Equestrian Civil War - An Alternate Universe

by twotonedearly

First published 22nd of November, 2015

AU Story: Twilight Sparkle has been assassinated but what if she survived?

A AU take based on Rated Ponystar's fanfic series The Assassination of Twilight Sparkle and it's sequel Aftermath of a Fallen Star.

Twilight Sparkle has been assassinated in a conspiracy started by power hungry nobles, Princess Celestia attempts to revive her but fails, but what if her spell worked? What if Twilight Sparkle awoke just before the Civil War begins?

all OCs featured from the original story (c) their respective owners.

Chapter 1 - Twilight Awakens

It was midnight as the moonlight shined over Equestria, though dark times were abound after the murder of Twilight Sparkle, the princess of friendship. Her death at the hooves of nobles whom feared her ideas and refusal to accept change led to a conspiracy to murder the new princess. Her body laid at rest in the memorial garden per order of her mentor Princess Celestia. As midnight hit however Twilight's body which had remained frozen at rest began to move. “mm...” Twilight groaned as her eyes suddenly opened. “Wh... where am I?” Twilight began to get up before her head hit the lid of the coffin. “Wh... What's going on here??” Twilight freaked as she pounded on the lid with her hooves. “Hello?!” she cried out before remembering her magic. Her horn lit up as she used her magic as the lid was suddenly blasted off. Twilight stumbled out of the coffin. Her legs were wobbly as she coughed as she felt her body adjusting to being alive again.

“What happened to me? Last thing I remember was....... the guards! Gallant heart!” It all hit Twilight like a swarm of parasprites. The guards that stormed her room and attacked her, the burning sensation of the Orichalcum blades piercing her skin, Gallant's face being the last before he slit her throat. The look of regret he showed her, the last thing she saw before everything went black. She felt like she was in limbo.

“Can it be? Twilight Sparkle back from the dead??” Came a familiar voice. Twilight turned around as Discord hovered behind her.

“Discord, if this is your doing...” Twilight glared at the Draconequus. Discord shook his head as he looked at Twilight seeing her alive and well.

“If it were my doing you'd still be dead as a door nail inside that casket of yours. But it wasn't, besides I partake in constructive chaos, not destructive chaos.” Discord replied. “Everypony in Equestria will be happy to see you, well not exactly everypony. Those so called heroes against the tyranny of the princesses will not be happy to see you.” Discord noticed Twilight wobbling. “I see the rigor mortis is wearing off. You should rest after your ordeal.” he suggested to Twilight.

“Discord what's been going on since I was... I mean... You know.” Twilight couldn't find the right words to explain her own situation let alone wonder what Discord was talking about.

“Not here, we don't need them to hear us or know your alive and well.” Discord snapped his claw as he and Twilight vanished from sight. Some time later Gladius Stride happened to be on patrol in the area, after a long talk with Princess Celestia over the uprising and the rumors of Civil War, he knew this was all bad and he knew his brother Gallant Heart and his allies were the cause of the rot that could end up killing Equestria itself. He decided to visit Twilight Sparkle's grave to pray for forgiveness from Faust herself for what his family had done.

“I can only hope and pray Faust guides us out of these....” Gladius froze in his tracks as his eyes went wide seeing the shattered coffin lid and no sign of Twilight's body anywhere. “Oh sweet Faust!” he cried as he galloped off to summon the guards. Soon the area was swarming with patrols of both the Solar and Lunar Guards. Princess Luna stood close by the grave site wondering who could be terrible enough to violate this sacred place, close by a devastated Princess Celestia stood unsure how to respond to this though the guards, Gladius included knew she was infuriated at this sudden turn of events.

“Sister? Tia?” Luna approached her sister showing concern. “We'll find whoever did this, and they will pay.” she told her sibling.

“They will Luna.” Celestia replied.

“Celestia? Your highness?” Gladius asked with a hint of fear in his voice. Celestia's eyes were white as she was enraged, she had an idea whom was behind this.

“FIND THOSE ROTTEN WORMS BEHIND THE UPRISING AND BRING THEM TO ME! I WANT ALL OF THEIR HEADS FOR THIS BLAITANT DESACRATION OF MY LATE STUDENT'S GRAVE!!!” Celestia shouted in the royal voice, this was all the guards needed to hear as they rushed off. “First they took my student's life, then my school, now my student's dead body...” Celestia was trembling as Luna went to comfort her.

“Tia we'll find those snakes and make them regret this foul action of theirs.” Luna told her sister.

“I hope for Faust's sake they do find Twilight's body and those monsters who took her.” Celestia fumed, it would be a while till she calmed down. She knew the nobles whom fled her wrath might have commissioned this personal assault on Twilight's grave. All she wanted now was to smash those traitors even if it meant hunting them down like dogs to punish them.

Meanwhile at Ponyville, Discord and Twilight appeared in the library. Twilight looked around feeling relieved to be back at home as she made her way to a chair and sat down in it still feeling uneasy. “Discord, I have to tell Princess Celestia I'm back before something worse happens.” Twilight told Discord as she felt her senses all rushing at once, she felt a tightness in her stomach and aches and pains in her muscles, all signs of her body fully reactivating itself after being dormant for a long time.

“Yes, but not now, your barely in any shape as it is to speak to Celestia let alone face whatever it is those nobles have planned for Equestria.” Discord told Twilight as she nodded her head.

“I guess you're right. I feel so sick right now, must have been from my hibernation I guess.” Twilight rubbed her head before she felt something land on her head, she looked up and smiled to see her pet owl Owlicius on her head. “Hey Owlicius, I'm glad to see you.” she said to the nocturnal bird, Twilight felt something drip on her face as she noticed tears running down the owl's face. “I know, I missed you too.” Twilight told her pet.

“Yeah, everypony else did too.” Discord stood at the window. “Fluttershy couldn't stop herself from crying so much when you died, same with Rarity and Pinkie Pie, Applejack tried to force herself to work so hard till she finally broke down and mourned you, and Rainbow Dash, she almost joined you in the afterlife.” Discord said.

“She almost committed suicide??” Twilight asked as she had a look of shock. Rainbow Dash almost killing herself? She knew her friendship with the rainbow maned Pegasus was deep but she didn't think Rainbow Dash would take her "death" this hard.

“Well not intentionally, she drank herself nearly to death. Cost her that golden opportunity she wanted with the Wonderbolts.” Discord answered.

“All because of them.... those rotten scumbag nobles, Blueblood especially.” Twilight growled thinking of Blueblood, that arrogant prick who was jealous she was an Alicorn and he wasn't. Twilight hated Blueblood and his father Amadeus as well for what he said, turning Twilight's words into venomous lies. Forcing her into tears due to his silver tongue. “Still can't believe Gallant Heart was in on their plan to kill me.” Twilight sunk down in her chair and sighed.

“Friend of yours?” Discord asked

“A bit but he was best friends with my BBBFF Shining Armor.” Twilight answered Discord's question. “He and his little brother Gladius Stride were best friends with Shining, yeah they were friends with me too. Gallant even was my brother's best stallion at his wedding too.” Twilight felt a tear run down her face thinking of Gallant's betrayal of her and her family. It hurt her so much to think somepony she trusted could betray her. “Worse, he looked like he was apologizing before he slit my throat and killed me.” Twilight wiped the tear away with her hoof.

“Really now? Remorse? Or was he worried his actions would end up destroying him and his family?” Discord pondered.

“I don't know, all of this doesn't make any sense. Discord gather the others and bring them here. We need to prepare for the worse.” Twilight told Discord as she got up out of the chair and started upstairs, Discord nodded his head and vanished from sight. “I got a bad feeling about all of this. And how was it I survived if I was dead?” Twilight pondered as she entered the bedroom, she stopped as she noticed how messy the place was. “Spike.” Twilight's thoughts were on the baby dragon as she looked at his empty basket. “Guess he's with Rarity or the Cakes, hopefully he'll come along too.” Twilight settled into her bed and fell asleep.

