first roommate was a quadruped who excelled in massage therapy, hers was the Avian named Stor. The next day on what I would call the weekly socializing, I met Stor, the one alien being on that vessel I could trust with my life.
A month after our arrival, the woman I was sharing my room with was taken, and in came another. She was a biped and almost human. Stor was taken to another room and in his place was a Belfrean male. Belfreans have the mentality of Scarrans, have an appearance resembling a Krogan and ferocity of Klingons. This Belfrean should've been kept in isolation. Had they done so... Kate would still be alive today. One of the scientists, Ziabok, understood my pain upon losing her and sympathized, but all he could do was continue his work.
Months pass and roommates shuffle. I think I was there for fourteen months before I met the Pony Applejack and her siblings. Those three were probably more frightened upon their arrival than Kate and I were. There was little time, and I HAD to get them back home. It would take a couple of days, but I made sure they were back home.
I decided to blow up the ship. I came to realize that it was a mistake to do such a thing, and I ended up spending roughly ten weeks there, after I learned their reasoning behind the abductions.
"They needed to help their allies." Cyrus says, interrupting Greg's statement.
Greg gives him a shocked look. "How did you know that?"
Cyrus clears his throat. "We have our ways." He explains. "'Project Storm' was an effort to find the key sequence needed to reverse the Galtrans' condition."
Greg swallows hard. How could this person know so much about what was going on, yet not do anything about it? "How long have you known about this?"
"Since you disappeared." Cyrus says. "You're probably wondering why we didn't do anything, right?" Greg nods. "The Universal Security Organization only acts when absolutely necessary."
"You said you work freelance, right?" Greg asks with a confused tone.
"I do, but I have my own problems to deal with." Cyrus says. "Problems that are roughly as old as the universe itself, but I'll save that story for a later day."
"If you know what happened to me... and Kate... then why are we here?" Greg asks, crossing his arms.
"We just wanted to confirm that your memory wasn't altered." Cyrus answers. "We're done here, Mister Sanders. You're free to go." He continues, sliding an envelope to Greg. "We've already got you a plane ticket from DIA to O'Hare."
Greg lets out a relieved sigh. "Thank you, Cyrus."
Cyrus stands up, taking the folder with him. "Don't mention it." He says before walking to the door. "How would you like to see them again?"
Greg raises an eyebrow. "The Apple family?" Cyrus nods. "That'd be great, but I don't have a way to get there."
Cyrus smiles. "The USO does." He says before walking out of the room.
This could be Greg's big chance to see them again, not to mention see her friends and family again and explore a new world as he'd only been in Ponyville and Canterlot. He stares into a near empty cup. If this Universal Security Organization had a way to get Greg back to Applejack's world... where else could it take him? He drinks down the last of the coffee, stands up, walks over to a trash bin, throwing away the cup before leaving the room.
Greg is escorted to the lobby, where he catches up to Cyrus and a woman he guessed to be a Universal Security Organization employee. "Mister Stark!" He calls. The two turn around. "How long does your offer stand?"
"Indefinitely, Mister Sanders." Cyrus answers. "We're heading to USO headquarters right now if you'd like to tag."
Greg scratches the back of his head. "Give me a couple of weeks." He says. "I want to catch up with my family."
Cyrus nods. "Fair enough." He says before the three exit the police station and walk to the back end. Cyrus pulls the sleeve of his jacket up, revealing a device that looked like a cross between Fallout's Pip-Boy and Stargate SG-1's GDO.
"What's that?" Greg asks.
Cyrus activates the device and it opens up a portal in front of them. "This is a portable Spatial Rift Generator." He says, pulling his sleeve back down. "It's a device that can take us anywhere at any time." Cyrus and the woman approach the portal, but look back at a baffled Greg. Cyrus and the woman enter the rift and after a few moments it disappears.
It was a long three hour flight. The Universal Security Organization went all out and got him the best flight he had ever been on. How was he going to explain their disappearance? How was he going to explain Kate's death to her parents? He knew for sure no one would believe him if he said they were abducted by aliens, she died on their watch, he blew up their ship, and he spent a couple of months with an equine race before being brought back. No... he'll have to come up with something and he'll need to come up with it quickly.
He arrives at the O'Hare terminal and sees his name plastered on a big piece of cardboard. Hoping it's a friend, cousin... someone he knew, he approaches the person. No... it was someone else.
"Are you with the Universal Security Organization?" He asks.
The woman nods. "I am, Mister Sanders. Name's Tina." She says, extending her hand. "I'm here to take you to your apartment."
Greg shakes her hand. "Thanks, Tina." He says before what she said hits him like a ton of bricks. "I still have an apartment?"
On their way to his apartment, Greg couldn't help but notice all the damage in the downtown area. "What happened while I was gone?"
Tina takes a deep breath. "There was a firefight several months ago." She says. "On one side was Cyrus and the USO, the other were the Shadows. Earth wasn't the only planet affected though."
Greg raises an eyebrow. "Shadows?"
Tina nods. "That's the name of the artificial life forms that were created billions of years ago."
If the universe taught Greg anything it's that the truth really is stranger than fiction. "How many casualties?"
Tina turns the car into a parking lot. The parking lot of his apartment building. "One too many..." She says before parking in front of the building. "We hope to see you again soon, Greg."
Greg steps out of the car. "Likewise." He says before closing the door. "Thank you guys so much for taking care of the place."
Tina nods. "That's our job." She says. "Welcome home, Greg."
Greg enters his apartment, surprised none of his neighbors greeted him. His laptop sat closed on the coffee table. The entertainment center still had his stuff in it. Now for the moment of truth. He walks into the kitchen and opens the refrigerator, which was well stocked. He grabs a half gallon of milk and checks out the sell by date. Everything was fresh. He pulls out the orange juice and pours himself a glass before heading to the coffee table.
Greg sits down at the sofa and sets the glass next to the laptop before opening it. "Where did I put it?" He asks himself as he searches for the power supply for his laptop. He opens the sofa's center console and finds it. "Right where I left you."
He plugs the power supply into the laptop, then into the wall outlet and then turns it on. He's greeted with the quiet sound of the laptop's fan followed by the Windows 7 splash screen. There was something different about the desktop though. There was a new folder labeled "Equus" and the wallpaper was that of Applejack. He opens up the folder and is greeted by four subfolders labeled "Season 1", "Season 2", "Season 3" and "Equestria Girls". He opens up the "Season 2" subfolder and finds twenty-six video files. He scans the titles until he comes across "A Canterlot Wedding".
Greg smiles seeing the title. He did want to see Shining Armor and Princess Cadance's wedding. Time to see how it went.
Greg spent almost an hour and a half watching the videos. It was probably a good thing he didn't stay for the wedding and for the battle with King Sombra, but he wished he could've helped out.
He gets a Skype video call from his mother and answers. "Hey, mom." He says.
His mother smiles. "Greg! Oh thank god you're alright!" She says, breaking into tears. "Your father and I were so worried about you. Is Kate there by any chance?"
Greg shakes his head. "Unfortunately not." He says grimly. "I need to get a hold of her parents and let everyone know what happened." He continued. He had the lie completely fleshed out. He didn't want to lie, but it'd be better for everyone if he did. He sees Kate's mother log into Skype. "Speak of the devil." He says. "Hang on, I'll get you guys into a group chat."
He starts the group video chat and Kate's mother had the same reaction to seeing Greg as his own did. "Leslie, is your husband home?" He asks.
Leslie shakes her head. "No, he's at work right now." She answers. "Where's Kate?"
Greg takes a deep breath. "I regret to inform you that she's dead..." He begins truthfully. "We decided to take a vacation in Colorado, then we got the idea to join a Peace Corps type group and we were sent to the Middle East." The lie began.
Both mothers shrug. "Why didn't you say anything sooner?" Greg's mom asks.
"Yeah, if we had known that you two were going to do that-" Kate's mom says.
"It was a spur of the moment thing and it slipped our minds." He explains. "We were helping some people get to an aid station, an IED detonated and..."
The two nod. "Why didn't we hear anything about it?" Leslie asks.
Greg shakes his head. "My best guess is they were flooded with so much paperwork. It didn't happen long ago, maybe three weeks ago. I just got off of a plane from Colorado hours ago." He continues. "I'm sorry, Leslie. Even I barely made it out alive."
Leslie nods, wiping away some tears. "I'm sure you did everything you could to help her."
Greg's mom was breathing heavily and wiping away her own tears. "She was such a sweet girl." She says. "What are you going to do now, Greg?"
He shrugs. "I'm not sure. There's a group in Colorado who offered me a job... I might take that." He says. "It'll pay well and I'll get to visit new places."
The mothers nod. "Then do it, Greg." Leslie says.
His mother agreed. "Yeah. At this point, you'll need some distractions."
"I'll talk to you guys later." He says before closing the chat. He hadn't noticed yet, but there was a new contact in his Skype list, it belonged to the Universal Security Organization. He calls up the contact.
After a few rings, the connection was established. "This is Dennis Michaels of the Universal Security Organization, how can I help you today?" The man on the other end said.
"Hi, my name is Greg Sanders. I was won-"
"Oh! Mister Sanders! We've heard a lot about you." Dennis interrupts. "I'm going to assume you want to return to Equus."
"Yeah." Greg says. "How long would it take to get me out there?" He asks.
"We can get you here as soon as you're ready."
Greg lets out a quiet sigh. "Well... I'm ready."
"Excellent." Dennis says. "I'll let SRG control know right away."
"Thank you." Greg says before closing the chat.
How long was it going to take? Apparently not long. Five minutes after he talked to Dennis, a rift opens up in his living room. "Damn, that's accurate." He comments before standing up and walks through the rift.
He exits the portal, which closes up behind them. He takes a look around his new surroundings. It looked like Earth human architecture. "Where are am I?" He asks.
Cyrus and the woman from earlier walk up to him. "Welcome to USO headquarters in Seattle." Cyrus answers, shaking Greg's hand before turning back to the woman. "I'm going to help Greg out." He says before giving her a quick kiss. "I'll be in Cadamia after I see him off, Aur."
"Aur" walks up to Greg and shakes his hand. "Good luck, Greg." She says before walking away.
"Is that your girlfriend?" Greg asks Cyrus.
"Yeah. Aurora Filnore. I met her when fighting Clive back on her home world." Cyrus answers. "I wouldn't want to get on her bad side, though. She can be pretty mean." He continues.
"We're in Seattle?" Greg asks. "I thought you guys were based in Colorado."
Cyrus shakes his head. "Nope. You were found in Colorado, so we borrowed the interrogation room." He answers. "People from all over the world are employed at the USO."
The two move on and enter the control room. The SRG operator glances back at Cyrus before returning to his workstation. "Cyrus." He calls.
Cyrus walks up to the operator. "Hey, Dave." He says. "Any chance we can open a rift to Equus?" He asks.
Dave scoffs. "Of course I can." He says. "Planning on more observation?"
Cyrus lets out a quiet grunt. "I'm planning on taking this guy to see some friends of his."
Dave turns and looks at Greg. "Greg Sanders." He says with an almost impressed tone. "The formerly abducted human." He continues, looking at Cyrus. "Is he going to join the USO?" He asks.
Cyrus shrugs, noticing Greg's curious look. "That's up to him, I suppose."
Greg was feeling ignored at this point. "Excuse me." He says. "I don't want to sound rude, but can we hurry this up?"
Dave chuckles. "Sorry, Greg. I'll get right on it." He says, turning back to his computer. He turns on the PA system. "Outgoing rift to Equus in thirty minutes."
Greg follows Cyrus out of the room. "Thirty minutes?" He asks.
Cyrus glances over at Greg. "Technically we could open a rift now, but it's a good idea to let the device cool down." He advises. "In the meantime, I can show you what your friends have been up to."
The two enter yet another room. This time with various locations on different monitors. Cyrus walks up to the agent sitting in front of it. "Could you pull up the Equus footage, dated February sixteen, 2013?" He requests.
"Yeah, sure." The agent responds. Promptly pulling up the footage and placing the video in the center monitor.
Greg gives the video an odd look. "I watched four episodes at home, but what I don't understand is why it looks like a flash cartoon."
"That's a mystery, even to us." The agent answers. "It's been a hit with a lot of people, young and old." He continues, eliciting a shudder from Cyrus, who was far from being what the fandom dubbed a "brony", but he showed no animosity to those who were. It wasn't his place to judge someone based on their taste in TV shows.
"Wait... people actually watch this?" Greg asks, unsure as to whether this was a good idea or not.
"A lot of what we watch on television is abridged footage from different worlds." Cyrus says. "Most come from alternate realities." He continues, patting Greg on the shoulder before walking to the door. "I'll be back when it's time."
The video was finished and Greg wasn't sure what to make of it. "Six minutes until the rift to Equus opens up!" Dave said over the PA.
"Looks like I better make my way to the control room." Greg says. "Thanks."
"No problem." The agent says. "I hope it works out for ya."
