When Twilight was taken from her original reality, she thought she would never return. Now she has. War is at Equestria's doorstep. Twilight will have to make a choice. When Twilight does, she’ll have a huge task ahead of her.
The story of my down fall had started. I was out numbered, out gunned and my magical reserves were drained. At the moment when I felt the bullet hit, I thought it was over and I would never see those I care for again, so I closed my eyes and accepted what would happen next.
But desitny stepped in and gave me a new chance to live again. I now have chance to experience life in the fullest; or will I be doomed to repeat my mistakes again and watch all that care for to fall to the darkness that is ever present.
The world I awoke to was different but it felt right. Everyone is here alive and well and what I know about them and the world is wrong. There is no talk of war, but the factors that lead to war from where I came from are still present. The people of Equestria seem to be unaware of advances in technology that have happened. This is due to the fact that nobles keep every advancement a secret so that they can keep the power that they had for generations. Not all but some want change and advancement.
Now the time has come for me to make a choice of who I should be.
Should I become the silent protector who leads a normal life? Should I become a soldier that rose out from the ranks to be a beloved leader? A wandering warrior with immense power and skill that found something worth protecting? Or become a legend of shadows and take my place as the greatest warrior till the end of time.
I don’t know what I’ll do, but as Valkyrie of Equestria, I Twilight Sparkle will do everything in my power to save this country.
The room was still, and the only sounds were coming from the two forms fast asleep on the queen size bed. The light from the setting sun peeked through the curtains illuminating the dark room just enough to wake the taller of the two sleep forms.
The seemingly ageless young woman got out of the bed with the extreme caution and precision of an expert sergeant, so as not to wake the other sleeping form. The goddess with dark blue hair walked over to the curtains and pulled them open a slight bit more allowing her walk out onto the balcony. Looking out upon her kingdom with joy and sadness she let out a sigh. Just before her sight was finished, she was embraced by two strong yet gentle arms. “Luna mea, what’s bothering you?” the shorter of the two asked.
“Crepusculum, it’s just…. I can’t…” Luna’s thoughts were that of a jumbled mess and full of doubt. But all were put to rest when she felt her lovers embrace tighten. Taking a deep breath to clear her mind.
“Crepusculum, I feel that this is all a dream and when I truly awake, you will be gone.” Luna was turned around suddenly and was pulled into a passionate kiss.
“Luna, you are the Regis Filia of the night, dreams, and illusions. So tell me was that kiss real?” Luna stood their stunned for what felt like hours, but then answered her question with a kiss that would make Cadence blush. “I will take that kiss as a yes.” Luna smiled at the other girl and looked into her amethyst colored eyes and said.
“I love you, Twilight Sparkle.” She pulled twilight in to a sidelong hug and said “Come, let us raise the Moon and Her Stars.” As Luna lifted her hand, she called upon her magic and to bring out the moon and stars.
Once the moon was in the night sky, she looked down at the love of her life. As Luna led Twilight to back into the room to get ready for the night. Luna’s mind started to wander to the day she appeared in her life.
______________________________________
It was ten o’clock in the morning and Luna was still up. She had not gone to sleep yet, because today was a day that would go into the history books and stories would be told to children for generations to come. Today Equestria would crown a new princess. As Luna was fixing the sleeve of her dress to make sure that her dagger was hidden, her thoughts were of Celestia’s most faithful student. “Her accomplishments in life are astounding. She has proved that she could be a leader that can take appropriate risks, but.”
“Sister, are you all right?” Celestia asked Luna, snapping her from the thought.
“I am fine sister, just pensive.” Luna replied. Celestia gave her a quizzical look.
“Luna, is there something wrong with the dress? Or is something on your mind?” Celestia questioned.
“It’s just, your student, she’s well, you know.”
Celestia laughed a little “Yes, I know how she can be pretentious at times, but you know that she has earned this; just as Cadence has. Come, it's time.”
Both sisters started walking to the throne room. Halfway there they were joined by Cadence and Shining Armor. As they drew closer, the other five Elements of Harmony joined them. They arranged themselves so that when they were walking, Celestia was in the center, Luna on her right, Cadence and Shining Armor were to her left, and bringing up the rear of the group were the five others two paces behind. They approached the doors to the ceremonial Hall with a nod. The solar guard then opened the doors.
As they entered the throne room, the royal honor guard snapped to attention. When they all were on the platform, Celestia spoke. “Today we are gathered here in celebration, my most faithful student has performed many great feats through her time in Ponyville, including reuniting me with my sister, Princess Luna. Now she accomplished something that not even the great Mage Star Swirl the bearded could not do. She has created new magic, proving that she is without out a doubt ready to be crowned Equestria’s newest Princess. Ladies and Gentlemen, may I present for the very first time: Princess Trixie Lulamoon!”
As the doors opened, in a walked Trixie with her head held high and proud, wearing an elegant light blue dress with purple accents that was made without a doubt by her girlfriend.
She walked down the aisle toward where the royals and her five friends stood to Cadence’s right, as the honor guard and flag bearers sang. When she got to the platform, she turned around to face the audience. Celestia used her magic to grab Trixie’s crown. Just as she was about to place the crown on Trixie’s head, a massive sphere of purple and blue magic energy appeared above the center of the room. Then something (or rather someone) came out of it and landed face down on the white marble floor.
The room fell silent as the clang of knife resonated through the room and with the magical sphere disappeared. All that was left was a person in black armor, not moving. They then started to slowly move, getting up in a dazed fashion but was able to pick up their knife that had fallen near by and sheif it. When they got to their feet, and finally look around and they stopped on the four Alicorn’s and said “Luna?” Her voice so beautiful that one could say it belonged to an angel. She took a step forward but stopped as she grabbed her side and fell to the marble floor once more.
Luna’s mind was set abuzz with questions “What just happened? Did I just think her voice was beautiful? Wait, her? Is that blood?” sure enough, there was a small crimson red pool forming around her.
Luna walked towards the hurt girl with caution. The closer Luna got to the girl’s the more apparent the damage her armor had taken. The armor was twisted, had gouges of it missing and partially melted. The only thing Luna could describe the armor was that wreck of crashed airship.
Luna was in front of the girl she stretched her hand and touched what she thought was the faceplate to lift it up but found immovable glass. She ran her hand along the helmet and triggered something. The helmet let out quiet hiss, glass turn form the opaque to crystal clear and cracked. Luna spoke “Guards, get a medic in here now! Call the Royal physician and tell that he has a critically wounded girl headed his way.”
The Lunar guards had a medic and a stretcher there within minutes. Meanwhile the Royal guards were actively clearing the room and making a path for the medics.
The rest of what happened became a blur in Luna’s mind when the medics removed her helmet. Her face was that of a goddess, perfect in every way, her hair was mostly dark indigo, with one pink and purple stripe, and was done up in a French braid. The medics were from the lunar guard and knew that she had to be stable before they even tried to move her.
When the medics were certain she could be moved safely to the stretcher they did so. When they were moving her from the floor to the stretcher a single noise caught Luna’s attention. it was a simple ping as something metallic hit the floor. Luna looked down to see a silver pocket watch. She picked the watch up to look at the design on the front. It was a waning crescent moon over a large lavender colored six pointed star and five white stars. Luna clicked the watch open. The time was off by 6 hours, she then saw an inscription on the back of the front faceplate. “I've loved the stars too fondly to be fearful of the night”.
Luna felt tears well up in her eyes, and for the first time in over a thousand years she offered a silent prayer for the girl who stole her heart. “Luna, do you know who that girl was?” Celestia asked as she approached.
“How can you say that you don’t know her?! She called your name without your title. No one would dispose of your title without your explicit permission! Not that it needs to be pointed out, but she ruined Trixie’s coronation day!” Luna cringed as Trixie yelled at her for stating the truth. She attempted to interject, but couldn’t form the words.
“Come on, out with it: why did you sabotage Trixie’s coronation day? Or so help Trixie, she will use the Elements to send you back to the moon!” All the while Trixie’s wings were extended fully, showing that she was quite pissed off at the events that had occurred.
Finally, Luna found the right words and tried to speak but someone else beat her to it “Trixie Lulamoon!” Trixie froze as Rarity said her full name. “That is no way to speak to a princess, even if you are technically one yourself. It is quite clear that Princess Luna is just as confused as we are.” Rarity then changed her tone to a more comforting one. “Now Trixie, I understand that you’re mad that your second biggest day was ruined, but Luna said that she has no idea who that girl is. So we have to believe her. Trixie, I want you to apologize to Luna for what you said and promise that you will never say it again.”
Trixie turned to Luna and spoke, “Trixie is sorry that she yelled at you and threatened to banish you to the moon again. She is really upset that her special day was ruined. Luna, can you find it in your heart to forgive her?”
Luna took a deep breath to regain her composure. “Apology accepted, Trixie. I truly have no idea what is going on, but let us speak on the subject somewhere private. I don’t believe the Heavens tea room is being used at the moment; let us continue this conversation there.”
Luna started to walk towards the doors, while the other followed and walked to the tea room. All the while Luna’s mind was abuzz with questions “Who is she? Where did she come from? Why did she call my name without my honorific? Do I know her? Is she descendant of someone I knew? What kind of armor was she wearing? What is with this pocket watch?”
Luna looked down at the pocket watch, clicked it open again looking at the inscription once again “I've loved the stars too fondly to be fearful of the night”.
“Luna what’s that you have there?” Tia asked.
“It’s a pocket watch that fell when the medics moved the girl to the stretcher.” Luna answered while passing the watch over to Tia.
Tia examined the watch “I must say, the craftsmanship is superb. I will have to ask that girl when she wakes up who made it.” Luna watched as Tia looked over the watch, trying to find the maker’s mark.
A few minutes later they arrived at the Heavens tea room. Luna loved the room as it overlooked the gardens and the illusion that covered the ceiling showed the heavens at night. Luna sat down at the table, and the others followed. After asking a servant to bring them tea and light snacks, the table then erupted into conversation.
“Luna, you got close to the girl, did you notice anything that could help us?” As Cadence asked the question the room fell silent.
“From what I saw she looked like she had been in a fight before she appeared out of thin air. The marks on her armor show evidence that that she was alone and outnumbered. Also her hair was dark indigo, with one pink and a purple stripe”.
“Well, not much to go on there, but something about that hair color is ringing a bell, but I can put my finger on it.” Cadence said. Shining, does it ring any bells to you?”
Shining Armor sat there quietly. “It does, actually.” At that everyone at the table had a confused look on their face. “It was about twenty-three years ago when my little sister disappeared without a trace. Cadence, it rings a bell because of this picture.” He pulled out his wallet, then took out a picture and passed it around.
“I thought Trixie was your sister.” Rainbow questioned.
“Trixie is my adopted sister. The girl in that photo is my biological sister.” Shining answered.
Everyone except Rarity and Shining look at Trixie. “Yes, Trixie is adopted.”
If it wasn’t dead silent after that revelation, they would have missed what Fluttershy said, “So that girl could be your long lost sister?”
Shining armor nodded his head, “That could be the case but I can’t say for sure."
“This means I can hold a welcome back party for her! Shine, what is her name?” Pinkie Pie asked while standing on the teapot that had just been put down by one of the servants, who was now wide-eyed at spectacle he was witnessing.
“I am sorry, Pinkie, I don’t know her name: my parents don’t really talk about her. All the proof I have of her existence is that one picture, and a gravestone that has my family name and a date that only spans one year.” At that the pink haired girl got off the teapot and sat down with a sad look on her face and her hair somehow deflated a bit.
Everyone at the table looked down at what was stated when a lone voice spoke, “What if this girl is her and she didn’t die, and she has now found a way to make it back to your family."
“Yeah, just in time to ruin Trixie’s coronation day! Some sister she turnout to be.” Trixie yelled out.
“O-oh Trixie that’s not what I meant. I would be over the sun if she was my sister that finally returned after being lost for twenty three years.”
Trixie could not be control anger any longer. “Well some of us can’t be as weak and spineless as you, to the point where you let everyone walk all over you even with your position! A position that should have be given to someone stronger than you! Not to mention that you’re not strong enough to protect one you love and had to save by her when she was injured! Trixie couldn't care less what you think!”
Trixie looked up and away, then instantly regretted what she had said. She looked over at Fluttershy and saw the tears in her eyes starting to fall. Trixie looked down and tried to think of some way to apologize, but she was lost for words. The scraping of a chair came from across the table followed by the sound of hurried steps and a door opening but not closing. Trixie started to get up to go find Fluttershy and apologize to her.
“Trixie, sit down. I will go calm her down and we will talk about this later,” Celestia said in a stern and monotone voice. Then she got up to go find her sunrise. As Celestia closed the door the room’s temperature dropped ten degrees.
Applejack spoke first. “Trixie, Ah can’t believe you said that! Fluttershy has more than enough proven that she is capable of her position." Trixie looked to her right to get help from Rarity but was given a disappointed look. The room fell into silence.
Celestia walked through the halls of the Canterlot castle, making her way to the castle gardens. Reaching the gardens, she closed her eyes and listened. She noticed the birds chirping, the wind rustling the leaves on the trees, and then she heard it. The whisper quiet crying of the girl she loved to no end.
Celestia made her way over to a weeping willow and pushed past the branches to find Fluttershy on her knees with her face in her hands, crying. She approached carefully and quietly. Once close enough she let her presence be known. “Sonnenaufgang,” Celestia called out in a sweet and tender voice that could melt any heart of stone.
Fluttershy looked behind her and saw Celestia standing with open arms. She got up and ran into the embrace of the one who had shown her that kindness is strong. All she could do was cry, and cry she did.
Celestia hugged Fluttershy as she cried into her chest, using her wings to cocoon the pink haired girl from the world. She slowly made her way to the willow’s trunk and sat down. Fluttershy’s sobs slowly abated. Celestia looked down to see the young girl had fallen asleep, so she let her rest.
Celestia started to play with Fluttershy’s hair which in turn woke her up.
“Sorry!” Fluttershy squeaked and tried to break the embrace.
“It’s ok, Sonnenaufgang. It will be ok.” Celestia spoke in a clamming voice while tightening the embrace.
“No it's not! You’re not worthy of somebody like me to love you.” Fluttershy spoke. She grabbed her upper arm and pulled off a Velcro patch, handing it to Celestia. “Here, take this back. I’m not worthy.”
“That’s enough, Sonnenaufgang.” Celestia said, cutting off Fluttershy rant. She took a minute to pick the correct words to say. In a soft voice she said
“Fluttershy you are worthy of the position that you hold and I will not take it from you. Also, I am free to pick who I love, and I choose you. For what you don’t have in strength you have in your love and kindness.” She stopped to look at her sunrise and kiss her. “That’s why I love you.”
Celestia took the patch from Fluttershy’s hands and put back onto her arm. “Thank you.” Fluttershy said, moving in to kiss Celestia. She then started to extract herself from Celestia’s embrace.
“Any time, Sonnenaufgang, any time,” Celestia said as she stood. ”Shall we rejoin your friends?” she asked.
“Yes we shall. Also when you talk to Trixie go easy on her,” She said while they started walking back to the heaven's tea room.
“No promises,” Celestia said while Fluttershy giggled as they walked.
A knock at the door brought the 45 minutes of silence to an end. Luna then spoke, “Come in.” A man in a white lab coat entered and stood in front of the group. “Dr. Tourniquet, to what do we owe to this pleasure?”
The man stood straight up and spoke clearly “I received an order from Captain Armor to investigate the girl that was brought in, and I am here to report my findings.”
“It seems that we have returned at the right time,” a voice said from behind him. Standing behind him was Celestia and behind her clinging on to her dress like a child was Fluttershy. Celestia walked over to a chair and sat down, pulling Fluttershy onto her lap. “Now Dr. Tourniquet, will you share what you found?”
“Very well, after we cut her out of her armor to see the extent of her wounds, we found out that she is a Pegasus."
The group looked over to Shining Armor who shook his head. “My sister was a Mage. Please continue, Doctor.”
Dr. Tourniquet cleared his throat “Her injury was a bullet wound to her lower left abdomen. She also is severely dehydrated. Further examination of her reviled 20 other scars spread around her body. Some of the scars are about 20 years old. Her mark is a six pointed lavender star with five other white stars. Blood type O-.” He then stopped to see if there were any questions.
He flipped his paper till he found what he was looking for and spoke once more. “When we were removing her armor these fell off.” He put several patches down in the center of the table. The first one read “blood type O-” and the second one portrayed six gems on a pedestal, all grayed out except the center one. The third was the emblem of the Equestrian armed forces. The last was something that no one had expected to see.
“Why did that girl have Fluttershy’s Archangel Patch?” Pinkie asked. Luna looked at Celestia and she nodded her head to silent question.
Luna stood and took a breath then spoke. “Fluttershy, could I have your patch? I promise that I will give it back in minute.”
“Sure.” Fluttershy reached for her patch that on her upper arm and removed it, then handed it to Luna.
“Thank you, Fluttershy.” Luna said as she took the patch from her.
Luna levitated both patches in her magic and set them to revolve. “Although the patches look similar, they are different. Fluttershy’s patch has a white wing crossing over a blue wing with a yellow Recurve bow, the symbol for an Archangel. while the mystery girl’s patch has a blue wing crossing over a white wing with a lavender colored halberd, which is the symbol for the Valkyrie.” Luna floated Fluttershy’s patch back over to her.
“Princess Luna, why have I never heard of Valkyries before? And where does a Valkyrie stand compared to an Archangel?” Shining armor asked.
“The rank of Valkyrie has not been given to someone in over two thousand years, Caption armor. If that girl is indead a Valkyrie then she holds the same rank as Fluttershy.” Luna said. Everyone had confused looks on their faces.
“Tia, is their anything that the Valkyrie shares with me other than rank?” Fluttershy asked.
“Fluttershy, Valkyrie and Archangel are two sides of the same coin. All it means is that you and she are equals in the court.” Celestia said.
“Oh, ok,” Fluttershy responded.
Dr. Tourniquet then placed two items on the table. The first object was a set of dog tags, the second was a silver bracelet with six different shaped gems. “She had these on her person. One has a single word that that sounds like her name, but it’s in another language that we can’t identify. The second dog tag has quote on it and reads as such: “as the evening twilight fades away the sky is filled with stars, invisible by day.”
Luna went wild-eyed she picked the tags to read the first one.
“So what does it say?” Rainbow dash asked.
“It reads ‘crepusculum,’” Luna read.
“What language is that?” Rainbow asked in a confused tone.
“Her name is in Latin. It is a language that hasn’t been spoken in about eight thousand years. Crepusculum translates to Twilight in your tongue.”
Trixie then spoke, “So what does this new information tell us?”
“We know who Twilight reports to.” Luna said.
“That would be who?” Trixie asked timidly.
Celestia looked at Luna and gave and nodded her head. Celestia let out a sigh then spoke, “On the patch the blue wing is above the white one, her name is in Latin and the other tag reads “as the evening twilight fades away the sky is filled with stars, invisible by day.” This means Twilight is the Valkyrie of the Stars, and answers to Luna.”
“So an Archangel and a Valkyrie are one in the same?” Pinkie Pie asked.
“Somewhat Pinkie While Archangel and Valkyrie are only similar in standing in the court. The ideals and tact’s are completely different in and out of conflict,” Celestia said. “Trixie, would you care to explain the role of an Archangel?”
Trixie nodded her head and spoke. “First off. Fluttershy, I’m sorry that I said what I said. I only said that because I was mad with events that took place today and the truth that I have learned. I should never say that you have proven that you have the skills and resources to do your duty. I hope that you find it in your heart to forgive me.” Trixie met Fluttershy’s eyes and a clam and kind look in them.
“Trixie, I forgive you. I won’t hold against you; we all know that you have your own faults, just like the rest of us.” Fluttershy jested to everyone seated at the table “We are only human, we all make mistakes from time to time. Having faults is a good thing, it means that we all have room to improve. Also, I could not stay mad at you for long, because without your help I would never have asked out Tia.” She gave a smile to Celestia, but it turned to a confused look and looked back to
Trixie. “You found out about the curse that all my carry, didn’t you?”
“The role of the Archangel is...” Trixie tried to change the subject.
But she was stopped by Rarity. “Sweetheart, you’re avoiding the question that Fluttershy asked. So what did you find?”
