> The Untold Story of Mystic Sparkle
>  by Admiral Q Ponyform
> --------------------------------------------------------------------------

> Dark Future
> --------------------------------------------------------------------------

The Unknown Story of 							Mystic Sparkle

By Admiral Q and 
Inspired by Stories from Rated Ponystar

You are probably wondering why I am writing this entry at this point in time. Especially when I'm so close to enacting my goal. Maybe it’s because I have the time while I take a train to Canterlot, maybe it’s because I don’t know if I’ll get the chance to do so again. Either way, I’m on one of the few trains still operating these days. I have Lunar guards surrounding me as I travel to meet Luna. At least that's the official story, Luna and I have something else in mind. Perhaps I should start at the beginning of all of this…

My name is Mystic Sparkle. I was born one year after the assassination of Princess Twilight Sparkle. I never had a normal life, my sister guaranteed that. 
Her own was the same. She started out as the second child to a low noble house, but quickly showed that she was extraordinary. She started normal enough, a unicorn gifted in magic. She then went on to become Princess Celestia's personal student; the bearer of the Element of Magic – one of the legendary Elements of Harmony. She and her friends beat the likes of Nightmare Moon; Discord, Queen Chrysalis, and Sunset Shimmer. 
During these great accomplishments she ascended into Alicornhood, and earned the title of Princess of Equestria, standing equal to the great Celestial Sisters and the Alicorn of Love. 

And that's where it all went wrong. 

A year after her coronation she was murdered. Murdered by the very guards that had sworn to protect her. Because of her death, I never had a chance of a normal life. Afraid of further threats to the family, my mom and dad barely let me leave the house. I could sit there with my books and look out the window, and see colts and fillies my age play out in the sun. I wanted to join them so badly, but it was never to be. They might as well have been in another country. The most regular time I did get to  go out, was when my parents picked up a box of baked goods from none other then Donut Joe. Then one day he up and left Canterlot, and my outside travels dropped.

I miss his donuts.

For the longest time I hated my sister. Her death was the cause of my forced isolation, and I hated her for that. Why did she have to go and DIE and make my life miserable. Mom also took part of the blame. She rarely let me out of her sight. If you looked up the definition of over protective, you would have found my mother's image. That in itself is saying something, considering what my big brother's talent is. Oh, he was the protective big brother through and through, though I think Cadance ensured he didn't go too far. Best foal sitter EVER btw. However, I have since changed my views on all that. It happened twelve years ago, when I was eight.


*		*		*		*		*		

Mystic was reading another magic spell book. It was the only thing she could do to past the time. Her mom wouldn't let her out again. Her parents always wore a very concerned look on their faces these days. They were worried about something but they never told her what. 

She studied until her tummy growled at her. Frowning, she left her room and headed downstairs for something to eat. Walking down the hallway, she saw pictures of her family. Some made her smile a bit. Pictures of her being born, with her older brother and Cadance in the Crystal Empire, and her birthdays. But many more caused her to scowl. They were all pictures of Twilight smiling at many different events; like her coronation, Shining and Cadance's wedding, with one of her friends in Ponyville, and so on and so forth. Over the years it has taken so much effort to not knock them down. Once in the kitchen she made herself a daffodil and daisy sandwich. She was just finishing up her meal when she heard an explosion.

“WHAT IN CELESTIA!” She heard her mom yell. Then their front door slammed open and she saw her dad standing there.

“Hurry! The nobles have acted, war has come!” If it was possible, Mystic saw her mom become even more pale.

“Where do we go Nighty?”

“The Castle, the shield is up but I heard a guard saying that they are evacuating the civilians to the Crystal Empire. Come on!” 

“Let's grab the essentials first. MYSTIC!”

“Right here mom.”

“Get your saddle bag, put some food in it, a water bottle and your book.” Shrugging, she followed her mom's advice before she heard more explosions rip through Canterlot. She and her family quickly grabbed what they needed and headed out the door. What Mystic saw outside was something she had never seen before. Ponies were fighting each other, either hoof to hoof or horn to horn. The buildings she memorized from her window were being damaged or destroyed amid a sea of violence. “Come on honey we have to go.” Mystic nodded, and they made way to Canterlot Castle; which around it was erected a golden shield.

Their usual way to the castle was cut off by already ruined buildings, or the ensuing brawls. Mystic even saw that the old donut shop had been smashed in by the upper floors of the neighbouring building. Mystic looked away, but as she tried to continue she tripped on some rubble. Her mom rushed over and helped her up, just as some of the airborne action got their attention. A sky chariot with a pair of royal guard unicorns was falling, it's pegasi drivers dead in their reins. The unicorns were screaming in panic, until the chariot hit one of Canterlot’s decorative spires, silencing them forever. But the spire couldn't handle the impact, and the upper portions came tumbling down, straight towards them. Mystic was frozen in fear unable to move as the spire blocked the sky. She then felt something grab the nape of her neck, and she flew through the air. The sudden motion stopped as her father caught her. She looked back to the spot she had just been, to see her mother with a sad tear filled smile. Then, all to quick, the space was filled with marble and stone, and a resounding thump. Mystic tried to go to her mother. But her father's hooves stopped her.

“MOM! MOM! MOOOOOOOOOOM!!!” She screamed.

“She's gone Little Spark, she’s gone. Please come on, we have to go. I can't lose you to.” Her dad pleaded, the pain evident in his voice. Mystic didn't resist anymore, the fight having all but died, and her dad levitated her onto his back, before taking off for the castle once again. Mystic stared at the the ruins of the spire till they were out of view. She barely noticed when they got to the castle, and the guards let them through the shield. She barely noticed the ponies her dad walked by, some hurt, all showeing signs of flight with messed up manes and fur. 

They weren't in the castle long before they were put into a large white carriage, pulled by four pegasi. The carriage had five other ponies besides her and her dad. She felt her dad bring her close to him and for the first time in her life she heard her father cry. She had seen him sniffle a few times when he looked at a picture of Twilight, but he now sounded like she did when a nightmare hit her, or when she was hurt falling down the stairs that one time. As much as she wanted to, she couldn't cry with him. A numbness had overcome her instead. She watched as Canterlot, her home for her whole life, faded from few, marred by fires and smoke.


*		*		*		*		*		

Shining took mom's death really hard. Even beforehoof he had a steel look in his eyes; now it was darker, and I couldn't blame him. The day my mom died was the day I started plotting the end of those who killed her. I became determined to find out why my mom had to die that day. I looked at whatever sources I could find and asked any who would tell me why this had happened. From the short discussion I had or heard, plus what I read, the picture became more and more clear. The day my mom died was the day the war nicknamed the 'Back Stab War' began.
It seems that for a long time many of the so called nobility was unhappy with Princess Celestia's rule. The farthest she found was seven hundred years ago for internal plots against the crown of Equestria. They never went through with it till now, and I know why. 

The sun and moon.

Ever since Discord's reign the unicorns hadn’t been able to move the sun or moon, needing the sisters to do it for them. After Luna’s banishment, it showed that only one alicorn was needed. While it may be possible for unicorns to take the job again it is not guaranteed that it can be done. So if they killed off the sisters and failed to raise or lower the sun, soon all would be dead. 

However they found a new route to get back at the royalty. My sister. Her ascendancy was unique. She was the first pony in known history to become an alicorn and not be of Celestia's blood. Even Cadance is distantly related to Celestia, but the Sparkles have no blood ties to the royal family( until Shining married Cadance). A low noble unicorn mare in her early twenties managed to achieve such a feat, and it did not go over well with the nobility. Then her plans also drew their ire and hatred. In all the time I had hated Twilight Sparkle I had never studied her work. 