Morning soon came as Twilight awoke feeling the warmth of the sun's rays. She yawned and headed off to get cleaned up before waiting for the others to arrive, she didn't want anybody to see her alive yet. After what Discord said she didn't want to think somepony would hate her, well other than the likes of Queen Chrysalis and King Sombra. Though Sombra was banished for good and Chrysalis was dead so she had no worries about them. “I should get breakfast.” Twilight headed off though she caught herself, there was no kitchen in the library and she didn't want everypony to see her alive and risk her haters coming to Ponyville and harming innocent lives. “How could it have gotten so bad?” Twilight wondered to herself, maybe a change of reality was in order, she probably would surprise Sunset Shimmer though did she know what happened in the past few years? Twilight had no clue as she sat and began to read. She stopped when she heard sounds outside and took a look out the window just in time to see three colts running off. Twilight recognized them as students of Ms.Cheerilee's. “I hope they don't blow my cover.” Twilight muttered to herself.

Meanwhile at the school yard the three colts whom had seen Twilight in the window looked afraid. “I didn't know her ghost was haunting the library!” said one of the colts, the one wearing the propeller hat. This was Button Mash, he along with Featherweight and Pipsqueak were dared by Silver Spoon to go into the library alone, Featherweight went with his camera to take pictures as evidence of them being there despite the childish rumors of it being haunted. However to them it wasn't a rumor.

“You don't think her ghost is here to punish us like Celestia did those ponies that killed her do you?” Pipsqueak asked nervously.

“Hey, what are y'all up ta?” Came a female voice as Applebloom approached, she was one of the Cutie Mark Crusaders alongside her best friends Scootaloo and Sweetie Belle.

“We got dared to go into the abandoned library and we saw her! We saw Princess Twilight!” Featherweight answered

“Wha?! Ah heard those butchers murdered her. At least that's how Granny Smith says it.” Applebloom felt a chill down her spine, her voice alerted Scootaloo and Sweetie Belle to see what was up.

“Hey what's this about Twilight?” Scootaloo asked.

“We saw her ghost, it was looking right at us from the window!” Button Mash answered.

“Her ghost??” Sweetie Belle gulped hearing this.

“Yeah, she looked mad.” Button Mash confirmed what the CMCs were fearing. The school bell started to ring as the fillies and colts headed inside. Diamond Tiara had overheard the conversation and wondered if it was true if the library was haunted.

Meanwhile Discord had been making his rounds as he appeared to the other element bearers, the first was Fluttershy whom Discord convinced to go with him to the library for a moment of remembrance for Twilight, he also was able to convince Rainbow Dash, Pinkie Pie, Rarity, and Applejack. His work done he appeared at the library and waited, sure enough the element bearers arrived on schedule. “Ah, you made it in time.” Discord said with a grin.

“Ah never seen Discord this jolly in a while, not since them rotten monsters murdered Twilight.” Applejack spoke up as she can still remember that day when she and the others learned of Twilight's death.

“Yeah, what gives Discord? You didn't call us here for nothing right?” Rainbow Dash asked as she hovered in the air.

“Yeah, it doesn't even look like a party. Maybe I can go get some cakes from Sugar Cube Corner to brighten the mood.” Pinkie Pie bounced as she wanted to make this happier instead of being sad.

“I really wish something could erase that horrible tragedy and the horrors it's brought.” Rarity let out a sigh, she had heard about her boutique chain in Canterlot going through hard times due to the nobles' influence. She wanted to prove a point to them that she can go on despite their whining. “I just wish Spike was still here, ever since he ran away I've grown worried about him.” Rarity let out another sigh, she indeed was worried about Spike and his where a bouts.

“Yeah, after Twi's funeral he just flipped out. Ah'm worried about him too.” Applejack spoke up as well.

“I kinda wish he would have come and stayed with me and Discord.” Fluttershy lowered her head.

“Ah think we better go inside and have this memorial for Twi, ah know she'd want us ta remember her for all she did for us and for Equestria, not for the false image them bucking cowards painted her as.” Applejack spat obviously referring to the nobles and of course Prince Blueblood. The others all agreed as Discord let them inside the library.

“Oh my! Has the library really gone this long without a care taker?” Rarity gasped seeing a lot of dust and cobwebs everywhere, a few scorch marks were on the wall, signs of Spike letting his rage out.

“Indeed.” Discord moved away from the group. Upstairs Twilight heard voices and gasped. Somepony was inside the library, and if they saw her it could get out and she couldn't let that happen. Before she could move Discord appeared to Twilight.

“Discord, who's downstairs?” Twilight asked Discord quietly

“Why your friends, I'm sure you'd want to see them again.” Discord answered Twilight. The Alicorn sighed in relief.

“I'm sure they'll be happy to see me.” Twilight responded as she and Discord headed downstairs. She saw her friends and smiled.

“Ah! Discord! Behind you! It's a ghost!” Rainbow Dash cried out.

“What in tarnation??” Applejack also said in surprise and shock.

“Oh this?” Discord chuckled. “I'm afraid your a bit wrong Rainbow Dash.” the Draconequus chuckled some more.

“I'm not a ghost guys.” Twilight approached her friends. "It's really me, in the flesh." the alicorn tried to explain.

“T..Twilight??” Rainbow Dash hovered over to Twilight and touched her with her hoof. “Oh my Faust...” her lip trembled as tears welled up in her eyes. “Twi! It is you! You're alive!!” the pegasus cried as she hugged her friend. The others soon joined in the hugging and crying tears of joy.

“Guys, I missed you too...” Twilight said to her friends as her voice was choked up. They backed up to give her space.

“Twi, we all thought you were dead... but how??” Applejack asked.

“Yes, we all saw you inside that coffin. It was so hard on us, even Spike.” Rarity added on.

“I can't explain it myself. All I remember was seeing Gallant Heart's face before everything went black. Next thing I know I wake up inside that glass coffin. Discord helped me back here after I escaped my own tomb.” Twilight began.

“I bet that smug bucker was smiling a smile that could put the Mane-iac to shame.” Rainbow Dash growled.

“It was more of a look of sorrow. Gallant was a friend of my family's, mostly my brother's best friend and his best stallion at his wedding. It hurt me in my final hours that he'd kill me.” Twilight lowered her head.

“Sorrow?? Why would that low down side winder be sorry fer killing ya? He was stone faced through the trial.” Applejack was dumb founded.

“Yeah, and believe me I wanted to buck Blueblood's face off for calling you Princess Celestia's mess cleaner and even went as far as to say he was more worthy of being an alicorn than you were Twi. Shining Armor wanted to kill him had Cadence not held him back.” Rainbow Dash told Twilight.

“And to think I liked him. Shows the old saying is true about judging a book by it's cover.” Rarity added on.

“I do need to go to my parents, and my brother and let them know I'm back. But I can't let them know I'm alive.” Twilight told her friends.

“Ya mean them snobs trying ta spark civil war?” Applejack asked.

“Civil War?? I know I was gone but I had no idea they wanted civil war.” Twilight couldn't believe what she heard.

“Yeah, hey Twi. Before we all thought you were murdered I... I wanna apologize for some of the things I said. That wasn't me talking but rather the cider talking. Stupid addiction got me kicked out of the Wonderbolts Academy.” Rainbow Dash told Twilight.

“It's okay Rainbow. I know that wasn't you talking at all.” Twilight told Rainbow Dash before she felt Pinkie Pie hug her tightly. “Pinkie?” Twilight noticed Pinkie's mane was flat as was her tail.

“Twi! I'm sorry! I'm so sorry!” Pinkie Pie bawled her eyes out.

“Pinkie, what's going on?” Twilight asked as she looked at the pink mare's tear stained face.

“It was my family that gave Blueblood the Orichalcum that they used to murder you! I know Marble didn't mean it, that rat fink got her drunk and she blabbed it to him!” Pinkie cried

“What?!” Rainbow Dash shouted, Applejack was stunned silent hearing this. Rarity and Fluttershy were both frozen in shock hearing this. Even Discord was shocked when this info came out.

“Pinkie I don't believe it. Did your sisters and parents know?” Twilight asked.

“No, they didn't know till after they stole the Orichalcum.” Pinkie Pie sniffled.