Trixie looked to her mentor for guidance, but found that she looked at Fluttershy. She let out a sigh. “Well, I guess now is a good enough time for all of you to find out.” She looked around the table at her friends and loved ones. She felt a slight pang of sadness from her heart as she looked at her friends. “As you know, Alicorns have the magic of all the Three Tribes. That is the reason why the Princesses govern the land.” Everyone nodded their heads. “Well as it is written into trade agreements or any business deal, an item must be given to gain another item.”
“How does trade agreements apply into this?” Rainbow asked in earnest
Trixie took a second to steady herself for what she was about to say. “When one becomes an Alicorn they must shed their mortal shackles.”
“What in the hay is that supposed to mean?” Applejack questioned.
Trixie was about to answer, but Fluttershy beat her to it. “It means that Trixie is immortal.” Applejack still had a confused look on her face. “Trixie cannot die of natural causes, and form the stories Alicorns are damn near impossible to kill as well.” Fluttershy replied.
“So all four of you will live forever.” Rainbow stated.
“Yes, we will.” Cadence affirmed.
“That is so cool, I wish I could live forever!” Rainbow exclaimed.
“Yes, living forever does have its high points, but at the cost of seeing friends, loved ones, and children grow old and die while you sit there and watch, never aging.” Luna said with much sorrow in her voice.
“This is the curse that we as Alicorns must carry. One that I am now burdened with for the rest of eternity.” Trixie said while looking down at her hands. Almost everyone except Shining Armor and Fluttershy looked down at what they had learned. “That’s partly why I snapped at Fluttershy earlier: If that girl is my sister she would grow old and die. She was gone for twenty three years and that’s twenty three years I will never get back.” Trixie said as she started to cry. Rarity pulled Trixie into a loving embrace and whispered into her ear. “It will be all right love, you will overcome this obstacle when the time comes. I’m sure of it.” Slowly Trixie’s tears came to halt.
Rarity broke the hug and said “Now, I believe you were going to tell us about what an Archangel’s job is.”
Trixie nodded her head and spoke. “To understand what an Archangel is, you have to understand what they can do. Archangels are the right hand of Equestria. In the court they stand one step below royalty. They can propose bills that will undergo the process to become a law. They can vote on bills that are presented to the high court. That is just the political side of an Archangel. The do more than attend court and deal with the nobles. They also are commanders. History does not speak about the Angel’s Battalion until the 14th war with the Griffon Empire. It was that war that showed the world an Archangel is more than a title and a seat of power. At the time an earth bound named Tempest Wind was an Archangel. He led his Angels in the battle of Winds Divide. They held the line held for 3 months before the Imperial army broke through.”
Trixie stopped when Rainbow dash spoke. “So Archangel Tempest Wind got the first Angel’s Battalion. Why did he named it the 45th Angel’s Battalion?”
Trixie was about to speak, but Fluttershy spoke first. “Archangels have always had command of Angel’s Battalion. Tempest wind’s Battalion was the first time that people recognize their ability. As for the name, it came from the first Archangel, Morning Whisper; she named the group. Tempest Wind was the 45th Archangel, so he commanded the 45th generation of the Angel’s battalion. I am the 46th Archangel so I command the 46th Angel’s battalion.”
“How come you never told us that you had a battalion?” Pinkie pie asked.
“You never asked,” Fluttershy stated.
“So how big is your Battalion?” Applejack asked.
“I have five hundred angles at my command,” Fluttershy said with confidence.
“Fluttershy, I am impressed that you have that large of a force. You have to show it to me sometime.” Shining Armor said.
“You can come with me when I meet with my commanders in a few hours, if you want to,” Fluttershy said.
“I will take you up on that offer,” Shining replied quickly.
“Darling, is that all that you have to say about what the Archangels are?” Rarity asked.
“Yes, those are the more important parts of Archangels. If you want the entire history of the Archangels then read “Morning tempest.” It covers the Archangels from Morning Whisper to Tempest Wind.” Trixie stated.
“I'll think about it, but I want to know what a Valkyrie does.” Rarity stated.
“As I said they have the same power and place in court and that where the similarity ends. If the Archangels are the right hand of Equestria. Then the Valkyrie is the left hand of Equestria. An Archangel use straight forward tactics and a large force to win a battle. A Valkyrie employees a different set of tactics. Instead of a battalion they form a team of Valors and fight in unconventional ways to win. A Valkyrie and their Valors are expected to learn, adapt and excel in every aspect of warfare.” Trixie answered.
“That’s it?” Rainbow asked
“That’s only real difference of I could interpret about the Valkyrie and their Valors. If you want move information ask Luna.” Trixie replied as she looked over to where Luna was sitting. But she was not there.
“Luna left with Doctor Tourniquet minute or two ago,” Celestia said while she was braiding Fluttershy’s hair. She stopped momentarily to ask a question. “Now that we are armed with information: does anyone have an idea of what we’re going to do about Twilight?”
Shining armor spoke first. “I think it would be in our best interest to keep Twilight around.”
Celestia gave him inquiring look and said “On what grounds do you make this choice, Shining Armor?”
“On the grounds that Twilight is a part of the Equestrian Armed Forces. I know Rainbow Dash, Applejack and Fluttershy will agree with me. In order to be in the EQAF you swear your life to Equestria and all who call it home,” Shining Armor stated.
“Well put, Captain Armor. What are your thoughts on this, Fluttershy?” Celestia asked to the girl on her lap.
Fluttershy took a minute to think then spoke. “I agree with Captain Armor. Once a soldier, always a soldier. I also have this feeling that she needs to be shown some kindness.”
Celestia nodded her head, then looked over to Cadence. ”Your thoughts on the subject?” “I think it would be in our best interest to keep her, but it must be her choice. I do love the idea of having another sister in law. Also, I believe that Luna would like to have her around.” Cadence said with a smirk on her face.
“Oh, is that true?” Celestia said with a devious smile.
Cadence nodded her head and spoke. “My domain is love and I can tell when someone is in love.”
“So, Chief Master Sargent Rainbow Dash, where do you stand?” Celestia asked.
“I not sure of where to stand. My gut feeling says that we should not let her stay. The EQAF part of me believes that Twilight is a sister in arms. So I say we give her a test to see where her loyalty lies.” Rainbow said.
“To honest with y'all, I don't like that girl, something just feels off. But Ah’ agree with Dash’s idea. Even afterwards, we should keep our wits about us.” Applejack said, getting a few nods of approval.
“That seems very appropriate, Applejack.” Celestia said then turned to Rarity, who was in a daze. “Rarity? Rarity. Rarity!” Rarity shook her head clearing away the fog, then spoke. “I'm really not sure what to think. On one hand Twilight is need of help and we should show her the generous nature of Equestria. On the other hand, we know next to nothing about her. So I can’t make a choice. What do you think, dear?”
All eyes turned to Trixie as she spoke. “It's a hard choice to make. But, I believe that we should keep her.” Everyone was shocked by what Trixie said.
“Are you sure that’s wise? What about her ruining your coronation day?” Celestia asked in a neutral tone.
Trixie smiled and said. “Don’t get me wrong, I am still mad, but if she is my sister then I will forgive her the option of keeping her is the smarter choice. If Twilight is truly a Valkyrie then she might be a tremendous asset to Equestria; especially with the current relations with the Griffin Empire. They were not happy when they found out about me becoming the fourth princess of Equestria. Also the title Archangel makes the most battle hardened Imperial soldiers flinch in fear, but say “Valkyrie” and they lose all composure. Now The Griffin Empire has declared war against Equestria fourteen times. Many things appeared in those fourteen wars, and at some point a story arose about the Valkyrie. From my extensive research I found many variants of the story. But one thing remained constant when they speak about the Valkyrie, “one must fear and respect the warrior that holds the tilde of Valkyrie.”
As Trixie finished talking, Applejack felt a shiver go down her spine. The only thing that she knew the Griffins feared and respected were dragons. She then spoke, “Does the Griffin Empire know what we have done?”
“No, they don’t. But with Twilight’s appearance, we might want to start some rumors about you six,” Celestia said with a smile.
Then a knock at the door caught their attention. A guard opened the door and spoke. “Your Highness, the parents of Princess Trixie and Captain Armor are here, shall I let them in?” Celestia nodded her head and the guard opened the door to allow Twilight Velvet and Night light to enter.
The room was quiet until the door closed. Twilight Velvet spoke. “If you call that keeping your relationship a secret, Celestia, then you might as well tell all the nobility,” she said, getting a smile out of Celestia.
“You know that they will do something rash if they find out about my current relationship. But if they try to make a law prohibiting same sex relationships, I stop it immediately and reveal that I swing both ways,” Celestia retorted.
The atmosphere in the room was so tense that you could cut a piece of paper. Eventually, Cadence started to laugh, then slowly everyone joined in. As the laughter died down, Cadence spoke. “For a minute I had believed that you opposed same sex relations.” “I hate having to do that. I don’t understand why they are so against the idea, but it’s good to know that all the princess' approve of same sex relationships.” Night light said.
Shining Armor, Cadence, and Trixie got up and gave their parents a hug. As Night Light hugged Trixie, he whispered “Did you ask?”
“No: a complication arose, but I still plan to,” Trixie whispered back.
They had another chair brought in and they took their seats. “Well, today has certainly been interesting. So who was that girl?” Twilight Velvet questioned. “Well, we were hoping that both of you could shed some light on that,” Celestia replied.
“Sorry to disappoint, but we don't have any idea who that girl is. If you think we had something to do with us, you're wrong,” Night Light said, putting off further questions.
Until Shining stated, “First off: we hadn't said anything. Secondly, the girl has a name: it’s Twilight.” At the moment the girl’s name was mentioned, both Night Light and Twilight Velvet went rigid, so Shining Armor pressed on. “We need to know who this girl in this picture is.” Shining slid the picture down to his parents.
“Where did you get this?” Velvet asked.
“That's not what is important right now. What we want to know is what happened to my biological sister twenty three years ago, and if Twilight is her,” Shining answered.
Velvet looked down at the picture and at Trixie, who nodded her head. “Ok. It was twenty three years ago when we lost your baby sister, Twilight Anna Sparkle.”
Luna walked down the hall after quietly excusing herself and Doctor Tourniquet. “So was there anything else that you found out?”
“Yes, she has a bag. We, however, cannot open it because it is enchanted to only lets certain people do so,” Dr. Tourniquet said as they walked to the infirmary.
“She is in room forty two, if you wish to see her.”
“I was just about to ask. Also, I don’t have to remind you, but I will. What you heard in the tea room is not to be repeated. Do I make myself clear?” Luna said as she stopped the Doctor.
“Crystal clear Princess. Now by your leave, I have rounds to do.” Dr. Tourniquet said leaving Luna alone.
Luna continued on to room 42. When she turned a corner, she saw two lunar guards standing outside the room in question. As she approached the door the two guards saluted her; Luna returned the salute. “I am going to speak with the girl and I am not to be interrupted, unless it’s an emergency. Understood?”
“Yes, Sovereign!” the two guards replied.
Luna entered through the door, closing it behind her. After she had placed an anti-sound barrier around the room, she looked around the room until her eyes fell on to Twilight, who was fast asleep. The only illumination in the room was the setting sun beaming through the windows. Luna sighed. “She looks so beautiful when she’s peaceful. Wait--I’ve only seen her one other time and that was at ten-thirty hundred hours. What time is it now anyways?” Luna clicked open her pocket watch. “Nineteen hundred hours; I’ve been up for twenty four hours!” Luna exclaimed, then immediately looked over to see if she had woken Twilight. Luckily Twilight was still asleep. Luna casted her magic to double check that the girl was indeed asleep. An orb appeared gave a soft blue light that the girl was asleep “Good: she is still asleep. I wonder what she is dreaming about.”
Luna walked over to the full size bed, sat on the edge and called upon her magic again. The orb in Luna’s hand turned white. She closed her eyes. The orb pulsed and a line of magic energy snaked its way to Twilight’s forehead. Right as the line of magical energy touched her if it was forced back all the way to the orb. “A mental barrier designed to stop dream magic. Twilight, you’re full of surprises.” Luna whispered to herself with a smirk on her face.
Luna looked around again and saw Twilight’s bag, walking towards it. “The doctor said they could not open it due to the enchantment. It can probably only be opened by her but, there’s no harm in trying. At worst the bag remains closed.” Luna stopped in front of the bag and instead of trying to open it, reached down into her purse and pulled out Twilight’s dog-tags, bracelet, and her patches. She placed them gently on the table. Then she turned her attention to the bag. Right before Luna’s hand touched the zipper, something flashed. Luna turned around and saw that the orb was now hovering around Twilight and no longer the light blue, but instead deep shade of red. Luna knew what that shade of red meant; the girl in front of her was having a night terror, and she was powerless to do anything. Luna walked over to the bed and sat on the edge to watch as Twilight tossed and turned. She felt tears form in her eyes, but did nothing to stop them.
“Ma’am, the Changeling army just broke through our third defensive line,” a Corporal reported to Twilight.
“Give the order to fall back to the second defensive line. Corporal Sentry, what is the status of the evacuation?” Twilight requested as she picked up scar-h and loaded a mag.
“Ma’am, the civilian evacuation is eighty-five percent complete,” Corporal Sentry replied.
“Good: we’re almost done. We just have to hold out a little bit longer.” Twilight whispered as she looked down at the bracelet on her wrist. “It doesn’t matter where life leads us, because one day, we will meet again,” Twilight thought as she made her way out of the command tent. Twilight stopped and closed her eyes to hear the world resound with the cries of civilians as they fled from the ensuing battle. The sounds of battle reached her ear next. The distant report of gunfire, the sounds of explosions. Twilight reached for her radio and spoke, “This is Valor squad moving out to the second defensive line.”
Forty minutes later Valor squad arrived at the second defensive and had no time to rest as a firefight had just started. Twilight didn’t wait, she acted. She had learned the hard way that sometimes it was better not to have a drawn out plan, but at the cost both Applejack’s and Pinkie’s lives. Twilight took cover against a sandbag wall, flicked the fire selector to semi from full and leaned out of cover and took aim. She caught a Changeling trooper in her cross hairs and pulled the trigger twice. She acted with no hesitation, because the one time she hesitated she lost both Rarity and Rainbow.
The fight raged for hours, but it finally ended. Twilight ejected her mag to make a visual check of the ammo left. Just as her heads up display had told her she had two rounds left: one chambered and one in the mag. Twilight put the mag back into her rifle and surveyed the area. They had lost the second defensive line three hours ago along with the members of her squad. “Why in hell does every time something goes right in the world piss on me?” Twilight asked quietly, then grabbed her radio. ”E-Vac point, this is Valkyrie Twilight. What is your status?”
“Ma’am, we have thirty more civilians left until we start getting our wounded through.” A woman said over the radio.
“How much longer do you need?” Twilight asked.
A few moments of silence, then the voice spoke again. ”We need at least three hours to complete our E-Vac, ma’am.” Twilight knew that they had less than an hour and a half.
“All units fall back to the last defensive line. General Gale, you now have command of the remaining forces,” Twilight said.
“Valkyrie Sparkle, You out rank me. Why am I getting the command?” General Gale asked.
Twilight let out a sigh and then spoke. “Because, General Gale, we need three hours to get everyone out. We have less than 90 minutes until The Changeling army reaches the portal.” Twilight stopped for a second to realize what she was about to say. “So I am going to buy us those ninety minutes myself and you can’t change my mind.” Twilight felt the weight of her choice hit her like a train.
“Ma’am, I can’t let you do that, its suicide. We will find another way to buy more time.” General Gale said. Twilight shook her head “General Gale, you know that this is the only option. As the fourth princess of Equestria I hereby enact protocol heavens night.” All the com chatter stopped.
“Understood, Ma’am.” General Gale said in a sad voice.
Twilight spoke again after changing the channel on her radio. “Winter Gale, I have a few last requests. First off, be the last one through the portal, and before you enter, fire a flare. Secondly, tell Luna that I am sorry that I broke our promise and to find someone else to love like she had with me. Finally, don’t blame yourself for this. It’s my choice just like it was your mother’s. Fluttershy would have been proud of you. If you want to say anything to me, say it now, because I ditching my radio.” Twilight was having trouble talking through holding back her tears.
The line was quiet for a bit before Gale spoke. “I will do all that you have asked. I was going to tell you this later, Aunty Twi, but I guess I have to tell you now.” Sigh. ”I am pregnant with twins.” Twilight let her tears flow freely.
“That’s great news, Winter. I am truly happy for you. Now if your twins are to have a peaceful future, I have to go,” Twilight said with pain in her voice. She then took off her helmet and changed the channel once again. “This is Twilight Sparkle Fourth Princess and the Fifth Valkyrie of Equestria, Signing out for the last time.”
She stopped before calling out “Glory and honor to the land of Equestria!”
“May the winter wind guide you, Valkyrie,” Gale said. Twilight replied with “and may the summer’s breeze be your saving grace.” Twilight took her headset off and put her helmet back on. She reached into her pocket and pulled a photo with her and seven others. “One last adventure to go on. Right girls,” Twilight said to no one. She put the picture away and started to run toward the enemy, knowing what would happen but continuing on anyway, just as Fluttershy had done a year ago.
“So let me see if I have the facts right. Twilight was lost in the confusion of a magnitude 8 earthquake that hit Canterlot twenty-three years ago?” Shining armor questioned as he glared at his parents.
“Correct.” Night Light responded
“Then you spent three days looking for Twilight, but in the end you could not find hide or hair of her. You believed that she had died and decided that to bury an empty coffin. To have some closure?” Shining armor asked.
“Yes, that is what we did. But can you blame us?” Velvet responded.
“We don’t blame for wanting some form of closure. But why did you hide all evidence that she existed?” Cadence retorted.
Velvet looked over to Trixie then back to meet Cadence’s eyes again, “That does not justify covering up someone’s identity for 23 years, furthermore Trixie knows that she is adopted!” Cadence exclaimed.
“Cadence there is no need to yell at them for that. I understand why they chose to keep the fact I was adopted a secret. They want to make me feel loved and not a replacement,” Trixie said in a calming voice.
“When did you figure out you were adopted?” Night Light asked.
“Ten years ago, the same day we found that picture.” Trixie answered and point to the picture in Velvets grasp.
“We always hope that Twilight would return to us, but as the years went on we lost hope and decide to move on.” Velvet said all the while looking at the picture.
“Do you have anything else to say about what happen that or days that surrounded that earthquake?” Celestia asked getting the conversation back on track.
“I believe that is all I remember.” Night light said with an unsure look.
“Well then it's been a very interesting day, and I am sure that everyone wants to get some sleep.” Celestia stated.
Everyone agreed.
“Wait, I have something I want to say.” Trixie called out.
Celestia looked into her eyes and saw a fire of determination. She nodded her head.
Trixie got up and pulled Rarity out of her seat. Rarity gave her a very confused. Trixie took a deep breath and looked Rarity in the eye. “Rarity in the past 4 years you have stood by me more than everyone. When I hit rock bottom you were to help, when I was at my peak you stood by me to ensure that I would not let my power get to my head. You have shown me not to be selfish, but instead generous.” Trixie pause for a moment to reach into her pocket. “Now will you grant me this one selfish request?” Trixie went down on one knee and had a small white box in her hand. “Rarity will you marry me?” Trixie asked.
It took Rarity’s mind a moment to process what was asked. She looked down at Trixie and saw the girl that had open her heart with love and patience. “Yes! A thousand times yes!” Rarity exclaimed.
Trixie put the silver ring with a perfect blue sapphire on Rarity’s ring finger. Trixie stood up and rarity pulled into a passion kiss. Everyone clapped and cheered.
Celestia walked over to her and spoke “So that was the surprise that you asked me if you could do.”
“I was going to do it when I gave my speech after the coronation.” Trixie stated while she scratched the back of her head.
Celestia gave her a smile, “I am glad that you found love as well.” She stated as she pulled Fluttershy into a slide long hug.
Everyone was congratulating Trixie and Rarity. “That’s it!” Night light yelled. Everyone looked at in surprise.
“Sorry, I just remembered an important detail.” Night light said.
“Care to share what you remembered.” Cadence said.
“It was the day before the earthquake. I had finally translated a spell from before the time of the Two Princesses. “The call of the warrior has come. She will be called to another time to fulfill her destiny and when she does, she shall return. For it is the right calls her and the Right that turn returns her.” Everyone fell silent at what Night Light had spoken.
“So everything that happened the next day was because of that spell?” Pinkie questioned.
“I am not sure, but it's a good theory.” Night light stated
Velvet spoke next. “I have something else as well. A lifelong spell Called Mother’s Mark.”