After mom died, I researched the causes of the war; I saw more and more of her being mentioned, so I looked into her life. To be honest, my sister was the genius. She had her hoof tips in everything, magical theory, technology development, medical drugs, and of course politics. If enacted, her policies would have forever changed Equestria, and Equestria would have thrived from it. Instead she was dead, and war came. Celestia tried to bring Twilight's dreams to fruition, but the war ended them. Prince Blueblood managed to convince members of the royal guard to betray their oaths, saying she was planning to over throw Princess Celestia. Sorry dear brother, but honestly this shows the calibre of members of the guard. My research and discussions show that Twilight was like a daughter to Celestia, and was well known and liked in the castle when she was a filly. So why would they ever think that Twilight was a traitor? 

Perhaps they agreed with the nobles and their plans. It matters little in the end. After the trial and execution of the direct murderers, Amedeus Blueblood, Prince Blueblood's father took his family and fled to start a new life in the hidden country of New Unicornia. A country formed by Unicorns that didn't want to give up their power, and never joined Equestria with Princess Platinum. 

Ever since New Unicornia was discovered, Equestria had had peaceful relations with them, so we had no clue of what was to come. After the First Battle of Canterlot many thought the rebellion would be crushed. The majority of the armed forces were still loyal to the crown, so the war should’ve be over in mere weeks. Then a fleet of unicornian vessels arrived, and disembarked a full army. The rebels had been waiting for it. 

It seems that Blublood managed to gain support for his cause in that land; and this no longer assured Equestrian victory. In Response, my brother and sister in law raised forces to assist the main Equestrian army, and years of war followed. It wasn’t until near the end that we discovered why Blueblood made his moves now; how he could take out the diarchy without consequences: -The head of Unicornia was an alicorn.

She had kept that fact hidden all this time, until she had to reveal it. And what made matters worse was that she was the daughter of Blueblood. No wonder he was so easy sacrifice his son. He was never going to rule; his daughter Queen Majesty would. 

And ponies called Nightmare Moon and Discord monsters.

*		*		*		*
After years of fighting, Majesty was finally slain. Unicornia was crushed, and Amedeus and his followers paid for their crimes. But Equestria did not suffer lightly. Many ponies died, including most of the remaining Element bearers. Canterlot had whole sections gone, fallen off the mountain during the Second Battle of Canterlot. Manehatten was in ruins; it was the closest city to where the Unicornian forces landed.

Ponyville is practically abandoned since it was devastated during the war. Unicorinan troops had used it as a base during their siege of the capital. Looking out the the window I can see the town. On the outskirts was Sweet Apple Acres. It was the core of the town, and it was the last to fall when the unicornians came.

That branch of the Apple family fell defending it. Though the    Apples were dead, the farms trees still had apples on them, a harvest that would go uncollected. I can also see remains of the tree that my sister once lived in with by missing brother Spike.     

Isn't that something, I had a dragon for the brother, sort of par for the course with my family. My sister hatched him when she got her Cutie Mark, and eventually raised him as her own. I don't know much more about him; after Twilight's death he fled Equestria, only to reappear during the final battles of the war. He died taking a blow meant for one of my sister's friends. Rarity I believe.

All of this suffering wrought because of a thirst for power. It makes me sick. My family's life and Equestria's bright future ruined from there on. From it all a question arrives, could Twilight Sparkle prevented this? Honestly I don't know. What I do know is that Twilight's death was a major key to their plans. They really started everything after her death. Cadance once told me that the power games the nobility played with itself was like a chess board with no fixed sides. Each piece either moving on it's own or by the hoof of another. Princess Celestia allowed this so called game to play out, and occasionally moved or added a piece of her own. Twilight was a major piece she had added, and planned to use well. She knew Twilight would move in certain ways so she barely had to touch my sister. After her death though, Celestia lost patience with the game and took a sledge hammer to it. Any that got in the way of fulfilling my sister's goals were steamrolled over, and maybe it was that that strengthened the nobles grips on certain ponies, holding what they could while being afraid of a tyrant. common ponies lives were changed by the reforms Celestia enacted, and a large number didn't adapt, or take to them too kindly. 

One thing I came to know was this. I could no longer blame Twilight for my life. She didn't want to die. She just wanted to make Equestria better. No, the blame lies with the so called nobility. They murdered my sister, they killed my mom, and they will pay. I was going to Canterlot, and meeting with Luna to get revenge; and finally heal Equestria.

Mystic stopped writing as the train pulls into the station. She puts the book in her saddle bag and made her way off the train. There was still guards all around the station. Even though peace has come to Equestria, there were still noble fanatics around that might cause trouble. Not to mention those just desperate for food. The guards, which were donned in Luna's armor since it was night, checked her I.D. before letting her go through. She now was entering a city that she hadn’t visited for twelve years. Thought reconstruction has been underway since the war was taken overseas to Unicornia, debris was still around in places. She had to walk by her old neighbourhood, so she saw what was left. Turned out there was nothing left. That section of Canterlot was now at the foot of the mountain. She kept walking till she reached the castle. Even the castle still showed the signs of war with blast marks and missing chucks. She approached a guard at the gate.

“Name and purpose?” She asked.

“Mystic Sparkle, Princess Luna summoned me.” His eyes widened before replying.

“You're cleared. Last I heard she was in the garden. Wait here and I will summon somepony to escort you.” He then talked into a device requesting an escort. It must have been one of my sisters inventions. A few minutes later another guard arrived and tled Mystic to the gardens.


When they arrived Mystic could see this was the only area that seemed restored, and she quickly knew why. This was the graveyard of Celestia's past students, and the guard led her to the biggest structure in this little graveyard.

“You may go inside ma'am.” Mystic nodded to him and headed in. While the structure was made for her sister, it no longer held just her body. Laying with her was her fallen friends and elements. Applejack and Pinkie Pie, who fell buying time for the residents of Ponyville to escape just before the First battle of Canterlot. Reports said Pinkie kept up her antics, keeping the Unicornians in disarray till they finally got her; and all account said the sight of the civilians escaping kept a smile on her face to the end. Spike was also there, with his coffin next to Rarity's. After giving his life for her, she tapped into her life force and used all of her magic to shatter Queen Majesty's shield. She didn't survive the magical drain and died next to her brave and noble dragon. 

In the center of course was her sister but her view of her was blocked by three ponies and a draconequus. The first to notice her was a cyan pegasus with a rainbow mane and tail. The mare looked at her with magenta eyes and Mystic couldn't help but see the discolored fur that formed a scar going over one eye. She had more discolored marks around her body and an ear tip missing. This could only be Rainbow Dash, one of the fiercest fighters in the war. The stories on her exploits during the war showed a mare with something driving her. Maybe vengeance like Mystic?

“Luna, Mystic's here.” The night alicorn craned her neck to look behind and smiled when she saw Mystic. Though she had no visible scars, it was a perk of being an alicorn. Luna did have emotional scars however, and the greatest sign was in her eyes. At first glance they seemed a normal turquoise color with white, but her pupils were slits.

“Mystic, my young friend, tis good to see you here.” That got Mystic to smile. Though this was the first time they met in pony, Luna often visited Mystic in her dreams. It is there this plan came together.

“Nice to finally meet you Luna.” She looked over to Rainbow Dash. “Same to you Rainbow.” Then she looked at the other pegasus. The butter yellow furred and pink mane gave her away. “You must be Fluttershy?”

“She got a weak yes from the mare. She matched her name well. Before more could be said, a pair of yellow and red eyes were in front of her.

“So this is Purple Smart's little sister. She takes after Shining Flank too much.”

“Can't help that Discord.” She shrugged. Her fur was the same white as her brother, but had a dark blue mane with a white stripe, and her cutie mark followed family legacy by having the lavender six point star with a magic pentagram inside it. It noted her skill in spell work. She decided to adopt her sisters mane style to honor her. “I am surprised to see you here.” The still self proclaimed god of Chaos shrugged himself.