“Ah can't believe it...” Applejack was still stunned.

“Why didn't your parents...... ugh why didn't your sisters stand up to those killers?!” Rainbow Dash said out of frustration.

“Rainbow! They had no idea they would try to kill me. As of right now if they knew I was alive they'd try to kill me again.” Twilight spoke as the voice of reason. “There's so much to do. I need a way into Canterlot to tell the princesses and my parents I'm alive and well, then I'll cut the head off the snake and stop this civil war before it can start.” Twilight told her friends. “Wait, where's Spike?” Twilight asked her friends.

“He ran away, he was so heartbroken after your death he refused to talk to any of us. He locked the library and we can hear him screaming and swearing.. it hurt all of us to see him like that. Recently he ran away and told no pony where he's gone.” Rarity explained, Rainbow Dash nodded in agreement.

“Yeah, I couldn't even find him no matter where I flew at. Not to mention with all this tension going on.” Rainbow Dash let out a sigh. “We'll find him Twi. He needs to know your back too.” she said to Twilight whom nodded.

“I'm trusting you guys to find Spike, Discord I need your help to warp me to Canterlot.” Twilight said to everybody in the group. Discord whom had seen the emotion in the room approached Twilight.

“Consider it done, I'm sure the tears shed here won't compare to the tears Celestia will shed to see you alive and well.” Discord snapped his claw as he and Twilight vanished, the others rushed off hoping to find Spike though he could be anywhere in Equestria.

Author's Notes:

This is chapter 1 of this story. Hoping to continue this soon with chapter 2 and a couple of tearful reunions and Twi meeting her baby sister (trying to think of a good name for her to use for my story)

Chapter 2 - Reunions and the coming of War

“We're here!” Discord exclaimed as he and Twilight Sparkle appeared in Celestia's garden within the castle walls. The two had left Ponyville via teleportation and had arrived in Canterlot.

“Better hide myself.” Twilight used her magic to make a hood and cloak form around her body hiding herself. “Don't want any spies for Blueblood's allies knowing I'm alive.” she said as she and Discord headed inside toward the throne room. “Still can't believe everypony bought what Amadeus was selling, after all me and my friends did to save Equestria so many times, bringing Princess Luna back from being corrupted as Nightmare Moon, stopping you back when you were evil Discord.” Twilight continued as she looked over at Discord seeing him wince. “No offense of course.” she said.

“Oh, none taken. Besides I always wanted somebody who can rival my chaotic nature and you were the best. Believe me it hurt me more to hear of your “demise” than it did your friends.” Discord responded.

“Anyhow, we even helped the Crystal Empire banish King Sombra and we even helped Princess Cadence unmask Queen Chrysalis and save my brother Shining Armor. Even after we stopped Tirek and Starlight Glimmer they still saw me as a threat..” Twilight let out a frustrated sigh.

“Well you can't expect everypony to respect you my dear. Mostly the Bluebloods and the snobs they were in cahoots with.” Discord told Twilight.

“Yeah, right now we need to get to the throne room and hope the Princesses are there.” Twilight continued on as she and Discord arrived at the throne room entrance, they could overhear a conversation going on.

“Your highness, we've searched several possible hideouts and no sign of those cowards. We'll double our efforts to recover Princess Twilight's body.” the solar guard saluted and took his leave.

“I hope and pray to Faust they recover my student's body.” Princess Celestia let out a frustrated sigh.

“They will sister, we mustn't lose hope.” Princess Luna focused on her sister as Gladius Stride entered the throne room passing by Discord and the disguised Twilight without even noticing them both.

“Princess Celestia how are you holding up?” Gladius asked as he showed concern toward Princess Celestia.

“Not good unfortunately. Twilight's body is out there and in the hooves of those blasted traitors.. if they harm or defile her body in anyway...” Celestia trembled with rage. “Faust help their treacherous souls.” she coldly warned.

“Ooh, is that rage I detect Sun butt?” Came Discord's voice as the Draconequus appeared beside Celestia's throne, the sun princess shot a glare at Discord.

“Discord, I'm not in the mood for your tricks right now.” Celestia glared at Discord.

“I couldn't help but overhear your prized student's grave was desecrated, or is that the rumor going on these days?” Discord asked, he smirked seeing Celestia tremble with rage. “Easy now Princess, we don't need you dropping dead from a heart attack or a stroke.” Discord warned the angered Princess.

“DISCORD YOU SPEAK OF TWILIGHT'S GRAVE BEING DESECRATED AGAIN AND SO HELP ME I'LL SEAL YOU AWAY FOR GOOD!!” Celestia shouted with the royal voice.

“Tia, please calm yourself.” Princess Luna went over to her sister trying to calm her down.

“Celestia please, did you even bother to examine the coffin lid?” Discord asked Princess Celestia. “Cause if you didn't then you would have missed it.” he explained to the princess.

“Missed what??” Celestia asked still glaring at Discord.

“I think I'll let my guest here explain what happened to Twilight Sparkle's grave.” Discord motioned for Twilight to approach, the alicorn was still in her hood as Gladius Stride approached her.

“And just whom might you be?” Gladius asked the hooded figure.

“Gladius it's been a long time, I remember when you and Gallant Heart used to hang out with my brother Shining armor.” Twilight responded, Gladius's eyes went wide hearing a voice he had thought was silenced by his brother and his terrorist allies.

“That voice.... Tia is it possible??” Princess Luna was frozen in shock when she heard the hooded mare's voice. Celestia trembled as her eyes watered as she approached the hooded figure.

“Twilight??” Princess Celestia asked, her voice was choked up as she fought back tears.

“It's me Princess Celestia.” Twilight removed her hood revealing herself. “I'm back.” she told her mentor, Princess Celestia felt her legs buckle before she hugged her student and wailed loudly as tears streamed down her face. Gladius was still frozen in shock, Princess Luna wiped tears from her own eyes.

“It's a miracle from Queen Faust herself.” Princess Luna said. Discord had a wide grin on his face.

“Oh my beloved Twilight, but how?? how is this possible?? I saw you dead, I tried to heal you but I saw the blood gushing from your wounds. How did you survive??” Princess Celestia released Twilight as she wiped her eyes.

“I can't explain it fully but somehow I was in a state of hibernation. To everypony else I was dead.” Twilight Sparkle explained.

“Tia, you used a healing spell?” Luna asked Celestia whom nodded.

“I did, the strongest I could muster.” Celestia responded.

“Of course, now I think I understand why it took so long for me to fully heal and come out of my hibernation. It had to be the Orichalcum those traitors used on me.” Twilight explained.

“Orichalcum?!” Both princesses said at the same time.

“Yes, I've done some alchemy experiments on Orichalcum, it has properties to null magic but it seemed your healing spell must have remained inside my body. I suspect the magic properties of the orichalcum tried to null the heal spell Princess Celestia cast on me, though I believe the power Princess Celestia poured into the spell eventually overpowered the orichalcum's effects but it took along time. I still can't believe Blueblood got his filthy hooves on Orichalcum to have me killed.” Twilight explained.

“It makes perfect sense to me. But where did he get the Orichalcum from?” Princess Celestia asked, somehow the answer would be just as shocking.

“They stole it from the Pie Family's rock farm. Pinkie and her family can confirm it.” Twilight answered.

“I had a feeling that was why Blueblood was interested in the Pie Family's rock stand at the rock festival.” Princess Celestia recalled the festival and the rock samples the Pie family had shown off. “I had no clue they had orichalcum as one of their samples.” she said as she turned to Princess Luna.

“And they knew how to gain the weapon they needed to assault Twilight, the Pie family aren't responsible for what Blueblood did, besides Blueblood and his ilk paid for their sins when they were burned at the stake.” Princess Luna told her sister.

“Princess Twilight?” Gladius approached Twilight as he bowed to her. “I'm sorry I couldn't stop my brother.” he told Twilight. “I'm glad he failed.” he said.

“Gladius, your brother didn't want to do it. I can tell from the sad look on his face.” Twilight told Gladius.

“Gallant Heart showing sorrow? He hardly showed it at the trial.” Princess Celestia spoke up. Princess Luna let out a sigh.