“What in the hay is mothers mark?” Applejack asked.
“It is a spell that a mother who is Mage would cast on the children when they're born.” Rarity stated.
Applejack saw where this was going. “So if Twilight has Velvets mark, then without a doubt, that she is your long lost daughter.” She said while looking at Velvet. Velvet nodded her head as tears formed in her eyes.
“I wonder what other surprises could happen today?!” Pinkie exclaimed.
Twilight peaked over her cover and saw the field of the dead solders Changeling and Equestrian. She ducked back into cover and brought up the timer on her HUD and gave a small smile. 2:30:31 “Not long now. Just thirty more minutes. I could try to make it to the portal. NO! The Changeling army could steam roll straight through the portal and everyone else.” The red flashing light on Twilight’s HUD caught her attention. She looked at the light and the AIT screen popped up with “Caution: front plate is at 20% integrity!” Twilight dismissed the alert and looked back the timer 2:33:42. Twilight ejected her mag and put a new one, load a new one. “When her deed is done, she shall be given the right to return.” Twilight whispered as she closed her eyes and listened. It was quiet, then a snap of a twig on the ground.
Twilight vaulted over the wall she was using for cover and mid vault she pulled the trigger and killed the enemy changeling in one shot. Her feet touch the ground for a brief second before she rolled to her left dogging a hail of fire. With pinpoint precision, she took the other nine Changeling troopers down. “A Valkyrie knows no fear.” Twilight opened her eyes and charged forward to me the enemy head on. “We use any tactic to win a battle.” Twilight then jumped. She spread her wings to take flight up to a gray cloud, and pond reaching the cloud she kicked it, causing ice spikes to rain down on the advancing Changelings. “We are the light in the darkest nights.” She dove off the cloud right into the enemy’s ranks. “We are an unstoppable force, a one person army.” Twilight pulled her knife and stabbed the changeling to her right and then on to her left. She felt several bullets hit her.
“Waring: front plate armor 2% integrity, no ammo left. Suggesting a tactical withdrawal meant to repair armor and resupply.” Twilight’s on-board computer recommends. “A Valkyrie never yells they fight to the end.” Twilight reminded herself as she pushed on. At 2:56:34 the changelings stopped and backed away. Twilight, then saw why. Walking towards her with her honor guard was Queen Chrysalis. “Chrysalis about time you showed your face.” Twilight said.
“Give up Valkyrie Sparkle, it's over.” Chrysalis stated
“Not a snowballs chance in tartarus.” Twilight retorted
“If you surrender now I will spare your life.” Chrysalis offered.
“No deal.” Twilight replied.
“You can’t win this fight Twilight. Surrender and you will be allowed to live” Chrysalis pleaded.
“I can’t do that Chris. You forget what Valkyrie’s are about. We are the first and last of defense. All I have to do is hold that line.” Twilight stated.
“What do you mean b.” Chrysalis stated, but a lone violet flare caught everyone’s attention.
“Check and mate Chris.” Twilight said as she tapped her data pad a tremendous explosion occurred. They all watched at the spectacle and there was an opening. Twilight threw down her gun and charged at Chrysalis. When twilight was two meters away, she jumped at Chrysalis.
Chrysalis acted on instinct and pulled her.44 Magnum and fired at Twilight. Time seemed to stop as the bullet hit Twilight as a blue and purple shear enveloped her and disappeared.
Twilight opened her eyes, then let out a gasp as she sat up immediately retargeting that sudden movement. She clutched her gut and laid back down. Twilight slowly opened her eyes and look around the room. Her eye fell on a young woman that sat on the edge of the bed with a familiar face. “Who.” Was all twilight could manage before she broke into a coughing fit.
“Here this will help” the woman said as she handed her a glass of water. ”Better?” she asked
“Yes. Where am I?” Twilight replied after she downed the cup.
“You’re in the Canterlot Castle Infirmary. I know that you just woke up, but can you answers some questions?” She asked in a sweet voice.
Twilight nodded her head. “Very well, if it gets too much just say so and will stop.” She said as she snapped her fingers and a paper and a pen appeared. After a moment of her writing something on the paper she spoke. “First of all, what is your full name?”
“My full name is Twilight Anna Sparkle. What’s your name?” Twilight Responded.
“Oh sorry my name is Moon dancer. Now, Miss Sparkle how old are you?” Moon Dancer asked.
Twilight stared at “Moon Dancer” before answering her question “Not sure of my actual age, but if you give me the year it is I can estimate.”
“I see, the year is 1824 Miss Sparkle.” Moon Dancer said.
Twilight sat up much slower and looked into Moon Dancer's eyes and saw them flicker. “That’s impossible. Last I checked it was 18.... How, how did that happen?” Twilight rambled in a panic.
“Deep breaths Miss sparkle. Now what is your age” Moon Dancer said calming Twilight down.
“Given the year about 22-23. Also, just Twilight is fine” Twilight affirmed.
“Now, Miss Sparkle what is your race?” Moon dancer probed.
“I am Alicorn formally a mage.” Twilight stated.
“Are you feeling alright, Miss Sparkle? Do you want to get some more rest and continue at a later time?” Moon dancer asked.
“Yes, I am. What’s the problem?” Twilight answered calmly. But she was now more alert and casually looked around the room until her eyes fell on her backpack, more importantly the back side.
“You said that you were an Alicorn. But I can say with utmost certainty that you are not. Now what is your race?” Moon dancer asserted.
“What is the todays date?” Twilight inquired.
“The date is 6/1/1824 TC Miss Sparkle.” Moon danced announced.
Twilights eyes went wide as dinner plates she looked down. “Who was crowed princess today?” twilight questioned with a hint of sadness in her voice.
“Today Trixie Lulamoon was crowned the Fourth Princess of Equestria. Now what is your race Miss Sparkle?” Moon Dancer pestered.
“I am a Alicorn.” Twilight asserted.
“You must of hit your head harder than the doctor thought if you saying a Alicorn. When you are clearly Pegasi. Enough games Miss Spar.” Moon Dancer started.
“Enough with “Miss Sparkle” and just who are you?” Twilight yelled.
“Like I said my name is Moon, Dan...”
“Bullshit, you’re not Moon Dancer. I know that you have a glamor spell cast on you. I saw the ripple in occurs over your eyes when such a spell is in play. So cut the act who are you and where am I?” Twilight interrupted.
“You’re in the Canterlot Castle infirmary room 42 west wing. Yes, I have used a glamor spell, but you of all people should understand why. What would like me to call you?” Moon dancer replied.
“Call me Twilight. No, I don’t understand why you would need to use a glamor spell to talk to me. I pose no threat, given that my armor was removed I am sure you saw the patches that were on it.” Twilight stated.
Moon Dancer grinned at Twilight and snapped her fingers. The pen and paper disappeared as did the glamor spell. “Twilight you are indeed the most intriguing girl I have ever. Not only do you claim to be an Alicorn, but a Valkyrie as well. You also show greater understating of spells, more than a common Pegasi would. So I am inclined to believe you. But I would like to see you use magic.” The glamor spell had completely faded away, there sitting in front of Twilight was Princess Luna. Twilight felt a twinge of pain for yelling a Luna.
Twilight smirked “Very well Sovran.” She then raised her hand and with a simple telekinetic spell a knife was removed from the backside of her backpack and brought it towards them. Twilight gripped the knife and pulled it out of the sheaf and held it in between them.
The handle of the knife was black as night, but the blade was white like the full moon, haft way up the flat of the blade was a transaction. “For on the darkest of night a Valkyrie shall rise.” Twilight recited.
Luna looked into Twilight’s eyes “From the winter wind. The moon and her stars are what they are to protect.” At that moment Luna knew that Twilight was reciting the Valkyrie creed.
“All shall fear the agent of the night, for they will never yelled in battle. They fight to the end. For all that are asleep: so that their dreams be peaceful. For they shall never know my deeds.” Twilight counted as she looked Luna in her eyes.
“Twilight Sparkle, you have recited the creed of the Valkyrie. Now pledged your alliance to all that call Equestria home.” Luna said as she made a clear sphere appear. “Your princess of the night calls upon you to swear that you protect Equestria till the end of your time or till Equestria falls.” Luna flouted the sphere towards Twilight.
Twilight used her knife and cut her hand and place it on the spear “I Twilight Sparkle, hereby pledge my undying allegiance to Equestria and all that call it home.” Twilight looked over to the window and saw a blood red moon sitting in the night sky. She then got out of bed and kneeled in front of Luna and spoke. “Sovereign, your agent of the night has risen once again to serve you. What is your command?”
Luna stood up and looked at twilight. “Did I really just do make her a Valkyrie? Well scene the moon is now blood red instead of white then it true. Tia is going to have fit about this.” She took a breath and spoke “Twilight you may rise. You are rest till you are healed and then come find me.” Twilight rose off the ground and proceed to unwrap the bandage that covered her midsection. Luna looked to see a pink scar where a bullet wound once was.
“Sovereign, by your command.” Twilight stated as she brought her arm up to give Luna a saluted.
“Enough with the Sovran. Since you wished to be called Twilight, then I want you to call me Luna in private. Also, I will need your measurements to get you some popper attire.” Luna said with a smirk on her face.
Twilight looked down and saw that she just in her underwear, blush formed across her face. But Twilight did not lose her composure. ”well that’s just great she not even my Luna.” Twilight mentally kicked herself as walked over to her bag on the table and opened it.
Luna watched as twilight pulled out a set of clothes and shoes all colored black. After twilight had put on the clothes she went back to her backpack and pulled a vest and helmet out and put them on. For one last time she went into her backpack, then pulled out two black pistols that Luna had never seen. “Twilight what kind of revolver is that?” Luna inquired, getting a strange look from Twilight.
“This is my 18-27 semi-auto pistol, not a revolver. My personal choice of side arm to bring into combat.” Twilight stated.
“Never heard of that kind of side arm, when was it created?” Luna questioned as she drew closer to Twilight.
“What the 18-27 semi-auto pistol has been standard issue for the lunar guard for years. Oh wait its 1824, this pistol will not be made for another 3 years.” Twilight thought how to explain the pistol to Luna, who was standing a little too close to her but it was not unwelcomed. “Well, that’s because it hasn’t been created yet. It will be 3 years before the first version of this sidearm appears.” Twilight finally stated.
“So take it that all that you have is more advanced than what we currently have.” Luna inferred.
“I can’t say for sure. Tell me, do the Lunar Guard where ballistic vests or have they not created yet?” Twilight asked.
“No, they don’t. I take it that the vest you are wearing is a Ballistic vest.” Luna stated.
“Yes, it’s a class VI Ballistic vest.” Twilight replied. Luna gave her a confused but intrigued look. “Don’t worry about what that means and I won’t be sharing how to make them.” Twilight said as she put her patches back on her shoulder, then her bracelet. As twilight turned around, her stomach let out a growl, she felt her cheeks grow in warmth.
“Well, I do believe that our first order of business is dinner. Will you accompany me to the private dining room?” Luna smiled as Twilight nodded her head and walked to the door.
Applejack walked down the deathly silent halls. That was just a few hours ago; they were filled with people getting ready for the conation day. Now were void of life except for the royal guard every 10 meters or so.
As Applejack walked past another guard, he saluted her. Applejack didn’t bother to return the salute. “It’s been what five years since I joined the EQAF. I was so close to deploying again, but now I am an element of harmony. I guess mha family doesn’t have to worry anymore. That I can handle, what I can’t handle is many of mha comrades treating me like I some kind of delicate flower.” Applejack let out a sigh.
As she drew closer to her room, she felt that something was off. She looked around and saw that the hallway was empty and her door to her room was slightly ajar. Applejack then knew that something was off.
Applejack reached to her backside and pulled out a combat knife. She let her training take control as she got ready to breach the door to the room that she was staying in. She visually scanned the door to see if it had been rigged to blow. After seeing no such signs of the door being rigged she thought over her options. “I have two options. 1 go in loud and hit them hard, or 2 use the element of surprise to get the upper hand.” She chose the second option as it would be better if there were multiple enemies in the room.
Applejack cautiously opened the door as she peered around the door frame. The room was dark and void of life. She moved quickly and quietly to the bathroom and found it just like the other room. Just before applejack let down her guard, she felt a slight breeze. She turned around and saw a shadow that was casted on the current that covered the door to the balcony. She took a few steps back and charged with all her might at whoever was on the balcony.
.....
A Pegues leaned on a balcony and let their mind wander as she looked up at the stars “Sometimes it is great just to enjoy the moment. The stars look great tonight. I wish that Jackie was here right now.” Their thoughts were brought to a full stop, as someone tackled them.
.....
Applejack was lucky to catch them, whoever they were off guard. She was now sitting on top of the woman that she tackled with a knife to her throat. “Jackie!” she looked down and saw her girlfriend.
Applejack back pedaled off of Fi once cleared of her, she dropped her knife it fell to the ground with a sickening ping. She kept backing up till she bumped into the wall. Then she slid down till she hugged her knees and cried.
Fi had gotten up and walked over to her distraught girlfriend. She dropped to her knees and pulled applejack into a hug. Applejack cried into her chest as Fi whispered to her, like a mother would do to calm a child after a nightmare. “It’s OK Jackie.”
“No it's not!”
“Yes, it is.”
“But I was back there and I... I don’t want to think of what I was about to do.”
“Then let it go.”
“bu.”
Applejack’s next statement was stopped by a kiss. “Jackie, we will get through this. That last mission was fucked up from the start and there was nothing you could have done about it.” Fi said as she looked into Applejack’s emerald green eyes.
Applejack pushed Fi away and sighed. “NO! It was a simple mission, go and get the object then get out. Then I fucked up. They trusted me with their lives and I was the only one that didn’t come back not in a box. To top it off, I was given the Equinox medal while the rest got lower awards.” She looked back into her girlfriend's eyes.
“Like I said it was a bad mission that was set up by a man who was out for revenge. You know that once I found out, I had him arrested and brought up on charges of first degree murder. In the end he lost everything and you gained me.” Fi stated, she then pulled Applejack in and kissed with more passion.
Fi broke the kiss first. “I love you Jackie, now and forever.”
Applejack pulled her glove off and reached her hand up to Fi’s face. In the moonlight her silver ring glistened. “And I will love you for all of eternity, Spitfire.” she then drew Spitfire in for another kiss.
Spitfire help applejack off the ground and led her back inside for the night.
Trixie and Rarity walked hand in hand to the room they were staying in. The mood in the hall was that of Love. Rarity walked closer to Trixie and leaned on her. she looked around and found the hallway devoid of life, and took the opportunity to kiss Rarity again. Trixie broke the kiss and looked down at her fiancée “Today has been one of the greatest days of my life and it’s all thanks to you.”
“Well, how could not say yes, we have been going out for quite some time. I still remember when I met you 4 years ago and fell in love.” Rarity giggled as recalled her first impressions of Trixie.
“I still can’t believe that we all met three years before we all became the Elements of Harmony. That was one of the greatest blessings that I have ever had.” Trixie declared as she started to walk again.
They reached Trixie’s room, then they walked in. Trixie closed the door quietly as to not disrupt anybody who was asleep in the other rooms. She turned around to find that Rarity had walked into the bathroom to remove her makeup. “So do you have any ideas of what kind of wedding you want?” Trixie asked as she went to her suitcase to get her pajamas. She got no response from Rarity. “I was thinking a small wedding with close friends and family. What do you think?” Trixie called out. All she got was silence once again. She got up from her suitcase and walked over to the bathroom door. Right as Trixie got to the door, she heard something shattering on the tile floor of the bathroom. She tried to open the door, but found it locked. “Rarity are you ok?! What fell?” Trixie yelled through the door. Still no response came.
Trixie raised her hand to the door. The Integrate patterns on her arm glowed as she charged a breached spell. She released the spell and the door was reduced to splinters and forced in. Trixie saw Rarity’s makeup bag on the floor as she reached to pick it up, she was stuck backwards towards the bedroom. As she recovered from the hit . She saw several figures, one of them holding Rarity who was bound and gagged. Trixie, changed to another spell.
“If you want your “fiancée” to live then I suggest that you cancel that spell.” Trixie heeded his words. “Now listen and listen well if you want to have her back then you shall convince your other princesses to release control of their thorns and give Equestria to The Gryphon Empire.” The Gryphon demeaned. Trixie started to laugh. “What’s so funny?” the Gryphon asked.
“I don’t know, maybe is your ridicules demanded or the fact you believed that I canceled my spell.” Trixie smirked.
“What do you mean, I saw you.” The Gryphon was stopped as a siren was heard. The Gryphon went over to the window and looked out. The castle that was decent and quiet was now alive with guards rushing towards the location.
“You Gryphons really have no.” Trixie stopped mid stance as the butt of a rifle hit the side of her face. “Sir, we need to leave now.” Another Gryphon stated. The group ran out of the room and down the hallway with Rarity in tow.
The situation did not bow well with Caption Armor. The kidnapers where corned in the castle gardens. But the problem was that they had Rarity and there was no doubt in Shining Armor’s mind that if a firefight broke out Rarity would be caught in the crossfire.
“Captain, Armor what is the progress of the situation?” Celestia inquired as she and Luna walked out on the balcony. The balcony had the best vantage point of the current problem and was safely out of range if a fight broke out.
“Not good, Ma’am. Trixie informed me of the Gryphons demands when Fluttershy and I arrived at her room. Apparently they want you to give up our country in exchange for Rarity’s life.” Shining Armor replied.
“There is no way that we’re giving up our country, but we cannot sacrifice Lady Rarity. We could try to take out the Gryphons, but Rarity might be hit in the crossfire.” Celestia sighed as she looked up to the moon as noticed it was red. “Oh how fitting that the moon should be red tonight. Wait. The next lunar eclipse isn’t till another 5 months.” Celestia looked over to Luna, who was focusing on the problem at hand.
“Yeah were stuck between a rock and a hard place.” Shining armor inferred
“That may not be the case Captain, Armor.” Celestia Smirked
“Princess what do you mean?” Shining Armor asked.
“Tell me, have you heard of what the red moon means?” Celestia inquired. Shining armor shook his head. “Well, that’s to be expected. They're four points in a year that a lunar eclipsed happens. These eclipses are not random, but a tribute to the guardians of the moon.” Shining Armor still failed to connect the dots. “The guardians of the moon go by a different name. They are called Valkyrie.” Celestia explained as she looked at the moon.
“That is indeed interesting, but how does that help us now?” Shining Armor asked.
“The moon is red tonight, dear captain. The next lunar eclipse was not supposed to happen until another five months. So the summers calling has been answered be the winters echo.” Celestia turned towards Luna. “Isn’t that right, dear sister?”
“You are correct sister. Will you allow me to show you her power?” Luna responded.
“Do you believe that she can save Lady Rarity without her being harmed?” Celestia quipped.
“I know she can.” Luna stated.
“Very well she may act.” Celestia said as she turned her attention back to the garden.
Luna casted a spell that called forth her agent of the night. A slight breeze was all everyone felt before a voice was heard. “By your command Sovran.” A girl said as she was kneeling on one knee.
“I assume that you are aware of the situation?” Luna stated
“I am Sovran. What is your command?” Twilight requested.
“You are to eliminate the Gryphons and save Lady Rarity.” Luna instructed.
“Consider it done Sovran.” Twilight affirmed as she disappeared with the wind.
Twilight repaired 20 meters away of the line of guards that soured the 10 Gryphon and Rarity. They were set up in a 5-1 formation. Twilight knew time was of the essence as the Gryphons were growing more agitated by the minute. Twilight charged a spell in peroration for her attack. She drew her two side arms and flicked the safeties off. “Time flux.” Twilight said as the world around her slowed down. Twilight ran as fast as her body let her and a meter away from the Royal Guard Twilight vaulted over them and kicked off the wall to gain some height. Twilight sailed over the nine that surrounding the tenth. While in flight, she fired her twin .45 Cal pistols, five times each. Twilight holstered her 18-27 pistols as she got close to the last Gryphon. Twilight drew her knife as she skidded on the ground and the perfect moment she stood up and backstabbed the last Gryphon. She walked forward a few steps and snapped her fingers ending the time flux.
Trixie watched in awe as person clad in black pulled off some of the most impressive feet that she has ever seen. What had been a four hour long standoff had been resolved in under a minute by one person. Who was untying Rarity. Trixie rushed past the guards with her parents hot on her heels. The person was helping Rarity stand up by the time she got there. Trixie pulled Rarity into a hug and kissed her not caring who saw. After a few minutes of tears Trixie broke the hug and approached the Person in Black. “Thank you for saving Rarity she means a lot to me.” Trixie said as she offered her hand.