Greg stands up and walks to the door. He stops before opening it and turns to the agent. "Dave said something about me joining you guys." He says. "What's that about?"
The agent set the middle screen to a live feed. "What you've managed to do in the last few years have impressed the bosses." He answers. "If they feel that you're ready to join the ranks, they'll ask you to. The decision to actually do so ultimately lies with you."
Greg leaves the room and meets up with Cyrus in the hallway. "Thank you again, Cyrus." He says, shaking the man's hand.
"No problem." He responds. "At least you'll be able to catch up with your new friends."
Greg nods. "Will you be going with me?" He asks.
"I'm afraid I can't, Greg." Cyrus answers. "I'm going to be busy for a while." He continues. "In more ways than one." He finishes, jabbing Greg in the side with his elbow.
Cyrus and Greg enter the SRG room. "Ten seconds until the Equus rift opens!" Dave updates on the PA.
To Greg, that ten seconds felt like an eternity. Lots of questions race through his mind: Would they remember him? Should he join these people? Among others.
The rift opens and Cyrus pats Greg on the back. "The rift will take you to their farm close to the Apple residence." He says.
A USO agent enters the room and hands something to Cyrus before leaving. "Ah yes!" Cyrus says to himself, handing a portable SRG to Greg. "Your own SRG, Greg." He says. "It's got a speed dial function, and speed dial one will bring you here."
Greg takes the portable device. "Cyrus... do you guys honestly think I'm USO material."
Cyrus nods. "We all saw what you've done. You stood up against alien scientists, blew up their ship then took responsibility for your actions." He assures Greg. "We would've ended up rescuing you if they weren't a benevolent race." He finishes, smacking him on the back. "Go on now, don't keep those ponies waiting."
Greg puts on the SRG and slowly approaches the rift. As he stands in front of it, he touches the portal. It felt like a liquid substance, but he didn't get wet. It's now or never, he thought before stepping into the rift.
The rift had been placed half an inch above the ground, resulting in Greg stumbling out of it. He turns back to the portal, but it was already gone. He grumbles at the empty space before examining the environment. Cyrus didn't lie. This was definitely Sweet Apple Acres.
"GREG!!" The unmistakable voice of Apple Bloom yells.
Wait a sec... Celestia's translation spell still works? Greg turns to the source of the voice, sees the filly gallop up to him and smiles. "Hey, Apple Bloom!" He yells back.
Apple Bloom leaps up and Greg catches her for a hug. "Ah never though Ah'd see ya again!" She yells out.
Greg chuckles. "I did tell Twilight that I'd be back if I found a way." He says before setting the filly back on the ground. "And I found a way."
Apple Bloom smiles. "Ya sure did!" She exclaims happily. "Ooh! Ah'm gonna go get AJ!"
Apple Bloom gallops toward town, leaving Greg on the farm. He walks up to the Apple family residence and is ready to knock on the door when it opens up. Noisemakers sound, confetti flies all over the place and Greg stumbles backward, ending up falling on his back.
"WELCOME BACK, GREG!" The pink party pony yells, helping a stunned Greg back onto his feet.
Greg dusts off his clothes. "Thanks, Pinkie..." How did she know he was going to be here today? It was probably best not to ask that question openly. For all he knew, she could be a USO agent.
She looks at his forearm. "OOOOH! What's that?" She asks. "Is that the device you used to get from your homeworld to here?"
Greg was more baffled than ever. Was she really a USO agent, or was she just guessing? "How did you know that?" He finally asks.
"Just a hunch!" She says before bouncing out of the house and back into town. "See ya tonight, Greg!"
The sounds of light hoofsteps and creaking metal emanate from the house. Greg looks back in and sees Granny Smith trotting up. "Are ya comin' or not?" She asks. Greg smiles, enters the house and closes the door behind him.
"It's good to see you again, Granny Smith." He says to the old mare before giving her a hug. "I understand a lot's happened while I was gone."
Granny Smith nods. "Darn tootin' a lot's happened." She confirms. "Have a seat." She offers and Greg does. "Are ya thirsty? We got a fresh batch of cider in the cellar."
Greg starts salivating. "I am now." He says. "Would you like some help bringing it up?" He offers.
Granny Smith waves a hoof. "Nah." She says. "That's what Big Macintosh is here for."
Apple Bloom returns to Sweet Apple Acres with her big sister. "Ah thought you said he was here?" AJ asks.
Apple Bloom rubs a hoof on the top of her head. "Ah knew Ah saw him here." She says. "Maybe he went inside."
The two enter the house and see Greg, Granny Smith and Big Macintosh at the table drinking cider and laughing.
"Ah don't believe it!" AJ says, wide-eyed and grinning. She does her best not to gallop up to him and tackle him. She trots up to him and hugs him. "It's good to see ya again, Greg!"
Greg returns the hug. "It's good to be seen, AJ." He says with a content sigh. "I've been catching up with your brother and grandma."
AJ backs up and sits between him and Big Macintosh. "How'd ya get here, by the way?" She asks. "Apple Bloom says some kinda portal opened up on the farm and you were spat out of it."
Greg nods. "That's exactly how I came here." He says, showing them the portable Spatial Rift Generator. "The technology behind this device is what got me here."
AJ chuckles. "Are ya sure it ain't magic?" She asks with a wink. Greg chuckles. "Are ya gonna be here long term this time, or are ya gonna go back?"
Greg shakes his head. "I'll be here for a while. So tell me, how are AJ and her friends doing?"
AJ lets out a quiet hum and rubs her chin. "Well... Rarity's been gettin' more work in Canterlot; Rainbow's still goin' through Wonderbolt training; Twilight's been playin' politician after her uh..." she looks over to her family, who shrug.
"Inauguration?" Greg asks.
AJ nods. "Yup." She says. "That's the word Ah was lookin' for."
Greg nods. "What about you, Pinkie Pie and Fluttershy?"
AJ bobs her head. "Same ol', same ol'." She chuckles. "Ah'm sure you've got some interesting stories to tell since we saw ya."
Greg shakes his head. "Not really. They picked me up and brought me back home." He says before scratching his head. "On the way they scanned my brain, trying to figure out how to reproduce Celestia's translation spell."
AJ chuckles. "Did they?"
Greg shrugs. "Beats me. When we arrived back at my world about a week ago they hadn't figured it out. It'll keep 'em busy for a while, that's for sure."
The Apple family's eyes widen. "You were only back for a week?" AJ asks.
Greg rubs the back of his neck. "Did I forget to mention that?" He gets a circle of glares from the ponies. "Hey... don't give me that look. I can go back whenever I want from wherever I'm at." He says, getting a laugh out of them.
AJ waves a hoof. "We're messin' with ya, Greg."
Greg quietly chuckles to himself. "Right..." He says before taking a deep breath. "So where's Twilight right now?"
AJ shrugs. "No clue." She admits. "She was supposed to be in Saddle Arabia for a week... but that was a couple of months ago."
Greg couldn't believe what he was hearing. "Is there a search party after her?"
AJ nods. "Yeah." She says flatly. "Unfortunately, nopony's been able to find anythin'."
A thought crosses Greg's mind. He could ask the USO for the new princess' location and send help her way, but would they do it? He looks over at the portable SRG, debating whether he should or not. He runs a thumb on the side of the device and feels an impression. He presses in and a storage space pops out containing what looks like a wireless headset. "I'll be damned..." He whispers.
AJ and the others were confused as Greg puts the headset into his ear. "Greg?"
Greg raises a finger, indicating them to wait as he presses the button on the headset. "Hello?" He says. "Greg Sanders to anyone."
"Go ahead, Mister Sanders." A voice responded.
"There's a problem here on Equus." He says. "A Princess Twilight Sparkle is missing and I request a location."
"I'm sorry, Mister Sanders, but-"
Greg slams a fist onto the table. "No!" He yells into the headset. "A VIP on this world is missing and I'm only asking for a location, whether if it's a last known location or current location. I'll handle the rest out here."
"Of course. Give us a moment." The voice says.
Moments pass. Greg raps his fingers against the table. "Sorry." He mouths to the ponies.
"Good news, Mister Sanders. Twilight Sparkle is on a train headed toward Ponyville."
Greg lets out a sigh. "Thank you. Sanders out." He says before removing the headset and placing it back into it's container.
The Apples were staring at him in expectation. "Well?" Apple Bloom asks.
"She's on a train coming into Ponyville." He says, relieving the ponies.
"That's good to know." AJ says. "Ah guess we can ask her what she was up to all this time."
"Let's go to the station and meet her." Greg says, standing up. "I'd like to stop at the library real quick." He adds. "Hopefully my stash of money wasn't found."
Greg, AJ and Apple Bloom stopped at the library and met up with Spike as he looked for his money. Lucky for Greg it was still in his room, he was able to treat the two to milkshakes at Sugarcube Corner before waiting at the station.
"This is probably the best milkshake Ah've had from there yet." Apple Bloom comments.
Greg laughs. "There's an old saying where I come from: 'Everything tastes better when someone else is paying for it'." He takes one last sip from his cup and tosses it into the trash can.
AJ chuckles. "Ain't that the truth."
Moments later, the train arrives. Greg and the others stand up. "It's about time." AJ says under her breath. The train doors open and the first one to exit is Twilight herself. Like with Greg, she stops herself from tackling her princess friend.
Twilight sees Greg and gallops up to the three. "Greg! You're back!" She yells in a group hug. "Sorry I haven't contacted anypony, AJ." She says solemnly.
Greg smiles. "No sweat, Twi." He says. "I think we're all glad to know that you're alright." He examines the new Twilight and shakes his head. "Congratulations on the promotion."
Twilight beams. "Thanks Greg!"
Apple Bloom clears her throat. "Why don't we head back to the library and you can fill us on what you've been doin', Twi."
Twilight lets out a big yawn. "Maybe later, AJ." She promised. "I'd like to get some rest."
Greg, AJ and Apple Bloom escort Twilight back to the library. "We'll see ya later, Twilight." Greg says.
The trio turn around, and Twilight taps on Greg's arm. He turns around and Twilight beckons him to enter the library. He turns back to AJ and her sister who were racing to Sweet Apple Acres. He looks back at Twilight and nods.
They enter the library and Twilight trots to the table and sits next to it, letting out a low groan.
"You lied to them, didn't you?" He asks.
Twilight shakes her head. "No, I do want to get some rest, but I don't think I can trust anypony with the information I learned from my trip."
Curious, Greg walks to the table and sits across from Twilight. "I'll bite. What's going on?"
Twilight starts to smile. "Thank you Greg." She says. "There are rumors going around that the Changelings may be returning."
Greg snaps his fingers. "Didn't the Changeling Queen try to conquer Canterlot a while back?"
Twilight nods. "Yes, when my brother was going to marry Cadance. How did you know?"
Greg waves a hand. "I'll tell you later."
Twilight blinks a few times, trying to understand how he knew about that event. "Well, to be honest, I didn't hear anything concrete at first, but word has spread that the Minotaurs and Griffons were attacked by them."
Greg nods. "You were in Saddle Arabia then." Twilight lets out a confirmation grunt. "Then you decided to investigate."
Twilight nods. "Yes. I traveled to Griffon territory. There was plenty of evidence of Changeling activity... but there was something else."
"And what would that something else be?" Greg asked.
Twilight shakes her head. "I'm not entirely sure. I felt dark magic there... the kind that I hadn't sensed since the return of the Crystal Empire... but we defeated that threat."
Greg shakes his head. "Heavy." He comments. "Why are you trusting me with this, though? For all you know, I could be a Changeling."
"How long have you been back?" Twilight asks.
Greg shrugs. "A few hours maybe."
Twilight nods. "Okay... the Changelings know the physiology of most races enough to accurately mimic them, you're alien to our world, so it would take them longer than that to mimic your species with the same accuracy."
Greg nods. "Fair enough. You think the others might be Changelings though?"
Twilight shrugs. "It's hard to say. I hope not." She says. "Would you mind staying here tonight?"
Greg shakes his head. "Not at all, Twilight. If it'll help ease your mind, I'll stay for the night."
Meanwhile, in another room of the library, Spike was eavesdropping on their conversation. "Talking about Changelings and dark magic?" He thought to himself as he picks up a scroll. Going against his better judgment, he quietly breathes fire on the scroll to send it to Celestia. He then puts an apron on and picks up a broom and dust pan. He exits the room and closes the door behind him. "Your room's all ready, Greg." He says. "That's if you're staying tonight." Greg nods. "Excellent." He continues, looking over to Twilight. "Rarity's got me helping her out with some stuff, would you-?"
Twilight shakes her head. "Not at all, Spike." She says. The little dragon takes off like a bullet. "I wonder what's got him in a big rush?"
Greg shrugs. "No clue, Twilight." He says before standing up. "I am going to let you go rest and I am going to look for some work."
Twilight smiles. "Thank you, Greg... and welcome back."