“Fluttershy wanted to come and I rarely leave her alone nowadays. Plus, seeing somepony causing this much chaos? How could I not give my stamp of approval?” Before Mystic could react Discord stamped something on her forehead. Rainbow snorted. 

“Discord approved? You need a new act Discord.”

“Well it isn't like I've had time to come up with new stuff these past few years.”

“Anyway, Mystic, you are sure you can pull this off?” Rainbow asked. For the first time in Mystic's life she saw hope in another pony's eyes. She nodded.

“I've worked on it for the past five years. It will work.” Rainbow nodded.

“Okay, you are egghead's little sister, so I should trust in you more.” Rainbow then looked back at Twilight's coffin. Mystic joined in the look and saw the serene look her sister's face. Celestia had magically reinforced the coffin so that nothing decays in it, and it is made near impenetrable. “Hopefully you and Twilight will fix things.”

“Won't know till we try. Now are we ready to start?” Mystic asked.

“Indeed my young friend. I have the runes written out on  the floor as you wanted and both me and Discord will help supply the power needed.”

“I still can't believe your helping us Discord, with all the chaos still around I thought you would enjoy it.” Rainbow commented.

“Well Rainbow Scars, this make be chaotic, but in the worst possible ways. Death is something I can’t stand for. It is so permanent, so orderly. You can’t have much fun without living things. Even during my bad guy days, I could have easily killed Sun Flank and Moon Butt, but life would be boring without them. Same could be said when I first faced your friends. I prefer the chaos of life over the chaos wrought by death any day.”

“Let's get going then, there is a time limit to my spell after all.” Mystic said.

“Then take your position Mystic Sparkle.” Luna ordered. Mystic took her spot in the runes, and Luna and Discord channeled their magic into the spell. Mystic felt their magic, and it nearly overwhelmed her. She focused on the spell, and it's target. 

Minutes later they heard a voice scream out:

“WHAT IS THE MEANING OF THIS!?” Celestia was flying toward them like an arrow.

“Horseapples, I hoped my sister would remain asleep. Discord keep her from interfering, I can power the spell on my own now.” Discord nodded.

“Sorry Sun Butt, but this is for your own good.” With a snap on his talons there was a flash of light around her. Celestia’s forward momentum stopped, and she fell to the floor; now two foot tall and made of fabric.

“You turned my sister into a plushie?”

“Don’t worry, she is fine, she just can’t do anything. You have to admit though, she is adorable as one.”

“That's it, I’ve readied the spell.” Mystic interrupted the banter.

“Good luck Mystic!” That came from Fluttershy of all ponies. Mystic nodded and cast the spell.

To help heal the world, Twilight was needed, but she was dead. Dead, at least in this time line. To heal Equestria she had to go back in time.


She had to save Twilight Sparkle.
> Cost of Life
> --------------------------------------------------------------------------


Mystic was surrounded by lavender before it flashed away. She took stock of her surroundings. She was still in the graveyard of Celestia's students; however Luna, Fluttrershy and Rainbow were missing. As well as her sisters coffin. She went to the door way and peeked out. The castle had no signs of damage. She had done it. She was in the past. Now for the million bit question – had she gone back far enough? 
There was only one way to find out. Delving into her saddle bags, she pulled out a time beaten scroll, which unfurled to reveal a map. But it was no ordinary map of Canterlot Castle. Luna had had this mailed to her as they planned out this course of action, with the lunar alicorn feeling it would be advantageous for her to have it.
After consulting the scroll, she went over to the corner of the room. In the corner was a rubbish bin. She counted the bricks – three up, and two across – before she reached out and tapped a stone brick. It moved without making a sound, and soon a hidden doorway appeared, with a passageway beyond. She could not just waltz around the castle. She would be completely unknown to the guards, and would be detained immediately. Plus, considering how corrupt the guards were at this point in history, she would be unable to explain her plan without fear of hoofing herself into the enemy. Luna had given her the scroll showing all the secret passages that exist in the castle, and noted where Twilight was staying, as well as where the guards stations normally were. She needed to stay undetected. With a deep breath Mystic walked in.

She lit her way with her horn, glancing down occasionally to check the map, making sure she hadn’t taken a wrong turn. Thankfully she hadn't, but she couldn't dawdle. She didn't know how much time she had before it was too late. She finally approached the door closest to Twilight's room and opened it.


Right into a janitor's closet.


Mystic had to snort. Years of talking with Luna in the dream realm taught her that the sisters have a trolling sense of humor. Or at least Luna still did. Celestia had lost hers when Twilight died, and with Luna she may still laugh, but Mystic always saw the lingering pain there. She opened the door to the closet and glanced around. With no sign of any guards nearby, she sneaked around on her way to Twilight's room. 

Where she should have seen guards standing at attention there was no pony. That didn't bode well. Forgetting stealth she ran to Twilight's room charging her horn. As she approached the doors again she didn't see the guards that should be there. She rammed through the door with a loud bang. Several Lunar and Solar Guards were around Twilight's bed, with Gallant Heart having the knife near her sister's neck. With a bolt of magic she blew Gallant away from her sister.

“TWILIGHT! WAKE UP! TREASON!” She screamed, as she dove towards the bed. Upon landing, she raised a shield and summoned a blade. Her sister was quick to awake.

“Wait what?” She said in confusion before she looked around. She then saw the several guards facing her, with Mystic in a defensive position in front of her. 

“Princess, this unicorn has broken into the castle. Allow us to secure you and deal with the intruder.”

“You lie.”Mystic responded. “You were all here to kill her.” She pointed a foreleg towards the blade on the bed. “Twilight check out that knife; it's made of orichalcum.” Mystic heard the sound of a blade being lifted as she watch the traitors.

“This is orichalcum.” Twilight said. “This metal is extremely rare and highly regulated, because it's the only known metal that can reliably harm an alicorn.”
“And I found him with it by your neck.” She pointed a hoof at Gallant Heart. She heard Twilight gasp and ask.

“Gallant, WHY?” She eyed the stallion and he actually looked sad.

“I have no choice Twilight.” He answered.

“Actually you did, but you had to be stupid.” Mystic retorted. 

But before she could go on further she felt something impact her shield, forcing it to collapse. She dodged, and eyed a unicorn with a smoking horn. 'Crap he overcharged his horn to bust my shield’. A nearby Night Guard took a swing at her, but she ducked and upper cut him, and he went flying. Her shields may not be as good as her brother's, but he did train her well in fighting. While he was still in the air she did a sudden turn and bucked him into the wall. 
She spotted another trying to get Twilight from behind, before an intense beam came from Mystic's horn. The concentrated magic went right through the guard, in the chest, and out the flank. That was two down four to go. A bolt from Twilight sent another flying, and Mystic jumped over her sister to collide with another guard and they both traded blows. A hoof to the nuts made the stallion scream before she snapped his neck. She saw Twilight cornering Gallant. Twilight had her back to Mystic but she heard the hurt and hate in her voice.

“Shiny thought of you as a brother, yet here you are trying to kill his sister. AND FOR WHAT!”

“Twilight please I had..” Twilight lunged and decked him; he collapsed to the floor out cold. Mystic smiled at that but she noticed movement out of the corner of her eye. Snapping her head around, she saw a wounded unicorn with the orichalcum knife in her magical grip - and she was aiming for Twilight. Mystic scrambled.

“Twilight! Behind you!” Mystic dived into the air and she felt something her. It hurt like Tartarus. She landed painfully and laid there before seeing the mare that hit her collapse, missing the top part of her head. She looked down and saw the knife between her fore legs.

'Oh that's not good.' She thought, and heard the sound of hooves galloping on the stone floor. She felt hooves grab her and support her head and neck. It was Twilight. She was looking over her with such concern on her face.

“Hold on I'll get help just hang in there.” She looked away.