The person in black took Trixie’s hand and shook it. “It wasn’t a problem Ma’am for I am sworn to protect all that moon watches over.”
Rarity walked over and Trixie pulled her into a sidelong hug. “Is there anything that I can do to repay you for saving me?” Rarity asked.
“There’s no need for that it’s all part of my job.” she replied.
“You’re very humble. But can I know the name of my savior?” Rarity requested
“That is not a problem.” the girl in black stated as she took off her helmet and balaclava. “My name is Twilight, the Fifth Valkyrie of Equestria.” Twilight proclaimed.
Velvet saw she had a chance casted Mother’s Mark. A gem appeared floating above Velvet’s hand. She then spoke Twilight’s full name and the gem changed shape and turned blue. Velvet walked calmly as she could. When she was a foot away, she grabbed Twilight's hand and spoke “A mother’s love surpasses time and space.” Then a gem appeared above Twilight’s hand. It was the same shape and color as the one that was Velvet had in front of her.
Twilight froze as she saw the gems of mother’s marks. She could not find the words she had long to say. Twilight looked around to see the world that had come form for the first time in over 63 years. More people gathered around her. Her mentor, brother, father, friends that were gone, and Luna. There was silence as everyone got closer to Twilight.
“Twilight Anna Sparkle, You have 23 years of explaining to do!” Velvet yelled breaking the silence.
“This should be easy....! Why am I so scared of what they might say? They should know that this is who I am really, but what if they hate me... But they said that they would always love me... No use stalling any longer, here goes nothing!” Silver spoon contemplated as she stood outside her parent’s bedroom door. She raised her hand and knocked.
With every second, Silver Spoon felt her heart race. She started to play with her braid to distract herself. Her mother then opened the door.
Perfect set looked at her daughter and saw that she was playing with her braid. She knew that her daughter only did that when she was nervous. “Is there something wrong sweetie?”
“No, but I do have something to tell both of you. Can I come in?” Silver spoon responded. Her mother moved aside and let Silver in.
Silver spoon looked around and saw her father Pure Ingot, at his desk. The clouds outside caught her attention. ”The weather report did say that there was going to be a severe thunderstorm from the Everfree Frost tonight.” Perfect Set got his attention and walked over to the couch's that were in the center of the room.
Silver spoon sat across from her parents. She was used to talking to her parents this way but this time it was a brand new feeling. Silver took a few breaths before speaking. “First, you both said that you will love me no matter what, right?” She inquired to both her parents.
They both shared a confused look. Pure Ingot looked at his daughter who was looking at the ground. “Of course, we will love you no matter what you have done or who you are.” He repeated like the last time she had asked the question.
Silver let out a sigh of relief. “I have been meaning to tell you this but I was scared of doing so.” Silver spoon took a moment to compose herself before saying what she had practiced for two whole weeks. “I have a special someone and...” “That’s great news silver! I never thought I would live to see the day when you would get a boyfriend. Oh how you have grown up!” Perfect Set exclaimed.
“Well.” Silver stated but was then cut off by her father.
“So when do we get to meet this young man that has captured your heart? What is his name? What is his family like?” Pure Ingot questioned.
“They are really nice and they are a loving and kind family.” Silver spoon listed.
“They sound very humble and gentle. What does his mother and father do?” Pure Ingot pressed.
“Their Mother is a famous musician.” Silver stated.
“Who is it, do we know them? Also what for his father?” Perfect Set asked.
“You might know her. She play’s for the Canterlot royal Orchestra. She doesn’t have a father.” Silver responded not noticing that what she had said.
“What happened to His father?” Pure Ingot commanded.
“When I asked about her father she spaced out. For the record it’s her not him.” At that moment the room temperature dropped several degrees. Silver Spoon scratched the back of her neck and looked at her father.
“It’s really great that you approve about me dating her and accepting me for who I am.” Silver looked at her father expecting to receive a warm loving look. But instead she was met by a cold heartless stare. “No.”
The room’s silence was broken by the crackle of lighting. The rain started to pelt the windows. “Silver that's, well.” Perfect Set started to but was interrupted when Pure Ingot stood up.
“We did not raise you to be this way. It must have been her that corrupted you. Tell me her name!” Pure Ingot demanded.
“Why do you want her name?” Silver Spoon returned as she stood up.
“So that I can have her dealt with for corrupting my daughter. So tell me her name.”
“She has not done anything to corrupt me. In fact, I asked her to go out with me. This is who I am and you can’t change that. I have never like boys. I have always liked girls.” Silver spoon replied to her father.
“You have two choices. Your first choice leave that whore of a girl that you are involved with and live a normal life. Your second choice is to stay with her and become an orphan that no one will care for. The choice is yours.” Pure Ingot laid out her Silvers options. Perfect Set was at a loss for words. She had just learned her daughter was in love with someone. Also that her Silver Spoon was a lesbian, and now she was faced with a choice between her family or the girl she loved. Silver spoon was faced with one of the largest decisions of her life. Choose family and live by their rules and be married to a guy who’s family was wealthy. Or, choose the girl she loved and lose everything she had call home. Silver thought hard and finally made her choice “Father, I choose her over you.”
Pure Ingot thought he had made her choose so hard that his daughter would chose them over her. “Very well you have one hour to gather what you own and get out before I have you thrown out.” He stated as lightning struck again closer to the house.
“You can’t do that. I’m your daughter and you just said that you would love me no matter what.” She sniffed as tears formed in her eyes.
“Yes I did say that, to our daughter who is straight not a lesbian. You sadly are not her. You now have 59 minutes left before I have you thrown out.”
“But?!”
“GET OUT!” Pure Ingot Yelled.
Silver spoon dared not to wait around any longer. She rushed to her room and packed all that she could all the while she held her tears back. Time seemed to move more fast then slow, never staying constant. After 30 mins of packing, Silver had all that she would need and looked around the place she had called home. She walked over to her dresser and picked a photo of her family. She felt sadness at first, then rage, then anger which took hold. She then threw the picture down at the wooden floor shattering the glass. On her way out Silver Spoon grabbed her raincoat and left slamming the door behind her.
She felt the downpour wash away her tears as she ran to where Scootaloo lived.
“Why is this so difficult? I have faced everything the world I was in that could throw at me. If I am not mistaken the last thing I did there, was hold off a Changeling army from reaching the portal. I am a Valkyrie and we know no fear. With that being said, why does my mom scares me shit-less." Twilight thought as everyone looked at her new light. Twilight looked around for the tenth time meeting the same look again and again. “It’s a long story and I don’t know where to begin.” Twilight sighed.
“If you don't know where to start, maybe you can start by answering our questions. First off, how are you even moving if you received a gunshot wound injury less than 20 hours ago?” Rainbow Dash demanded as she got in Twi’s face.
“That’s because of a pain suppressant spell. Also I have taken rounds larger the .44 Magnum.” Twilight replied while pushing Rainbow Dash back.
“What I want to know is why you’re looking at all of us weirdly?” Fluttershy chimed in.
“That was bound to turn up at some point. We will get this over with.” Twilight started to chose her next words carefully. “Well put it simply I feel like I am talking to ghosts.” Twilight wiped the sweat off her brow before she felt something wet pooling around her waist. “Crap. Looks like we are going to have this Q&A at a later time ok.” Twilight stated as she staggered forward dropping her helmet.
“Twilight what’s wrong?” Velvet asked as she hurried to her daughter’s side to support her.
“Time flux is a double edge sword. I need to get the infirmary now.” Twilight groaned.
……..
“That should do it.” Doctor Tourniquet informed Twilight as he finished off the stitches. “You know I'm surprised that it was you who needed medical attention and not Lady Rarity. But you seem be keeping me on my toes.” He mentioned as he finished washing his hands. As he turnned back around “I recommend that you take it easy for a while. Don’t make this habit.”
“Don’t worry you won’t see me in here for a long time to come.” Twilight promised as she put her shirt on and put her vest back on and left the exam room. A few minutes later Twilight walked into the waiting room where she found her Parents, brother, friends and the Princess deep in conversation.
“So what do we do know?” Cadence asked as she looked a Celestia.
“I don’t know.” Celestia whispered.
Twilight had a good idea of what they had just discussed and decided to make her presence known. “I’m surprised that all of you waited for me to get stitched up again.” Everyone looked over to Twilight expecting a certain girl who was asleep. Before anyone could speak, she did. “I will answer all your questions tomorrow at breakfast. But I need to speak with the Princess privately.” Twilight stated quietly as she tried not to wake the room’s only occupant who was asleep.
Everyone left room except for Luna, Trixie, Cadence, Celestia and Fluttershy who was asleep in Celestia’s arms. “What did you wish to tell us Twilight?” Celestia questioned.
Twilight looked around and pushed away fear that she had. “Luna already knows what I am about to say. I am not a Pegasus, Mage or Earthbound.”
“So you’re saying that you are one of us?” Trixie hesitantly asked.
“Yes Trixie, I am an Alicorn. Allow me to introduce myself properly this time.” Twilight stood up straight and looked at four pairs of eyes and started. “I am Twilight Anna Sparkle Fifth Valkyrie and Fourth princess of Equestria.”
“That would explain how you were able to use Time Flux to save Rarity.” Cadence pointed out. “What’s Time Flux?” Trixie questioned.
“It’s a very powerful spell that was found in the Castell Empire library a few days ago. The archivist are still trying to identify what class of magic it belongs too.” Cadence replied.
“I'll save you the trouble. It’s a tear 1 time illusion spell.” Twilight sated. The four other in the room stood slacked jawed. “I’m right aren’t I Luna?”
“You're partially right twilight, if you go by civilian terms. Time Flux is a tear 2 combat time illusion spell.” Luna said with a smirk on her face.
“Let’s not get off track here. Twilight you claim that you are an Alicorn. While I saw you use the time flux spell to save Rarity. I still can’t fully believe that you are an Alicorn. Due to the fact the spells can be embedded on gems and used at will.” Celestia stated as she moved to make Fluttershy more comfortable.
Trixie stayed quiet letting all that was said. She decided to test twilight “If you are a true Alicorn then you know what you have to give up?”
“For one to be an Alicorn one must shed their mortal gift and accept the curse that we all must carry.” Twilight replied sour-fully. Twilight reached into one of the many pockets she had and pulled out a picture and handed it to Trixie. “Tell me what you see?”
“Rarity, Applejack, Fluttershy, Pinkie Pie, Rainbow Dash, A girl with red and yellow hair, you and me.” Trixie said as she looked the picture over and over again. They all were in black uniforms and carried different and strange rifles that were all black as well. They also had a patch on their arms that were similar expect for twilights and Fluttershy.
“You, Sunset and I are the only left alive in that picture.” Twilight pointed out as she took the picture and handed it to Celestia who gave a confused look when she heard Sunsets name. She then handed it to Candace.
“Is this why you said that you felt like you were talking to ghosts?” Candace asked.
“Yeah.” Twilight replied as she looked away and felt tears well up to the surface. Luna walked over to Twilight and pulled her into a hug. Twilight finally was able to grieve for her friends and that she did. Twilight’s body shook as she Sobbed. For she was able to let pain and sorrow that had built up over the 6 years out.
Luna stood their held Twilight. "What trials has this poor girl gone through so much. How can I help her?"
Twilight's sods started to subside. “Thank you.” Twilight whispered as she broke the hug.
“So what are we going to tell the nobility?” a soft voice asked.
“Oh Fluttershy. I am sorry that we woke you up. I don’t have a clue what we’re going to say to them.” Celestia sighed. “Wait, how long have you been awake?” she asked in a stern voice.
“The whole time. Sorry.” Fluttershy whispered as she tried to hide herself behind her hair.
Before Celestia could reprimand Twilight did. “I knew she was when I started to talk. Besides she was going to find out eventually. As for the nobles I couldn’t give a fuck less what they think. Just to be safe I will defer my right as an alicorn to be a princess.”
“You do know that only last for three hundred years. Then afterwards you have to become a princess.” Celestia stated.
“I am well aware of the rules that surround the Magnum index.” Twilight responded.
“Very well. Twilight Anna Sparkle in compliance with rules set forth in the index your right to be a princess of Equestria has been waived for 3 centuries.” Celestia proclaimed.
“I fully understand what has been laid out the Magnum index and I accept the terms and conditions.” Twilight replied.
“So what will you do now?” Candace inquired as she looked at twilight.
Twilight thought for a moment and then replied. “I don’t have a long term plan. I guess that I could find a place to live and call home. Then assemble a new Valor squad.” As she pondered more, she started to feel the day’s toil hit. “But right now I would really like to go to sleep.” Twilight yawned and fell forward, but was caught by Luna.
Everyone else had look of concern as they looked at twilight. “Do not fret she is merely asleep. I will take her to her quarters and watch over her.” Luna declared. As she gazed over twilight.
“You know for a badass warrior, she is extremely cute when she is asleep. If I wasn’t married to shining I would indulge on other side of the fence.” Cadence sated with a wicked smile.
“Back off I saw her first.” Luna blurted out, without a second thought. She felt her cheeks grow red and resented what had been said.
“Aww looks like little Lulu has a huge crush on the new girl.” Celestia teased while Candace and Trixie laughed. While Fluttershy smirked slightly.
“Soror I prorsus si qua vos. Nisi te scire volo eam.” (Sister I would be quiet if I where you. Unless you want her to find out.) Luna replied as she lifted Twilight up and cared her bridal style to her quarters.
“What language was that and what did she say?” Fluttershy asked innocently.
“I will tell you in the morning.” Celestia replied as she took Fluttershy’s hand and lead her back to her private chambers.
Light filtered through the window of the Apple family barn. On two young girls that were nestled in a pile of hay. Apple bloom stirred as the sun hit her. Ever since she was old enough to work on the farm, she had begun to wake with the sun. She opened her eyes and sat up. She then slightly panicked when she realized that she was not in her bed. Then the events of the other night hit her.
.....
Apple bloom was washing the dishes after dinner. She then looked out the window at the sunset. Her thoughts drifted to her friend who was going to tell her parents about her relationship as she was concerned of the outcome. She felt a warm hug from behind. Apple Bloom leaned back into the embrace and all other thoughts were pushed way.
"Do you want to go on a evening stroll after you finish the dishes?" a sweet voice asked from behind Apple Bloom.
"I would like that. Give me 5 minutes to finish up and then we can go." Apple Bloom stated as she returned to finish the dishes.
Five minutes later Apple Bloom and her friend walked hand in hand through the orchard. The heat from the hot summer sun had started to taper off. A cool breeze had blown through the orchard and carried the scents of the apples. Apple Bloom felt her friend hug her arm. "Do you want to go back and grab a jacket?" Apple Bloom offered.
"No I am fine. Plus we're almost where I wanted to take you." The girl said as they reached the foot of the hill. As they crested the hill they caught the last rays of the sun. "Apfelblüte?"(apple blossom)
"What's wrong Diamant? AB moved closer to her friend and took both her hands in hers.
"You need to understand why I got close to you in the first place before we continue in our relationship. " Diamant didn't meet AB's eyes.
"Hey." Apple bloom released Diamant's left hand. She reached up and turned her friend's head till their eyes met. "You know that you can tell me anything."
Diamant nodded her head. "I know, but you have to promise me that you'll let me explain everything, before you say anything." Apple bloom nodded her head.
"You asked me why I started to hang out with you, and the truth is that my dad said too. Your family has the largest amount of land in Ponyville and he wants it. But only an apple can have the land. So he wanted me to get close to you and get you to fall in love with and marry me. Then have us divorce. Then he could get his hand on land. The reason behind it all is the fact that the soil here is so fertile." Diamant stopped for a minute to catch her breath.
"When I started, it was for him and what he wanted but, I saw how hard the five of you work on this farm. My dad said that it was due to the land just being rich that's why your family does so well. I now know that he is wrong." Diamant pulled away and walked over to the lone tree on the top of the hill and looked out over the land.
Apple Bloom joined Diamant . "At first I thought of you as someone I could use to get what I want." She turned to Apple Bloom" But I then started to help work the farm and have meals with your family. I slowly realized that this is the life that I want. I don't care for money or fame. All I want is a real family like you have. And somewhere along the way I truly fell in love. Ich liebe dich Apfelblüte.” (I love you apple blossom)" Diamant then kissed her Apfelblüte.
The air stood still as Apple Bloom's mind tried to understand what she was told. When no words arose she did the next best thing. She pulled Diamant into kiss. Afterwards they laid down on the ground and watched the stars as they appeared.
They started to walk back to the house but then it started to downpour. The two young girls b-lined it to the barn to take cover for the rain and ended up falling asleep in each other's arms.
.....
Apple bloom recalled as she moved the blanket off herself. “Wait where did this blanket come from?” Apple Bloom looked down at the blanket and found a golden feather.
She looked to right and found her love next to her and nudged her. “Just five more minutes.” The girl wined and pulled the blanket over her head.
“Come on Diamant it's time get up, we have a long day ahead of us.” Apple Bloom replied and tried to pull the blanket way but to no avail.
Diamant turned away from the light to catch some more sleep. “If you don’t get up now then you will force me to that.” Apple bloom whispered into Diamant ear.
Diamant sat up and looked Apple Bloom in the eyes “You wouldn’t dare.”
“Oh I would” Apple Boom gleefully replied as she tackled Diamant and started to tickle her.
After a few minutes Diamant gave up. “Alright alright. I’m up.” Diamant laughed. Apple Bloom stood up and offered Diamant a hand up. “Thank you for everything.” she said as took Apple Bloom’s hand.
“Come on, breakfast is probably on the table.” Apple Bloom stated as she pulled her along.
When they got to the door Diamant pulled AB around and kissed her. “Ich liebe dich Apfelblüte.” (I love you apple blossom)
“I love you too Diamond Tiara.” And returned the kiss. She then opened the door to go inside.
On the east side of the Canterlot Castle you can find the Princess’s personal quarters. In one of these rooms you can find a rare site. That site is Princess Celestia at pace with her love.
Fluttershy had awoken and looked at Celestia as she slept. “She works herself to the bone for this country. I wish she let me help her. But she always tries to be the strong one in our relationship and shield’s me from the horrors that are the nobles and their attempts to gain more power.” The heat shared between Celestia and Fluttershy had increased just enough for Fluttershy's eyes to grow heavy again. She snuggled further into Celestia’s warm embrace and fell back asleep with a smile on her face.
“Oh dear I made her worry again.” Celestia noted as she felt Fluttershy toss and turn. She casted a simple spell that increased the warmth of the bed just enough to coax Fluttershy back to sleep. Tia felt her love snuggle back into her embrace and fell back asleep. “Oh Fluttershy what am I going to do with you.” Celestia sighed and fell back to sleep herself.
A few hours later Celestia awoke. She sat on the edge of the bed and stretched her arms. Before she could stretch her wings she felt two small arms wrap around her. “Good morning Fluttershy. Did you sleep well?” and all she got in reply was Fluttershy nodding her head against her back.
Celestia tried to stand but found Fluttershy clinging to her tighter. “Fluttershy dear, I need to raise the sun and then we have to get ready for the day. I have a hunch that it will be a long one at that.” Celestia felt Fluttershy’s arms release her and she stood up only to be pulled into a passionate kiss. To which she returned.
“I will love you till the end of time.” Fluttershy confessed as she broke the kiss.
Celestia’s smile dropped at what Fluttershy had said. “I guess now is the best time to ask her.” Celestia looked at her . “Fluttershy if you could stay with me for eternity would you?”
Fluttershy was unsure how to answer Tia’s question. She loved her more than anything and she did want to spend all the time she had with her and more. She thought back to when she confessed her love to Tia. Tia had rejected her at first. For one reason only, she could not lose another person that she loved.
After the diplomatic mission went to hell, Celestia was recused by Fluttershy. Celestia finally accepted her love on the airship back to Equestria. “I would love to spend the rest of time with you.” Fluttershy finally decided.
Celestia smiled “Go start the shower and I will join you when I am finished raising the sun.” With that she walked over to the balcony and waited till she heard the shower start. “Discord.” Celestia called out.
“What is it dear Celestia?” Discord mocked her as he appeared sitting in a chair that balanced on the edge of her balcony railing.
“She said yes.” Celestia replied
“You know that once I do this, it can be undone.” Discord repeated what he had told her a few days ago.