It was great to be back on this world. Back to the controlled weather; back to sane politics; back to the nonexistence of ponies preaching about this deity or that deity and telling other ponies how to redeem themselves for said deity; back to the odd jobs. A rainbow blur races overhead. Greg follows Rainbow Dash's unmistakable contrail back to her. It was low enough for him to actually touch.
Rainbow races back to Greg. "Hey! I must've been going too fast, I didn't see ya for a sec." She says before hovering beside him. "How long have you been back?"
"A few hours." Greg answers. "I heard everyone missed me."
Rainbow laughs. "You have no idea. The day you left, Flitter and Cloudchaser went nuts."
Greg lets out a quiet groan. "Right... my stalkers."
"Sorry to cut this short, but I was on my way to the Wonderbolts' training camp. I'll see ya later!" She says before taking off.
Greg makes his way to Carousel Boutique. On the way, he'd run into many ponies, many of whom would wave and say welcome back, some would approach him and give him a hug. He approaches the door, clears his throat and knocks on it a few times.
"Come in!" The unmistakable chipper voice of Rarity sang.
Greg opens the door, enters and closes it behind him. "I hope I'm not interrupting anything." He says.
The white Unicorn turns to him, gasps and gallops up to him. "You're back!" She squeals, giving him maybe the tenth hug he's had today. "It's been too long." She adds.
"Greg's here?!" Sweetie Belle asks loudly, trotting down the stairs faster than she normally would. "Welcome back!" She says.
Greg laughs. "It's good to be back." He says. "How are things going between you girls and Diamond Tiara and Silver Spoon?" He asks.
Sweetie Belle giggles. "Well, they were still picking on us, but not as bad after you talked to Filthy Rich. And since Apple Bloom's cousin dropped by, they picked on us even less."
Greg nods. "Excellent. I'm glad to hear that." He says before focusing on Rarity again. "And how's business?"
Rarity smiles. "I've been busy lately." She says, returning to her workstation. "Since Shining Armor and Princess Cadance's wedding, I've been flooded with work from all corners of Equestria." She continues, picking up a needle and some thread. "Thankfully most of that work have no deadlines and I had already taken care of the ones that did."
Greg nods. "I'm glad to hear you and everyone else is doing well."
Out of nowhere, a creature that could be easily described as a Frankenstein reject pops into the store.
"What the hell are you?!" Greg asks in surprise.
"Such language." He said, tisking at Greg. "Good thing the little one couldn't hear that." He continues with a light chuckle. "But to answer your question, I'm a Draconequus."
"Discord..." Rarity grumbles.
"That's my name." Discord says, examining his paw. "I probably should head to the spa and get these filed down." With a snap of the talon, he disappears. "I'll be looking forward to properly meeting you, Mister Sanders."
Sweetie Belle trots to the door. "I'll be out with the others, sis!" She shouts. Greg opens the door. "Thanks!" She says, exiting the store.
Greg closes the door. "So who's this 'Discord' guy?"
Rarity lets out a quiet, frustrated groan. "He's the master of chaos and the former ruler of this land." She says, cutting a stray strand of fabric. "He reappeared a few months before Applejack was taken. His goal was to rebuild the land as he saw fit."
Greg crosses his arms. "But you and the others stopped him."
"That's right." Rarity says, finishing up one section of her current project. "He tricked us into acting the complete opposite of our appointed elements. I still thank Celestia every day for returning Twilight's letters to her."
"Alright, I'm going to let you get back to your work." He says, walking back to the door.
"Will you be staying with Twilight again, or Applejack?" Rarity asks.
Greg shrugs. "I'll be with Twilight tonight, but I'll probably stay with Applejack for a while." He says. "At least until I can get a place of my own."
Rarity trots up to Greg and nuzzles him. "In any case, it's good to see you again."
Greg shakes his head. "I've been getting that a lot." He says, opening the door. "I'll be seeing you, Rare." He stops at the threshold and looks back. "If you ever need any help, you know where to find me."
His next visit would be to town hall. There was a line of ponies already, but when he entered, they looked back at him and move aside, allowing him to approach the receptionist. "Thanks, everyone." He says, making his way up.
The receptionist greets him with a warm smile. One that he wasn't used to seeing back home. "Welcome back, Greg." She says. "I assume you want to talk to the mayor?"
Greg nods. "If she's free. If not, pass a message that I'm interested in work and finding a place to live."
The receptionist nods. "Will that be all?" She asks, hoping for more.
Greg nods. "For now."
"Where are you going to be staying?" She asks.
"Sweet Apple Acres starting tomorrow." He says.
"Okay, we'll send any mail for you there."
And with that, Greg starts to leave, that is until he bumps into a certain earth pony.
"Filthy Rich." Greg greets.
"Greg." Filthy responds, extending a hoof. "I never did get to thank you for reporting my daughter's behavior."
Greg shakes his hoof. "I hear she's calmed down some."
Filthy nods. "She has." He says. "Her mother and I have been more involved in her activities and will remain so."
Greg smirks. "That's better than most parents back home." He says, patting the stallion on the shoulder. "I'll be seein' ya around."
Greg has work secured for him, and hopefully, a permanent residence once he saves enough bits. His next visit would be to Fluttershy's cottage, one particular mare he didn't have much interaction with.
He sees her, her back turned to him as she's closing the door. "Fluttershy!" He yells. She lets out a shriek and bolts back into the cottage, slamming the door behind her. Greg lets out a quiet groan as he facepalms. He approaches the front door and slowly knocks on it a few times.
"Who is it?!" She yells out.
"It's Greg." He says.
The door slowly opens, she looks up to his smiling face. "Oh... it is you."
Greg kneels down next to her. "Sorry I scared you." He says, giving her a hug. "I was wondering if you could help me?"
Fluttershy steps out of the cottage and shuts the door behind her. "I was going into town to do some shopping." She says. "What do you want help with?"
"I'm looking into a permanent residence, and I was wondering if you could help me find a pet." He says, getting a lot of excitement out of the timid Pegasus.
"Really?!" She asks, fluttering up to his eye level. "I've got so many, what are you looking for?"
"That depends on my housing options, I'm thinking about a cat." He says. "Got any short haired?"
She nods. "Short hair, long hair, you want it, I've got it."
He smiles. "I don't doubt it." He says. "I don't have a place yet, but I'll definitely come by after I do."
She nods. "Of course. You're always welcome here, Greg." She says. "Um... if you don't mind... would you walk with me into town."
Greg waves an arm in front of him, gesturing her to go first. "After you." He says.
Greg walks Fluttershy to the market, picking up a basket on their arrival. "I'll handle the groceries." He offers.
"Thanks." She says.
The two walk over to a cherry stand. "What do you plan to do now, Greg?" She asks, paying the vendor for the cherries before moving on.
Greg rubs the back of his neck. "Well, I've been kinda thinking about getting back into writing."
The two stop at a carrot stand for Fluttershy's next purchase. "That would be wonderful." She says. Greg puts the carrots into the basket. "What would you write?"
The two continue. "My focus is adventure." He says with a low hum. "I think I'm going to have to bring the stories I've written out here," he adds, "the only problem is no one would be able to read them."
The two approach an orange stand. "Maybe the princess can help out with that." She suggested. "She did cast a translation spell on you after all."
Greg places the purchased oranges into the basket. "I think it would be best if I wrote them in my native language," he comments, "then have someone translate the text to your language."
"Maybe Twilight can help with the translation." She says as the two continue to the next stand.
Greg groans. "I wouldn't want to bother her with that." He says. "She's got enough on her plate as it is now that she's a princess."
"Then who would you pick?" She asks as they stand in line at the tomato stand.
"I don't know..." he admits, "everyone seems to be very busy lately."
"Next time you see Rainbow Dash, ask her." She suggests. "She got hooked on Daring Do when Twilight introduced that series to her." She giggles. "She'll probably like your stories as well."
The two inch along the line as a large shadow is cast. Every pony, and Greg, look to see what it was. It was Princess Celestia's chariot.
"I wonder why the princess is here?" Fluttershy comments. "We weren't expecting her for another month."
The chariot lands. Celestia exits it and every pony instinctually bows. Even Greg kneels. The sun princess trots over to Greg. "It's been a long time, Mister Sanders."
Greg nods. As he rises, every pony rises as well. "It has, Your Majesty," he agreed, "but please, call me Greg."
"Okay, Greg." She says. "Have you seen Twilight today?"
He nods. "Yeah, she should still be at the library, why?"
Celestia turns to her guard detail and nods, a few of the guards begin toward the library, then turns back to Greg. "As you may know, she was gone for a while."
Greg nods. "Yeah. She was telling me that she was investigating something."
It was Celestia's turn to nod. "Yes. I sent her to Saddle Arabia for meet and greets, then she informed me about Changeling attacks." She says. "After a month of investigating, she found out there's a possibility that King Sombra has returned."
Greg crosses his arms and lets out a quiet hum. "I heard about that. Didn't Shining Armor and Princess Cadance, along with the Crystal Ponies destroy him?"
"That was the report, yes." Celestia admits. "But he was a different case, as he wasn't entirely corporeal."
Greg nods. "I've read and watched enough sci-fi to know how that goes." He says, tapping his chin. "You're not thinking that Twilight's an imposter, do you?"
Celestia shrugs. "I hope not, but it's better to be safe than sorry."
"She's been through a lot, and she just came back." Greg explains. "Can't it wait until at least tomorrow before you interrogate her?"
"Unfortunately not." She says. "If she really is a Changeling, we need to do everything we can to prevent them from conquering not only Equestria, but the entire world."
"Um... excuse me..." Fluttershy tries saying.
"To what extremes?" Greg asks. "From what I've heard and read, they feed off of the love of others, like a Succubus." Celestia gives him a confused look. "It's like a drug for them, like power is to anyone." He explains. "And like any addiction, one can be weened off of it. It'll take a while that way, but it's much safer for everyone in the long run."
"Perhaps." Celestia says. "But they are tricksters and I was inclined to take you with us when I first saw you."
"Um..."
"Go ahead and take me, then." Greg says. "I have nothing to hide."
"Your Majesty." A guard calls. Celestia turns to the guard. "Princess Twilight Sparkle was not seen in the library."
Celestia turns back to Greg. "Where did she go?"
Greg shrugs. "I have no idea." He says. "She was there an hour ago."
"Guards, detain Mister Sanders and take him to Canterlot for questioning." Celestia orders.
Greg was being escorted to the chariot with Fluttershy alongside. "What do you want me to do, Greg?" She asks.
Greg shakes his head. "I don't know yet, but I'll think of something."
A guard pushes Fluttershy out of the way as they load Greg into the chariot.
Celestia hovers a few feet off the ground and raises a foreleg. "Citizens of Ponyville!" She begins. "Do not be alarmed! I assure you that there will not be a repeat of the incident in Canterlot!"
Greg shuffles in the seat. "Something doesn't smell right..." he grumbles, looking back to Celestia. The scene the two created was already dissipating.
Celestia returns to the chariot. Unicorn guards already inside with Pegasus guards covering the outside. Once she was ready, the chariot lifts off and leaves for Canterlot.
Fluttershy was at a loss. The day started out great. Twilight returned... Greg returned... but Changelings? King Sombra? This news made her sick. She had to find the others, and fast.
Twilight Sparkle enters the throne room and approaches Princesses Celestia.
"Princess Celestia." Twilight says, bowing before her teacher.
"We are equals, Twilight." Celestia says. "And always have been. There is no need to bow to me."
Twilight giggles sheepishly. "Sorry. Old habits, I suppose." She explains. "You needed to see me?"
Celestia nods. "Indeed." She says warmly. "Now that you are a princess and are familiar with the responsibilities that come with the position, it is time for you to properly acquaint yourself with the other leaders."
Twilight nods. "Of course. Where do you want me to start? The Griffons? Minotaurs?"
Celestia shakes her head. "No. Your first stop will be Saddle Arabia. You briefly met their delegates and I thought they would be the ideal choice to begin."
Twilight nods in agreement. "Then I will go to Saddle Arabia."
Nine Weeks Ago: Ponyville
Rarity enters the library as Twilight is packing her saddlebag and gasps. "Twilight, dear!" She shouts. "What in Equestria are you doing with that old thing?" She asks, referring to the bag.
Twilight fastens the latch on the bag. "This is my favorite bag. Why should I get rid of it?"
Rarity gasps again and sputters. "That may be fine for trotting around town, but you're a princess, Twilight!" She explains. "You simply must have a new, more elegant one for your new position."
Twilight groans. "The train leaves in three hours. If you can make one for me within one hour, I'll consider it."
Rarity's ears flatten. "That's a tall order, Twi." She says before her ears perk again. "Oh! I promise to have one made by the end of the day and send it upon completion." She says ecstatically. "Hopefully it'll be there before your arrival."
Eight Weeks Ago: Saddle Arabia
Twilight is escorted to a VIP room in the palace. "I hope your visit is a pleasant one, Your Majesty." The guard says.