“Twilight, Tia, I....I have a confession to make.” Princess Luna lowered her head.

“Luna?” Princess Celestia turned to her sister.

“I knew what was about to happen, I should have acted when I had the chance.” Princess Luna said. Twilight, Gladius, Celestia, even Discord were shocked to hear this. “But if I did it would have endangered Gallant Heart's mission.” Luna explained.

“What mission?? What are you talking about??” Gladius asked Luna.

“Gallant was working for me by going undercover to infiltrate Blueblood's group. Tia, I knew something had to be done about those blasted nobles and I knew you wouldn't approve of my methods either.” Princess Luna felt like banishing herself to the moon.

“Luna, sister.” Celestia went over to Luna seeing the tears in her eyes. “I know what you wanted to do and I cannot blame you. I too grew sick of those nobles and their thirst for power but I never imagined they would try to harm Twilight.” Celestia went to the window as she could see the sun as it was in the sky.

“Princess Luna no pony is mad at you, they must have found out about Gallant Heart working for you. It could explain why he was so full of regret.” Twilight approached the night princess.

“Very wise words Twilight. But it does sound like they forced his hooves.” Discord added in as he looked over at Celestia.

“Only Gallant Heart knew that and he's gone, I heard he was executed along with Blueblood.” Twilight sighed a bit.

“Twilight what will you do now?” Gladius asked Twilight.

“Princess Celestia, can you summon my brother Shining Armor and Princess Cadence?” Twilight asked Princess Celestia whom nodded. She soon sent a messenger to the Crystal Empire to summon Shining Armor and Princess Cadence. The two had been informed of Twilight's grave being broken into, Shining Armor threatened war with everypony involved with Blueblood's conspiracy though many had fled Equestria and many more were either arrested or killed. The messenger soon arrived with a message from Princess Celestia.

“Shining what is it?” Princess Cadence asked her husband. She approached her husband as he read the note.

“Seems your aunt Celestia wants us to go to Canterlot, it's urgent.” Shining Armor told his wife, the two soon headed off to Canterlot. Once in the station they were met by Gladius Stride whom nodded to the royal family as he escorted them toward the castle. “Gladius, what's this about? Did they find the bastards that defiled Twiley's grave?” Shining Armor asked Gladius.

“It's more than that.” Gladius responded as the trio entered the castle. Gladius led them into the throne room where Princess Luna and Princess Celestia were waiting at.

“Aunt Luna, Aunt Celestia, is there a problem?” Princess Cadence addressed her aunts.

“We have a shocking revelation about Twilight.” Princess Celestia answered.

“You found her body??” Shining Armor asked. “I hope so, it'll settle mom down after hearing about Twi's grave being robbed.” he said.

“It's more than that BBBFF.” Came Twilight's voice as she stepped out from behind Princess Celestia's throne.

“T-T-Twiley!?” Shining Armor stood in shock, Princess Cadence stared before she suddenly fainted, luckily for her Shining caught her with his magic and set her down carefully. “But how??” he asked as tears ran down his face.

“Princess Celestia, her cure spell healed my body yet it took a long time before I was healed enough to awaken. A side effect of being stabbed and having my throat slit with Orichalcum.” Twilight told her brother before Shining hugged her.

“Twiley, thank Faust your alive.” Shining Armor told his sister. Cadence began to awaken as she looked to her husband.

“Shining? Am I hallucinating?” Cadence asked her husband

“Nope Cadence, your not.” Twilight answered her sister in law as Cadence stood up looking at Twilight.

“But we saw you dead. How can I be sure your real?” Cadence asked Twilight.

“This might convince you.” Twilight responded “Sunshine, sunshine, lady bugs awake.” Twilight began, it was her greeting she always gave her sister in law back when she was her foal sitter. Cadence gasped, tears ran down her face hearing the greeting.

“C-clap your h-hooves, and do a little shake..... Twilight it is you!” Cadence hugged her sister in law as she cried.

“We need to tell mom and dad, and Twinklestar.” Shining wiped the tears from his eyes as he watched his wife hug his sister.

“Yeah we... wait, who's Twinklestar?” Twilight asked.

“Oh, that's right. Twinklestar is our sister.” Shining armor told Twilight, this shocked the younger Alicorn to hear this.

“We have a sister??” Twilight asked out of amazement.

“Yeah, she has my fur color but your mane colors. Mom's been very protective of her not even allowing Princess Celestia near her.” Shining Armor told Twilight.

“I could understand why, she didn't want her being targeted like I was. I'd like to meet her.” Twilight told Shining Armor whom nods as Twilight turned to Princess Celestia. “I'll be back soon Princess. I need to see my parents and sister.” she told Princess Celestia whom nods. Soon Twilight and Shining Armor headed toward their childhood home, Twilight again wearing her hood to keep her presence a mystery. “Shining, I still can't think of why every pony would listen to a monster like Amadeus Blueblood and reject what I've said. After all my friends and I did to help Equestria time and time again against the likes of Nightmare Moon, Discord, Queen Chrysalis, King Sombra, Tirek, even Starlight Glimmer. Even after we purified Princess Luna, reformed Discord, Sunset Shimmer, and Starlight Glimmer they still don't trust us. Worse was the feeling of betrayal from Gallant Heart.” Twilight lowered her head.

“Twiley, not all of Equestria are hypocrites like Amadeus and the nobles. But I swear I'll see Amadeus hanged for what he had his goons do to you.” Shining Armor told Twilight. “Gallant didn't want to do it but they held his brother's life over his head.” Shining Armor told Twilight.

“What?!” Twilight snapped to attention as she looked at her brother. “Why didn't you tell Princess Celestia or Princess Luna??” she asked.

“He was undercover, if I had told them then his cover would have been blown.” Shining Armor responded. “Besides he told me when I talked to him before he was executed.” Shining told Twilight as the two came to a stop, ironically outside Donut joe's place.

“Obviously his cover was blown if they had Gladius and forced Gallant to attack me.” Twilight said to her brother. “Right now I want to focus on meeting my sister and seeing mom and dad. Then we need to work to stop the Civil War before it can start.” the alicorn said with determination.

“i couldn't agree more Twiley. I understand he wanted to protect his little brother like I would do for both you and Twinklestar.” Shining Armor told Twilight whom nodded.

“I understand too, I wish he could have conveyed that message to me before he slit my throat. What about Flash Sentry? How did he take my “passing”? Twilight asked, she remembered the guard who had a crush on her.

“Twi, he took it hard. So hard he.. he took his own life trying to follow you.” Shining Armor told Twilight, the princess couldn't believe it.

“I knew he loved me.... I didn't think he'd...” Twilight lowered her head, she remembered meeting Flash after her adventure in the human world and meeting Flash's human counterpart, she had developed a crush on Flash's human counterpart then focused it more on his pony counterpart. “I never got to tell him how I felt about him...” Twilight felt tears run down her face as Shining Armor hugged her.

“I know, this is more blood on the nobles' hooves and I'll be more than happy to see them suffer for everything they've done to you and our family.” Shining Armor told Twilight whom looked up at her brother.

“Shining Armor, I... I didn't want this much violence to happen to everypony.. Was I wrong to force such changes on everypony??” Twilight began to have doubts.

“No Twiley, it wasn't your fault those idiots didn't want to accept change. All I've heard from those two-faced traitors was nothing short of hatred and rage. Made me wish Amadeus would have done something for me to go after him.” Shining Armor tried to comfort Twilight though he felt helpless to stop Amadeus Blueblood and his conspirators.

“I know, I never imagined his son Prince Blueblood would beat him to it, by trying to have me assassinated.” Twilight told her brother.

“No, I got reason to suspect Amadeus. Gallant himself told me a lot more than I've told you.” Shining Armor responded before he looked around to make sure no pony was listening to them. He then noticed they were at Donut Joe's and suddenly had an idea. “Inside, we won't be noticed.” he told Twilight as they entered the shop. Once inside they made their way to a private booth. Donut Joe noticed the two and went to see if they wanted something.