“Just do it.” Celestia deadpanned as she started to raise the sun.
Discord snapped his fingers “It is done.”
Celestia nodded her head as she went back inside to join Fluttershy.
Breakfast was full of questions of who she was and what the other time was like. Twilight found herself in a weird but familiar position, the feeling was not unwelcomed. The frequency of the questions started to die down and all was business as usual.
“Oh! Fluttershy I was thinking about what you said about “Alicorns are damn near impossible to kill.” Does that mean they’re just ageless?” Rainbow asked catching everyone’s attention.
“Well we don’t know ourselves. I know that I have taken some fatal injuries over the years, but I would receive medical aid almost immediately or restively shortly.” Celestia recounted her past.
“The worst injury I have ever received I believe was a 20mm sabow round that passed through my armor and the right side my chest. I was down for a good 5 hours before I could get back into the fight.” Twilight stated nonchalantly as she ate her oatmeal, and did not realize that she just blew her cover.
“What?!” Rainbow Dash exclaimed. Which caused Twilight to realize that she had screwed up big time, because she had let herself slip into that old feeling.
“So, Twilight are you enjoying your meal?” Rarity asked breaking the uncomfortable silence that had adjoined the Breakfast table.
“It’s been the best breakfast I had in over two years.” Twilight replied while focused on her food. The room returned to silence.
“So we’re all going to avoid the elephant in the room?!” Rainbow Dash yelled clearly being pissed off.
“Rainbow Dash. Do not yell at the table.” Rarity replied with a stern stare.
“Well I am sorry. But how can all of you be calm after what Twilight said? We were all present at tact con and we all saw what a 40mm APCR round can do to 10cm armor. Now think about what would happen if a Human… The only way she could survive a hit like that is if Twilight is Alicorn” Rainbow concluded. Everyone except five of them looked dumbfounded at Rainbow’s statement.
“Well I guess the cat is out of the bag. As for how I survived that shot is complicated. The factors that allowed me to survive were speed of the round, my armor at the time and the fact I am an Alicorn. Before any of you ask, know that I am not a princess.” Twilight stated as she looked at Rarity.
“But how are you not. You’re an Alicorn and all Alicorn’s are princesses. Oh I could plan your coronation for you and I won’t take no for answer. After all you did save my life last night.” Rarity gushed.
Twilight felt aggravated at Rarity but realized she did not explain what she had meant properly. “Rarity thank you but that won’t be necessary.” Twilight calmly replied.
“What do mean that won’t be necessary? You’re going to have a coronation won’t you?” Rarity asked in a confused manner.
“I will, but not in your lifetime.” Twilight clarified. She watched as Rarity’s smile dropped. “But you can design my dress now, I swear that I will wear it on my coronation day.” At that Rarity’s smile returned.
“Oh one more thing and you all have to Pinkie Promise me that you will not reveal what I am to anyone or what I do. Understood?” Everyone at the table recited the Pinky promise. They returned to their meals with new questions for Twilight.
One many pains that come with being a Princess is that they had to deal with Nobles and Their problems.
Twilight groaned quietly as she watched from the rafters as two Nobles fought over some random place of land on the outskirts of Ponyville. It had been four hours since open court had started and they were still on the first petitioner.
“As you can see Your Highness, the land has been in family my for 6 generations and that’s why I should have custody over it.” Star blaze pointed out as he presented his family photos to the princess.
“That hardly can be considered evidence when the Blaze house has been deeply rooted in the photography business. As such they could have fabricated these pictures.” Golden Skies detected as she went on how they should remove the pictures from the evidence.
Twilight let out a sigh again as both nobles continued to argue over every last little thing. Then it hit her. Twilight quickly conjured up a piece of paper and a pen. “Sovran. The only reason that this has become a problem is due to Trixie living in Ponyville. Nod your head if you get what their trying to do.” She then sent it to Luna.
Twilight waited for Luna to acknowledge her note. She nodded her head right before Star Blaze finished his point.
Before Golden Skies could make her next statement Luna stood. “We have heard enough and we shall now decide our verdict.” With that she walked over to Celestia’s chair. Trixie and Cadence followed suit.
“Why did you call this so early? They just got to the fifth piece of evidence.” Trixie asked while she looked at Luna.
“Well for starters they would go on for hours if one of us did not call it. Also a certain shadow has informed me that this a ploy so that one of them can get closer to you Trixie. But I can’t tell who is speaking the truth.” Luna responded while she looked over to Celestia.
“So what do we say?” Trixie inquired.
Celestia did not answer but instead she walked forward. “Can either of you show me one shred of documentation that you own the land?” Celestia stopped right in front of them. They looked through all they had brought but turned up with nothing.
“Very well as there is no legal documentation of ownership of the land and in accordance with the written laws under property disputes section E-4 page 235. The crown shall take custody of the land.” Celestia recited from memory.
Star blaze resided in the fact that the crown had gotten it in the end instead of Golden skies. He bowed and thanked thank the princess's for their time and left.
Golden Skies was not as humble. “You have no right to take away what is rightfully mine. I demand that you return that this instance.” She tried to chase after Celestia but was stopped by a bow that had been extended out.
She glanced to her right and saw the 46th Archangel in all her glory. Golden skies locked eyes with her and regretted it. After a long minute she backed off and stormed out of the room.
Celestia nodded her head to Quick Quill. “The next petitioner is Duo Heart.”
Duo Heart walked forward and bowed before speaking. “Your highness I am here to propose a new law.”
“What is it this time Sir Duo Heart?” Celestia rolled her eyes.
“I stand here today representing the Affluent Community not myself. The Affluent Community Group has decided on a new project. As I am sure your aware the Affluent Community Group’s last project was to improve school all across our country and it was resounding success.” Duo Heart rambled for a bit.
“Yes I am a where of your last project, now what is this new project that Affluent Community Group has decided on?” Celestia asked as she sat up straight.
“Right. The Affluent Community Group has noticed a problem that has been growing for quite some time. After hours of looking over are opinions we have decided this was the best option to deal with same sex couples. That is make it illegal. We have already written up the necessary paperwork all you need to do is sign it into law. We have decided to name this project, Covent.” Duo Heart stated as he pulled out 4 copies out of his bag and handed it over to Quick Quell who passed them along to the four princess's.
Cadence waited a good minute before she spoke. “As the Alicorn of LOVE I cannot allow this law to be passed.”
“Princess Cadence, we all know of your tide. But you surely know that two people of the same gender can’t possibly love each other like Man and a Woman can.” Duo Heart interrupted.
“How would you deal with people that already in a relationship with the same gender? Who will enforce this law? What if there of the nobility?” Celestia inquired while she stared at Duo Heart.
“That is simple we forcefully move them to opposite sides of the country and have a no contact order placed on them. The Guards, police, and all offices of the law will enforce this law. I know for a fact that all of the nobility and the princess have always been in heterosexual relationships.” Duo Heart stated proudly.
“What if they find someone else of the same gender to love in their new location?” Luna prodded.
“They won’t have a chance to, because they will be paired up with the respected gender and they will attend a meeting every week.” Duo Heart replied with a smirk.
“And if they do?” Trixie proposed.
“They shall be dealt with.” Duo Heart dead panded.
“I see. I hear by reject this proposed law.” Trixie snared.
“I agree with Princess Cadance and Trixie.” Luna followed.
Duo Heart started to feel that he had made the biggest mistake of his life. He had knew that Cadence would reject his law. But Luna's and Trixie's decisions he had not seen that coming. All that was left was Celestia’s vote. If he got just one vote, the law would go to the House of the Commons if pass there, it would continue to Nobel Chairs.
Celestia looked over the law although she already knew her answer. After a good few minutes she decided to give her answer. While Celestia was “thinking” of her answer everyone had started to whisper. But that stopped as Celestia stood and walked to towards Duo heart.
She stood two meters away with Fluttershy by her side. “Duo Heart after careful thought I have decided to reject law that you have proposed.” Celestia held out her copy of the Law and ignited in her hands.
Duo Heart took a moment to realize what just happened. “I only anticipated that Princess Cadence would reject the law. Not all four of you. How can you support those things? They are degenerates, scum.”
Celestia sighed as Duo heart ranted and quite frankly she had enough of him. “Celestia are you even listening to me?!” Duo Heart Shouted.
“I wonder if that will shut him up.” Celestia looked to her right and tilted her head. She caught Fluttershy’s eyes and relayed her quiet message to which she nodded her head.
“Please rethink your decision Princess. This is for the good of all Equestria.” Duo Stated as he reached into his bag and pulled out another copy of the proposed law. He looked back up at Celestia just in time to see her kiss Fluttershy. “Your one of them. No. No. It’s clear that she has done this. You could of never fallen for such a.” He was stopped short when Celestia had slapped him.
“Your wrong Duo Heart for love knows no bounds. You are a mere 35 years old, as where I have lived for over 4,000 years. In that time I dated, married and LOVED both Female and Male.” Duo heart tried to speak but Celestia continued. “I rejected you 15 years ago because you sought to gain power by using me. You are hereby dismissed and you are barred from entering open court for 1 year.”
Duo Heart, felt distance he had lost his love to a girl and he was the laughing stock of the entire nobility. “Well if Celestia is willing to rob me of my love than I shall do the same.” He reached into his coat pocket and pulled out his revolver and aimed it at Fluttershy.
Time seemed to slow down as a trigger was pulled and single noise enveloped the room.
Twilight’s movements were like that of river fluid and decisive. She dropped from her perch and landed right next to Luna. Twilight then took aim with her M-95 and fired two shots in quick succession. The bullets sliced through the air, the first one intercepted the bullet headed towards Fluttershy and the second round knocked Duo Heart’s revolver out of his and put it out of commission.
The thunderous crack emitted from M-95 silenced the room. The first and second spent shell hit the marble floor within seconds of each other, with a ping that echoed around the silenced room. Twilight kept her rifle trained on Duo Heart as the Royal Guards moved to apprehend him. When Twilight heard the guards reading Duo his rights, she lowered her rifle.
Twilight watched as Celestia helped Fluttershy stood up and moved in front of her. After a short exchange of words and a simple spell that was cast upon Fluttershy, Celestia turned around, and Fluttershy stood a step behind and to her right.
“Duo Heart. This maybe a little unorthodox, but you as are in the highest court in the land we shall proceed. Luna if you please.” There was no warmth in Celestia’s voice till she called over Luna.
Luna proceeded to walk a little more menacingly than what was needed. Twilight followed half a step behind and to Luna’s left side. She stopped right next to Celestia and looked down at Duo Heart. “Duo Heart you have been charged with the attempted murder of 46th Archangel Fluttershy Thermosphere. How do you plead?”
Duo heart stayed quiet as he thought “Not Guilty.” Duo heart called out.
“Very well, your trial date will be set at a later and your bail is set at 2,000,000 bits. Guards take him away.” Luna replied. Four Lunar guards lead Duo Heart to the dungeons.
While all eyes were on Duo Heart, Twilight took a step back and faded into the shadows and back to her perch in the rafters. She watched as Luna, Celestia and Fluttershy returned to their spots and waited for the next person to speak.
“Lieutenant Sentry you have the floor.” Quick Quill called out.
A young man stepped forward in military dress he shot off a salute before he spoke. “Ma’am I would like to know who that was?”
“Who LT Sentry?” Luna played coyly.
“The person who disarmed Duo Heart. Ma’am.” LT Sentry clarified
“Oh, that was the Fifth Valkyrie of Equestria.” Luna stated. Everyone was quite confused except of the ambassadors and guards from The Gryphon Empire who were visibly shaken.
“I have never heard of the Valkyrie before. Care to explain, Ma’am.” Lt. Sentry asked. Luna looked over to Celestia who nodded her head. “If the Archangel is the right hand of Equestria, then the Valkyrie is the left hand. They are masters of their craft on and off the battlefield. They operate in any and all conditions to complete their task.”
“How does someone go about becoming become a Valkyrie.” LT Sentry inquired hastily.
“One does not simply try to become a Valkyrie but rather they are chosen by the stars. When chosen they are reforged into a new weapon, that is shaped for the ever changing battlefield. The hone their skill by loss and victory. Years spent of study of the way of QI.” Luna mystical tone was that of the one used in mystical tales.
“But they will not appear till the light fades” Luna made a small gesture to emphasize her point and no one saw the spell she had cast. The room darkened “When the light fades, we shall light the way” Twilight’s soft voiced echoed from the shadows.
“And just who are you? Where are you” Flash Sentry panicked.
“We are everyone and we are no one.” Twilight’s voice called out from the crowd. “We are everywhere-” Twilight spoke into Flash’s left ear. He jerked to the left but found nothing. “- and nowhere.” She spoke in his right ear.
“For on the darkest of nights a Valkyrie shall rise.” Light shimmered next to Luna where Twilight’s figure appeared be, her features were unable to be seen do to the low light the moon cast. But everyone could see that she was dress in shadows
“The Winter Wind calls us to service. The moon and her stars are what we protect.” A freezing winter wind blew through the room and guided their attention to the night sky that had appeared.
“All enemies shall fear us the Agent of the Night. We fight to the very end.” The stars disappeared and the full moon came to emulated a battlefield with an army decimated and a shadow stood in the center of it all. “For all that are asleep: so that their dreams will be peaceful. For they shall never know my deeds.” Dreams of kids and young adults shown around the room and Luna chasing away nightmares away. The moon slowly made its way to Twilight “I am the Fifth Valkyrie of Equestria, Crepusculum.”
As the lights returned to normal, LT Sentry was lost for words as he looked at the girl she was dressed all in black. She had a weird set of armor that held magazines to an oddly shaped rifle the she held. The larger one she had out earlier was stowed away on her back. As he looked at this girl he found only one way to describe her, A Goddess of Death.
“I did not approve of this.” A voice called. The room turned to another man in military dress who stepped forward.
“Why do you not approve of me Private?” Twilight stared at him.
“I am General Fodder and you will treat me with the respect that I deserve.” He demanded.
Twilight leaned up against Luna’s throne. “Call yourself whatever you want Private Fodder.”
The General’s face contorted at Twilight statement. “How dare you speak to me that way! I am the highest ranking general in the Equestrian armed forces. Just for that I think I’ll have you court-.” He stopped when he felt cool metal near his throat.
No one had seen Twilight move. She was by Luna’s side half of a second ago, now she was face to face with the general. “Tell me General, what have you done to earn my respect General Fodder? I tell you nothing. I called you a Private because you acted like one. But I am willing to forgive and forget. Say you’re sorry and will put this behind us. Ok?”
The General apologized quietly and Twilight returned to Luna’s side at the same blinding speed like before. “What I meant is that the council did not approve of this Princess Luna.”
Celestia took it upon herself to help resolve the problem further “I hear your complaint General Fodder, but the council has no say in who Luna choses to be Valkyrie. Just like how they don’t have a say in who is chosen to be Archangel.”
Luna smiled at a devious thought. “But, since General Fodder is making a big deal about this. How about a little demonstration. General choose your best fighter and they will fight the Valkyrie in hand to hand combat.”
“What is the wager of this fight?” General Fodder asked with a smug grin.
“When the Valkyrie wins then you are demoted to private.” Luna decaled.
The General suppressed a laugh “When the Valkyrie Loses, she steps down from her position and Flash Sentry will take over.”
“But we cannot speak for them if they wish they can refuse this change and nothing will become of it.” Luna stated as she looked over at Twilight.
“I will not let you down Sovran.” Twilight replied.
“Very well. LT Flash Sentry, will you fight the Valkyrie Crepusculum?”
“Sir, Yes Sir.” Flash Sentry replied in agreement.
“Archangel Fluttershy will you be the referee this match?” Luna asked politely.
“It would be my honor to do so.” Fluttershy responded
Twilight set her both of her rifles, side arms and then undid her class VI Ballistic vest. When she placed it on the marble floor it made a solid clunk. Which drew the attention of the General.
Twilight walked toward LT sentry who had taken off his dress coat and was awaiting his challenger. “So Pretty Boy, how much of a handicap do you want.” Twilight taunted.
Flash Sentry was about to retort, but was interrupted by Fluttershy who went over the rules. “This will be one round, winner takes all. No weapons are allowed. You will stop when I call the match or one of you concedes. Is that understood?” They both nodded in agreement. “LT Sentry are you ready?”
“Yes Ma’am” he replied as he took up a stance.
“Valkyrie Crepusculum are you ready?” Fluttershy asked
“The Wind’s call has been heard. So lets us take up arms and do what must be done.” Twilight stated as she slipped into her form.
“Very well. 3. 2. 1. Begin.” Fluttershy started the match.
Twilight wasted no time and advanced forward and delivered a roundhouse kick to Flash’s face. To which she followed through with a punch to the side of his ribs. She then slammed her elbow into his back avoiding his wings and Flash fell to his knees. She thought that Flash had given up , but he got up with a smirk on his face.
As the fight drew onward Flash had no idea how he could stop the flow of attacks. Every time he tried to block a hit it landed somewhere else. “Come on get you head out of the clouds and find an opening.” He did. With one swift motion he kicked the Valkyrie in the gut. She staggered back. He threw a punch at the Valkyrie’s head but hit air instead.
Twilight side stepped the punch. She took the opportunity and unleashed several jabs to Flash’s side. Flash flared his wings and used them to get himself away from Twilight, so that he would not be subjected to more combo hits. He took a second to catch his breath. He then brought back his fist and lunged forward propelled by his wings. He was right on target to hit Twilight in the face.
The crowded gasped as contact was made and snapping of bone was heard. Twilight had brought her arm up and blocked the attack. They both stood stoic till Flash doubled over and let out a cry of pain as he held his hand.
Twilight brought her leg around and proceed to do an ax kick. But stopped mere centimeters away as an alarm went off. A young guard busted through the doors. “Your Highness the Elements of Harmony have been stolen!”
The room was astounded by the news. Twilight had made it back to her vest and slung it on and strapped her weapons in place. The room started to panic. “Captain Shining Armour active the Canterlot shield and lock down the city. Archangel Fluttershy, dispatch 3 Companies to Ponyville to protect the element bearers. General Fodder send a message to the Border Guard have them report anything out of the ordinary, also have them check all incoming and outgoing traffic. Sovran, Princess let us move to the war room to be in better contact with our forces. Sovran, it would be a good idea to have the Shadow Bolts go to standby status.”
Celestia stood. “Court is adjured for unspecified amount of time. Let’s move people.”
Fluttershy turned to her five majors. “Major Knightley, Breeze and Gust. You are to mobilize you Companies and set up an FOB outside of Ponyville. Major Breeze you will be in command till I arrive. Understood?”
“Yes Ma’am” Major Breeze saluted and made her way to the exit with Knightley and Gust in tow.
The Light from the windows took on a purple tint as the Canterlot shield was raised and alarm bells rung in the distance. General Fodder was giving instructions to a corporal and noticed so that he could leave the city. The other Princesses had made their way out of the throne room.
“Crepusculum, you have temporary control over the Shadow Blots. Also nicely done.” Luna spoke as she stood.
“I aim to please in every respect, Sovran.” Twilight smiled as they made their way to the war room.
Date: 11/24/1823 (7 months before Twilights arrival) Operation: Hornet Strike Area of operation: Badlands grid Alpha -9, Charlie-7
“Bolt 1 we found her.” Bolt 3 voice called over the radio.
“Please specify who you found the bolt 3.” Bolt 1 responded.
A few minutes passed of radio silence “Confirming the identity Captain of Hell Fighters team 6. Alpha Hotel 23-424. Condition red.”
Blot 1 grabbed the receiver of the mid-range transceiver that bolt 7 had on his back “This is bolt 1 of the Wonderbolts we are in need of Immediate Dustoff.”
“Bolt 1 this Hx1-24 Call sign Raider, we are standing to receive your precise coordinates.” A nearby EQAF airship called.
“Bolt 7 relay our countenance.” Bolt 1 ordered. As she made her way over to the team medic who worked on the VIP.
Bolt 1 could hardly contain her anger as she looked at the leader and only survivor of Hell Fighters team 6 nicknamed Honesty’s Charge. The leader’s once golden locks were stained completely crimson. Her body covered in cuts and gashes. Her once beautiful face was now bruised beyond belief. When bolt 3 and 4 found her they made the assumption that she was dead. The only reason they took any further interest in her was because she had an EQAF’s patch on her shirt. But as Bolt 3 read the dog tags she noticed her slow and shallow breaths. Which had lead them to this predicament.
“Wonderbolts we are 7 klicks out eta 5 minutes. Make your way to the roof for extract. Howcopy?”