Twilight smiles. "It has been so far already, thank you. And please, call me Twilight."
The guard bows his head. "As you wish, Twilight."
The guard salutes Twilight before leaving her to unpack.
A few minutes later, another guard approaches her room and knocks on the door. "Your Majesty," he calls, "a package has arrived for you." He says.
"Go ahead and put it on the bed." She says, organizing the dresser. The guard complies and places the parcel on the bed and leaves. After putting away the contents of her suitcase, she turns to the bed, looks at the package and smiles. "She did say it would be delivered before my arrival."
Now
In a cave somewhere between the Crystal Empire and Changeling territory, a massive blob of dark magical energy is in the process of rebuilding itself. A figure emerges from the outside, approaching the blob.
"Chrysalis..." A voice from the blob hisses. "You're late."
Chrysalis adjusts her mane. "My apologies." She says sarcastically. "We might have hit a snag."
"Have they found you out already?" The voice says irritably. "I shouldn't be surprised. It's been over two years since your failed attempt to conquer Canterlot."
Chrysalis huffs. "Don't forget your own failed attempt to retake the Crystal Empire." She throws out. "At least my Changelings and I were able to put up a fight." She shakes her head. "But no. They are not the problem, an outsider arrived in Equestria sometime this morning."
The blob groans. "What is it?" It asks. "Griffon? Dragon? Minotaur?"
Chrysalis shakes her head. "None of them. This is a different creature, alien to us, yet he is somehow familiar with us."
The face of King Sombra emerges from the blob. "Then go back and make sure this creature doesn't pose a threat to our plans!"
Chrysalis looks behind King Sombra to her victim and smiles before transforming into her. "Shining Armor and Cadance won't be able to save you this time." She says in Twilight's voice before letting out a maniacal laugh.
Chrysalis leaves the cave, Sombra shifts himself to face Twilight Sparkle and laughs. "Just wait until I get my hooves on the Crystal Heart..."
Eight Weeks Ago: Saddle Arabia
Twilight was in a meeting with one of the delegates she met in Ponyville, preparing herself to meet with her boss when a guard rushes into the room. "Pardon the interruption, but a messenger from the Griffon Empire has arrived, severely injured."
Twilight and the delegate are escorted to the hospital, to the Griffon guest's room. They look inside and the Griffon was barely awake. "I wonder what happened?" Twilight asks aloud.
A doctor exits the room. "The Griffon should be more alert in a few hours now that we're treating his wounds."
Before they could leave, they hear raspy breathing. "P... Princess..." The Griffon struggles. Twilight and the delegate approach his side. "Ch... Change... lings... attacked..." he manages to say before passing out.
Worried that the Changelings have returned, Twilight decides to write a letter to Celestia.
Dear Princess Celestia,
A messenger from the Griffon Empire arrived a few hours ago. He was barely alive then and it doesn't look good now. All he could say was that the Changelings attacked them. With your permission, I would like to investigate this attack.
Your faithful student,
Twilight Sparkle
She rolls up the scroll and sends it to her teacher. She then hears some knocking on the door, well it was open, so she looks over and sees the queen of Saddle Arabia.
"Forgive me for not meeting you sooner, Princess Twilight Sparkle." She says.
Twilight smiles. "It's fine, Your Highness. I figured the Changelings would resurface one day, but I never imagined it would've been this soon."
The queen nods. "I would like to offer you the escort of a few of my guards."
Suddenly a scroll appears before Twilight. "That was quick." She commented, opening the scroll.
Dearest Twilight,
I give you permission to begin your investigation, All I ask from you is to wait for a detachment of Pegasi guards and that you be careful.
Twilight rolls up the scroll and puts it in her bag. "It looks like there will be some time for us to talk. Princess Celestia is sending some Pegasi guards, and if the offer still stands, I would like some of your guards to join me as well."
The queen nods. "Of course."
Now, the cave
"Where is Chrysalis going?!" Twilight asks, struggling in her cocoon.
Sombra laughs. "Somewhere familiar, to prepare for the second phase of my plan."
Canterlot
The ride to the castle had been a dull one. Neither of them wanted to say anything to each other. The chariot lands, Celestia exits along with Greg and the Unicorn guards.
"Escort Mister Sanders to the holding area." The princess orders. "I still have a few things to take care of and then I'll be with him."
The Unicorn guards salute her. "Yes ma'am." One says, taking Greg away.
Celestia turns to her Pegasus guards. "You four search for Twilight Sparkle. Don't come back until you've found her. Am I clear?"
The Pegasi salute her. "Yes, ma'am!" They shout in unison before flying off.
Two hours have passed since Greg was locked up. He sits on his cot, thinking about the events that led him to his current situation. He looks onto his bare forearm, a Unicorn guard removed the SRG as he was being processed. He looks over at the Pegasus guard who was supposed to be watching him, but instead was reading some kind of magazine. "What are ya reading?" He asked, as he couldn't see the front cover. The guard ignores him and continues reading the magazine. "That good huh?" He continues, examining the guard's posture. It must be a dirty magazine judging from the way he's sitting.
The guard puts the magazine away and stands at attention as they hear the sound of hoofsteps approaching them. He clears his throat and composes himself before Celestia enters the room.
"I apologize it took so long." She says, trotting up to Greg's cell. She begins casting a spell, her horn glowing the same shade of yellow it did when she cast the translation spell on him, relieving the human. Upon completion, a wide beam scans him from head to toe.
"Let me guess..." he begins, "that was an identification spell." He surmised. She nods. "Can I come out now?"
"Of course." She says, turning to the guard. "Please release Greg." The guard picks up a key, trots to the cell door and opens it. Greg steps out and sighs. "Forgive me for doing that. One can never be too cautious."
"Not with Changelings running around." Greg adds. "I think we both know who the imposter is at this point."
Celestia nods. "I will send for her friends and I want you to help them find her."
The Crystal Empire
Chrysalis approaches the crystal castle with a pair of her Changelings posing as Pegasus guards, reciting Twilight and Cadance's silly secret hoofshake in her mind. Back when Twilight did it the first time, she thought it to be absurd. She enters the castle and both the princess and her prince were there to greet who they thought to be Twilight. Cadance rushes over and the two begin the ritual.
"Sunshine sunshine ladybugs awake; clap your hooves and do a little shake!" The two yell in unison while doing the dance. Chrysalis felt like vomiting in her mouth and clearly showed it.
Cadance giggles. "She's been on a long journey, Shiny."
Shining Armor nods. "Maybe." He says, smiling at his sister. "Still, we weren't expecting you to be here. We'll have a room prepped for ya."
"Thank you, BBBFF." She smiles, trying not to vomit. "I don't think a princess of Equestria should have a reason to visit her family, should she?"
Shining Armor laughs. "You're right. Come on, you and your guards must be hungry if you flew all the way from the Griffon Empire."
Chrysalis grins. "You have no idea." The plan was going well, maybe they'll actually have a shot at this.
Seven Weeks Ago: The Griffon Empire
Celestia sent a group of six Pegasi guards and the Saddle Arabian queen sent four of her guards with Twilight. The chariot ride from Saddle Arabia took longer than expected as they had to pass several checkpoints before arriving. Once within the city proper, the Saddle Arabian guards stop, allowing Twilight and her Pegasus guards to exit the Chariot.
Twilight was shocked to see the place. It looked like a war zone pictured in one of her history books. She immediately sees a Griffon propped against a building and gallops up to it. The Saddle Arabian guards unhook themselves and follow her along with the Pegasi.
"What happened here?!" She asks it.
"Change...lings." He says with heavy breaths. "Th... The king..."
"What about the king?" She asks.
"In... dan-" he tries saying.
Twilight examines the Griffon. "He's dead." She says before looking at a wrecked castle. "We need to make sure their king is safe." She orders.
Once inside the castle, a group of four Griffon guards approach Twilight and her guards. "Stop right there!" One says. "Leave this place or die, Changeling!"
Twilight and her guards stop. "Allow me to prove that we aren't Changelings." She requests. She powers up her horn, preparing a spell when the lead guard stops her.
"Enough." He says, realizing she's not a Changeling, but is still wary of her guards. "Are you here to see our king?" He asks.
Twilight nods. "Is he alright?"
The guard shakes his head. "I'm afraid not."
Twilight winces and turns to her guards. "Split up." She orders. "Help them recover survivors." Her guards nod and leave the castle. "Take me to him."
Twilight is escorted to the king. "Wh... who's there?" He asks. His eye were covered with a blood-soaked cloth.
"Sir, we have an Equestrian visitor." The guard announces.
"Celestia?" He asks in a hopeful voice.
"No, Your Majesty." Twilight answers. "I am Twilight Sparkle, Celestia's personal student and new princess of Equestria."
"I see..." he says, "I'm sorry about the mess. I imagine my home doesn't look pleasant now."
Twilight forces back a tear. "Don't be, Your Majesty." She said, trying to reassure her host. "I sent my guards to help yours rescue survivors."
A smile creeps onto the king's face. "Bless you, Princess Twilight." He says weakly. "Please escort the princess to one of the guest rooms. I will send for you when I am ready to speak again."
Twilight bows. "Of course." She says. "I will be awaiting your summon."
A guard takes Twilight out of the infirmary and she stops an incoming doctor. "Will he make it?"
The doctor slowly shakes his head. "We're not sure." He says. "If he does pull through, I'm afraid he won't be able to see for the rest of his life."
Twilight's guards spent the whole day looking for survivors and managed to find many. Dusk was falling and the king's adviser invited their guests for dinner. Questions about the Changelings came up, how many there were; their method of attack, and much more. There was no clear answer about their numbers, but the Griffons knew they were aided by dark magic.
Dark magic... it was something Twilight was familiar with when she helped her brother and sister in-law free the Crystal Empire. She felt the same magic here, but thought her mind was playing tricks on her, but the answer was clear: King Sombra was still alive.
After dinner, Twilight was escorted to her quarters. It was messy, but she didn't mind. As she clears a space for any guests, she hears a knocking on the wall. She turns around sees the Griffon adviser. "Good evening, sir." She greets. "What can I do for you?"
The Griffon grins at her, his eyes flash green for an instant before transforming back into his original form. Twilight tries to scream, but the Changeling knocks her out. He steps out of the room. "Deliver her to the queen and our ally." He hisses. The two Pegasi's eyes flash green and they nod.
Now, Canterlot
Rarity, Rainbow Dash, Fluttershy, Pinkie Pie, Applejack, Greg and Spike were lined up in front of Celestia. "Thank you all for coming. I'm sure many of you are wondering what has been going on." Everyone but Greg and Spike nods. "As you know, I sent Twilight on a diplomatic errand to Saddle Arabia about two months ago. She found out about a Changeling attack in the Griffon Empire and went to investigate."
Applejack raises a hoof. "Why didn't ya send fer us?" She asks.
"That's a fair question, my little pony." She answers. "The last message I received from her, she was entering Griffon territory, and after that, nothing." She lowers her head and closes her eyes, forcing back a tear. "I fear that she has been captured by the Changelings and I didn't want you to suffer that fate either.
Greg raises a finger. "Question." He says. "How long does it take for a Changeling to adapt to a new physiology?"
Celestia shrugs. "I don't know. We've been trying to get information on them since the attack here in Canterlot, but we found nothing."
"Have you notified Cadance and Shining Armor?" Greg asks. "They should be warned about a potential attack."
Celestia nods. "I've already taken the liberty."
"Now here's a good question," Rainbow Dash says, "what the hay are we still doing here?!" She asks. "We need to get our flanks out there, save Twilight and stop the Changelings."
"I agree with your enthusiasm, Rainbow Dash," Celestia says, "but it's not just the Changelings. King Sombra has returned as well."
Every pony's jaw drops. "WHAT?!" Applejack yells. "Ah thought we defeated him."
"It seems his current form has the ability to regenerate, an oversight my sister and I regret." Celestia says somberly. "I fear he'll be after the Crystal Heart."
Greg's ear perks. "Sounds like this artifact is a double-edged sword for him."
Celestia nods. "It is. The heart will feed him power as long as he's near it, but if he stays close to it long enough, he will be fully mortal."
Greg taps his foot on the floor a few times before a smile forms on his face. "Celestia, I think I have an idea on how to kill two birds with one stone."
"Why would you want to do that?!" Fluttershy yells. "What have the poor birdies done to you?"
Everyone started glaring at Fluttershy. "I don't think he meant it that way, Flutters." Rainbow Dash says. "I think it's one of his weird human metaphors."
Greg nods. "That's exactly right. I'll need time to formulate the plan properly, so I request we take a train ride."
Everyone was shocked. "Since when did you become a tactician?" Celestia asks.
"The ship that picked me up a year ago was a warship and I spent pretty much the whole time with the ship's captain, a brilliant tactician, and I suppose I learned a few things from him."