“Ah Prince Shining Armor, and a guest. I surely hope your not going behind Princess Cadence's back.” Donut Joe said as he looked at the disguised Twilight.

“Relax Joe, and can you keep a secret?” Shining Armor asked.

“Sure.” Joe answered.

“My sister's body wasn't robbed like it's been reported. She's sitting across from me.” Shining Armor said in a hush tone. Joe's eyes widened as he looked at Twilight whom nodded.

“It's all true. Just don't go telling all of Equestria, I don't want to be assassinated again.” Twilight told Joe.

“Oh sweet Faust! Princess Twilight! If Equestria needed you, now is that time.” Joe said in a hushed voice as he quickly went to prepare Twilight's favorite donuts.

“So BBBFF, what was it you wanted to tell me?” Twilight asked Shining Armor.

“Blueblood only had you assassinated cause he was pushed into doing it. Gallant told me a lot of things. He told me who the mastermind of this whole conspiracy was.” Shining Armor began as he let out a sigh.

“Who was it?” Twilight asked. She had to know if her hunch was right all along.

“Amadeus, he was the one who commissioned your death. Gallant told me that Amadeus and his crooked guards were in his home.” Shining told Twilight, he could see his sister's eyes widen hearing that name.

“I knew it! I knew Amadeus hated me, but I never suspected he'd hate me enough to kill me. That means Prince Blueblood was a patsy.” Twilight growled as her horn lit up.

“So was Gallant, they told him to kill you or Gladius would die instead. He had no choice in the matter. Didn't help Blueblood was doubting his actions which I believe Amadeus wanted things to happen quickly, he even knew Gallant was a double agent and told him to hurry Blueblood's plot. The bastard knew Gallant was working for Luna but the question was how did he know?” Shining Armor said, his words left for more questions than answers.

“To think that scumbag Amadeus compared me to Queen Chrysalis, he's proven to me how much he compares to her. No pony can be as cruel as her and yet Amadeus proved that to me.” Twilight said as she looked at her brother. “Does Gladius know the whole truth?” Twilight asked.

“No, I doubt he even knew his own life was in danger.” Shining Armor answered his sister's question.

“He knows part of it, Princess Luna confessed about her own plan to undermine the nobles to Princess Celestia after I returned, she told Gladius that Gallant was working for her.” Twilight told Shining Armor, this both surprised him and shocked him.

“Did Princess Celestia do anything?” Shining Armor asked.

“No, though she had to calm Luna down, she felt so guilty of holding that secret back and when she saw me alive it came out.” Twilight answered her brother. “What worries me is if my return got out and how many of those traitors would try to kill me just to show up Amadeus, to let him see his plot failed.” Twilight sighed.

“That won't happen Twiley, I failed to protect you once, I swear this time I won't fail.” Shining Armor told his sister. “The nobles will have to face the entire army of the Crystal Empire to get to you if that's what it takes.” he vowed.

“I know, right now we need to get home and see our sister. And let mom and dad know I'm back.” Twilight told her brother as he nodded. The two soon left Donut Joe's after eating some donuts and eventually they headed to their childhood home. Shining Armor knocked on the door as he and Twilight waited. The door opened as Twilight Velvet opened the door, she smiled seeing her son as she hugged him.

“Hey mom, we need to talk, is dad here?” Shining Armor asked as he could see Nightlight approach him. “Something important came up.” Shining began.

“Is it Twilight? Did they find her body??” Twilight Velvet asked before she noticed the hooded mare. “Who's this?” She asked.

“You'll see, get Twinkle down here, she might want to see this.” Shining Armor told his mother as she nods and went upstairs, she soon returned with a young mare whom was smaller but as smart as Twilight was at her age, her fur was a baby blue color almost white like her brother's but her mane and tail were colored like Twilight Sparkle's own mane and tail even having the same stripe on it. She also bore an interesting cutie mark, a star like the Sparkle family six pointed lavender star only her's has smaller stars around it.

“hey BBBFF!” Twinklestar said to her big brother, this made Twilight smile beneath her hood.

“Okay everypony's here now son, what's the news on Twilight? Did they get her body back?” Nightlight asked.

“Even better dad.” Shining began as he looked at Twilight Sparkle as she took her hood off.

“I'm back mom, dad.” Twilight Sparkle said to her parents, Nightlight's eyes widened as he felt tears form in his eyes, Twilight Velvet fainted on the spot seeing her daughter alive. Twinklestar looked confused seeing Twilight before looking at her sister's picture with flowers around it as a memorium then back at the mare before her.

“Twilight?? It... it can't be! We saw you in the morgue, we saw you in that casket, how?? how in Faust's name??” Nightlight couldn't even think straight before he hugged Twilight. The tears streamed down his face as he did so, Twilight Velvet awoke as Shining Armor helped her up.

“you okay mom?” Shining Armor asked.

“Y..yes, I swore I just saw.....” Twilight Velvet stopped in her words as she saw Twilight Sparkle hugging her dad. “My baby! My baby filly! Faust brought her back to us!” she wailed as she hugged Twilight as well.

“Is she really my big sister??” Twinklestar asked confused.

“I'm glad to see you too mom, dad, ugh... need air.” Twilight gasped as she was hugged by both her parents before they let her go.

“Oh, sorry Twilight, it's just we thought you were dead. It seems Faust saw a grave injustice was done and brought you home to us.” Nightlight apologized as Twilight Velvet nodded too.

“Princess Celestia helped as well, when she found me she used her strongest healing spell to save my life though it took a lot longer to fully heal me due to the orichalcum that was used on me.” Twilight Sparkle explained to her family what had happened as best as she could explain, about the Bluebloods and their conspiracy to eliminate her.

“Those rotten bastards! I'm glad Blueblood burned at the stake though I hope his rotting soul burns in Tartarus for all eternity.” Nightlight said with a growl.

“Even though his dad was the true mastermind, but any evidence linking him is either dead or destroyed. If only we could have gotten him when we had the chance.” Shining Armor said.

“Amadeus will have his reckoning one day.” Twilight Sparkle told her brother before looking at her younger sister. Something about her was interesting Twilight. “Twinkle, how strong is your magic?” Twilight asked her sister.

“Well...I...I kinda can't do much except some basic things. Why do you ask?” Twinklestar asked her sister.

“You mean you haven't trained in magic?” Twilight Sparkle asked.

“No! I absolutely forbid it!” Twilight Velvet's voice echoed out. “I'm sorry Twilight honey but I was worried about your sister going through what you went through, I even told Celestia not to interact with Twinklestar.” the elder mare told Twilight Sparkle.

“Mom, I know you don't want that tragedy to happen again to either of us but Twinkle, her magic I can feel it. It's very strong.” Twilight told her mom.

“She's right mom, I can feel it too.” Shining Armor agreed.

“Does this mean I can become a princess too like Twilight?” Twinklestar asked her brother and parents.

“I'm not sure, it's possible. I mean Twiley was that powerful and ascended to Alicorn status when she fixed her friends' cutiemarks and figured out one of Starswirl's spells.” Shining Armor told Twinklestar of the time Twilight literally evolved into an Alicorn after helping her friends when their cutiemarks got swapped around after misfiring Starswirl the Bearded's spell. Little did anypony know how much distain the Blueblood family would ring up including the conspiracy to kill Twilight.

“Velvet honey, we got a second chance with our elder daughter, we can't waste it either, besides those devils will regret they day they tried to murder her.” Nightlight told his wife.

“Dad, I know I got my hooves full. Spike is out there somewhere alone and I want to find him and tell him I'm alive.” Twilight Sparkle said to her dad whom nodded.

“I can remember how surprised we were when you adopted him as your son. I'm sure he's fine and he'll be happy to see you.” Twilight Velvet added in.

“Mom, I wanna learn magic like my big sister Twilight knows.” Twinklestar spoke up, Twilight Velvet gasped as she heard her youngest daughter speak up.

“Twinkle, I don't want those monsters trying to harm you like they almost did to Twilight.” Twilight Velvet began before Twilight approached her mom.