“Loud and clear Raider.” Spitfire looked around at her team “Let's get our move on people we have no time to waste.” The WonderBolts fought tooth and nail as they made their way through the compound towards the roof top.
The hum of the airship's engines and gunfire could be heard by all as they approached the rooftop door. “Raider watch your fire we’re coming out now.”
“Noted we're standing by for dust off.” They boarded the airship and took off towards Equestria at full speed.
“Fleet Footer how bad is she?” Bolt 1 asked
“Honestly it is not good. Severe dehydration, multiple stab wounds, electrical burns, possible concussion. The list keeps growing.”
“Well she survive?”
Flea footer looked at Spitfire with sad eyes “the odds are 20/80 against her but, there is a chance she’ll pull through.”
Spitfire tore her eyes away from the hurt girl and made her way to com room. As she entered the room she ordered a line to be opened to Celestia or Luna. The radio operator tried but was denied.
Spitfire grabbed a headset “This is Caption Spitfire of the Wonderbolts with a priority 1 message.”
“Please confirm nature of the message.” An operator replied.
“Recovery of MIA operative level 6.” Spitfire stated.
“Stand by, transferring you now.”
“Captain Spitfire I hope you have a good excuse as to why you interrupted my meeting with the ambassador of The Griffin Empire.” Celestia asked impatiently.
“I do Ma’am. As of 11/30/1823 at 20:25 hours Alpha Hotel 23-424 is no longer MIA. Instead she is in our hands.” Spitfire informed Celestia.
“Where did you find her?” Celestia inquired with a lighter tone.
“We found her in the terrorist compound. We were assaulting in the Badlands.”
“What is Applejack’s current condition?”
“It bad Ma’am. The odds are stacked against her. We are in root to Canterlot at full speed as we speak.”
“Very well, I will have a medical team at the docks when you arrive.”
...
Spitfire let out a sigh, it had been one month since they had found Applejack and got her home. Even with the best care available, Applejack was still in a coma due to the injuries that she had sustained and any mental trauma was yet to be determined. Spitfire spent every waking hour by her lover's side as she hoped and prayed. When she started to lose hope fate yelled its reward.
It was Hearth's Warming Eve, and Spitfire found herself in Applejack’s hospital room again. She looked at her. “Jackie, I’m sorry for not finding you faster. I tried and tried to find out what happened but in the end it kept leading to a dead end. But I never wanted to believe that you were dead. So please come back, if not for me but for your family and friends.” She then picked up a guitar that she had brought, and she started to play a melody. Although it had a sad tone to it. The other’s walked into the room and waited for their que.
Applejack opened her eyes slightly but couldn’t see all that well. But her hearing was just fine. She heard a voice that was one she longed to hear once again. Then she heard first strings of a song she knew by heart. Her vision started to clear up a bit and she found the one she longed for. Spitfire took a breath and started to sing “When family cannot be here, having journeyed far and wide. We sing a song to honor them to remember days gone by." Applejack then heard Applebloom join in "So take your cup and raise it high just as surely I’ll do mine and laugh as we tell stories told as we smile at days gone by. As we smile at days gone by.” Granny Smith joined in “For family not hear my dears, having journeyed far and wide. For loyalty and kindness both we smile at days gone by.”
Applejack's sight cleared up even more and she found she was surrounded by friends, family and loved ones. She took a slow deep breath and picked up with the song with Spitfire “Our paths will cross again one day in time to reunite, for family is always near even when seas are wide.”
Everyone looked to see that Applejack had awoken and had a smile plastered on her face. The music tone turned happier as Applejack, Spitfire and Applebloom sang. “So take your cup and raise it high just as surely I’ll do mine and make toast for family and the tales of days gone by. As we smile at days gone by.” Spitfire gestured with her hand and everyone joined in. “For family not hear my dears, having journeyed far and wide. For loyalty and kindness both. Take joy at days gone by. For loyalty and kindness both we smile at days gone by.”
The room fell silent “Now before anybody says anything I have something to do. Rainbow do you still have it?” Rainbow perused a small black box and gave it to her. She then turned to spitfire “Fi I heard what you said earlier and you have nothing to be sorry for. Instead you can have all the joy in the world with the right answer. Spitfire will you marry me?” she opened the box in sat a ring that be passed down generation after generation of Apple family.
“Jackie of course I will marry you.” She let Applejack put the ring on and passionately kissed her. As they kissed, bells chimed for it was no longer Hearth's Warming Eve. It was Hearth's Warming Day.
“Come on ya’ll we have another song to sing.” Applejack declared. Everyone joined in as they sung The Hearth Carol. As they sang Spitfire looked into Applejack's eyes and they both silently agreed “Best present ever.”
……
“Come ‘on Fi it's time to wake up.” Applejack nudged her wife awake.
“Just 5 more minutes.” Spitfire replied.
“Where pulling into Ponyville station. It's time to get up.” Applejack stated as she got their luggage out of the overhead compartment. Spitfire stood up to stretch but the train came to an abrupt stop. Which caused Spitfire to lose her balance and fall forward, but was caught by Applejack.
“You’re supposed to the agile one.” Applejack smirked while she held her love.
“Well it is your job to keep me on the ground.” Spitfire said as she got out of the hold and grabbed her luggage. “Come on we have work to do on the farm.” Spitfire left the train.
Applejack shook her head and made her way off the train.
“Ma’am here are the dossiers that matched your parameters.” Sargent Luminas placed the files on Twilight’s desk.
“Thank you Sargent Luminas. Do you know where the Sovran is?” Twilight inquired.
“I believe that she is still in the war room. Is there anything else you need Ma’am?”
“No. You're dismissed Sargent Luminas.” Twilight stated. Stg Luminas saluted Twilight and left her office. Twilight skimmed over the filenames and placed them in one of two piles.
Twilight took the top file from the right pile. “LT Flash Sentry. Graduated top of his class, currently stationed in the Crystal Empire, Awarded Sigma Phi metal when he was stationed at Outpost 384.” Twilight read aloud. She let out a sigh as she tossed the file in the newly started NO pile. She once again reached for the pile on her right that held the big names and little skill but held some gems.
After a few hours passed Twilight had gone through the pile on her right and found only 3 name that she thought were worth keeping. She then turned to the pile on her left that held the misfits, outcasts and unseen skill’s she wanted. She went through each file with a very fine tooth comb. In the end she had a list of 7 names and skill sets.
Twilight got up and stretched and heard several pops. She then grabbed the seven files and proceed to exit her office and made her way to where the War room was.
……
Twilight walked to the war room after she made a stop at the kitchen to pick up a cup of coffee for Luna and a wrap for herself. When she arrived at the doors to War Room, she was greeted with a familiar sight of The Dark Brown Oak doors with 16 armed guards. The doors were had a meter of solid steel in them. The Room's wall were 3 meters thick of steel and marble cover. There was of course the two hundred plus enchantments and wards that helped to protect and secure the room. She stopped for a minute to admire what was the most secure location in the castle.
"You’re ID Ma'am." A guard near the door asked.
Twilight handed him her ID. After a minute she was given her ID back and the door started to open. She then entered the 100 SQ meter room full of maps, troop deployment, tables and desks scattered about. Then finally in the center of the room a large three-dimensional map of Equestria in all its glory.
Luna was on the far side of the room. Sitting at a desk asleep. Twilight made her way over to her and shook her awake once coherent enough she a hand the cup of coffee. Luna took a sip of the coffee and was pleasantly surprised. “Twilight how did you know that I liked my coffee with 2 sugars and 1 cream?”
“Luna did you forget that even though I am from this reality I was in another. While I was in that other reality I was the Fourth Princess and the Fifth Valkyrie of Equestria there as well.” Twilight replied as she looked over the reports that occupied a desk.
Luna felt her check warm up a little at twilight's statement. “How well did you know me Twilight?”
“Shit. Shit. Shit. Ok I need plan. I can’t just tell her that I was married to her. Ok how would I know how to get out of this? Hmm that’s it.” Twilight pondered. “I would like to believe that we were really good friends or something more akin to sisters, Luna.” Twilight continued to read the reports. Luna felt bad that she had even asked the question. She looked over the new reports that had come in a few minutes ago. “Twilight?”
“Yes Luna.” Twilight looked up from the reports she had in front of herself.
“If it's possible can you tell me more about yourself?” Luna asked as she looked at twilight.
“Umm, sure what do want to know?” Twilight inquired with a slight blush.
“Well.” Just as Luna was about to ask her first question her stomach let out a low growl. Luna blushed deeper than she had before.
“You want half my wrap?” Twilight offered
Luna nodded her head. Twilight pulled out one of her knives and cut the wrap in half. She then levitated a haft to Luna who took a bite the moment she could. But found it lacking an important component “Twilight are you a Vegetarian?”
“Yeah I am. I will eat meat if I have to survive, but by choice I am Vegetarian.” Twilight replied as her cheeks had turned a slight pink color.
“So how does a Bad-ass warrior like yourself become a Vegetarian by choice?” Luna asked.
“Well, when I arrived in the other reality I didn't end up in Equestria. Instead I was in the homeland of the Changelings Chin.” As Twilight reached into one of the many pockets on her vest, she produced a picture and locket. She walked over to Luna and showed her the picture.
“This was my adopted family.” Twilight pointed at a man who looked about 30 “My father Hell Strike.” She then pointed to Women about the same age. “My mother Gentle Breeze.” She then pointed out her brother. “My brother Fast Fire.” Then at the girls “My three sisters in order. Gale Force, Crescent Strike and Trade Winds.” Twilight took a moment to recount her family. “We didn't have much in the terms of money. Due to that fact we didn’t get meat all that often because of the price. But we did have a garden that grew most of are vegetables. So I never really got the taste for meat.”
Luna listened intently but had gotten sidetracked by the locket that was wrapped around Twilight’s hand. The chain was simple looped black metal. But the heat that layers metal that twisted and looped. “Is that your mother’s locket?”
“No, it was a gift from my first love Chris.” Replied as she looked at with a smile on her face.
“I must say the craftsmanship of the Changelings is something to behold. Dose that necklace style have a name?”
“It does, Chris said that series was called Guidance of the Heart.”
Luna looked back down at the photo and saw Twilight as a baby not more than a year old. It then dawned on her that they had a way to find the Changeling home land. “Twilight do you know exactly where the Changeling home land is?”
Twilight felt her heart drop a little when Luna asked her that. “I do Luna but I won’t tell you.”
Luna felt her anger rise “If you won’t you tell me willingly, then.”
“Luna stop!” Twilight yelled. She looked Luna in the eye “Don’t let your anger get a hold of you Luna. I know what they did and you want to get back at them but; Let me tell you that you can’t punish the people for what their leader made them do.”
Luna felt another pang of sadness in her heart as Twilight’s words snapped her back to reality. “Twilight, I’m sorry. I just have.”
“You have the country’s best interest at heart. I know you do Luna. You have a lot of pressure from the corrupt nobles in our country. You saw this as a way to get them off your back and settle a score.” Twilight finished Luna’s statement.
“You're right I was being fool hearted again. Can you forgive me?” Luna admitted.
“I can Luna because we all make mistakes. I know this even more than you.” Twilight pulled Luna into a hug.
“I know you didn't come here to talk about your past. So why did you come here?” Luna asked as she broke the hug.
Twilight handed Luna the files she had brought. “These are who I want on my team.”
Luna glanced at the 7 dossiers. “Why these are the seven you want on your team. They all seem to be misfits and outcasts.”
“Well on the surface they may seem like nobody’s at first glance, but if one does some digging you will find the unexpected.” Twilight fired back.
Luna raised a brow and read the name of the first dossier “Coco Pommel?”
“Coco Pommel 19 year old earth bound girl, works in the fashion business in Manehattan. She is currently working under Suri Polomare. She is known for precision hand sewing when dealing will complex dress parts and speed at doing so. This is all thanks to her training as an E.O.D. specialist.” Twilight answered.
“Octavia Melody?” Luna asked.
“Octavia Melody 27 year old earth bound women. She is part of the Canterlot Philharmonic Orchestra. She plays the Cello. Octavia is married to Vinyl scratch, a 26 year old mage. They also have a daughter named Scootaloo who is a 16 years old Pegasus. Octavia doesn’t sound like much but on the surface. But doing some digging, you will find her military record. In it she holds the number 1 spot for Hand to hand and CQB.” Twilight stated. Luna smiled as she spoke the next set “Moon Light and Ice Gail?”
“The inseparable two. Some of the best shadow blots who ever enlisted. Ice Gail 19 year old Noctral. Moon Light a 20 year old Pegasus. They both excel in stealth tactics and sabotage. How these two got to where they are now is a mystery. From little that I found Ice Gail was abandoned at birth because she was cursed by Nightmare Moon. In other words she was born a Noctral." Luna rolled her eyes at the statement. "She was cast out and somehow survived for 6 years till Moonlight found her. Moonlight was given by her mother and became an orphan. Then nothing till they enlist.” Twilight recalled the files contents
Luna pressed onward. “Why do you want Miss Moon dancer on your team?”
“If Moon Dancer is the same as she was in the other reality and I am willing to bet she is.” Twilight smirked.
“If by that you a mean Ambassador for Equestria. A top-notch tactician that coordinated the defense of outpost 384. Where she led 30 Rangers and 15 bordered guards fought off three thousand militants. All to defend the refuges that where there. Let’s not forget that she is a Master Assassin.” Luna listed off Moon Dancers resume. Twilight gave her a sidelong glance.
Luna turned to the next file “I see you have Stg Zecora on your list.”
“Why would I not have her on my list! Zecora is one of the best field medics that we ever had. Her abilities in the field where due to her extensive knowledge of plants and their applications. Then there is one other fact about Zecora that not many people know. She is a Zen master.” Twilight stated.
Luna reached for next file “I don’t believe that I heard anyone by the name s.”
A loud creak passed through the room stopping Luna and Twilight's conversation. They looked over to the door that had openned. A messenger ran over to them.
“Ma’am’s we might have a lead on the Elements of Harmony.” He gave Luna the scroll.
“Crepusculum gear up and meet me at the airfield. It looks like we're going after the River steed cartel.” Luna ordered Twilight picked up her Scar-H and looked at Luna “Ready when you are.”
The room was lit by several torches that surrounded an oblong table, they flickered as a hooded figure entered through a door and took their seat on the left side of the table.
“Now that everyone is here we can begin. We all were there to witness the events of what had happened. We need to rethink our timetable.” The man at the head of the table stated.
“Think we should advance it ahead by four months.” A voice called out.
“I don’t recommend that. We have stirred up a hornet's nest, we need to lay low for a while.” The man at the foot of the table offered.
“Let’s not forget the Valkyrie. She beat the living shit out of Flash sentry, who is currently the best of the best out of all active military personnel.” Another man pointed out.
“We might want to look for a new person to become our champion.” Another voice called out.
“That is ridiculous we have spent too much on Flash and can’t just drop him.” A female retaliated. The people around the table started to fight and bicker.
“That's quite enough.” An elderly man yelled. He rose from the head of the table. “We cannot fight among ourselves, because if we do then they will win. We have the elements and we have chosen our Spartan, now all we have to do is lie and wait.” The elderly man pulled his hood back and revealed his face. “For our sun will rise and when that day comes, we The Circle of Zenith will take control and crown SunBurst as our King. May the eternal light guide us."
"May the eternal light guide us." everyone around the table said in unison.
The room was inviting with yellow cream colored walls, simple dark oak furniture and two sets of chestnut brown double doors. One lead to the main corridor, the other to her private quarters. The air was aloft with scents of cinnamon, vanilla, and lavender. The twilight rays of the sun streamed through the open balcony doors.
In this room was a women whose radiance that shone like the sun. She sat behind the desk in room with files placed haphazardly across its surface. She flipped through reports that had flooded in from all parts of Equestria. But none had the information that she wanted. After the 73rd report of about someone who tried to smuggle drugs over the border, she gave up and let out a sigh, as she ran her hand through her hair. “Why is there such a big drug problem in this country?” “It’s for those who wish to escape from the hell that they live in Sister.” Luna stated as she walked in.
“I know that the country is not at its best but to turn to drugs. It seems a little extreme.” Celestia replied.
“Indeed, it is often times difficult to understand the struggles of our subjects here on our Thrones.” Luna replied as she looked out at their country.
Celestia mulled over what Luna had spoken and found that it was all too true. “Luna do you think that we have strayed from that path that we started on?” “Tia, I do not believe that we strayed off our path.” Luna replied.
Celestia gave Luna a soft look. “How can you be sure?”
“Sister, the day we started our journey from Erechtheum all those years ago, did we think that one day we would rule a kingdom?” Luna posed. Celestia shook her head “If you told me 5000 years ago that we would one day be rulers of a kingdom, I would have laughed the night away.”
“This journey we have been on has had its joyous moments and depressing moments. To say that we have strayed from our path is impossible since we do not know where this path leads.” Luna’s words brought forth memories of that time long ago. Where they roamed the land in search of their density.
Celestia let a small smile form on her lips. She reached into her desk and pulled out an ancient photo of two young women with one arm around each other clad in steel armor and swords at their side. “To think that two lowly mercenaries would be rulers of a country and see the rise of more immortal beings.”
“For when we started with just the two of us and now it has grown to six.” Luna recounted.
“Make that seven Luna.” Celestia corrected.
“Oh, does she know about it yet?” Luna inquired
“No, I’m waiting for the right time to tell her.” Celestia looked at a picture on her desk of herself and Fluttershy.
“I recommend that you tell her sooner rather than later.”
Celestia shook her head for moment. “Luna you didn’t come here to reminisce, did you?”
The room was still as Luna thought for a moment on why she was in her sister’s study. “Sister, have you seen the latest issue of the Canterlot Times?”
“No I have not. Don’t tell me that they found out about the raid.” Celestia groaned.
“No. The raid still remains secret and if it wasn’t, you would have been notified by our Public Relations department by now.” Luna replied.
“Are they calling me a tyrannical dictator again?” The Solar Princess recalled the headlines after she stopped a group that wanted, Luna to be banished for her actions.
“No. But the tabloids are on your relationship with Fluttershy. They believe that you were the reason that Fluttershy stopped being a model.”
“We were not even together back then.” Celestia blurted out.
“Sister that is the petite stuff. The more extreme are calling you” Luna looked down at the news print and read from it “In one of the most shocking events of the century we find out our beloved Solar princess is nothing more than bassist heathen. If you haven’t been keeping up to date on the events of last week, here is a recap. Princess Luna now has an agent that is called Valkyrie. The Elements of Harmony were stolen. A bill was brought forth to make same sex relationships illegal. It was not a surprise that the Princess of Love Cadence, denied it. But Luna, Trixie and Celestia also denied the bill as well. If that wasn’t enough, we found out that Princess Celestia is in relationship with Archangel Fluttershy Thermosphere. But the real kicker is that she has been in other same sex relationships. As we all know that it’s immoral and wrong to date the same sex. Now many you may be asking “what do we do?” It’s simple really, we should have the two elder princess's be removed from their seats of power and then drop them off in the middle of the badlands. Then we will see just how powerful they really are!”
Celestia let the words she just heard sink in. “I didn’t think that the topic was this sensitive; but to get the kind of response such as this?”
“I am just as surprised as you are sister. But I do find the fact they believe that we are helpless without our title, is hilarious.” Luna replied with a devious smile.
Celestia adapted the same smile. “That is true dear sister. If anything our titles hold us back from using our powers and skills to their full potential.” The immortal sisters walked out on to the balcony. To set the sun and bring forth the moon. “Sister.”
“Yes Luna.” Celestia responded.
“Be ready to don your armor once again and don’t hold back. If these fools think that we are just figureheads then they are the real jesters.” Luna stated.
“I will Luna, and you know that term jester isn’t used anymore.” Celestia responded.
“I know sister. In a thousand years a lot has changed and I am slowly getting the hang of it.” Luna affirmed. Celestia’s slight smile dropped. “Luna I’m sorry. For what I did.”
Luna grabbed her sister’s hand and looked up into her eyes “Tia, you have nothing to regret. You did what you had to do to protect our people that we swore our allegiance to. If anything I should be the one to apologize for turning down your help and words of patience. So I am sorry Tia, can you forgive me?” Tears formed in Luna’s eyes as she turned her head away.