Celestia floats a scroll and a quill to her and begins writing something. After a few moments she calls a guard to deliver the message to the train station's manager. "Good luck." She says to the group. "And be extremely careful."
The train was ten minutes out of Canterlot with an expected two hour travel. Greg and the others shared a private car near the front, courtesy of Celestia, who had also given him a map of the area surrounding the crystal castle. The area was circular, and the castle itself seemed to be focal point, as if it were a satellite dish pointed skyward.
A quick flash of light enters the car, and Discord appears. "Hello, my little ponies!" He yells, giving Fluttershy and Pinkie Pie a hug. The others looked frustrated by his presence. Greg on the other hand, continued studying the map. Annoyed by this, Discord snaps his fingers and the map vanishes. "It's rude to ignore people, you know."
Greg shakes his head. "And you want an apology?" He asks.
Discord teleports himself into the seat next to Greg, resting an arm on his shoulder. "Don't be so quick to judge, Mister Sanders. I'm only here to help."
"We don't need your help, Discord." Rainbow Dash hisses out. "We've dealt with the Changelings before."
Discord chuckles. "It's not just Chrysalis and her hive this time. She's being assisted by, who I have grown to call him, the 'King of Darkness' himself."
"Sombra." Greg says flatly. "I figured out a way to bring down the queen, but I don't know much about him."
"In order to overcome darkness, one needs light." Discord says cryptically.
Greg scans the ponies one by one. "The Elements of Harmony." He says.
"Eh... they won't be enough." Discord adds. "That would be under normal circumstances, though."
Greg chuckles. "This is one of those rare times when evil should fight evil?" He asks, looking toward the bizarre creature.
Discord nods. "I know these ponies have no chance to bring themselves to that level," He says, pressing a claw on Greg's chest, "you, however, are a creature capable of the most ruthless of atrocities."
"Ah know that." Applejack says. "He did blow up a ship full of scientists. But what else could your people do, Greg?"
"We're warmongers, plain and simple." He says, shaking his head. "We kill each other over land, resources, racial or spiritual differences, or just for the hell of it."
"Oh, this is wonderful!" Discord yells out. "You need to tap into that if you want a fighting chance against Sombra."
Greg looks back at the ponies, they were understandably shaken by what he said, but he smiles. "No... I won't." He says, looking back to Discord. "If you think for a second that I'll let wrath take me over, you're mistaken."
Discord presses a claw against the underside of his chin. "You're getting there already." He says, teleporting himself to the center of the car. "It was a pleasure talking to you, but I will come back when the time to destroy him comes." He says before disappearing.
The map reappears in Greg's hands and continues to examine it as if nothing happened. "So..." he says, "where were we?"
The group feels the train's brakes kick in. Greg looks outside and sees nothing but tundra. "I thought we were going directly to the empire." He said in confusion.
"Geographically speaking, this station is within the empire's limits." Rarity explained.
Greg looks back out and sees no other structures. "Well where's the rest of it?" The ponies look at each other in confusion. "It is an empire, right?" They nod. "Where's the rest of it?" He repeated, showing them the map of their destination. "This can't be all there is to it."
Something clicked in Rainbow Dash's head. "Oh yeah! I remember Princess Celestia telling us something about that."
Rarity nods. "Of course!" She exclaims, looking over to Greg. "The only part of the empire that survived was the castle and everything in a three mile radius."
Greg examines the map once more, swallowing hard. "Hence the lack of structures..." The train comes to a complete halt. "I should've worn something heavier." He comments, checking out his more springtime apparel.
The train conductor enters the car. "Everypony going to the Crystal Empire had better get off." He says.
Greg stands up. "I have a better idea." He states, walking up to the conductor. "Is there a station closer to the castle?"
The conductor nods. "Sure." He answers. "But I am not flipping the track switch just to give you a full ride there."
Greg moves the conductor out of his way, looking back to the ponies. "You ladies stay here, I'll flip the switch." He says, sliding open the door. A strong, howling wind blows into the car. "This train WILL reach the castle!" He assures them.
Canterlot, before the train
A Unicorn servant knocks on the door to Greg's quarters. He opens the door. "I have a package for you, Mister Sanders." The Unicorn says, floating a box to him.
Greg grabs a hold of the box. "Thanks." He says. The Unicorn trots away and Greg walks back to the bed and sets the box on it. "USO" was written on the upper-left corner. A care package from the people who sent him to Equestria. He tears the paper off, revealing a case. He opens it up and inside was a pair of hunting knives, holsters for the knives, a belt and a note.
Mister Sanders,
Forgive us for not digging deeper into Princess Twilight Sparkle's situation. We would offer to help, but all of our agents are preventing attacks on the homefront. The knives in this case should be adequate enough to handle the Changelings as well as Sombra.
Best of luck, Deputy Director Leonard Morse
'Knives?' Greg thought. 'Why would they just give me knives and not a gun?' He thinks about that scenario and shakes his head. "Nope... that wouldn't work out too well." He thought aloud, then feeds the belt through the loops on his pants as well as the holsters before stuffing the knives into them and securing the holsters.
Now
Greg makes his way to the track switch, trudging through ankle high powder. Looking at the nearby hills, he thinks that this area would be great for skiing and snowboarding, but he was on a mission. He grabs the switch and moves it, allowing the train to be directed to the station by the castle. After he switches the track, he hears the buzzing of what sounds like a bug's wings flapping. He looks above and sees a trio of Changelings.
"Ah crap." He swears under his breath.
Rainbow Dash trots to the car's exit. "What the hay is taking him so long?" She asks out loud. She looks out the door toward the switch. "Changelings!" She shouts before taking off. She was followed by Applejack.
As the two approach Greg, a Changeling is thrown their way. It lands on the snow in front of them. Its green blood soaks into the snow. "Did he just kill a Changeling?" Rainbow asks, mouth agape at the sight of the dead Changeling.
They finally get to his side as he wipes the remaining Changeling blood off of his knives using some packed snow. "Good gravy, Greg!" AJ yells. "Was that really necessary?"
After closing the eyes of his attackers, Greg stands up. "It was either them or us."
The group reboards the train. "Get this train moving." Greg says to the conductor. "Consider it an order from Celestia herself."
The conductor swallows hard before returning to the engine. Moments later, the train starts back up and slowly begins moving forward.
The train arrives at their intended destination fifteen minutes later. "Alright, listen up, everyone." Greg begins. "Once we get inside, we need to split up."
"There's seven of us." Spike observed. "What are you thinking?"
"Rarity and Rainbow Dash; Fluttershy and Applejack; Spike and Pinkie Pie." He says.
"But that leaves you alone, darling." Rarity comments.
Greg nods. "I know." He admits. "I can handle myself."
"Then Ah suppose ya want us to search for Princess Cadance and Twi's brother." AJ adds.
"Right on the nose." Greg says as the group stops at the entrance.
"Come on, everypony!" Rainbow Dash yells out. "We've got ponies to save!"
"It's way too quiet in here." Greg says to himself. "No resistance... what is going on?" He asks, clenching the knives tighter in his hands. He approaches a stairwell and hears the faint clopping of hooves against the stone. He looks around to find a hiding spot and finds a pillar with a side covered in shadow, so he takes it.
After a short while, he hears some giggling. "Those fools think they can defeat us?" The voice asks. It had to have been Chrysalis. Who is she talking to though? Greg chances a quick peek and sees Chrysalis, to his surprise, alone. She looked happy, skipping through the hall. "That creature was easy enough to fool... but for how long?"
"Not long enough." Greg says, stepping out of the shadows.
Chrysalis jumps and turns. "You will not live to see tomorrow!" She hisses. She fires a beam of magic at him, but Greg rolls out of the way.
As he recovers from the roll, Chrysalis was on the move. "Damn it..." He cusses under his breath. He holsters his knives and the chase begins.
Greg climbs up the winding staircase Chryslis took him to and exits to a balcony, hoping to find the Changeling queen there, but instead...
"Kate?!" He calls, seeing his long dead girlfriend. He immediately knew that this was the Queen trying to trick him.
"Greg!" She yells, running up to him. "I'm so glad to see you!" She adds, hugging him.
He knew it was a trick, taking her form so that she could feed off of his love for her, but he couldn't help himself. A tear runs down his face as he holds the imposter's face. "Thank you," he says, sliding his hands down to her neck, "and forgive me." He adds, squeezing her throat. The sudden action forced her to drop the façade. "But I am not easily fooled."
The Queen tries hitting Greg's arms with her forelegs, hoping to get away from him. Moments later, a swarm of her subordinates encircle the two. She looks back at Greg and forces a smile on her face. "You kill me, they'll kill you." Greg looks around at the other Changelings. His grip loosened slightly and the Queen brings her forelegs up between his arms and pushes them apart. She bucks him onto his back and hovers above him.
They hear some kind of explosion and look around to see Chrysalis' subordinates blowing up. "What's the meaning of this?!" She asks.
The faint laughter of King Sombra echoes against the balcony. Chrysalis turns and sees him appear. "I have what I've come for." He says with an evil grin as his horn powers up. "You have outlived your usefulness, Chrysalis." A beam of magic pierces Chrysalis and flings her past Greg, back into the castle. "Now... on to Canterlot." He cackles, then vanishes.
"Jesus Christ..." Greg quietly says, picking himself up and re-enters the castle. He runs up to Chrysalis and kneels next to her.
"We... we were used..." She says weakly. She closes her eyes tightly and a tear runs down her face. "How could I have been... so... blind?" She opens her eyes and looks to Greg and rests her foreleg on him. "Twilight Sparkle..." Her breath grows weaker. "In the cave... to the north..."
Her breathing stops. Her leg slumps down. Applejack and Fluttershy were the first to find him. "Ya got her!" She says with a whoop. Greg closes the Changeling's eyes as AJ trots up to him. She sees the look in his eyes and her excitement died. "Greg? What happened?"
Greg sits and rests his face on his hands. "Sombra killed her, AJ. It wasn't me."
"What?!" She gasped. "Are ya sayin' that-?"
"It was a doublecross." He finishes. "He only needed her to gain access to the heart." He looks to her and forces back a tear. "His next stop is Canterlot."
"Oh my goodness." Fluttershy says with a squeak. "I hope Celestia will be okay."
"We need to find Twilight..." AJ says, helping Greg up, "and fast."
Spike and Pinkie Pie approach. "Cadance and Shining Armor are fine." Spike says. "Rarity and Rainbow Dash are taking them to the conference room."
Greg nods. "Then let's head to the conference room."
Greg, Applejack, Rarity, Rainbow Dash, Pinkie Pie, Fluttershy, Princess Cadance, Shining Armor and Spike are gathered in the conference room. "Does everyone know why we're here?" Greg asks.
Everypony nods. "We need to find my sister." Shining says.
Greg nods. "Exactly." He says, unrolling a map of the region. "Before she died, Chrysalis said Twilight was being held in a cave to the north."
Shining Armor nods and levitates a quill and some ink to the table. "I know which one she's talking about." He says, circling the place. "It's not far from the castle."
Greg nods. "Alright." He says, standing upright. "Shining Armor and I will head to the cave. The rest of you help the guards secure the castle."
Cadance trots up to Shining Armor and gives him a kiss. "Be careful, my love."
Greg clears his throat. "You wouldn't happen to have something for me to wear out there, would you?"
Rarity giggles and heads to the door. "I think I can fix up something for you."
"It's alright, Rarity." Shining Armor says. "I've been to that location enough times to teleport us directly there."
Greg claps his hands and rubs them. "Let's do this." He says, walking up next to Shining Armor.
Shining Armor's horn powers up and the two disappear.
The two appear outside of the cave. Greg pulls out his knives and shivers. "Let's get in there."
"Agreed." Shining Armor says before the two enter.
The two make their way through the cave. Shining Armor keeps his horn powered to provide light in the immediate vicinity. "Are you sure Twiley's in here?" He asks.
"Chrysalis was dying and I'd like to think that even her last words would be truthful." Greg says. "Then again... it could've been another ruse."
The two turn a corner and begin hearing muffled screams. "Twiley?!" Shining asks, pointing the light to the source of the noise. Sure enough, Twilight was still hanging in the cocoon.
The two race to her and Greg cuts a hole into the cocoon, big enough for Twilight to slide out of. He slowly lowers her onto the ground. "Twilight... are you okay?" He asks.
Twilight coughs a few times as she takes in the fresh air. "Greg?" She asks weakly. "Is that really you?" She looks over to her brother. "Shiny?"
Shining Armor smiles. "Hey, Twiley. It's good to see ya again."
Twilight gasps. "Chrysalis and Sombra!"
She tries to move, but Greg won't let her. "Easy, Twilight." He says. "Chrysalis is gone and Sombra is on his way to Canterlot."
"We need to hurry." Shining Armor says before powering up his horn.
The three re-enter the Conference room. "You lead the way, boss man." Greg says.
They make their way through the hallways. Rainbow Dash catches up to them. "Twi!" She yells, hovering next to them. "Hang in there, I'll go get some help.