“Mom, I can teach her and you won't have to worry. As of now the nobles don't know I survived the assassination attempt and I'm keeping it that way till we can stop their plan for war.” Twilight told her mother.

“I'll see to it they are safe.” Shining Armor spoke up.

“Then let's..” Twilight started to speak before the ground suddenly shook. “What was that?” She asked.

“Felt like a tremor.” Nightlight said. Shining Armor rushed to the window and looked outside, what he saw made his eyes widen. Unicorns hovering in the sky armed to the teeth launching magic blasts into Canterlot sending debris everywhere and sending panicked ponies fleeing.

“Damn! It's already beginning!” Shining Armor shouted, Twilight Velvet gasped as her hooves shot to her mouth.

“We got to get to the caste and fast.” Twilight Sparkle said as she looked at her parents and sister. “Gather everything we'll need. I'll teleport us there.” She said as her parents and sister gathered essential things in their saddlebags as they gathered together as Twilight's horn glowed as they were warped via a teleportation spell to Canterlot Castle, they arrived in the throne room as Princess Celestia was waiting with Princess Cadence, Princess Luna went to assist with those injured and in need.

“Shining!” Cadence rushed to her husband's side as she hugged him.

“Princess, is this what I think it is?” Twilight asked.

“It is my dear student, those blasted traitors revealed their hand.” Princess Celestia said grimly. “Though I never imagined they would resurrect Unicornia to bare arms against us.” She said.

“If it's a war Amadeus want's, it's a war he'll get!” Shining Armor said determined. He knew he and Cadence had to return to the Crystal Empire to ready their army to attack the armies sent by Unicornia.

“Amadeus??” Princess Celestia asked.

“I can explain later Princess, right now we need to stop the invaders. I hope my friends are okay in Ponyville.” Twilight said worried.

Author's Notes:

Seems the War has begun, can the guards push back the invaders? And what of Twilight's friends in their search for Spike? Chapter 3 will cover their quest to find Spike during the time Twilight and Discord headed to Canterlot

Chapter 3 - the search for Spike!

Meanwhile just as Discord and Twilight Sparkle headed off to Canterlot the rest of the mane six headed off to try to find Spike. The first one Rainbow Dash flew through the skies searching around for Spike. “Man, no sign of him anywhere. He couldn't have gone far.” the rainbow pegasus continued to scan the ground below as she flew around. Her flight pattern took her toward the Griffon lands. “No way Spike would be here, never hurts to have a looksee.” Rainbow Dash flew into the Griffon lands as she looked around before a Griffon flew up to her.

“Well look who decided to come on by.” Gilda said as she greeted Rainbow Dash in the air.

“Gilda, it's been a while.” Rainbow Dash hovered in the air with Gilda before the two landed on the ground. “Seen Spike by any chance?” Rainbow Dash asked Gilda.

“Nope, why?” Gilda asked.

“He ran away and nopony's seen him in a long time. Wouldn't blame him after what happened to Twi. Especially those rotten finks who made it their business to run Twi's name into the mud.” Rainbow Dash said with a sneer.

“I heard, never thought anybody would be that cruel enough to murder a princess, let alone that Blueblood guy.” Gilda said to Rainbow Dash.

“Same here, that coward blasted Twi's name at the trial and really ticked off Princess Celestia, as well as me and Applejack though she had more patience than I, I wanted to buck that smug bucker's head off his shoulders for what he said about Twi.” Rainbow Dash was growling noticably.

“Heh, I could imagine. Anyhow I haven't seen Spike around here. And I don't think anybody else has seen him either.” Gilda told Rainbow Dash whom nods.

“Thanks anyway, I'll try someplace else.” Rainbow Dash took off into the sky after exchanging goodbyes with Gilda. “Man, where could Spike be?” Rainbow Dash wondered as she flew off.

Meanwhile at Sweet Apple Acres, Applejack was busy getting into contact with her kin folk hoping any of them had seen Spike. She let out a sigh as none of them had seen the missing dragon. Applebloom noticed her sister sighing and approached her.

“Applejack ya alright?” Applebloom asked her sister.

“Yeah, just frustratin not being able to locate Spike, none of our kin have seen 'im.” Applejack told her sister.

“Did ya ask Babs if she's seen him?” Applebloom asked, referencing her cousin Babs Seed.

“Already did, no sign of Spike either. Ah hope the others are havin better luck than I am.” Applejack told her sister.

“But why? Ah mean ah know it hurt Spike to loose Princess Twilight, it hurt us all.” Applebloom lowered her head.

“Listen Applebloom, if ah tell ya somethin' right important, promise me ya won't go blabbing it ta anypony else.” Applejack told her sister.

“Not even ta Scootaloo and Sweetie Belle?” Applebloom asked her sister.

“Well ya can tell em but make em promise not ta blab it either.” Applejack told her sister whom nods.

“Ah promise, heck ah'll even Pinkie Promise it.” Applebloom said as Applejack nodded.

“Okay, it's about Twilight.” Applejack began.

“Oh, you mean her ghost right? Button Mash, Pipsqueak, and Featherweight all saw her lookin at them, they got scared and ran.” Applebloom told Applejack. The older mare shook her head and laughed. “What's so funny?” Applebloom asked.

“That was no ghost Applebloom, that was really Twilight.” Applejack told her sister.

“No way! You can't be serious!” Applebloom was thrown back at what she heard.

“Hey what's goin on in there?” Came the voice of Granny Smith as she and Big Macintosh both entered the room Applejack and Applebloom were in.

“Granny, Big Mac, it's about Twi but tell nopony about this.” Applejack began.

“Alright.” Granny Smith said.

“Alright AJ, what's this about?” Big Mac asked his sister.

“Twi's alive.” Applejack told her family. Granny Smith gasped, Big Macintosh looked frozen.

“Yeah, and we all thought it was a ghost.” Applebloom added on.

“L-Land sakes, ah don't believe it. When we saw her lyin in that casket she looked dead.” Granny Smith was still in shock hearing this.

“ah believe ya AJ, after all you hold the element of honesty for a reason.” Big Mac said.

“That's right, and right now Twi wants to find Spike though ah've exhausted all my options, ah hope Pinkie, Rarity, Fluttershy, and Rainbow Dash had better luck.” Applejack said.

Meanwhile a distance away from Ponyville Rarity and Sweetie Belle were approaching a large cave entrance. Rarity looked a bit disgusted knowing what they will find.

“Rarity you still haven't told me why we are looking for Spike. Besides the obvious, we're all worried about him.” Sweetie Belle said to her sister.

“Yes darling, that and there's more. But don't go spreading it around as gossip. It's about Twilight Sparkle.” Rarity told Sweetie Belle.

“Besides her ghost scaring the horseshoes off Button Mash, Pipsqueak, and Featherweight?” Sweetie Belle asked Rarity, the elder unicorn laughed and shook her head.

“No darling no, that wasn't a ghost. That was Twilight in the flesh.” Rarity told her sister.

“Wha?!” Sweetie Belle's jaw dropped in shock hearing what Rarity said. “No way, I thought she was..” Sweetie Belle couldn't even bring words as Rarity nods her head as they went into the cave. The two were suddenly confronted by three large looking dogs dressed in miner helmets, vests, and spiked collars.

“Hey! No ponies allo.... Oh no not you!!” Spot cringed seeing Rarity, Fido and Rover whimpered too seeing Rarity.

“Relax darlings, I'm not here to whine if that's what your thinking. I was looking for Spike, have any of you by chance seen him?” Rarity asked.

“N-n-no. We haven't.” Spot still looked afraid of Rarity.

“Hm, we'll look elsewhere.” Rarity turned around as she and Sweetie Belle left, as soon as they did the three Diamond Dogs sighed in relief.

“That was a close one.” Spot said as he watched Rarity and Sweetie Belle leave. The two unicorns continued their journey as they searched for Spike, eventually their journey lead them to a small village which Rarity instantly recognized.

“I remember this village, we met Starlight Glimmer here, I wonder if she's here?” Rarity wondered, it had been a while since she had contact with Starlight ever since the assassination attempt on Twilight Sparkle's life. Rarity and Sweetie Belle began to question the other ponies in the once former village of equals but to no avail as none of them knew a thing about Spike. Rarity soon went up to the house Starlight once lived in and knocked on the door.