Luna’s tears started to roll down her cheek but were wiped away by a warm tender hand. Celestia tilted Luna's head back up so that their eyes met once more. “Lulu I forgave you the second I found out that you would spend a thousand years trapped on the moon. We both made mistakes, some took too long for us to realize. But what is important is that you are here now and you are trying to set the record straight.” Celestia brushed the stray strand of Luna’s hair back behind her ear. “As you said earlier Lulu, we do not know where this path leads. But we don’t walk it alone anymore. They may praise us like goddess but we're still human. So let us walk this path of uncertainty with those who share our gift.” Celestia pulled Luna into a hug. A second later Celestia felt Luna return the hug.
“A door. A hinged, sliding, or revolving barrier at the entrance to a building or vehicle.” Twilight felt the pang of sadness as she stared at the red door with a candle on it. As she knocked on the door, an answer came in the form of a young male voice. “Just a moment.”
The door slowly opened and revealed a small dragon who looked up at Twilight. “Can I help you?”
“Yes I am looking for Trixie is she in?” Twilight stated her intent.
“Yes she here and who may I ask you are?” The young Drake asked in response.
“Oh sorry. My name is Twilight Sparkle, I am Trixie’s older sister. What's your name?” Twilight introduced herself.
“Oh I am Spike. Wait you said you Trixie’s sister but that’s not possible. She has a sister in law as well as an older brother. But no older sister. Who, just who are you?!” Spike’s tone switched from sweat and kind to aggressive and defensive.
“Easy Spike I am no threat to you or Trixie.” Twilight tried to de-escalate the situation.
“You won’t be.” Spike said as he slammed the door in Twilight’s face.
“Well that was interesting.” Twilight thought. She started to turn around but stopped and heard muffled yelling. A minute later the door opened once again this time by Trixie who pulled her into a hug.
“I take it you missed me.” Twilight quipped.
“Next time before you run off to do whatever it is that you do, give me a heads-up.” Trixie said as she broke the hug.
“Trixie, as a princess you can request my whereabouts anytime you want.” Twilight pointed out.
Trixie opened her mouth to say something but closed it and faced palmed. “So how long will you be in town?”
“I will be staying in Ponyville indefinitly.” Twilight replied.
“Where in Ponyville?” Trixie pressed.
“You remember case 63901-BNH?” Twilight asked.
Trixie thought back to the case “You mean the case between Golden Skies and Star blaze.”
Twilight nodded her head. “That’s the one. The house and land was obtained by the crown. It was deemed unnecessary expense for the crown to have the house and they were given a choice. Sell the property or give it away, and due to my services to the crown I was given the property tax free.”
“Trixie who’s at the door?” Rarity called from upstairs.
“It’s Twilight, Rarity.” Trixie replied
A flurry of steps later and Rarity was at the door in casual attire “Twilight darling it’s so good to see you again. How have you been?”
Twilight allowed a small smile to appear on her face “I am alright for now.”
The trio were silent till Rarity spoke “Twilight would you like to join us for breakfast?” “Thank you for the offer Rarity but...” at that moment Twilight’s stomach made its need know with a low rumble. “On second thought I think that I will join you to breakfast.” Twilight said with a weak smile and slight flustered completion.
“Fantastic choice darling.” Rarity smirked as she walked to kitchen.
Trixie moved to the side and let Twilight into the library and shut the door. She turned around and saw Twilight setting her bag down on the table. “Twilight I must say you look amazing.”
Twilight looked into the mirror and her reflection with amethyst eyes stared back at her. Twilight’s hair was pulled into a low ponytail. She then looked over her simple outfit that consisted of a simple lavender tee that concealed her wings but without constricting them, and khaki cargo shorts that ended at her knee. She then looked down at her navy blue sneakers. “Thank you Trixie. But what would Rarity say if she heard that.” Twilight shot back.
“Now Twilight, one can enjoy beauty even if they can't have it,” Rarity stated as she leaned on the door jamb that lead to the kitchen. “and I must say you look absolutely stunning. Who designed your outfit?”
Twilight took a pained breath and looked down “It was one of your designs, or I guess it will be in the future.”
“Oh, I am sorry Twilight.” Rarity apologized as she put her hand on Twilight shoulder.
Twilight meet Rarity’s eyes “It's ok Rarity. I have get over their deaths at some point in time and guess that it is happening a lot sooner than I wanted.” Rarity pulled into a hug and whisper to her “Twilight if you ever need to talk about this please come to me no matter the time.” Twilight replied with returning the hug. Before Rarity broke the hug a few second later she felt an odd shape on Twilight’s back. “Now let us drop this sorrowful thought and move on to a more pressing matter, like breakfast.”
“I think that’s one of the better ideas you had this morning, Rarity. So how about you two sit down I’ll whip us up something to eat.” Trixie added in.
“Trixie thank you ever so much for the offer. But I think Spike and myself should handle it.” Rarity replied.
“Please, let me cook breakfast for my sister.” Trixie begged.
“NO! The last time you tried to cook, you somehow burnt ice without melting it! Some of the brightest minds of the Science Community still can’t figure out how you did that!” Rarity exclaimed.
“That was one time.” Trixie moaned.
“What about the time where you somehow caused cereal and milk to explode?” Rarity questioned, but received no retort. “That’s what I thought. So why don’t we let Spike cook for us. That way you two can talk some more?” Rarity proposed.
“Fine.” Trixie grumbled and walked into the breakfast nook.
Twilight and Rarity stood silent as Trixie left the room. “So what’s this whole story about Trixie burning ice and exploding cereal?” Twilight inquired as she started to walk towards the breakfast nook.
“It’s a long story.” Rarity replied.
…..
Spike chose to stay in his room after he was done preparing the food. The breakfast was filled with laughter at Trixie's expense. After they had calmed down a bit Rarity decided to ask her question “Twilight?”
“Yes Rarity?” Twilight responded and turned her head to look at her.
Rarity squirmed under Twilight’s gaze but proceeded “Since Fluttershy is the Archangel, she is required to be armed at all times. So I was wondering if that's the case with you.”
Twilight nodded her head as she pulled out her sidearm from her backside and placed it on the table. “Yes, it’s a rule that all champions must be armed at all times.”
“Why is that Twilight? Because the last time I checked, Equestria has been in a time of peace for about 2000 years.” Trixie pointed out.
“That is true. Our duty is to protect every citizen of any threat. That be an army of the undead, or our own family members. We must be ready at a moment's notice. I have a sidearm on my person at all times and if I need more firepower my bag has my gear in it. Say, have you ever noticed Fluttershy checking something every time she comes over?” Twilight asked as she scanned the room with her eyes and holstered her pistol.
Trixie thought about it for a second. She then got out of her seat and made a B-line for the library. Rarity and Twilight followed Trixie as she walked through the library to a bookshelf tucked away in an obscure section. She started to take books off the fifth shelf. After Trixie had pulled 40 books she looked into the shelf and found an olive drab canvas bag. Trixie pulled the bag out and placed it on the ground in front of Twilight and Rarity.
Twilight opened the bag to find 6 mosin nagant and preset 54 striper clips. “Fluttershy has good taste in rifles.” Twilight smirked as the rooms other 2 occupants looked into the bag with disbelief.
“Why would Fluttershy need 6 Mosin na-thinge?” Trixie asked.
Twilight only needed a second to understand why. “Simple she cares about you six a lot.”
Trixie stood still and tried to comprehend why. Rarity saw her loves’ face contort in confusion. “It’s simple dear. Fluttershy wants to us to have a way to protect ourselves and our friends.”
“I wish she told us about these.” Trixie sighed as she kicked the bag.
“Well now you know that they're here you can keep a better eye on them. If I am not mistaken this part of the Library holds farmers almanacs that date back to the start of Ponyville. So it's highly unlikely that anyone will find these” Twilight pointed out as she closed the bag and stowed the bag back into its hiding place. Trixie nodded her head. “Your right. But I still want to talk to her about it.”
“I'll talk to her Monday when we met up for our weekly spa treatment.” Rarity affirmed as she put the books back to conceal the weapons. Twilight watched the as two worked together with a pang of sadness and joy. Twilight checked her watch, which read 10:31. “Rarity, Trixie.” Twilight called out and both of them looked at her. “As much as I love seeing you two, I have to meet up with someone and get my house ready for Pinky Pie’s Party.”
“Will I see you at the party then?” Trixie asked as she hugged Twilight
“Of course you will.” Twilight responded as she returned the hug. After a good few seconds Trixie broke the hug. Twilight made her way to the table in the foyer and grabbed her navy blue backpack and headed out the door. Once outside, Twilight took a deep breath and closed her eyes. Her eyes shot open once she felt a breeze. Twilight then ran forward and when she had gained some speed, she jumped and extended her wings and with one flap she started her accent. After she gained some altitude she banked to the southwest to find her first recruit.
On a cloud above Ponyville rested the most predominant member of the weather team Rainbow Dash. She had finished the morning set up and decided to take a break. Rainbow leaned further into the fluffiness of the cloud and let out a sigh of content. Not long after she fell asleep, she was awoken by a hand shaking her.
“Hey it’s time to wake up Dash.” A sweet voice whispered.
“Five more minutes.” Rainbow replied half-heartedly.
The other pegasi rolled her and decided to try a different tactic. “Hey Rainbow have you seen the new girl in town? Because I saw her this morning and she was smokin hot. I believe her name was Twi.”
“Twilight, she’s here?! Where? Where did you see her Ember Dancer?” Rainbow Dash cut off her coworker.
Ember shook her head. “How do you know her name?”
“I met Twilight in Canterlot and she said she might be moving to Ponyville. So, where is she?” Rainbow Dash stated.
“She was on her way to the library around 8:30 this morning, after that I have no clue. Why do you want to know where she is?” Ember asked but drew the conclusion almost most instantly. “You have a crush on this Twilight Sparkle don’t you?” Ember teased.
“I do not.” Rainbow Dash shot back a little too quickly.
“Oh by Celestia’s Sun you do!” Ember exclaimed.
“Ok I might have a little crush on Twilight.” Rainbow admitted with a slight blush.
Ember did not buy it one bit. Then a great and a slightly mean idea came to her “Hey is that Twilight over by the town hall?”
Rainbow Dash spun around and whipped out her binoculars. She looked down at the town and saw Derpy and The Doctor talking to Mayor Mare. “Twilight isn't over there by the town hall is she?” Rainbow pouted.
“Nope. But this confirms that you are head over heals for her.” Ember smirked as she hugged Rainbow Dash from behind and sat down. “So what about this Twilight Sparkle do you like?” Ember asked as Rainbow tried to break free of her grip.
After a few minutes struggling, Rainbow Dash gave up and let out a sigh. “There are many things that I like about her.”
“Like what?” Ember pressed.
“Well the energy she gives off. When Twilight is around I feel, like I can take on the world and come out alright.” Rainbow dash stated as she looked up at the sky.
“Ok so I wasn’t going crazy when she walked and felt as if there was nothing to be afraid of.” Ember said “kind of like how I feel now.” as she looked down at her short coworker.
“I know what you mean.” Rainbow snuggled further into Embers embrace unconsciously. “Twilight is also highly skilled in some form of martial arts.”
“You know this how?” Ember asked.
“She was practicing it in a secluded part of the gardens. She never wasted a single ounce of energy. The art which she practiced flowed so beautifully and you could feel the energy around her move with her.” Rainbow lost herself in the memory.
“The gardens as in the royal gardens?” Ember asked for clarification.
“Yeah, Twilight is part of the Lunar guard.” Rainbow Dash replied.
“What does she do in the Lunar guard?” Ember questioned.
Rainbow shrugged her shoulders “Twilight didn’t say what her job was.”
“Just who are you Twilight Sparkle and why are you getting close to the elements and Princess Trixie.” Ember thought as she held Rainbow.
“Rainbow Dash, Ember!” A voice called out in urgency.
Rainbow Dash and Ember both jumped quickly and looked around for the source of their names. Rainbow spotted it. “Thunder Lane over here.”
Thunder Lane landed on the cloud a bit winded. He caught his breath before he spoke “A large storm was spotted over the Everfree forest and it’s too late to stop its formation.”
“Can we buffer it? Lessen its effect on the town.” Ember proposed.
Rainbow Dash thought for a moment “That might work if the storm has not picked ambient energy from the forest and started moving. Thunder Lane was the storm moving?”
Thunder Lane shook his head “No it was stationary when I left to find you 10 minutes ago. Clear Skies is watching.” Thunder lane stopped when Clear Skies landed on the cloud. Her face said everything they needed. Rainbow Dash snapped into action. “Thunder lane go to the tell Mayor Mare that the storm is inbound and get an alert out. Clear Skies get teams 1,3 and create a slight warm front to slow down the storm. Ember grab your storm gear and get back to the office.” Each then nodded to the order. Clear Skies and Thunder Lane took off to complete their tasks.
“What are you going to do?” Ember asked.
“I going to find the other Storm Rides, get my gear, then check on the storm, and finally get back to the office.” Rainbow stated as she looked over towards the Everfree Forest.
“Be careful Rain.” Ember said as she gave her a quick hug. She then jumped of the cloud and flew to her house.
Rainbow Dash stood silent as she thought of the schedules of her storm riders. After she had a good idea of where they would be, she also took flight.
If you can see your path laid out in front of you step by step, you know it's not your path. Your own path you make with every step you take. That's why it's your path.
The Path of Change
The early summer winds blew across the fields that surrounded Ponyville and brought with it scents of flowers, fresh cut grass and the warmth of the sun. As the wind passed through the market, it picked up the scents of fresh baked goods, sweets, apples and the hum of the town. Then it slowly drifted to the ever-standing schoolhouse and its playground.
“True life is lived when tiny changes occur. I can’t remember where I read that, but they couldn’t be any more correct. One moment I had a loving family and home. Then it all came out and life took a turn for the worse. I had it all, family, a bed to call my own, a name and love. Now I have nothing except for my love.” Silver spoon thought as she stared up at the clouds as she sat upon the swings.
The warm summer wind blew gently by a swing set as chains of clinked as they took on the weight of another. Silver dared not look away from the clouds. Till a hand fell on her shoulder. Silver spoon looked over to see Sweetie Bell. “So are you going to tell me what’s really bugging you?”
Silver Spoon's head dropped into her hands as she slipped off the swing and landed on her knees.
“Silver are you okay?” Sweetie Belle asked as she got off the swing and kneeled in front of Silver Spoon. At first it was barely noticeable but slowly the sounds of sobs where heard. Sweetie Belle pulled the smaller into a hug.
“Silver what’s wrong and don’t say nothing, because the last time you cried like this was when you found out about your mom. So please tell me what it is so I can help.” Sweetie Belle pleaded.
A warm tender hand brushed away the new tears. The hand then lifted Sliver’s head till her silver eyes meet emerald eyes. The emerald eyes were filled with life and love. What she had lost.
Sweetie Bell look into to the Silver’s eyes and found that they, no longer held the shine as they once did. “Silver what’s wrong? You know that we're here for you.”
Silver Spoon brought a cupped hand over her heart as she felt pang sadness tear through it. “It’s kind of a long story.”
Sweetie gave a loving smile “look for you and all of my friends, I have all the time in the world.”
Silver let out a huff “It all started about month ago.”
“You mean when the night when Applebloom and I where at scootaloo's house for a sleepover and you came over unexpectedly?”
Silver spoon nodded her head “Yeah.”
“You seemed really off that night as well, i take it that this is related?” Sweetie asked.
Silver Spoon nodded her head “Yes, but today it's different. As for what happened that night. Well I told them.”
Sweetie gave Silver Spoon a sidelong glance “Told who? What?”
“You still don’t know. I thought that she was going to tell you. Why do I have to be the one to tell people,” Silver moved her hands to cover her face.
Sweetie took Silver’s soft hands in her once more. “Hey, it’s ok. Everything will be alright. But you have to tell me what’s wrong, so I can help you.”
With a heavy sigh Silver started “Well Scootaloo and I are together.”
“You and Scootaloo are together, and how long have you been together?” Sweetie Belle asked.
“We have been together for a while,” Silver Spoon said as her head dropped slightly. “I’ve be wondering if was the dating her was a.”
“Stop.” Sweetie Bell stated as she tucked a stray lock of hair behind Silver’s ear, and gently turned her tear stained face back to hers. “Don’t say anything you may regret later.”
Silver looked at Sweetie and let out a sigh of discontent and shook her head. “Look Sweetie Belle, I appreciate you trying to cheer me up but you’ll never understand what happened.”
Sweetie Belle took Silver’s hand in hers and lead her towards a bench on top of the hill. They sat there for the moment as cool gentle breeze blew past “Silver I may never understand what you’re going through, but if you tell me, I may start too.”
Silver took her glasses off to wipe eyes and clean them. “Are sure you want to hear it’s kind of a long story and I know you tend to busy helping your sister at the shop.”
“Silver you're my friend and care for you. So I will always have time for you.” Sweetie Belle said as she placed a hand on Silver's skinny shoulder.
Silver nodded her head and started her story. “Well it all started like I said on the night of the sleepover.”
…
“So they kicked you out because of you like girls over boys.” Sweetie belle recapped.
Silver nodded “That’s what happened.”
“So what happened today?” Sweetie asked she looked out at Ponyville.
“Well as of now it has been about three or so weeks since that night, and today Pure Ingot my father approached me.” Silver Spoon informed as she reached into her bag.
“I take it was in a bad way.” Sweetie Belle guested to which
“Yeah. He walked up to me threw this at my feet and left.” Silver Spoon spoke as she pulled out a slightly large vanilla folder and handed it to Sweetie Belle.
Sweetie Belle opened the folder to find some loose papers, other papers held down by a binder clip and a loose note.
“As of today Silver Spoon has officially been declared deceased after being missing for about a month. In this file you find who you are now.”
Sweetie Belle looked through the rest of the file, unclipping the first half of the papers. It was all about how silver spoon went missing and a statement on when she was declared dead. The second haft file contained a birth certificate with the name Silvis tansy and all papers afterwards contained the name. “This doesn’t make sense you’re a nice, sweet, pretty, smart and talented girl. Why would they do this?”
Silver Spoon stood up and took a step away from the bench to look out at Ponyville “because I prefer girls over guys.”
It took a minute to put two and two gather “So they kick you out and disown you all because you’re a lesbian. This is so mess up.”
Silver counted Sweetie Belle to look out at the world and let out a laugh as tears slowly rolled down her face “It’s a bit of a kicker really that right before I came out to them, I asked if they would love me no matter what.”
“What did they say?” Sweetie Belle
“They said that, yes they would love me always.” Silver spoon couldn't hold back the tears any longer as the gravity of what had happened came crashing down upon her.
Sweetie Belle placed the open file on the bench and moved towards Silver Spoon. Sweetie gently warped her arm around her sobbing friend. As she held Silver spoon Sweetie felt her shirt dampen from the tears “It’s going to be ok. Sure you’re no longer Silver Spoon daughter and heiress to Pure Set Jewelry Company. But now you are free to become whoever you like.” Silver’s tear slowed as she looked up at Sweetie Belle as the sunlight filtered softly through the leaves around them.
“How do you know that?” Silver asked as she wiped her eyes.
Sweetie Belle gave a tender smile as she wiped away a tear “I know it because they left you with nothing and expected you to fall off the face of the planet. But like I said you’re a kind, lovely, beautiful, smart and highly talented girl. If given any challenge you overcome it. Also you not alone you have people who really care about you. Sometimes family is more than just blood.”
For the first time in about month Silver Spoon felt the warmth in her heart return and she wanted it to stay so badly. ”Sweetie Belle can we stay like this for a while?”
“We can stay like this as long as you want.” Sweetie Belle smiled as she held Silver closer.
The light wind that had graced the small town had picked up slightly, not enough to bother people but enough to blow away loose papers.
Twilight flew through the air towards the Everfree forest and her first candidate for her team of Valor’s, Former sergeant of the Equestrian Marines Zecora. As she flew her thoughts were on how she should approach the subject with Zecora. But as she landed outside Zecora’s hut she decided to wing it like her old friend Rainbow Dash would. Twilight went up to the front door and knocked. She waited for answer, but none came.
Twilight was about to knock a second time but stopped as she felt as the ambient energy that sounded her beckoned her to follow. Twilight decided to follow the energy and see where it lead. After a five minute walk Twilight found the shaman in front of a small pond. Zecora was in a deep state of meditation.
Twilight felt the energy in the air shift to form a path to the other side of the pond across from Zecora. Twilight followed the path and sat down she took a deep breath and closed her eyes.