Shining Armor opens a door. "This room will do." He says. They enter the room. "Put her on the sofa."
Greg obliges. "I'm gonna try to find someone." He says.
As he tries to leave her, Twilight pulls him back with a hoof. "Don't leave me, Greg."
Greg nods. "I won't."
Shining Armor leaves the room, leaving the two alone. "How long have you been back?" She asks.
"A couple of days." He says. "I heard you had quite a journey."
Twilight forces a smile. "You have no idea."
Moments later, everyone was entering the room, followed by some medics. "We'll need to clear a space." One says.
Shining Armor clears a large table. "How's that?"
"That'll work." Another medic says, levitating Twilight off the sofa.
"Let's get out of here." Greg suggests. "Let them do their job."
Greg walks by the room he and Shining Armor took Twilight and peeks inside. The doctors were gone and Twilight moved herself to a sofa and was curled up on it. Greg looks to see if anypony was around. No? He slowly walks into the room and toward the sofa.
"Hi, Greg." She says, slowly opening her eyes.
"Hey, champ." He says with a smile on his face, he kneels next to her and runs his hand along her barrel. "How are we feeling?"
Twilight nods. "Better now that I'm here with my friends and family." She says, her smile disappearing and tears forming in her eyes.
"What's wrong?" Greg asks. He already knew the answer, but he felt like he needed to ask the question.
"Many things." She answers. "The Changelings abducting me; what Chrysalis has done in my absence; Celestia and Luna..." she trails off, starting to cry. He gets closer to her and gives her a reassuring hug.
Greg nods. "Yeah... I'm a little worried about them myself." He says. "Sombra's getting close to full strength, but I think we still have a shot."
Applejack enters the room. "Hey you two." She greets. Greg releases his hug and looks back at her.
Twilight wipes the tears from her face and starts smiling again. "Hey, Applejack..."
AJ trots up to the two, places a leg on Greg and looks at him. "Ah had a feelin' you'd be here."
Greg chuckles. "Am I that easy?"
Twilight looks back to Greg. "How did you find me, anyway?"
Both Greg and AJ lower their heads. "It was Chrysalis who gave us your location." He explains. "After Sombra killed her Changelings and shot her in the back."
Twilight grimaces. "We need to get to Canterlot."
Greg nods. "We will, but you should relax." He advises. "Come on, AJ."
AJ nods. "We'll be close by if ya need anythin'."
Twilight nods. "Thanks, you guys."
One hour later...
Everyone's waiting patiently, all except for Pinkie Pie. "Why are we sitting around here for?" She asks. "We need to get to Sombra and kick his flank!"
Greg lets out a low hum. "I have to agree with you, Pinkie." He says. "But we should at least stay until we know for sure Twilight will be okay."
And speak of the devil, Twilight is escorted by a medic. "I'll be fine." She says. "I was a little drained, but now I feel like I can help you finish this." She flares open her wings and flaps them a few times.
"Twiley, you should be resting up." Shining Armor pleads. "Let us handle Sombra."
Twilight shakes her head. "Not this time. I want to see him dead for what he's done to me, my friends... and my family."
Greg stands up. "Then let's head to the train station." He says.
Twilight chuckles. "I can teleport us to Canterlot."
"But Twiley!" Shining Armor yells.
Twilight puts a hoof on her brother's mouth. "No buts, B.B.B.F.F. We're all going to Canterlot."
Everyone, Shining Armor, Princess Cadance, Rarity, Fluttershy, Applejack, Rainbow Dash, Pinkie Pie, Spike and Greg circle around Twilight as she prepares her teleportation spell.
"Let's finish what we started!" Shining Armor yells out.
The group teleports to the front entrance of Canterlot Castle. They are horrified upon seeing the castle transformed into something frightening and hideous.
"Oh no!" Cried Twilight. "Celestia!"
Before she could go anywhere, Greg grabs her. "Twilight, stop!" He pleads.
Twilight struggles to free herself, but when she can't, she uses a teleportation spell. Cadance thought ahead and teleports herself in front of Twilight and levitates her.
"Twilight! Please stop!" Cadance demands.
Twilight stops resisting and is set back on the ground. Her brother and sister in-law approach her as she starts sobbing.
"How could we have let this happen?" She asks through the tears.
Greg looks over at the castle, then to Twilight, Shining Armor and Cadance. The others have joined in trying to comfort her. "I'm going to scout ahead." He says. "I won't be gone too long."
Applejack trots over to him. "Yer not goin' alone." She says.
Rainbow Dash flies over to him. "Yeah. You're gonna need some backup."
Greg looks to the two ponies and nods. "Alright. Let's be careful."
Greg, AJ and Rainbow Dash enter the castle. Twilight was still a mess, but not like moments before. "I should have seen this coming." She chastises herself.
Cadance shakes her head. "I don't think you could have even if you had all the time in the world."
Rarity lets out an agreeing grunt. "Certainly, darling." She says. "Nopony can be prepared for everything."
"But I-!" She began, but her brother puts his hoof on her mouth.
"Twiley, you shouldn't be so hard on yourself." He says, removing his hoof. "We haven't lost yet."
"Your brother's right, Twilight." Spike agreed. "It doesn't look like Sombra's been here too long."
The rest of the group enters the castle and try to follow Greg, AJ and Rainbow Dash's trail. "I wonder where they went to?" Fluttershy asks.
Shining Armor shakes his head. "If I know him well enough, I'd guess they made their way to the throne room." Shining Armor and Twilight take point, galloping toward the throne room. "Are you sure you should be here, Twiley?" He asks.
Twilight nods. "Absolutely." She says, determined to give Sombra a piece of her mind.
They enter the throne room, but it was different than they remember. It was filled with dark magic; dark crystal spikes were protruding from the floor, walls and ceiling. Sitting on the throne was Sombra himself with Princesses Celestia and Luna in what looked like crystal cocoons on either side; Greg was floating in front of him while Applejack and Rainbow Dash were laying unconscious near the wall at the opposite end of the room and a corrupted Crystal Heart floating above him.
"Ah... you've brought the other Equestrian princesses." He observed with his villainous grin intact.
Greg is turned and sees the others. "Get them... outta here!" He orders.
"It's too late now!" Sombra laughs. "Behold!" He shouts, powering up the Crystal Heart. "The true power of the CRYSTAL HEART!!!"
The heart completely powers up and engulfs the room in a dark energy. Greg is thrown against the wall and lands face down. He looks to his sides, seeing downed ponies, Shining Armor, Fluttershy and Applejack to his left; Rarity, Pinkie Pie and Rainbow Dash to his right, then he looks forward to King Sombra who was wearing the traditional villain's grin on his face. Twilight and Cadance were floating beside him, terror would be an understatement to describe their facial expressions.
"There is no victory for you today, human." He says as smug as any villain in his position would. "I am now more powerful than the Alicorns can ever hope to be!"
Greg composes himself and struggles to get up. "You may be powerful, Sombra." He says. Sombra bares his fangs and begins charging at him. Even in his current state, Greg would still be able to strafe the charge, grab his horn and kick him in the barrel with enough force to knock him down. He may have cracked a couple of Sombra's ribs in the process. He moves closer to the fallen king, flipping him onto his back and closes with a mount. Sombra feels one of Greg's hands grasp his horn. He looks up and sees an expression of pure rage on Greg's face. "But you are still mortal." He says.
Sombra lets out a painful growl as Greg attempts to break off his horn. As he feels the first crack form on it, it gets louder... then...
*SNAP*
The pain Sombra felt was immense as a pillar of green flame engulf the two.
Applejack and the others come around and try to approach them, but couldn't advance to the pillar due to the intensity of the heat. "GREG!" She yells as loud as she could.
The pillar subsides. Both Greg and Sombra were slumped over. Shining Armor and Applejack gallop up to the two and immediately notice a change in them, Sombra no longer appeared as the menacing beast he was, his flowing smokey mane was now natural, his armor broken and laying in pieces around his body which reminded them of Luna after Nightmare Moon's defeat; Greg on the other hand now has longer hair which resembled a burning flame and generally appeared more menacing.
Sombra begins to stir and lets out a quiet groan. The first thing he sees are Shining Armor and Applejack. The two look back and see Twilight and Cadance bring Princesses Celestia and Luna into the room.
Shining Armor and Applejack move aside as Celestia approaches. Tears begin to form in Sombra's eyes. "Oh Celestia, what have I done?" He asks, looking to Greg's unconscious body. "I owe this creature my gratitude."
Celestia places a hoof on Sombra's shoulder. "You are free now, Sombra."
Sombra nods slowly and places a hoof on his now broken horn. "But at a terrible price." He says. "The demon now lies within him."
Celestia nods. "Now that we have it contained in a manageable body, we must figure out a way to destroy it."
"Yer not sayin' that we kill Greg, are ya, Your Majesty?" Applejack asks.
Celestia shakes her head. "Of course not, Applejack." She assures. "We just need to figure out how to get it to become a mortal, corporeal being so that we can kill it." She adds, looking to Twilight. "I remember Starswirl had a student who did research on the matter at hoof. Even though Starswirl insisted he left it well enough alone, knowing him, he probably kept going."
Twilight trots up to Greg and rests a hoof on his cheek. "Then we need to find his notes and find out what he learned."
"What will you have me do, Princess?" Sombra asks. "I enslaved the crystal ponies and tried to take over Equestria."
Celestia shakes her head. "No." She says. "You were possessed, Sombra. The crystal ponies might fear you now and will never forget what you've done, but in time, I'm sure they will accept you."
Princess Cadance and Shining Armor look at each other before returning their focus on Sombra. "So, I take it that this mess is over." Shining says, looking at the new Sombra. "What are we going to do with King Sombra?"
Sombra slowly stands up and bows before them. "Prince Sombra, now. I know there's nothing I can do to repent for what happened, but I wish to ask for a second chance."
Cadance and Shining Armor look at each other and she nods. "Then you will have it." She says.
Shining Armor looks to his wife in horror. "Are you sure about that?"
Celestia lets out a quiet chuckle. "If Fluttershy got Discord to change his ways, why not Sombra?"
Sombra turns and looks to Greg. "What about him? Where will he go?"
Twilight removes the SRG from his forearm and studies it. "He said that we could access his world with-"
Before she could finish her sentence, a portal opens up on the other side of Greg. Two humans step out of it.
"I'm afraid we can't have him return just yet." One says.
Celestia glares at the two. "Are you from his world?"
The other nods. "Yes, Your Majesty." He says. "I am Ryan Anderson, and this is Leonard Morse."
"You two are with the... 'Universal Security Organization'?" Twilight asks.
Leonard nods. "Yes." He confirms. "I wish we could take him with us, but in his current condition, it would be unwise to do so."
Ryan nods. "Even with the help of the Creators, I don't think we can get the job done." He agreed.
Celestia nods. "Then we'll take him to Tartarus." She suggests. "There's a priest there who could ensure that the demon within Greg doesn't get out of hoof."
Leonard nods. "Good luck. If you need help with him, use that to get a hold of us."
Applejack trots up to the two. "What are y'all gonna tell his folks?"
Ryan looks over to Leonard who shakes his head. "We'll have to come up with something."
Celestia glares at Leonard once again. "You're going to lie to them?"
Ryan shrugs. "Would you believe it if someone told you that your son was possessed by a demon and the only way to keep it at bay was to lock him up in the underworld?"
Celestia nods. "I see your point." She concedes. "What will you tell them?"
Ryan bobs his head. "We'll probably end up telling them that he died while protecting refugees."
Twilight nods. "I'm sure a white lie won't hurt."
Leonard shakes his head. "No... not this time."
Ryan raises an eyebrow. "What are you thinking this time, Leon?"
Leonard nods. "We'll bring his and Kate's parents here, then Celestia can explain everything in detail. I hate using the metaphor here, but hearing it straight from the horse's mouth would be beneficial."
"Then you'll tell 'em about Kate?" Applejack asks.
"We will." Leonard assures.
Celestia looks over to Greg and sighs. "I should be taking him to Tartarus now." She says, levitating his body onto her back. "Farewell Ryan and Leonard." She adds, lifting off. "May your battles be fortuitous."
Both Ryan and Leonard take a quick bow. Leonard opens a rift and the two walk through it. Celestia turns to everypony and nods. "We have no time to waste." She says. "We need to get him to Tartarus."
One thousand years have passed since Greg's body was invaded by the demon living inside Sombra. The priest in Tartarus managed to keep it from taking complete control of him. He used the time to cultivate his appearance to match that of his position as lord of Tartarus. He didn't like the title, but the denizens refer to him as such, both out of fear and respect.
Not long after he was taken to Tartarus, the Cutie Mark Crusaders found their cutie marks. Apple Bloom got one in construction and would eventually establish a residential construction and maintanence business; Sweetie Belle got hers in singing and would become the lead singer of a pony pop band; Scootaloo got hers at an extreme sports competition and became a star on the scooter.