“Go away! I'm busy!” came a voice as if to respond.

“Starlight? Is that you darling?” Rarity asked.

“I said go..... Rarity??” the door suddenly opened as Rarity and Sweetie Belle stepped inside. Once inside Rarity and Sweetie Belle approached Starlight whom looked terrible, the unicorn's mane was a mess and her eyes looked bloodshot. It was obvious she was sleep deprived from lots of studying. “Rarity what are you doing out here?” Starlight asked a bit surprised to see Rarity here.

“Searching for Spike, he ran away from Ponyville and nopony has seen him since.” Rarity answered Starlight's question.

“He ran away??” Starlight couldn't believe what she heard, she had gotten to know Spike when she became Twilight Sparkle's student after their fierce rivalry. But the assassination ended their friendship, Starlight grew to hate the nobles, the Bluebloods especially. She had secluded herself back in her old home studying Starswirl's time travel spell hoping to use it for a good cause instead of trying to alter the past event that gave Twilight and her friends their cutie marks. “I couldn't imagine him doing something like that, but after Twilight's death and without justice I can't really fault him.” Starlight took a seat.

“I know, and you look terrible. What happened to you?” Rarity asked Starlight showing concern.

“Been studying Starswirl's time travel spell, I know I said I wouldn't use time travel but I wanted to use the spell to stop the assassination.” Starlight let out a sigh.

“Starlight, you don't have to.” Rarity told Starlight, the unicorn looked at Rarity as if she was mad.

“But why?? Equestria's falling apart around us without Twilight! Those rotten nobles killed many innocent mares, colts, and fillies! And your saying I don't have to do something to prevent the assassination?!” Starlight snapped at Rarity.

“Starlight, Twilight's alive. We all saw her in the library. Somehow she survived.” Rarity told Starlight, the unicorn stared at Rarity in disbelief.

“Yeah, three of Ms. Cheerliee's students saw Twilight too, though they thought she was a ghost.” Sweetie Belle added in.

“Twilight alive? But how?” Starlight asked.

“She believes Princess Celestia saved her with a healing spell though it took along time to heal her due to the effects of the orichalcum blades used on her.” Rarity explained as best as she could.

“Orichalcum?? I thought that metal was very rare and forbidden?” Starlight asked.

“Those horrible monsters stole the Pie family's orichalcum deposit after Prince Blueblood seduced Pinkie's youngest sister Marble Pie.” Rarity told Starlight.

“Those lowlife monsters.” Starlight's rage was beginning to show itself.

“And the worse thing about it was that Blueblood got Marble pregnant too.” Rarity told Starlight, this surprised the unicorn to hear this.

“He kept his rotten bloodline up through Pinkie's sister.” Starlight shook her head. “i can't believe it.” she said sighing. “Rarity I want to help but even I wouldn't know where to locate Spike at.” Starlight told Rarity.

“I see, I hope we get some kind of clue then to Spike's whereabouts.” Rarity said with a sigh.

“I'll scout around Equestria and see if I can find any sign of Spike. He needs to know Twilight's alive and well. Speaking of Twilight where is she?” Starlight asked Rarity.

“She went to Canterlot to reunite with her family and the Princesses.” Rarity answered.

“I see. Makes a lot of sense.. Though I hope she returns to Ponyville soon, meantime I'll keep an eye out for Spike.” Starlight told Rarity whom nodded. Soon Rarity and Sweetie Belle started back to Ponyville.

“Rarity, what do you think Twilight will do once she gets back to Ponyville?” Sweetie Belle asked.

“I'm not sure.” Rarity responded. “For now we need to return home and meet with the others. I hope they had better luck.” Rarity told her sister as they returned to Ponyville.

Meanwhile Pinkie Pie was at her family's farm as she greeted them. Maud already knew something was up as she and Pinkie met in private.

“Pinkie.” Maud began in her monotone voice. “Something's up isn't it?” She asked.

“Yeah, have you or anypony else here seen Spike?” Pinkie asked Maud.

“Haven't seen him at all. Why do you ask?” Maud asked Pinkie Pie. Pinkie let out a sigh.

“He ran away from Ponyville and nopony has seen him, it's real importaint we find him. Twilight's worried about him.” Pinkie told Maud, the other pony's eyes widened when she heard Twilight's name.

“Pinkie, we need to bring this up to the family.” Maud told Pinkie as they headed to where their parents and sisters were at, a young stallion was waiting as he approached.

“Hey aunt Pinkie!” Shale Pie said, he was Marble Pie's son after her unexpected pregnancy from Prince Blueblood, though Igneous Rock made sure not to let Shoal know who his father was.

“Hey Shale, your much bigger than the last time I saw you.” Pinkie said smiling before she took a seat with her family.

“Pinkie, we know you don't visit us often.” Igneous Rock began as he looked at Pinkie. “So what brings you here?” He asked his daughter.

“Dad, I came here hoping to find Spike.” Pinkie Pie answered. This caused a bit of confusion from the family. “Guess that means no huh?” Pinkie let out a sigh.

“Now Pinkie.” Marble Pie said as she looked at her sister. “Why would you think Spike would be here?” she asked.

“Cause he ran away and nobody's seen him.” Pinkie responded to her sibling.

“Oh dear.” Cloudy Quartz said with a gasp. “I wouldn't blame him since nobody could understand how he felt losing his adopted mother.” she said as she let out a sigh as Igneous Rock went over to his wife.

“Yeah, Twilight's worried sick about him.” Pinkie said, the room felt silent as both Igneous Rock and Cloudy Quartz stared at their daughter in surprise and shock when she said that, the same looks were on Marble's and Limestone's faces, Shoal was confused when he heard this.

“Mom? Aunt Limestone? Aunt Maud? Grandma? Grandpa? What did aunt Pinkie mean by that?” Shale asked confused.

“Pinkamena Diane Pie are you off your medication again?” Igneous Rock asked.

“No dad, I'm being serious. Twilight's alive and well. She survived the attack.” Pinkie explained as best she could. The family was thrown for a loop when they heard about what happened recently to Twilight Sparkle.

“Igneous, this is a sign of a true miracle from Queen Faust herself. Princess Twilight was always the light that healed Equestria time and time again.” Cloudy Quartz said to her husband. Igneous Rock nodded in agreement.

“Pinkie, I'm sorry for not believeing you before. As for Spike we don't have a clue where he is at. But we thought those butchers murdered her with the stolen orichalcum?” Igneous Rock still felt confused as he asked Pinkie.

“Princess Celestia healed Twilight but I guess the heal spell put her in a coma or something, Twilight thinks it had to do with the Orichalcum.” Pinkie explained though she couldn't understand it herself.

“To me that sounds like a reaction from the Orichalcum and Princess Celestia's magic. If that's true then that explains why Twilight looked dead to everypony who viewed her body in that coffin.” Maud spoke up. The others all nodded in agreement.

“It's possible.” Igneous Rock nodded to his eldest daughter, though he being an Earth Pony had no knowledge of magic.

“Anyhow thanks for the help, I'll be leaving back to Ponyville soon to tell Twilight the bad news.” Pinkie said to her family as they nodded. “Though I can spend time with you guys.” she smiled.

Meanwhile Fluttershy was searching high and low for any sign of Spike, she had conversed with many animals in her travels but none had seen Spike. She began to feel hopeless as she landed and sighed. “So far nothing, oh I wish I had a clue to where Spike was at.” Fluttershy continued on as she continued her search as she hovered in the air. She headed into Everfree Forest as she headed to Zecora's hut.

Inside Fluttershy greeted Zecora as she watched the zebra working at her cauldron. “So Fluttershy, what is it you seek?” Zecora asked Fluttershy.

“I was hoping you had seen Spike, he ran away from Ponyville and nopony has seen him, nor have any animals.” Fluttershy answered. Zecora frowned when she heard this.

“His sadness and anger I can see, but was this his reason to flee?” Zecora asked.