They both sat like mountains; immovable. The wind blew through the forest and a signal leaf was knocked off of a tree. It fluttered through the air till the leaf landed in Zecora’s awaiting hand. “What is that you seek? To grow strong so that you are not weak?”
“What I seek is not strength for myself but strength to protect others.” Twilight answered.
The forest was quiet once more till a wind blew by the two and the leaf took flight once more. It gently moved towards Twilight and once it got close to her she raised hand and leaf settled on it. “It seems you have what it is you seek. Tell me what it is you truly seek?” Zecora asked.
Twilight took a breath and spoke “I seek the power for those who will guard the light.” She turned over the leaf and it took flight once more.
“So you wish for me to teach those the way?” Before that you must show me that you know the way.” Zecora stood and took a stance as she spoke.
Twilight never opened her eyes as she heard Zecora stand up. She knew the stance Zecora had taken. Twilight stood and took a breath in letting it out as she rolled her shoulders back. She then brought her left leg back a bit and put back a slight forward angle, as well she shifted most her weight on her back leg. Twilight’s forward leg raised slightly. Her left hand rested near her waist while her right hand in front of her jaw. “First one that gets the leaf wins,” Twilight stated as she recalled the last she had done the test.
Zecora felt a smile form on her lips “Yes. On my go. Three. Two. One. Go!”
Twilight pushed off on her left leg and lunged for the leaf. But right before she could grab it she dropped down to avoid a roundhouse kick to her head.
Zecora advanced quickly having taken Twilight aggressive first move and turn it around on her. Now Twilight was on the defensive as avoided Zecora strikes, but opening she found an opening when the leaf that was floating around them drifted in front of Zecora’s face. In flash Twilight dropped low then came up into with an uppercut. Which caused her opponent to shift back to avoid both the uppercut and Twilight’s wing.
They both were still their last positions twilight slowly stood up and folded her wing back to reviled her hand in it was the leaf.
Zecora opened her eyes. “So you know the way and the path. What is it that you want to ask?”
Twilight bowed in respect then stood upright to meet Zecora’s eyes. “Zecora what I ask is no simple task but one of great importance. You have every right to refuse this offer, for you have already completed what your time in serves to the crown and earned your citizenship. But will you listen to my request anyway?”
“Come let us discuss this over some tea. For the trees will hear.” Zecora said as she turned and started to walk back to her hut.
Twilight followed in silence.
…..
Twilight took a slow sip of her tea and placed the cup down on the table. She then looked over to Zecora who was tending to her brew. “So any question before we start?”
“No, I do not have any. So you may speak.” Zecora replied as she sat across the table from Twilight.
Twilight nodded her head “First off, let’s get the formality’s out of the way. What I am about to say is classified above top-secret on a need to know bases. I believe you know what can happen if you tell someone about what will be spoken here?”
“Yes. I am aware of the punishments for disclosing such information.” Zecora answered.
“Very well Stg Zecora. Allow me to properly introduce myself.” Twilight sat up straighter and took a breath. “My name is Twilight Sparkle The Fifth Valkyrie of Equestria, under the direct command of the princes Luna Sovran of the night and dreams.”
“Well, that is some titled Valkyrie Sparkle. So how may I help you?” Zecora said as she marveled at the young girl that sat across from her.
“Just Twilight is fine. As for why I’m here it’s simple, I want you on my team.” Twilight replied.
Zecora raised an eyebrow “What kind of team?”
“We would be one with the shadows. Taking on the most high-risk mission and classified above top secret. To save all that rest peacefully in the night. If we fall the only record will be a small ever burning candle lit a top the highest peak, So that we may continue to be the light on the darkest of nights.” Twilight said solemnly while clutching her left wrist
Zecora nodded her head “I see, so out of all the available troops that you could have chosen, why choose me?”
“Zecora the reason why I chose you because I need someone who I know is loyal to Equestria and won’t run away at the first sign of danger,” Twilight admitted.
“I feel as if you are overestimating what I can do.” Zecora shot back.
Twilight smirked as she pulled a file from her bag by her feet. “Your actions on and off the battlefield say otherwise. From helping treat the wounded after one of the largest disasters to fall upon to the point where you collapsed. To when you lead twelve soldiers to victory over a force of two hundred that entrenched and heavily armed enemy soldiers. Zecora in just these two incidents you have proved yourself a loyal soldier and cable leader. But if you don’t, believe me, I can continue.”
“No, you don’t have too. So what does your offer include?” Zecora asked as she stared at the folder in front of her, its plan vanilla color slightly darken by walls of the room.
“First off a promotion to a suitable rank such as Colonel,” Twilight said as she watched as Zecora’s mouth dropped.
“Why would I need such a rank as Colonel?” Zecora asked with a puzzled look.
“Your job would be my executive officer and the medic of the team.” Twilight looked Zecora dead in the eyes.
“Well, that certainly is quite the offer.” Zecora finally said after a minute or two of silence.
“It’s a lot to take in one sitting, but do remember that the choice is yours,” Twilight affirmed.
Zecora thought for a bit before speaking “What the pay like and the benefits?”
Twilight gave short laugh “An upper six-figure salary and I believe it’s called the indigo plan of health coverage.”
Zecora sat there quietly after what Twilight had said. She debated it many in her head and finally came to the conclusion. “So when do we start Ma’am.”
“For now just Twilight. As for when sign here.” Twilight stated as she pulled a pen and form from her bag. Zecora took the two items and read the paper then signed it.
“Welcome to the team Colonel Zecora.” Twilight stood and salute Zecora.
To which Zecora replied with a salute of her own “Its honor to serve under you Valkyrie. What are your orders?”
Twilight felt a warmth bubble up inside her as Zecora spoke those words. “Well first off it’s more of a personal request, but could you show me around town?”
Zecora gave a short laugh “I think that is a resalable request. So where too?”
“Where can I get cleaning supplies?” Twilight ask?
“Brewster general store on Main Street should have what you want. I’ll show you the where it is.” Zecora replied. Twilight nodded her head and the two started the walk to town.
“So what can you tell me about yourself? I mean one can only learn so much about some form a file.” Twilight spoke to get a better scene of this words Zecora.
“If only you answer my questions as well,” Zecora replied.
Twilight gave a small smile “I think that would be fine. Also what happens to your rhyming speech pattern?”
“My rhyme ‘tis fine. But, my commanding officers found it annoying so I dropped it, so I did not wind up in trouble.” Zecora responded
“You know what, that makes sense,” Twilight replied.
As the Zecora and Twilight walked to town and asked questions of one another. They never noticed the clouds twisted and grew darker by each passing moment.
The light shallow breeze that had graced the small town of Ponyville had turned into violently screaming winds. The hues of blue no longer adorned the sky, instead pitch black as like on a cloudy moonless night. The air held a chill as ice cold rain pelted all that stood in its path.
Ash Wing count help but shiver as the rain pelted her storm gear, as the a chill slowly made her way through gear’s insolation.“I hope no one’s out here tonight.” Ash Wing thought as she sped through the darkened skies.
A minutes later off a flash of blinding light lit the skies and light hadn’t even cleared as the crash of thunder resounded. “Fuck that was close.” Ash Wing swore as she banked towards where the lighting had struck.
As she got closer she turned on the flashlight that was embedded in her helmet. The light did very little to cut through the darkness of the storm. Ash Wing slowed down and let gravity help guide her to the ground. Once Ash Wing's boot’s touched the ground she folded her wing into the specialized compartment of the storm gear.
Ash Wing looked around the desolate country road, she was only able to see about a meter in front of herself even with the flashlight on its highest setting. She took a quick sniff of the air. The scent of burnt ozone and wood blanketed the area. Ash Wing walked towards the smell and slowly a tree that was split in half became visible.
Ash Wing looked around from where she stood but still couldn’t see any better “it’s just as bad here as it was higher up.” Ash Wing was about to leave when over the winds of the storm she heard a faint cry. “Hello is anyone out here?!” Ash Wing called out but no reply came. “Maybe it was the wind.” She thought as she extended her wings. She then gave them a mighty flapped and a bubble of wind surround her she listened. It took some time but she head it again. “Fuck someone out here.”
Ash Wing took a breath “Breeze of the storm guide me to the wayward soul.” She then waited for the whimper once more and when it came; the bubble of wind changed into a line of wind. Ash Wing opened her eyes and fallowed wind that was under her control. Not twenty feet later a small figure trapped under a limb of the down haft of the tree. Ash Wing rushed over to them to the figure to find it to be a child cover in mud. “Hey, kid! Wake up!” she yelled as she dropped to her knees a shook the kid. The response was minimal as the kid gave louder groan.
“Hold on kid I’m going to get you out of here.” Ash Wing reached to her side of a curved shaped handle of her flare gun and load a red flare. She shot it off into the sky hoping that the other storm riders would see it.
Ash Wing wasted no time as she started to work on freeing the kid. After what she could guest was haft hour to free the young girl. “What were you doing out here?” Ash Wing whispered as she held the girl in her arms. Ash Wing extended her wings when a blinding and defang sound erupted from her left and it faded to black.
…
“We got two over here!” a light called out.
“On three. One. Two. Three.” The light counted.
“I’ll get her, grab the young one.” Another voice said.
“Stay with me. I promise everything will be fine.” The light called out in a caring voice.
Atop a high mountain in a new land a small group gathers. one walks forward and places a small simple candle. second places a metal around the candle's base. A third place a helmet behind it. A forth walks slowly forward and lits the candle, they turn towards the others. “May this light for ever burn and watch all those who sleep. so that their dreams will be peaceful and to be the a light in these dark times. For they shall never know her sacrifice." Slowly they left leaving only the one who lit the candle. They pulled out a simple blue scarf and laid it atop of the helmet. they took a step back at look at it all as the morning sun crested the ridge lines. "Hora aurora venit. Sic reliqua pacifice mea Crepusculum." She place a stone in front of it all and slowly walks down the mountain.
Death is not extinguishing the light; it is only putting out the lamp because the dawn has come.
“In the midst of darkness, light persists.” – Mahatma Gandhi
The night sky darkness was deepened by the storm that lumened overhead. Bone rattling winds brought torrents of rain and lighting upon all the apposed it. Yet darkened structures stood resolute against all that the storm had thrown at them. Many stood quiet and dark as the occupants a slept peacefully.
Yet on the outskirts of Ponyville a soft warm orange light and wisps of deep calming blue magic flickered through a window. Four occupants were in the room, one lay in bed squirming as though they were tormented by their dreams. The second and oldest of them was kneeling next to the bed wisps of blue magic gently float between her and the girl. The third with tribal tattoos was busy reading a file. The fourth with violet wings watched with unnerved anticipation while they leaded against the wall closest to the fire the simple gray stone fire place. The wisps of magic slowly faded away and an older woman rose.
“Any luck?” The voice closest to the fireplace fire place asked.
The older women looked at the young one and shook her head “Much like the storm outside I cannot calm the sea of turbulent of haft thoughts and memories.” The woman leaned over the restless child and gingerly moved their silver hair out their face.
“Any clue to what caused this Luna?”
Luna shook her head “I’m not sure what caused her mind to be in such turmoil. How was it that you found her?”
Twilight pushed herself off the wall she was leaning against and walked over to the Luna. “We found her and a local Storm Rider after two large lighting strikes hit within close proximity to the home. Zecora and I went out if there was any damage. No harm was done to the home on inspection. What we did notice was that the lighting had struck a nearby tree twice. Both the girl and The Storm Rider had been trapped under a large branch from the tree. We proceeded to pull them free. The girl was unresponsive and, the storm-rider was fading in and out of consciousness. After assessing them for any life threats we brought them inside.”
Luna nodded her head “Do we know who she is?” Zecora looked up from the folder she had in her a hand “If this file is anything to go by her name is Silvis Tansy. I know many of the young ones that live around here. But I do not know who she is.”
Luna looked at the nightmare ridden girl. “That’s a start, anything about family?”
Zecora looked down and nodded her head, she carefully pulled out a letter and handed it to Twilight.
Twilight takes the letter and read it softly aloud.
Dear, Silvis Tansy We regret to inform you that your house has burnt down. We also regret that we must inform you that your mother Scarlet Night and your farther Solar star, have unfortunately perished in the fire.
Luna shakes her head “When did it happen?”
“A little over three years ago.” Twilight sighed.
“I remember that storm, for it caused a vast amount of destruction and loss of life in its wake. It was much like tonight’s.” Zecora added
Luna nodded her head. “I see, with the given information. It is in deed possible that when the storm hit, her memories resurfaced. Which caused her to relive the events in which her parents died.”
“That makes sense, trauma has a physical and mental side. The question remains why was she outside in this kind of weather?” Twilight said as she looked up from the file.
“Maybe the fear and memories made her think she was in her home that was on fire?” Zecora said as she looked at Silvis
“Maybe.” Twilight handed the letter back to Zecora who put it back into the file. She then walked over to Silvis and took her hand into her own and gently stroked it with her thumb. “You’ll be ok. I'll make sure of it.”
…..
Dark clouds slowly gathered around a slightly decrepit castle that sat upon a hill. In the many rooms of the castle maids and servants moved with perfect efficacy, to an unheard melody. But below the castle sat a dungeon that held only one prisoner chained to a table, and old man who sat across from them hidden by the shadows.
“You will tell us all that you know about her?” The man demanded as he tossed a picture on to the table. The prisoner picked up the picture, studied it for a minute and shook their head.
“So you don’t?” The man asked. To which the prisoner nodded their head. “Well then guest that’s all then I do hope that Moon Dancer doesn’t have any ‘accidents’ when she comes back.”
There was a scraping of wood on stone and a clank of chain “You will not fucking touch her!” The prisoner cried out as strands of red and yellow hair fell in front of their face.
“Well as I see it, you're in no position to do anything about that Sunset Shimmer. So, do you know anything about this girl?” The man said as he stood to meet the prisoner’s eyes.
The prisoner looked at the picture again. It showed a girl clad in black, with wings of lavender and a large gun of some sort “I don’t know her. She must be new.”
“Ok, I’ll believe you for now. How much do you know about the Valkyrie?” the man asked.
Sunset looked at the man “The Valkyrie’s were the left hand of Equestria. It’s been over a thousand years since one was appointed but Princess Luna. There are a few stories about them. As for my knowledge about the Valkyrie is limited to fairy tales.”
The man leaned in to hear better “Anything is better than nothing. So, tell me what you know: and Moon dancer will be safe on her next trip here. Do we have a deal Sunset?”
Sunset felt a pang in her heart as she had failed again to keep knowledge out of enemy hands. “yes” she whimpered
The man took out a piece of paper. “You may begin.”
Sunset took a breath and started a tale of old “A Valkyrie is a hero of Equestria even if no one knows about them.”
“How can they be a hero if no one knows them?” The old man asked
“A hero is more than a person. Rather a belief.” Sunset replied.
“A belief in what?” The man asked in confusion.
A smile graced Sunset’s lips “A belief that, against impossible odds, that Equestria can be saved even when all seems lost and everyone else has given up. They push forward and prove that the world is still worth saving. A guiding light in a torrent of storms”
“How does this girl do that?” The man yelled as he pointed at picture.
“It simple really all heroes inspire that belief in us. Because they renew our faith in one another. And above all else they give us one of the most precious of all gifts. Do you know what that gift is Archduke?” Sunset leveled her eyes and starred into Archduke’s eyes.
“No. Do they give power, knowledge, strengthen?” The Archduke rambled.
“No none of that, they give us a simple yet powerful gift. Hope.” Sunset reveled as she felt fire return to her and cool knowingness returned to her eyes.
“All that the Valkyrie gives people is hope. What good is hope in the face of a trained army of hundreds if not thousands?” the archduke laughed.
Sunset felt a smug grin adorn her face. “You see Archduke when all seems lost and the world is bleak. A simple spark in the darkest of times brings hope.”
“What if that spark is extinguished?” The Archduke questioned.
Sunset shrugged her shoulders “That won’t work. Because this world needs heroes. Even they die their ideals and light will shine on.”
“How do you know that?” The Archduke asked hesitantly.
“Because a Valkyrie is a hero, and now that she is here the world will honor her. It also means that your time is limited. For each day that passes the Valkyrie becomes stronger.” Sunset smirked.
“Is that all?” The Archduke inquired. To which Sunset nodded her head. “What about her weapons?” Sunset look at the picture to study the weapons “Never seen those weapons before.”
”I must thank you for your cooperation Sunset.” The Archduke got up and left; slamming the door behind him as he went.
Sunset smiled even more “Well, things are about to get interesting.” and went back to scratching a magic circle onto the chains that held her.
…..
The dark storm clouds were alight by massive streaks of lightning across the sky. Almost entirely disappearing in the night’s sky as the thunder rolled into the inky blackness of the night.
At the clash of thunder awoke Ash Wing. breathing heavily. She looked around the room and slowed her breathing. She then snuggled back under her warm and inviting covers of the bed. ’wait bed?’ Ash Wing’s mind spun as the last few waking moments resurfaced ‘where's the kid?’ She tried to sit but let out a pain full gasp and clutched at her ribs. Ash Wing fought through the pain as she continued to move. She pulled off the covers and swung her legs off the side of the bed.
When Ash Wing stood up and she was assaulted with pain, nausea and dizziness. She felt her balance fail and braced herself against the wall for support. “You can do this Ash Wing.” She said in a hushed pained breathless whisper. Ash Wing slowly made her way to the door and pushed opened. She entered a quite desolate dark hall way, with only the glow from her rooms fire place lighting the immediate area from her door.
“Where am I?” Ash Wing looked around the darkness. She took a breath and extended her white and gray tipped wings . The pain rocketed through her body as she then gave them a simple flapped and a bubble of air surrounded her. Ash wing's auburn hair floated as listened. The house was deathly silent only clashes of thunder that broke the silence. Then she heard it the hushed conversation of people talking. Ash Wing starred to walk towards the conversation, each step sent pain flowing through her body. “just a few more steps.” Ash Wing kept reminding herself.
After a bit she the voices became clear. “So, what are we going to do about the girl?”
“I’m not sure really. But until the storm passes will keep her here then figure out what to do.” Ash Wing moved closer to the door she heard the voices coming from. She pressed her ear against the door and caused it to open and her to fall in.
…....
Orange and yellow light flicker off the stone in the room by several torches. All looked as a door was pushed open “Ahh Genral fodder what is it that brings you here?”
Genral fodder look at the council “I have news on the Valkyrie’s movements.”
Council grew deathly quiet “go on General.”
Genral fodder grew a bit pale “The Valkyrie has destroyed the River steed cartel.”
“What do you mean?” a Council member asked
“Everything is destroyed, and set ablaze. Reports state that there was heavy gun fire and explosions thought out the night.” Genral Fodder informed the council.
“Are we sure it was her?” another Council member asked
“Where ninety nine percent sure it was her. Given survivors accounts. They said it was just one person clad in shadows and wielding weapons unlike any they had seen before.”
The Council grew quitter till the chairman spoke “It seems that the Valkyrie is going to be a major problem.”
Another member of the council spoke up “But they are only one person so if we get her sent on missions that take her further from us the better.”
“Can that be done?” Chairmen spoke
“It’s posable. But The False Princess would need the a very good reason to send her somewhere.” General fodder replied
“For the good the Circle of Zenith we shall give Luna the reason she wants to send her agent on a wild goose chase. May the eternal light guide us."
The rest of the Council and the General fodder replied "May the eternal light guide us."
…...
Zecora, Twilight and Luna sat around the small table in the cozy kitchen of Twilight's new home. Steam billowed off of three cups of tea as the three talked.
“I looked that place over a hundred times and found no trace of the elements anywhere.” Twilight sighed looking at her tea in.
“You did all you could. We may have been given false information.” Luna spoke she as placed a hand on Twilight's shoulder.
“So, what is our next move then?” Zercoa asked as they told her about the raid.
“For now, we wait and gather our strength and intel.” Luna replied and took a sip of her tea. They sat in silence drinking their tea. “I’m sorry I that I don’t have more to offer.” Twilight blushed looking at medium oak wood cabinets, older cast iron stove and gray and white granite counter tops.
“it’s quite alright Twilight. I now you just moved here and I highly doubt that expecting any of this to happen.” Luna reassured Twilight.
“The weather really caught a lot of people off guard. It hit them quite hard.” Zecora nodded her head.
“So, what are we going to do about the girl?” Luna asking the question that weighted heavily on Twilight’s mind.
Twilight sighed heavily. “I’m not sure really. But until the storm passes, we’ll keep her here then figure out what to do.”