“MEDIC!” Twilight screamed in the Royal Canterlot Voice

“I....I think it's too late for me Twilight. Besides......... can you even........ trust a medic considering what …......just happened.” She likely didn't have much time left. She had to make it count. “Before you try........... to argue about it..........I know wounds. My brother taught me.....all about it. A life for a life..........I can take that......Twilight......in my saddlebags........there's a book............It has all......you need......to prevent what had happened..........use it please.” Tears were in Twilight's eyes.

“I will, I promise. I'll even Pinkie Promise.” She went through the motions that Mystic had only heard of and never seen. “Thank you for saving me.”

“I'm grateful to ….meet you......my sister.....” Mystic stopped hurting and things went dark before she saw a light. It radiated happiness and she walked towards it. 

*		*		*		*		*		

Luna burst into Twilight's chamber for the night and what she saw shocked her. Several Royal Guards, mainly her Lunar Guards either dead or knocked out with Twilight hunched over a strange unicorn; a mare with a white coat, and a light blue mane that had a dark purple stripe. The mare had a knife sticking out of her and blood trickled out of the corner of her mouth. What was very strange was that the mare was that she had a slight smile on her face.

“Twilight, what happened here?” She asked, confusion and horror evident in both voice on face. Twilight broke off from her staring at the mare to look at Luna. On the young alicorn's face was sheer sadness and tears fell freely.

“Treason Luna, treason. These guards all attempted to kill me, but this mare saved me. She saved me, and called me sister.” Twilight looked back down on the deceased mare. Luna scowled and took charge, turning to the guards who had responded with her. 

“Secure the room and get my sister here now. Till the extent of the treachery goes I will stay with Princess Twilight Sparkle.” She looked at her younger peer and her features soften a bit. “Twilight, are you okay? Need any medical attention for your wounds?” Twilight just shook her head, and Luna sat by her side. Twilight continued to stand vigil over the dead mare.

“I'm confused Luna. She claimed to be my sister with her last breath, and I see bits of myself and Shiny in her. Especially that mane cut of hers. But I was the last child my parents had, and her apparent age makes her the same age as I was when I was sent to Ponyville. So I should know about her, but I don't. Yet she knew about me and knew about this whole thing. How?”

'That is odd. From what I have seen of the family they are open and generally happy. The dreams I see showed no side of any unfaithfulness so where did this mare come from?' Outwardly Luna asked this of Twilight. “Did she leave any clues?” Twilight snapped up. She looked around the room, and then, with her magic, she grabbed a set of saddle bags that were near the door, bringing them to herself. She began looking through it, and quickly found a book.

“She said this would help.” Twilight opened it and began reading. Luna was about to look over her shoulder when the doors burst open and a worried Celestia appeared.

“TWILIGHT!” Celestia cried. Luna had to be honest with herself. She has never seen her sister move so fast outside of combat, or in the presence of cake. But this would put those times to shame. In a flash of white she was hugging Twilight. As touching as it was Luna wanted to move to a more secure location.

“Sister, as comforting as it is to hold young Twilight Sparkle, I will feel safer if we took this to my chamber.”

“Perhaps my chamber for now Sister, I want you to get all this evidence secured as well as the castle.” Celestia looked at her sister and Luna saw a cold fury she had never seen before in her sister's eyes. “I want those responsible for this attempt found. If not tonight, soon.” Luna nodded and saw her sister and Twilight Sparkle disappear in a flash of gold. With anger rising in her heart, she got up to start her task.

*		*		*		*		*

Less than an hour later the castle was in full lock down, and the evidence and the unknown mare secured in a warded area. She found her fellow alicorns on a couch by the fireplace. Twilight reading the book while Celestia laid next to her. A wing covering the smaller alicorn. Luna took notice of her sister's appearance. At a glance she seemed the same monolithic mare that has ruled Equestria for a millennium alone in peace and prosperity. However, knowing her sister for several millennia she could see the difference. Yes she has had the hard look before when facing a foe, but that wasn't what was different. No, her etheral mane which normally looked like a sea of rainbows rolling in waves, had taken on an appearance more like flames of a fire. Even having a orange tint to the normal rainbow colors. With admittedly a bit of trepidation she let her presence be known.

“The castle is on lock down and the mare and the other bodies in a secure and warded spot.”

“Good.” Celestia with a coldness luna has never heard before. “And of the survivors?”

“Only a hoofful had lived. They are secure in the old dungeons. Now has any light been shown on what has happened tonight?”

“Indeed. Twilight, why don't you reveal what that book has to say.” Celestia's voice had once again returned to the kind motherly tone, and Celestia leaned in to nuzzle the younger mare. Twilight nodded, took a deep breath and began.

“According to the book. Her name was Mystic Sparkle, and she was my little sister. She has some how manage to create a new time travel spell, and used it to come back to this exact time. She came to save me.” Twilight had tears running down her cheeks again. “According to this book, I am supposed to be dead right now, and it was only the start of so much suffering. In a matter of years Equestria had to endure a rebellion and an invasion of a country called New Unicornia. She...my sister believed I could have stopped it if I had lived.” Twilight looked down at the book. “It all started because they hated me so much.” 

At that point Twilight broke down and cried hysterically. Likely venting all the fear, frustration, and despair of what had been revealed. Both celestial sisters closed in and hugged the mare till she exhausted herself to sleep. Once deep asleep, the sister's left her on the couch with Celestia placing, a silence spell over the couch so they could talk without waking Twilight Sparkle.

“This is most troubling sister. A plot to not only to kill Twilight Sparkle, but to invade our country, is astounding.”

“It's worse then that Luna. It is no mere invasion, it's a coup attempt with outside support. After all I have endured and sacrificed to them. And how do they respond? They try to MURDER MY DAUGHTER! I understand you more now then ever, sister. How you felt one thousand years ago.” Celestia's mane abandon all pretense of the calm rainbow and had indeed turned to fire. Luna could feel the radiant heat rise. Never before has she seen her sister so fully embody her sun. “Read this sister. This is the list of the Royal Guard we can trust according to Mystic.” Luna read the list and was shock to see all it contained. She looked at her sister.

“So few.”

“Exactly. half of my guard and fifteen percent of yours can be trusted.” The shock and disgust engulfed Luna as she tried to process that.

“Then were do we keep her safe then? Certainly not here in Canterlot. I'm not sure if Ponyville is even safe.”

“The Crystal Empire. From the book it seems that Mystic and Night Light fled there after Canterlot was first attacked by rebels. We haven't read all of the book but nothing so far shows any threat from the Empire, and I find unlikely for them to harm a savior of their nation and the sister in law of their princess. So we send Twilight there in secret. Only you, I, Shining, Cadance, and her friend will know where she is. A mare did the impossible, and came back in time to save Twilight. She even lost her life doing so. I will not waste that sacrifice. We will have meetings in your dream realm sister. And when we are ready we will show these ponies why it is unwise to mess with the Celestial Sisters, with any… of my family.” Luna had to admit. It was scary to be on the receiving of such a proclamation rather then the one saying it.


> Talks and Reunions
> --------------------------------------------------------------------------

	In the waning hours of the night, Luna had finished all her royal duties; plus those she felt were needed after the attempt on Twilight's life. Rage filled her at that thought. Twilight was one of the most kind and caring ponies out there. She believed in the best of ponies and always wanted to help. Luna had always disliked the nobles, and this has only served to increase her distain, with the way they treated her savior and one of her closest friends. Yes she was in full agreement with her sister that a lesson needed to be taught. 