Twilight's friends were another matter. Applejack couldn't get over the fact that he had to stay in what would be equated to Hell and her workaholism kicked into overdrive, causing her to drop dead while tending the farm, alone and foalless; Rarity found herself a nice stallion, much to Spike's dismay, and mothered two fillies of her own; Fluttershy, despite her strong reluctance to find a mate of her own, did so, one who shared her interest in caring for animals, the two decided on a single foal; Pinkie Pie... well... she was Pinkie Pie, and couldn't settle down even if her life depended on it; Rainbow Dash found a suitable Pegasus for herself, a stallion and mothered three colts.
The years would not be kind. Everypony he knew grew up, started their own families, grew old and died. Even Princesses Celestia and Luna started getting old within two and a half centuries, and died five centuries later. In their absence, Cadance took over Celestia's role and Twilight took Luna's. Thankfully Dragons had longer lifespans and Princesses Twilight Sparkle and Cadance were far younger, so his campanions would be the two ponies and Spike.
Greg slouches on a makeshift throne, tapping his fingers on the arm. During his tenure he changed the look and feel of the place. It was a hellish looking place as one would expect from the underworld, but he changed it to be neutral territory and everyone: Ponies, Griffons, Minotaurs, et cetera, would make a pilgrimage to Tartarus to visit the spirits of their ancestors.
Princess Twilight Sparkle would make an annual pilgrimage herself with her personal guard as well as Cadance and would stay for the day. He and Twilight would play a game of Chess and chat about their years.
A Tartarian messenger approaches Greg. "Milord, Princesses Twilight Sparkle and Mi Amore Cadenza are here to see you."
Greg sits up and nods. "Thank you. Show them in."
"Yes, Milord." He says, leaving the room.
Greg stands up, walks over to his Chess table, sets up the board and three seats. After finishing, he turns back to the door and sees two very happy pony princesses. "Twilight! Cadance!" He calls. The two gallop to him and give him a hug. "It's always good to see you two."
Twilight nods. "It most certainly is." She agreed.
Greg smiles at Cadance. "And you look as radiant as ever."
Cadance blushes. "Thanks, Greg."
Discord flashes in, dressed up as a butler. "May I offer you three some lemonade?" He asks, pulling out a pitcher of chilled lemonade out of nowhere.
Twilight giggles. "Thank you, Discord."
Discord whips out three glasses, also from out of nowhere and fills them with the lemonade.
The three sit at the chess table for their annual ritual. "I believe you go first this time, Twilight." He says. The winner of the last game goes first for the next game.
Greg had the board and pieces custom made from glass with a special mineral infused to prevent the pieces from shattering should they be dropped. One side was clear glass, the other was frosted. Twilight preferred the frosted set for some reason.
Twilight opens by moving her E7 pawn to E5. "So... anything interesting happen this year?" She asks.
"Not particularly." Greg says as he moves his B1 knight to C3. "Your friends paid me a visit yesterday and they long to be with you."
"They're always with me." Twilight says, moving her B8 knight to A6. "If not physically, then in spirit."
"Of course." Greg says, moving his G2 pawn to G4. "How about you two?"
"Twiley and I have our own protogés." Cadance says as Twilight moves her F7 bishop to B4.
"That's an interesting move." Greg comments, moving his C3 knight to A4. "I remember you two talking about them last time."
"Mine reminds of myself when I was his age." Twilight comments, moving her B7 pawn to B6. Greg lets out a quiet hum. "And after a thousand years, I have finally found out how to rid you of that demon." She adds.
Greg raises an eyebrow. "Oh really?" He asks. "What would that involve?"
"The first part would need you to allow the demon to take full control of your body." Cadance says.
Greg moves his G1 knight to H3. "Let me guess, the second part would involve the Elements of Harmony."
Twilight and Cadance nod. "How did you come to that conclusion?" Twilight asks, moving her D7 pawn to D6, placing Greg's G4 pawn in peril with a bishop.
Greg moves his H1 rook to G1. "It's the only logical decision."
"We found suitable bearers in Fillydelphia." Cadance says.
Twilight smirks at Greg. "You want this game to last, don't you?" She asks, contemplating her next move.
"Any family trees we're familiar with?" Greg asks.
"One colt in particular descended from a certain... rainbow mare." Twilight says, moving her G8 knight to H6. "He also shares her element."
"The apple doesn't fall far from the tree, does it?" Greg comments, moving his G1 rook to G3.
Twilight smiles and shakes her head. "It sure doesn't." She says, moving her queen from D8 to H4.
Greg shakes his head. "You're looking for a slow game, aren't you?" He comments with a chuckle. "How soon do you two want this plan to go into effect?" He asks.
"That's the thing," Cadance says with a heavy sigh, "they're still foals at this point in time."
Greg moves his D2 pawn to D3. "Sounds like I'll be stuck here for a while."
"I know, and we're sorry about that, Greg." Cadance says, setting a hoof on his hand.
Greg pats her hoof with his other hand. "It's okay."
Twilight shakes her head. "No it's not okay!" She yells. "Had we known about it sooner, we would've taken care of the problem that much sooner."
Greg stands up and looks out to the inner part of Tartarus. "Take a look around, Twilight." He says. "If it weren't for me being here this whole time, this place would still be Hell." He turns back to Twilight and Cadance.
"Are you saying that you don't your thousand years back?" Cadance asks.
Greg shakes his head. "I'm not saying that." He says, sitting back down. "Sure I'd like to go back and see everypony alive; I'd love to go back and see Apple Bloom and her friends get their cutie marks, but what's done is done."
Twilight taps her hoof on her chin a few times, then she lights up and gasps. "I have an idea!" She exclaims.
Greg raises an eyebrow. "What would that be?" He asks.
Cadance's mouth is agape. "You're not thinking what I think you're thinking... are you?"
Twilight nods ecstatically. "I am."
Greg shrugs. "Would either of you care to explain?"
Twilight shakes her head. "I'm afraid I can't let you in on it." She says, moving a pawn from C2 to C3. "Your turn."
Greg examines the board and shakes his head. "You've left yourself wide open." He says, moving a bishop from F1 to G2.
Twilight moves a bishop from C8 to G4, taking Greg's pawn. "I want to end this quickly." She says.
Greg follows her move by moving his bishop from G2 to C6. "Check."
Twilight moves her king from E8 to F8. Greg moves his queen from D1 to D2. Twilight moves her bishop from G4 to H3, taking his knight. Greg moves his rook from G3 to G7, taking another of Twilight's pawns. Twilight moves her king from F8 to G7, taking his rook. Greg moves his queen from D2 to G5, check.
Cadance watches the fast motions of their moves with wide eyes. "This is getting intense." She comments.
Several moves pass before he learns that she wants to win again, but he's going to draw it out for as long as possible. What is she planning? He thinks back to his comment 'What's done is done'... then his eyes widen. "You're not planning on going back in time, are you?" He asks.
"I knew you'd figure it out quickly, Greg." She says with a smile, moving her knight from B4 to D5, taking his remaining knight.
Greg moves a pawn. "You know I'm no dummy."
"Yes, I do." Twilight says, moving her knight. Greg moves his pawn, taking her bishop. Twilight moves a pawn of her own. "I've got this in the bag." She says with a grin."
Greg shakes his head. "Maybe..." he says, moving his rook from A1 to A2, "maybe not."
Several moves pass, the two remain quiet, figuring out their next moves, that is until Twilight puts Greg into check with a bishop.
Greg moves a pawn from C3 to C4, blocking the bishop. Twilight moves her rook from D2 to D3, taking his pawn. "You should probably quit now." She suggests.
Greg doesn't. Instead, he moves his king to B2. I'm not done, yet."
Twilight shakes her head and moves her rook back to D2. "Check."
"Why didn't you tell me you wanted to dance?" Twilight asks, moving her rook.
Cadance groans. "Come on! Just quit already!" She says after the two continue dancing for what seemed to be an eternity.
Both Twilight and Greg laugh at her outburst. Twilight moves her rook to D1. When Greg moves his pawn to B8 and having it promoted to queen, the princesses' eyes widen. "Like I said, I'm not done yet."
Twilight moves her rook to C1, continuing their check dance. As expected, Greg moves his king to B2. Twilight moves her rook further back, from C1 to E1.
Greg moves his new queen from B8 to E5. "Check." He says.
Twilight moves her king to H7. Greg moves his rook from A8 to F8. Twilight groans. "How about we call it a draw?" She offers.
At this point, neither of them would win, so he nods. "Of course."
Cadance breathes a sigh of relief. "Thank Celestia." She says, shaking her head. "I don't know how much longer I can take you two dancing around like that."
The three stand up. "Does anypony want a tour of the place?"
Twilight looks over to Cadance and raises an eyebrow. "I think we can stay a little while longer, don't you?" She asks.
Cadance shakes her head. "As tempting as it is, I think we should make our preparations for Greg's exorcism." She says.
Twilight lowers her head. "Yeah..." She says, digging her hoof into the floor.
Greg rests his hands on both princesses, going in for a group hug. "Well, it's been a blast as always. Maybe next time we see each other, I won't need to be here." He says with a wink.
Canterlot Archives, Starswirl the Bearded Wing
Twilight and two Unicorn guards enter the wing. "Let's split up and find the time spell." She orders. The guards nod and split up. She vaguely remembers its location when she, Pinkie Pie and Spike came last. Thinking about the event made her giggle.
She trots to the location she remembered and found the spell. She lets out a relieved sigh. "I found it!" She yells to her guards.
Twilight approaches the central table, along with her guards. "Are you sure you should be doing this, Your Highness?" One asks.
She nods. "It means saving a friend from a horrible fate." She says, concentrating on the spell as well as the point in time where she wanted to go to.
"Good luck, Princess." A guard says.
In a bright flash of light, Twilight finished the spell and was gone.
The Crystal Empire, Crystal Castle Throne Room, 1000 Years Ago
Future Twilight appears in the throne room, in front of herself and the others. Everypony in the room gasps. Future Twilight gallops to her younger self. "Don't take him to Tartarus!" She yells. "The demon needs to take complete control!"
Celestia raises an eyebrow. "Why would we want that to happen?"
Twilight gallops to Celestia. "To destroy it, the demon needs to be in total control over his body and the Elements of Harmony need to be used against him!" Before the others could say anything, electrical energy starts to wrap itself around Future Twilight. "JUST DO IT!" She yells out before completely vanishing.
Celestia, Luna, Twilight and Cadance bind Greg as they allow the demon to take him over completely. Greg regains consciousness, black smoke billows from his eye sockets, his irises now a menacing red.
Sombra swallows hard, looking at its new host in horror. "I can't believe I allowed you to take me over."
"At least your body was strong." Greg cackles. "This creature is the weakest thing I've ever encountered." He continued, trying to free himself.
Discord pops in and tisks. "That's enough out of you, Thanatos."
"DISCORD!" He snarls. "You dare ally yourself with these puny mortals?"
With a snap of the finger, Discord teleports himself next to Greg and Thanatos. "I'm not the one who's going to die, Thanny." He says, and with another snap, he disappears.
The princesses look at each other and Twilight nods. "Let's take him to the Tree of Harmony." She says.
The princesses circle around Greg and power up their horns. The magical aura emanating begin to engulf them, then in what seemed to be an instant, a bright light flashes and the five are gone.
The four are teleported outside of the Tree of Harmony's chamber. Thanatos continues to struggle as Twilight Sparkle and Cadance levitate him and take him into the chamber.
"Are you sure this is going to work?" Cadance asks.
Twilight shrugs. "I don't know. I don't even know how long Thanatos resided in him before I used the time spell."
Twilight and Cadance set Greg in front of the tree. Celestia and Luna trot up beside the two. "I'm afraid I can't give a certain answer, nor can I tell you how long it takes for the tree to recharge." Celestia says before the tree started to glow.
One by one, the Elements of Harmony light up and begin feeding their magical energy into the element of magic.
Greg's eyes widen as the power in the center element grows stronger. "NO!" He yells out. A beam of magical energy emits from the tree and is focused on Greg. "NO!!!!"
A bright light envelopes the chamber for a moment before dissipating. Everypony's eyes had to readjust. After which, the princesses look over to an immobile Greg. They gasp and gallop over to him.
"Greg?" Twilight whispers with tears in her eyes, then she touches his chest with a hoof. Feeling his heart beat put a smile on her face. "He's still alive."
"Of course I am." He says with a groan. "Damn... I feel like I got hit by a semi."
Everypony giggles. Twilight and Cadance remove his bindings and set him carefully on the ground.
Celestia takes point, look back to everyone else. "Come on... let's take him to Ponyville."
Greg begins to wake up. His vision initially blurry, he catches a glimpse of a pony over him.
"He's coming around." The unmistakably familiar voice of Twilight Sparkle said, holding a cool and wet cloth on his forehead.
"I'll go get the others." Spike says, leaving the room.