She entered Tia's room and felt the tingle of her sister's ward. Tia was done taking chances with Twilight, which Tia seemed to see as her daughter. The site before her seemed to support that. Celestia was asleep, but curled around Twilight Sparkle like a mother to her filly. It was cute. Then she noticed the book laying next to Twilight. A book from a mare from the future who sacrificed everything to save Twilight Sparkle; a mare who was her sister. Something about the book called to her, and with her sister and Twilight asleep now was the chance to see why. Taking the book, she teleported to her room, which just as warded as her sisters, and began to examine the magical signature on it. It had two. The stronger one was unknown to her but felt like Twilight's.

'Must be Mystic's magic.' She thought and examined the other. The other was faint and hidden but it was decidedly her own. Her future self must have left it behind and hidden it for some reason. She found the 'keyhole', and guessing her future self would go for something simple she used her magic signature as a key. The magic released itself and engulfed her in darkness.

The darkness only lasted but a second before she found herself in her old quarters in the Castle of the Royal Pony Sisters, the room having been restored to it's former glory.

“I had hoped you would find me.” A regal voice said, and Luna turned around to the source of the voice. A pony emerged from the shadows. The pony's figure was exactly like her own but her coloration was not. No, the pony front of her was her, but in the form and the colors of Nightmare Moon; she even had the slitted eyes. Luna braced herself for an attack but the Nightmare only lifted a hoof up. “Peace Luna, I am you. Or rather a future version of yourself.”

“Then why do you have that form?” Luna accused. The Nightmare scowled back at her.

“Because that is how dark my time has become! That I had to embrace some aspects of our darker self to just survive!” The Nightmare took a deep breath and expelled it. “I was not created by my Luna to be your enemy, but to show you a different perspective then what Mystic can tell you. Speaking of the young mare; did Mystic succeed in her goal?” Luna looked down and replied.

“She saved Twilight, but at the cost of her own life.” When she looked up and saw Nightmare Luna close her eyes and breath deeply.

“At least her death was not in vain.” Then Nightmare Luna opened her eyes and looked to her other self. “Keep Twilight safe, but don't cut her out of decisions. Her absence of input helped the situation crumble, until it led to my Equestria.”

“We are planning to send her to the Crystal Empire.” The Nightmare nodded.

“Good, it is the one place we could trust, and what was left of the Sparkle family has lived their peacefully. They will be good allies in the days ahead.”

“What else can you tell me, the night grows short?”

“Mystic's book has more details on how everything came to be in my timeline, so use it well. As for what I can tell you; arrest Amadeus Blueblood. He is the mastermind behind everything that happened. He convinced his son to organize the assassination and to take the fall for the family.” Nightmare snorts. “I remember Mystic saying that she believed that Amadeus even had his wife killed. All to pave a path for his alicorn daughter to take the throne. And again, keep Twilight in the loop. Tia tried to fulfill the goals Twilight had, but in her grief and anger she probably went about it the wrong way. I don't know for sure.” Both look up as the world begin to brighten. Nightmare looked at Luna, before she ran upto her and touched her regalia. Luna saw magic go into it. “This will allow you to summoned me at night, if you ever need my council again.” With a white flash it was over, and Luna found herself in her room. Seeing her sister's sun rising in the east, she knew it was time to return the book, and prepare for the days ahead.


*		*		*		*		*

Dash, like the others was confused and worried. Spike was awoken late last night with a message from Princess Celestia telling them that they needed to come to Canterlot, and that her guard was bringing chariots to get them there instead of the train. Something big must have happened last night. Hay of a time for this to happen. She didn't want to see Twilight right now. Her friend had done something awesome and became and alicorn, and a princess last year. She had talked to Twilight a couple of days ago, begging her to use her influence to finally get into the Wonderbolts; but Twilight refused to. She couldn't believe it. All of her close friends knew of her dream to be a part of that team, yet Twilight wasn't helping her, WHY!? She said it was because Dash wasn't a team player. What's up with that? ‘I am part of the team! The Elements of Harmony are feathering a team. I am a team player and after everything I've done with and without them I deserve a position with that team.’ Twilight had disagreed, and after more words she had yelled at Twilight. 'I HATE YOU!' Were the last words between them, before she had taken to the air. After some cool off time, she had realized that she had been too hard on Twilight, and saying that she hated her. But Twilight just made her so angry right now.

The sun was still on it's rising track when they reached the castle. Princess Luna was waiting for them. She looked very tired to them as they landed. 

“Princess, what was so urgent that you had us come this way?” Spike asked, running up to her. Before the Princess answered, she closed her eyes and her horn flashed for a second. “What was that?”

“Silence and perception spells. As far as anypony is concerned we are talking about routine things. Come with me there is much to discuss.” She turned away from them, and after looking at each other they all followed her. “Now, the reason you have all been summoned is grave situation. Last night, an attempt was made to assassinate Twilight Sparkle.” They all gasped, and Rainbow felt like she was hit right in the gut. She may have been mad at Twilight, but for somepony to want to kill her. 

'SWEET CELESTIA!' She thought, as she was sure the others did.

“Is Twilight alright?” Applejack asked with a great look of concern.

“Physically she is fine. A brave unicorn mare prevented that kind of harm. However she is in emotional pain right now. And not with just the attempt on her life, but with everything. I don't know how much she has told you, but the nobles have been really hammering her on her policies. More than once she has sought either me or my sister for comfort and advice.” That just made Rainbow feel guilty. Her friend was dealing with all that, and she just had to add to it. How dumb could she be? “In addition, all evidence concludes that the mare who saved her was her sister, one who originate from what is now an alternate future.” Rainbow's mind just went blank there, shutting down at the new information.

“How's that even possible Princess? Twilight told us the time travel spell was only able to go back a week, and I know she doesn’t have a sister?” Rarity asked. After the whole wedding fiasco, they had asked each other if anypony had anymore secret siblings. 

“Correct, with regard to the spell Twilight used. However, the spell this Mystic Sparkle used was one she created, and she came from nearly twenty years in the future. A future where Twilight died last night.” They all gasped at that. Rainbow was hit even harder. 

'I HATE YOU could have been the last words I ever said to her.'

“HOW COME THA GUARDS DIDN'T CATCH THIS NO GOOD SCOUNDREL BEFORE HE COULD GET THAT CLOSE!?” Applejack demanded. She seemed angrier then most.

Luna hung her head, dejected. “Because our guards are part of it.” Luna stated, causing all of them to look in shock again. “From what Mystic has written in a book she left us, this is part of a long planned coup against me and my sister. We have long known that some unicorn nobles weren't happy with how we rule. They wanted unicorn supremacy again, while we treat each tribe equally. The bulk of our Royal Guard are now untrustworthy. Even my thestrals cannot be fully trusted. Right now we are keeping the fact Twilight is alive a secret.” Silence prevailed after that as the girls took in all that they have heard. Dash had always thought they lived in a near perfect place. Ponyville is unique because of the Everfree, but the bulk of the country rarely has to deal with a monster attack. Just normal everyday things. She had heard of some of Twilight's plans, and they were good from what she knew. She wasn't an egghead like Twilight in the least, so some went over her head. Granted, not all of Twilight's plans worked, but they sounded like they would help Equestria. Now some so called ponies wanted her dead because of them. How had she missed this? Being a good flier you needed situational awareness. Being able to see everything at a glance and yet she never saw this. How have they all missed this? Was everything she thought about Equestria a lie? They stopped at a door with Celestia's mark on it. Luna broke the silence. “Twilight is inside. Go to her and comfort her. She needs your support more then ever.” With that Luna lead them inside, and they had their first look at Twilight. She looked like she hadn't brushed her mane in weeks, and had a sad lost look till she saw them. Then her eyes brightened immeasurably .

“Girls!” They all ran to each other, and soon a six pony and one dragon hug pile was created. “It's so good to see you all.” The hug broke off and Rainbow stared down at the floor and pawed at it. 

“Look Twilight.....I'm sorry. I'm sorry for the words I last said to you. I don't hate you. I could never hate you.. I was just mad a-a-and I just....” Tears started flowing out of her eyes. “I'm so SORRY!” She felt somepony hugging her, and voice said in her ear;

“Rainbow, I forgive you.” With that Rainbow wailed, and unknown to her Twilight was crying as well. Despite all that recently happen, it healed a rift between two friends and the others allowed that healing to happen.


*		*		*		*		*

Luna watched the friends mend their relationship with a bit of envy. If only she and Celestia were able to do so a thousand years ago. After Twilight and Rainbow separated, Twilight found herself being hugged by Spike.

“Mother, don't you dare leave me.” he pleaded.

“I'll do my best Spike. Thanks to Mystic I didn't have to this time.”

“Where is this sister of yours darling? We simply must give her our thanks.” Luna saw Twilight wilt at that so she decided to answer.

“Young and brave Mystic Sparkle gave her life saving Twilight.” Applejack immediately went to hug Twilight as the others took the news. Rainbow was the first to break the silence.

“How did we miss this Princess? How did we miss such a threat from our own kind, after how many times we saved Equestria?” She asked angerly.

“As I have said before, my sister and I have known that some discontentment has being growing from certain elements of the nobility, but we never thought it would reach something on this this scale. Perhaps it was unwise of us to not pay closer attention to it, but we are now. The nobility as you know it will be coming to an end after this. If anypony is deserving of the title of nobility it is you six. And right now you are among those few we can trust.”

“Alright, so what's the plan?” Rainbow asked. “Twilight is clearly not safe here?”

“Perhaps she should come back to Ponyville?” Applejack suggested.

“Nay, fair Applejack. As much as I love your town, we don't know how many are with the traitors. According to Mystic's book, the Crystal Empire is the only safe place for her at the moment. After breakfast we will be sending her there with two of the confirmed loyal guards. Spike can go with her to receive and send messages. I'll have a candle setup for your five to use.”

“Princess Celestia has already made one for them.” Twilight interjected.

“Ah, good.” A knock came from the door. And Luna went over to open it to see what was outside. It was a food cart, and the smell from it brought a smile to her face. Bringing the cart in say declared; “Everypony, breakfast is served, likely from my sister.” Gurgles from several stomachs were heard and a fit a laughter ensued.

Luna observed the group as they all shared a breakfast. She had summoned a table for them all to eat from and her sister had a fairly large selection of both alcoholic and non alcoholic beverages; it was more than just cake that kept her plot big. It always amazed how such a diverse group of ponies could become deep friends. For example, Honest Applejack and Generous Rarity, a farmer and a dressmaker. One wants to  make her way to the top of the fashion business and be among the elite, though that might change in the future. The other is just content to work her farm. As a result, Generous Rarity was all for cleanliness while Honest Applejack doesn't mind the dirt. These two should not be friends in the least, and yet they are. While she has noticed some teasing between the two they seem dear friends. Then there was Loyal Rainbow and Twilight Sparkle. The two act as if there was never an issue between them. The previous fight completely forgotten between them. Then it there was how they all treated herself. Aside from using her title, they treated her as a pony, not as a goddess. Exactly how she wanted to be treated. She had started to see where Twilight got her ideas from. This is what nobility should be. With these girls, her sister, and her niece they WILL make a nobility off of these girls and their virtues.

After a pleasant breakfast, Twilight donned a cloak to hide her features, and she and Spike hopped aboard a chariot being pulled by a pair of guards, one Luna was absolutely certain they could still trust. With a sad wave, the friends were separated once again. At least this time it was not permanent.

*		*		*		*		*

Twilight held her cloak close, but the cold of the north still bit her. Spike, with his internal fire was fine in this weather. It took a literal dunking in ice cold water to get him a cold. They only tried it once.
They had been traveling for hours now, and in all of that time Twilight had been thinking. First, she was glad that she and Rainbow made up. She had hated that rift, short as it was, and she could now only imagine how Rainbow would have dealt with her death if those words were the final ones, they never gotten the chance to make up together. She also thought about the future. She glanced at the book her sister had left for them. Mystic has given them a glimpse of what could happen. From this point on things would be different, but the foundations were there. But she was alive; at the cost of her sister she was given a second chance, and she was not going to waste it. They soon saw the shield surrounding the Empire, and quickly enough they passed through it. 

The Empire was a beautiful place. She hoped the taint of Canterlot had not affected this place, nor that it ever would. The chariot landed on the largest balcony of the Crystal Palace, and Twilight saw that her brother, and her sister-in-law Cadance, were there waiting for her. Without a word the trio raced towards each other and a three way hug ensued.

“Twily I'm so glad that you are alright.” Shiny said.

“Me to Shiny, me to.”

“You are safe here. The Crystal Ponies see you as a hero, and the bulk of my guard is made up of them. Those few who are not I have begun carefully vetting, and their bank accounts are being checked right now, for any large influxes of money.”

“Shining, that isn’t legal” Twilight protested.

“Right now I don’t care; I will not lose you.” he sighed. “To think ponies I trusted, including one I thought of as a brother, would betray me like this.”

“Shining, I have started to read the book I was left. From the sounds of it, it looks like Gallant was blackmailed into it. Luna is looking personally into it.”

“That doesn't excuse it Twily, not with me. They have betrayed their oaths for power. What possible excuse could he have for this?”

“The same one you have right now – protecting his family.”

Shining looked confused, before he dropped his head in defeat. Suddenly, he let out a snort, before the fire returned to his eyes. “This is still inexcusable, and there will be a reckoning, if I have anything to say about it.” Cadance stuck out her hoof.

“You mean ‘we’, my love. Twilight is my sister, and they tried to kill my family too. We will bring justice to these traitors.” Shiny smiled and added his hoof. Then Twilight added her own.

“They tried to kill me for wanting a better Equestria. They failed, and we will show them the folly of their impudence. I just lost a sister to their power plays, and now is time for them to learn true ‘equality’.” Her brother and sister in law nodded, and thus the powers of Harmony rallied to put an end to greed and power.

> The Counterattack
> --------------------------------------------------------------------------

Amadeus is who you need to focus on. He is the mastermind of Twilight's death and the eventual coup by the bulk of the nobility. The prince is nothing more then a sacrificial pawn of his plans. His alicorn daughter is the heir he wants and the one he wants to replace the Royal Sisters with. She will be poisoned by his unicorn supremacist and arrogance of the nobility. You must stop this.

	Excerpt from the journal of Mystic Sparkle.

	Twilight finished copying the latest entry from her sister's journal. “Spike!” the pattering of feet sounded his arrival. “Send this to Princess Celestia.” Her magic gave the scroll to him.

“Right away Twilight!” He saluted and blew on the scroll. It was soon smoke and flying to Celestia. Twilight sighed and looked at the journal. The only connection to a sister that had yet to be born and might never be born. Time travel is a complex thing. She wished she could have known her. From what she read and the small bit she saw she thought they would have gotten along.

“Twily, what's wrong?” She looked over and saw Cadance approaching. Shining had left for Canterlot days ago to assist in ending this coup attempt. Twilight sighed.

“Just thinking of Mystic.” Cadance held her close. She could do this for Twilight. In this now crazy world. She had thought everything was fine in Equestria. It was clear it was a lie. And now poor Bluey. His father lead him to this.

“Come Twilight, you need a break and your parents just arrived.”  Twilight perked up and the three of them headed for the dining room. The castle staff was sworn to secrecy that Twilight was there and since all of the staff were crystal ponies their loyalty was assured. In the room Twilight saw her parents and when they saw her they tackled hugged her. Kissing and crying as they held their little filly. Cadance sat nearby by smiling at the sight of love in front of her. After a few minutes the hug ended and they all took seats.

“We've been told everything honey. The shock that ponies would go so far. I have half a mind to move here. I don't feel comfortable there anymore.” Velvet said.