"Greg? Are you alright?" Twilight asks.
His vision clears up, seeing a relieved Twilight. He looks around, it looks like he's in a hospital room. "I'll live... I think." He says, groaning as he tries sitting upright in the bed. "What happened?"
Twilight sets the cloth on the table and floats a small cup of water to him. "It turned out that Sombra was possessed by a demon named Thanatos." She begins with a heavy sigh. "He left Sombra and took control of you after you broke his horn." Twilight props herself up next to him and gives him a hug. "You were out for nearly a week."
A week?! Greg reciprocates the hug. "I imagine everyone was worried."
Twilight nods. "Yes, but I think Applejack was more worried than anypony else."
"Alright everypony, listen up." The voice of Applejack says on the other side of the door. "Greg's been through a lot, so let's not get carried away." She says, and the sound of six grunts of understanding were let out. "Then come on, let's go see him."
Followed by Spike and one by one, the ponies outside came in. First was Applejack, next was Fluttershy, then Rainbow Dash, Pinkie Pie, Rarity and...
"Sombra?" Greg asks. He wasn't terrified, just more than a little surprised. The last thing he remembered doing was breaking his horn, and it showed, though he had the rough parts filed down while Greg was unconscious. Probably by Rarity, who was also next to him.
"Mister Sanders." Sombra responds with a nod.
"Uh, Greg..." Twilight says, trying to get his attention, "this is Prince Sombra."
Pinkie Pie excitedly hops in place a couple of times. "He's a super-duper cool prince, too once you get to know him."
Rarity nods. "I couldn't agree more. He's more of a prince than Blue Blood is, and a lot more humble to boot."
Sombra points a hoof to Greg. "And I have you to thank for that." He says, rubbing the stub of his horn. "Though it's going to take a little getting used to not being able to cast any spells."
Greg grimaces. "Yeah... sorry about that."
"At least we don't have to worry about any Tartarian demons running around." Rainbow Dash blurts out.
Greg raises an eyebrow. "Pardon?"
"How long have you been awake, sugarcube?" AJ asks.
Twilight shakes her head. "I haven't gotten to that part yet, AJ." Twilight admits, before turning her focus back to Greg. "Thanatos was a demon that escaped from Tartarus a long time ago." She begins.
"Before I was sealed up for a thousand years, he found a way to leave my body." Sombra continued. "He probably felt the anger that Princess Luna had pent up and entered her body."
"Giving rise to Nightmare Moon." Greg adds. Everypony nods.
"Yes." Twilight says. "When we defeated her, we must've sent him back to Tartarus."
"That explains how the Cerberus got loose." Rainbow Dash adds. "He must have used it as a distraction so he could leave again."
Greg raises an eyebrow. "There was a Cerberus on the loose?" He asks. "When did this happen?"
"Ah imagine you were on your way home when that happened." AJ says, waving a hoof.
"Okay... so let me figure the rest out." Greg says, looking at Sombra. "Thanatos was biding his time, waiting for you." He begins, Sombra nods. "The Crystal Empire returns, along with you, but before you had a chance to do anything, Thanatos takes you over again." Another nod. "But everyone there activated the Crystal heart and blasted you with it. How are you still alive?"
"The Crystal Heart powered Thanatos, but I wasn't exposed long enough to regain my mortal body." Sombra explains. "I'm just glad Cadance was able to hold me at bay for as long as she did."
Greg slowly nods. "That makes sense. After his second defeat, he didn't leave your body, but looked for a way to get revenge." He says, tapping his chin. "Then he found the Changelings. Now what I don't understand is how were you able to drive Thanatos out of me."
"Celestia, Luna, Cadance and I took you to the Tree of Harmony which is where the Elements of Harmony came from." Twilight explains. "The tree is powered by the elements and their combined strength purifies the region surrounding it... the Everfree Forest to be precise."
"So this Tree of Harmony blasted me and destroyed Thanatos." Greg surmised. Everyone nods.
Sombra trots up to Greg and places a leg on his shoulder. "I owe you my life, Greg." He says, lowering his leg. "I just hope the crystal ponies can forgive me for the atrocities Thanatos put them through."
Greg nods. "I'm sure in time, they will." He looks over to Pinkie Pie with a smile. "So, when is the party?"
Pinkie jumps in the air and hovers. "OH MY GOSH!" She yells before landing. "I almost forgot!" She continued before rushing out of the hospital room.
Everyone else laughs. "That Pinkie Pie is sure a hoofful." Sombra comments.
Nurse Redheart enters the room. "Everypony out." She barks. One by one, the ponies leave the room.
"Nurse?" Greg calls. "Would it be okay for Applejack and Twilight to stay?" He asks.
Redheart nods. "Of course, that was just way too many ponies in one room at once."
Twilight and Applejack return to Greg's side as Redheart approaches the bed. "It's good to see you awake, Greg. For a while, we thought you were going to be a goner. How are you feeling?"
"Aside from a massive headache and nausea, I think I'm okay." He answers.
Redheart smiles. "That's good to hear, but we'd like to keep you around for a couple of more days for observation."
Greg nods. "Of course." He says. "By the way, could I bother you to get me something to eat?" Redheart nods and trots out of the room. Greg looks to Twilight. "What was her name?"
Twilight and AJ looked confused. "Nurse Redheart?"
Greg shakes his head. "No... the Changeling queen... was it Chrysalis?" Twilight nods. "Okay..."
Twilight and AJ were even more confused. "Why did ya want to know her name?" AJ asks.
"I just want to remember what was lost." Greg explained, slumping back into the pillow.
AJ rests a hoof on Greg's shoulder. "We'll come back later, sugarcube." She says, planting a kiss on his forehead.
"You rest up." Twilight adds, knowing that he's got no choice.
The two trot out of the room just as Redheart returns with a snack. "I brought one small fruit cup, Greg." She says, rolling a cart toward the table.
A knock comes from the door. Odd... the door's open. Gregs looks that way and sees two other humans, Leonard Morse and Ryan Anderson, the latter is carrying some kind of bag. "I guess you guys are from the Universal Security Organization."
Redheart passes the cup and trots to the door. "Holler if you need anything." She says, leaving the three.
The two seat themselves across from him. "You've done well, Mister Sanders." Leonard starts. "Better than we expected."
Ryan nods. "Much better, we didn't expect you to live after getting possessed by Thanatos."
Leonard waves a hand. "And here you are. Your family will be ecstatic to know you're alright."
Greg chuckles and shakes his head. "What'd you tell 'em?" He asks.
"We told them the truth." Leonard says. "They were skeptical at first, sure, but then we took them to see the Princesses."
Ryan reaches for the bag and hands it off to Greg. "We got a little something for ya."
"A couple of somethings, actually." Leonard corrects Ryan as he reaches into a pocket in his coat, takes out a set of keys and tosses them to Greg. "You're a homeowner in Equestria, Greg."
Greg opens up the bag and sees it contains a laptop. He pulls it out and it's not his usual laptop.
"That's a new solar powered laptop." Ryan explains.
"Your new home is also solar powered." Leonard adds as the two stand up. Leonard feels his pockets. "I almost forgot something..." he says, pulling out an envelope and tosses it to him, "read this over. If there's anything on that you don't like, let us know, otherwise, just sign your name." He adds before looking at Ryan. "Come on, let's go back to HQ."
Ryan and Leonard leave the room. Greg continued nibbling on the fruit as he opens up the laptop and powers it on. It was quick to boot up, and the operating system is the latest version of Ubuntu. Upon seeing that he has a word processor pinned to the sidebar, he powers down the laptop and closes the screen. He looks at the I.V. unit standing next to his bed, turns to plant his feet on the warm hardwood floor, takes a deep breath and takes a risk to stand up. Fortunately, he had very little problem doing so.
Greg takes his I.V. unit and walks around the hospital. A doctor approaches him. "Mister Sanders..." he calls, "you shouldn't be walking around yet."
Greg nods. "I know. I'm a little restless, I suppose."
The doctor waves a hoof. "Very well, follow me."
The doctor walks with Greg into a waiting room, where he sees not only the four princesses, but also his parents. They see him and start laughing and crying.
"Greg!" His dad shouts, walking up to his son and giving him a tight hug. "We feared the worst."
It was his mom's turn to get a hug now. "So did I." He admits. "I have the Equestrian princesses to thank for my recovery."
Said princesses approach the reunited family. "Not just us," Twilight notes, "there was also Applejack."
Cadance nods. "Yes, she's been by your side since we returned to Ponyville."
Greg's dad taps his foot on the floor with an unsure look in his eyes. "I still find it weird that you're dating a horse."
Greg glares at his father. "Please don't start, dad." He begs. "Calling them horses is considered a racial slur."
Celestia shakes her head. "Since you're new to our world, I'm willing to overlook it."
Luna's eye twitches. "Just don't make a habit of it."
Greg's dad nods. "Sorry..."
Greg looks over to his doctor. "What do you think, doc? Would it be okay for me to leave?"
The doctor adjusts his glasses. "I suppose. You're doing a lot better than I expected. I'll get the paperwork filed."
Greg nods and looks over to his parents. "I'll get dressed, then I'll meet you guys up at Sugarcube Corner."
"And where's that?" His mom asks.
Twilight giggles. "I'll take you there."
Celestia nods. "Yes. Luna and I should return to Canterlot. Hopefully we will meet again."
Greg's mom smiles. "I'd like that. Thank you for looking after my boy."
Luna returns the smile. "You both have done a fine job raising him."
Celestia and Luna say their good byes before leaving the hospital.
Cadance looks over at her sister in-law. "I'm going to find your brother and we'll be heading back to the Crystal Empire." She says, giving Twilight a hug. "We'll be back after a while."
Twilight gives Greg another hug. "We should be leaving as well, There's no doubt that Pinkie's got a party for us."
Greg nods. "Right, I'll meet you there."
Greg dressed back up and went to Sugarcube Corner. As he enters, he saw Twilight reading a letter. She looks sad, but relieved at the same time. He walks up to and sits next to her. "Is something wrong?"
Twilight puts the letter away and wipes some tears. "Nothing. The Griffon king is recovering from his wounds, but he'll be blind for the rest of his life."
Greg shakes his head and examines the front. "That sucks, but at least he's alive."
Twilight nods. "I hear Leon and Ryan came to visit you."
Greg pulls out the letter and sets it on the table. "Yeah. They really want me to join their group. They also want to expand and put me in charge of the Equestrian branch."
Twilight shakes her head. "And you don't want to."
Greg sighs and rests his head on his hands. "No, I don't. I just want to relax, Twilight."
Twilight smiles. "Well then tell them no."
Greg's parents and Applejack approach them. "There ya are! We've been waitin' for ya." The orange mare gave him a hug.
Twilight stands up. "I better get out of here. I've got paperwork to fill out."
The other three sat at the table around Greg. His father across from him, his mother to his right and Applejack to his left. His father clears his throat. "So, what have you been up to all this time?"
Greg chuckles. "That's a long story, but I guess it's a good time to start."
With the party over, Greg, his parents and Applejack leave the sweet shop. "I hope you have a wonderful time out here, Greg. I know we have." His mother said, giving him another hug.
His father shakes his hand. "Yeah. It was an incredible experience meeting the ponies. Now I'm curious about what humanity will discover on its own now that we know we're not alone."
Greg nods in agreement. "I wish I met them all under better circumstances."
His father laughs. "Yeah, really. Well, we better be off." He points to his son. "Don't be a stranger, you hear?"
Applejack trots up to Greg's mother and gives her a hug. "Y'all take care now."
At this time, a young woman approaches the group. "Ready to leave, Mister and Missus Sanders?"
The two nod. The woman prepares the SRG and opens a rift back to Earth. Greg's parents walk through and he stops the woman. "Here..." he hands over the letter. "Tell them thanks for the offer, but I decline."
The woman takes the letter and nods. "Of course. If you're ever in need of assistance, you know where to turn to."
With that, the woman walks through the rift and it closes behind her. Greg looks over to Applejack. "I don't know about you, but I'm ready to pass out."
Applejack yawns. "Me too. Ah got a lot'a work ahead'a me tomorrow."
Greg grunts. "Come on, AJ. My place is close, why don't you crash with me for the night."
Applejack nuzzles him. "Ah'd like that. Thanks, Greg."
The two walked away from Sugarcube Corner to Greg's. Equestria had been saved for now and it's time for Greg to take on a much needed vacation.
Sombra would go with Celestia and Luna to Canterlot to begin reintegrating with society. They will most likely give the prince a pseudonym and a cover story about him being a prisoner of war and that his broken horn was a result of his imprisonment.
With Chrysalis dead, the changeling forces would be in disarray for a long time and power struggles are likely to occur, which may result in a long and bloody civil war.
None of that mattered to Greg. For now, his only concern is what he will do with his free time. He hasn't written anything in years, so it'll probably be a good idea to jot down ideas when inspiration strikes, and looking at the mare next to him had already given him some.