“Mom, you need to stay for a little bit. Princess Celestia, Princess Luna, and Shining will bring these ponies to justice.” Twilight pleaded.

"I know honey. It's just hard. I spent my life in Canterlot. Thinking it the beacon of friendship and harmony only to find out that it is dark and corrupted and now a threat to my daughter.”

“And after everything you have done fir Equestria. You are a hero my little star. And this is how you are treated.” Night Light commented.

"It's the nobility dad. Ever since the Royal Sisters took the throne they thought to take back power. They got some back after Luna's banishment and seek more. With my ascension and Princess Luna's return that power is threaten. Even more with my reforms for the government.”

“Fools.” Night Light said. And all nodded as their meal arrived and they ate.

**********************

Meanwhile in Canterlot, Luna and Shining approached an interrogation room. Used rarely in the past but will see more use in the future. Luna slammed the door open and they walked in to see a unicorn stallion with gold fur and a brown mane and tail. I ring was on his horn. “I am very disappointed in you Gallant Heart. I charged you with finding threats inside our government and now I find you trying to kill a princess you SWORE to protect. What excuse do you possibly have for your actions?”

“Amadeus threaten my brother's life. He somehow knew I was a spy and with his lackey guards he was in my apartment and would kill my brother if it tried to stop him.”

“You should have come to me Gallant. I gave you the means to do so in dream realm. We would have protected your brother. Instead you committed  treason and if it wasn't for a mare from the future you would have killed her and set up the beginnings of a war.”

“War?” Gallant asked.

“You think the murder of Twilight would be the end of it? She is just the beginning. Now you will tell us everything you haven't told me. You do so you will be sentenced to petrification rather then death.”

“How is that different?”

“You will be released in one thousand years. A chance to start again.”

“But never with the guard. You gave up the right to ever be one of us with your betrayal. I get trying to protect your younger brother but there were better options.  You were my best stallion. I called you brother. Now I can barely look at you. And it takes all my control to not kill you now. You will share what you know or you will join your fellow traitors. “ Shining stated.

“And my sister plans to make it quite an event. If you have any shred of loyalty left you will help us.”

“What of my brother?”

“He is now part of Celestia's personal guard. That unit is still loyal to the princesses.” Shining stated. Gallant sighed and lowered his head. 

“Alright.” He began to spill what he knew.

It was an hour later as Luna and Shining left the room and entered Luna's quarters. With wards up Luna grabbed a bottle and a couple of glasses. “Well he provided more detail on somethings Mystic told us.” Luna commented as she poured the drinks.

“Yes, still ticked off that Gallant would try to kill Twily, even under duress. I thought he was smarter than that?”

“All ponies make mistakes Prince Armor. Some are very costly.” She took a drink and Shining followed.

“How is your sister?”

“She is affected by this, even more then myself. Her mane and tail are pure flame now and I could have swore her eyes went dragonic like mine did as Nightmare Moon. I have never seen her this angry.”

“Well Twily is like a daughter to her. I saw it plenty of times over the years.”

“Yes, and she is a close friend to me. Well soon we can end this threat and can rebuild the government as it should be.” She took another drink.

"Yes, the Equestria my little sis dreams of.” Luna lifted her cup.

“To Twilight's vision.” Shining smiled and lifted his.

“To Twilight's vision.” The cups chime together as they are tapped to each other.

******************************

Amadeus was concerned. He hadn't seen the reaction he hoped for with Twilight Sparkle's death. His failure of a son and his pawns haven't been seen since the night of the mission. Likely caught after doing the deed. Not unplanned for. Celestia has not attended court since the day of the mission and barely seen in the hallways. Too many unknowns. Perhaps he needed to leave for New Unicornia earlier then planned. He gathered his documents when his door opened. “You need to knock before entering.” He said dismissively not looking at the doorway as he continue to gather his papers.

“I do not when dealing with ponies like you.” His eyes widened and looked over and saw Celestia there. But not the Celestia he knew. The calm, regal and motherly face was replaced by a stern and angry one. Her mane was like flames instead of the aurora it usually was.

“Princess Celestia, to what do I owe for this visit?” He asked her. Her smile was not a friendly one.

“Simple, you are under arrest for treason against the crown.” He was starting to sweat.

“Such a bold claim princess. What proof you have?” 

"Oh I have plenty. The simple fact his Amadeus your plan FAILED. Twilight is alive and well. You and your allies will die for your crimes. Even now my loyal guards are taking your daughter who will learn how to be a proper princess. I am done with your games Amadeus. You try to kill my daughter and now you will pay.” Her eyes went gold and pupils went dragonic. He charge his horn for a teleport but Celestia hit his horn with her wing canceling the teleport and put a ring on it. “Guards. Take him away.” The guards dragged him from the room. Agents of her intelligence service gathered the papers for evidence. Celestia left the room and headed down the stairs. She heard the crying of Amadeus' wife and a guard carrying a filly in a bundle crying as well.

“Please give me back my foal!” Celestia took the foal and nuzzled her before looking at the mare. 

“You are going to let your husband use her as a pawn for his ambitions. You lost the right to be her mother. She will be cared for, lived, and will become a proper princess.” The mother wailed but Celestia ignored her and left the mansion. She nuzzled and cooed the filly alicorn. She eventually succeeded in calming her. She was going to enjoy being a mother again.

******************************

A couple months  later Celestia was in a plaza rather than with her new daughter New Dawn. But she needed to do this. Twilight Velvet was looking over the foal as Celestia took care of her gruesome duty. She readied the Royal Canterlot Voice. 

“Ponies of Equestria! I come before you not as the benevolent princess I prefer but as your ruler needing to dispense justice! Before you are ponies that tried to murdered my former student and now fellow princess Twilight Sparkle!” There was gasps among the crowd. “Not only that, but they planned the overthrow of our government and to establish a unicorn dominant Equestria where pegasi and earth ponies are second class citizens!” The crowd roared in anger. Maybe not as loud as it would outside Canterlot but there was pegasi and earth ponies in the crowd. “For treason against the crown and attempted murder they are condemned to death!” Celestia turned to the dozens of ponies tied to poles. With her power over the sun she burned them to a crisp in seconds. All there was left was piles of ash on the sun scorched plaza. There was silence over the area. Celestia hated she had to make a scene but the protection of her family meant more to her. She headed in and saw Gallant's statue being moved to a secure place. Phase one was done. The direct threat to their rule was gone. Twilight could return to her life now. But sadly there was still more to do but with her families help they will succeed.

They had to.
> A New Hideout
> --------------------------------------------------------------------------

Celestia overlooked Canterlot from her balcony. She nolonger called it her city. She hates these ponies. She and her sister talked and they will rebuild their old castle. They trust the ponies of Ponyville over Canterlot and some time away from the city might humble it a bit. A foal crying pulled her out of her thoughts. She went over to the recently installed crib. Inside was a white alicorn foal with a light blue mane and tail. She picked her up and got a bottle to feed the foal. She wished she could feed her new daughter properly but she didn't give birth to this one. The last one she did is currently in another world. But a bottle will do and New Dawn greedy sucked it. “I wonder how you will change history my daughter. Certainly better then what the Bluebloods planned. I eager to see what it could be.” She walked back out to the balcony and looked at Ponyville with her daughter in her wings.

Luna then appeared before her. “Sister! We believe some of Blueblood's followers have been missed and are heading for the Empire!”

“Have you notified Cadence and Shining!?” Celestia asked worried.

“Yes but no telling how much of a head start they have.” Celestia have a hard look, her orange mane going more flame like.

“Go sister. Defend my daughter.” Luna nodded and teleported away.

Twilight was in the Empire's library. I was using it to distract myself from recent events. Spike was out grabbing some books for her. Such fascinating subjects these books had. I was already looking to adapt some ideas for the future. Flash stood nearby keeping watch….and eyeing my flank on occasion I bet. Thankfully we have had time for each other in private.  I notice a unicorn nearby by, scanning the books. I went back to my reading. After a few minutes I heard Flash tell out. “Twilight! Shield!” On instinct I do so. My BBBFF and Flash teaching me on it. And it paid off. Several beams hit against it. A glance around to see several unicorns around her on the various levels. Flash was battling one and I heard flames and a pony screaming. I held my shield and pressed a crystal Shining gave me. I held my shield which was taxing with so many attacks on me. But it was holding. Soon Crystal Guard arrived and the unicorns subdued. I looked around and it seemed the threat was over….for now. I dropped my shield and Flash was soon looking me over for wounds.

“I'm fine Flash, just a bit winded from the shield.”

“You're sure Twilight?” 

“I am. Shield went up before they could land a hit thanks to your warning.” He blushed a bit and rubbed the back of his head. 

“Doing my duty ma'am.” Before it could go further a Crystal Guard approached.

“Princess Twilight, are you alright?”

“Yes, thank you for your timely arrival.” The stallion nodded as they dragged the unicorns out though some remained. Shining galloped in and searched for me. Upon see me he ran over and hugged me. It felt so safe next to his body. Always a source of safety he has been for me. We stayed like that for a minute. A clipping of hooves was heard behind them. “ Are you okay Twilight Sparkle?” Luna asked concerned. I nodded to her and she sighed in relief. Tension visibly leaving her body. “Thank the Moon. I came as soon as we learned of this attempt.” 

“Now how do they know I was here much less that I am still alive?”

“Likely still spies in Canterlot and the staff. We will look into it.” Luna said with a finality. That was not good. It seems even the Empire wasn't as safe as she thought.

“Well let’s get you to the palace.” My brother suggested. That was a good idea so I nodded my head and we were off.

*******************

Thankfully they ran into no issues getting back into the palace and they discussed want to do next. I barely heard it as I did my own thinking. Shiny would tighten security but all it would take is one lucky pony and I would be dead. I needed a place where she had all the advantages. She paced in the impromptu meeting in her quarters. I passed the mirror in the living room. I looked at it. It was the one where Sunset lived in. I had been studying it during my stay….then the light bulb went off.

“I've got it!” All talk stopped and they were all staring at me. I have an awkward smile. 

“We are listening.” Luna said.

“I go to there.” I pointed to the mirror.

“But the portal is closed.” Cadance pointed out. I have her a grin.

“But it can be opened. I have been researching the portal and it can be opened.” I rubbed my cheek in thought. “It would be easier if there was something there had a magic connected to something here.”

“My sister may have something.” We all looked at her. She glanced at all of us before continuing. “Not long after you came back from that word I saw her stroke a book. I asked about it and she said it was a book made to keep in contact with Sunset Shimmer like she uses Spike with you. When Sunset Shimmer left she had her room searched and could not find Sunset Summer’s book. Which means she likely took it.” Oh I was giddy.

“Have her send the book. I will work on the portal the mean time.” I left to gather the items I need. Flash ever by my side. I began making the device to force the portal to open on command. Soon there was flash before and a book was revealed. It was mainly brown with gold highlights with just Celestia's mark on the front. I felt the cover before putting the book in the device. It powered up and glowed lavender before the portal swirled in the mirror. YES! IT WORKS! I did a little dance then rushed to get my stuff…And Flash. Shiny it made it clear that Flash was coming. I certainly didn't mind. In an hour we were ready. Said my goodbyes to my family and stepped through.

It took me a moment to get use to walking on two legs instead of four. But I quickly move out of the way as Flash came through in a mess. I couldn't help but chuckle at it and helped him up. I then notice the difference between the Flashes. While both taller then me the Flash before me was more buff then the local version. His armor was still there but not metal anymore but cloth and some material she hadn't seen before. Flash looked at me. “Twilight, is that you?” I nodded.

“Quite a difference isn't it?” He gave that awe nod. She smirked as she viewed the school area. It was currently empty so either school closed for weekend or school was still in session. Time was wacky between Equestria and here. Sunset should be nearing thirty but is eighteen here. Even I was deaged. Flash looked around. 

“Certainly not like our Canterlot.” Flash commented. I looked around and nodded. The place was far too spartan for the likes of the nobility. It made me smirk.

“Yeah..better in my opinion.” Before he could comment further a bell rang out and in minutes students poured out of the building. I looked around and soon I found my other girls. They were chatting amongst each other heading out way till Rarity noticed me and elbowed Rainbow. Rainbow squawked and glared at Rarity. Rarity nodded her head in my direction and she looked and saw me. 

“Twilight!” They all look at me and I waved at them and they hurried over.

“What cha doing here Twi? Not like we aren't glad to see ya but thought ya be busy doing princess stuff.”

“Not to mention it’s too early for the portal to open back up again.” Sunset commented.

“Let's discuss this at Sugarcube Corner.” I replied. They frowned but agreed. I lead Flash to one of the cars. He looked it with curiosity as Rarity drive them. 

**************

We were gathered around a large table eating dinner as I explain what was going on back home. They were all shocked and Pinkie's mane…or did they call it hair here? Anyway her hair deflated and both she and Fluttershy went over and hugged me. I accepted it and I felt tears flow. I needed this. To feel loved. Rainbow not matter which version was ready to go kick flank. I put my hand on hers. She looked at me and I looked directly at her.

“Right now I need you here. Pony Rainbow couldn't but you can.” She frowned but nodded.

“So where are you going to stay?” Rarity asked.

“My family could help in that.” Applejack suggested.

“My place would be better. More room and closer to school so she can go back with ease.” Sunset said. 

“Oh…” I didn't think she could. After I came back from last time I thought what she would have to deal with. Being likely homeless and no support. She kinda felt bad leaving the unicorn here. My only comfort was the fact she had survived for a while before she stole my crown. “That sounds good.”

“Ssssooo. Did this Flash get the lucky drawn to go with Twilight or…?” Flash have her a smirk. 

“Oh I got lucky well before then.” He put an arm around me. There was a collective ooooohhhhh! From the girls and I blushed. I guess now would be a good time to tell them.

“Yes me and Flash have been seeing each other in secret.”

“Why in secret?” Rarity asked.

“Because I am a commoner.” Flash said coldly. “It would be improper of me to be in such a relationship with royalty.” His eyes narrowed. “Nevermind they hate Twilight's policies. Her purpose it to wed one of them and pump out foals to use for their purposes.” The girls blanched at that. I scowled myself. Thinking back I had several noble stallions…and a few mares try to court her. All likely power plays with the stallions hoping for foals to spread their ideas with her power. THE NERVE! And it seems her friends were repulsed by the idea. Well except Sunset. She was pure anger.

“Thinking on it.” Sunset began. “I would be surprised if they were part of the reason I acted like I did when I was Celestia's student. All the entitlement and power hungry. I am more social then Twilight so was more vulnerable to that way of thinking.”

*******************

After so more light hearted small talk Rarity took us to Sunset's place since me and Flash couldn't fit on her bike. They pulled into a mansion near a wooded area. How did Sunset afford such a place? They got out and Rarity departed for her job and Sunset let us in. And I saw Principle Celestia waiting for us. That caused me to pause and blink. Celestia chuckled.

“I see Sunset didn't tell you she was living with me.” I shook my head.

“Well you didn't leave me much choice.” Sunset remarked.

“Well I demanded you show me where you were living and an a abandoned factory was not a proper home.”

“Yeah but still odd to be living with ANOTHER Celestia.” Celestia smirked.

“I guess I am just that kind of person.” The doorbell rang and Sunset answered it. 

“Hey Sunny!” A strangely familiar voice said. I looked around and saw…..

ME.