“I dunno, he was angry at everypony. I would be too if I lost my mother.” Fluttershy responded.

“I see, sad to say he didn't come this way.” Zecora told Fluttershy. “But a bad omen is headed this way, a terrible threat in many ways.” the zebra told Fluttershy as the pegasus gasped.

“A bad omen? Is it evil?” Fluttershy asked as Zecora nods as the zebra explained the omen though mostly she was unsure what it meant but right away she knew it was evil. Fluttershy looked afraid as she heard Zecora's words. She had to rush off and tell the others about Zecora's preminition.

Meanwhile back in Ponyville Applejack arrived at the Library as she entered and looked around. “No sign of Twilght anywhere, guess she's not back from Canterlot yet.” she turned to leave before Rainbow Dash arrived. “Rainbow, any luck findin' Spike?” Applejack asked.

“Nope, I searched everywhere and no sign of Spike anywhere, heck even the Griffons don't know where he's at.” Rainbow Dash told Applejack. “Is Twi back yet?” she asked.

“Nope, I was just here myself. None of my kin have seen Spike either, not in Appleloosa or in Manehattan.” Applejack told Rainbow Dash as Rarity and Pinkie Pie arrived next.

“Hey, did you guys have any luck finding Spike?” Pinkie asked.

“Nope, we both had no luck.” Applejack answered Pinkie.

“Yeah, the Griffons didn't see Spike and nopony else has either.” Rainbow Dash added in.

“Yeah, my family didn't see Spike eiether.” Pinkie sighed.

“I questioned as many ponies as I could and no sign of poor Spike anywhere.” Rarity added in. “I did encounter Starlight Glimmer, she's also on the search for Spike.” she said to her friends.

“I guess it was a good thing ya found Starlight, we can use her help right about now.” Applejack said to Rarity just as Fluttershy arrived. “Fluttershy did ya have any luck finding Spike?” Applejack asked.

“no, every animal I met didn't see Spike. I hope he's okay.” Fluttershy let out a sigh. “Oh, I did see Zecora though she didn't see Spike either, she did have a omen about a bad evil.” Fluttershy began.

“What??” Rainbow Dash began before Mayor Mare rushed into the Library.

“Thank heavens I found you here!” Mayor Mare was almost out of breath.

“Mayor what's going on?” Applejack asked.

“There's smoke rising from the sky, several pegasi believe the smoke is coming from Canterlot!” Mayor Mare said. The girls all were shocked to hear this.

“WHAT?!” the girls all said as they rushed outside, sure enough they could see the thick smoke coming from the direction of Canterlot. It was a no brainer what was going on.

Canterlot was under attack!

Author's Notes:

The quest to find Spike has taken an interesting turn. Now the element bearers have just seen Canterlot under attack, what will happen next?

At the Crystal Empire. Luna's Revelation. Evil revealed!

“Oh man, what the heck is going on here??” Rainbow Dash asked.

“This could be that omen Zecora told Fluttershy about.” Applejack answered as she could see the thick smoke rising from Canterlot's direction.

“Mayor, get everypony ready for evacuation. Whatever is going on in Canterlot might come over here. And we need to be ready.” Rainbow Dash told Mayor Mare, the Mayor nods as she rushed out to warn the citizens of Ponyville about the impending attack.

“Ah hope Twilight is alright.” Applejack continued to look toward the smoke as she and the other element bearers rushed off to help with the evacuation plans.

Meanwhile in Canterlot the attacks began to worsen as the royal guards battled the soldiers of Unicornia. Magic blasts were traded between the two factions as the war waged on. At the castle Princess Celestia watched the on going fight from the window as Twilight and her family figured out what to do. “Mom, Dad, you'll be safer in the Crystal Empire with Cadence and Shining Armor.” Twilight told her parents.

“Twiley's right, the Empire's defenses are fortified. We won't have any problems there.” Shining Armor told his parents.

“It'll be good to see our granddaughter too.” Twilight Velvet said, Twilight blinked hearing this.

“Wait, granddaughter??” Twilight Sparkle looked at her mother.

“Oh yeah, I forgot to tell you Twilight. Cadence and I had a daughter.” Shining Armor told Twilight, the alicorn couldn't believe it, not only did she have a new sister but now a niece too.

“I was gone for a long time. I missed the births of both my sister and my niece.” Twilight felt angry. So much was robbed from her by the nobles and Amadeus Blueblood. “Amadeus Blueblood has a lot to pay for!” she growled.

“Twilight, I don't understand why they hate you so much. I learned about how you saved Equestria from a lot of evils. I thought everypony respected their heroes.” Twinkle spoke up, Twilight shook her head hearing her sister.

“Not all ponies are satisfied, especially those low down nobles.” Twilight told her sibling.

“Twilight honey, we hope you'll come to the Crystal Empire. It'll be more safer for you to be there.” Nightlight told Twilight.

“I know dad, but there's somethings I need to take care of in Ponyville, one I need to make sure everypony there is evacuated safely. Second I need to rally my friends, and third I need to find Spike.” Twilight told her father.

“I see.” Nightlight told Twilight.

“Twilight, I want to go with you to Ponyville and meet your friends.” Twinklestar spoke up.

“Twinkle, it's dangerous though I know you won't take no for an answer. Just be careful and stay close to me. Our family's suffered enough as it is.” Twilight told her sister. Soon after exchanging goodbyes with their parents and elder brother and sister in law, Twilight began to plan her own trip back to Ponyville.

“Heading back to Ponyville I see?” Discord appeared as he looked at Twilight.

“Yeah, I need to check in on my friends. I hope they found Spike.” Twilight told Discord with a worried tone.

“Don't worry Twilight. I'm sure he'll find his way home.” Twinklestar told her big sister.

“Yeah, right now my concern is to warn my friends.” Twilight's horn lit up.

“We'll hold out as long as we can here. I'm not certain how much longer we can hold out.” Princess Celestia told Twilight.

“As much as I dislike destructive chaos, I'll have to help as well. Besides this is as much my home too you know. And besides nobody can cause chaos like me.” Discord spoke up.

“Princess, I'll defend you to the end.” Gladius Strife added in as he stood at the ready with the other guards.

“Then we'll begin as soon as possible.” Princess Celestia told Gladius. Twilight nodded as she and Twinklestar were engulfed by magic as they teleported away. Celestia turned to Luna, Discord, and Gladius. “This may very well be the fight of our lives.” She warned them.

“They used my brother to break his vow of friendship to Prince Shining Armor and to Princess Twilight Sparkle. I will take revenge on them.” Gladius responded to Princess Celestia as the four of them headed out into the heat of battle.

Meanwhile in Ponyville Twilight and Twinklestar arrived in the library just as the elements arrived as well.

“Twi! Glad you made it back in one piece. We got worried when we saw the smoke over in Canterlot.” Rainbow Dash was the first to break the silence.

“Unicornia started the invasion. We haven't much time to lose. Where's Spike?” Twilight asked.

“Ah'm sorry Twilight, we searched everywhere and no pony has seen Spike anywhere. It's like he vanished off the face of Equestria.” Applejack told Twilight. The Alicorn frowned although she was worried sick about Spike and now the war beginning.

“Darling don't worry. We ran into Starlight Glimmer, she's gone to search for Spike.” Rarity told Twilight. The Alicorn perked at the mention of her student's name.

“Starlight, I'm glad to hear she's okay.” Twilight said in a relieved tone to hear about her student.

“I'm sure Starlight will find Spike. Right now we gotta stop Unicornia from taking over Equestria.” Rainbow Dash spoke up.

“We need to make sure everypony here is safe. Then we can concentrate on stopping the invasion. And I know who's at the center of all this too.” Twilight said to her friends.

“Yeah, ah bet it's them nobles who hated yer reforms.” Applejack said too as she remembered everything that happened, that led up to the attempt on Twilight's life.

“You got that right Applejack, it was the nobles and their leader Amadeus Blueblood.” Twilight explained all she knew to her friends.

“Prince Blueblood's own father?? I can't believe it!” Rarity said in shock.

“Same here, that low down snake in the grass sold his own kin out fer power.” Applejack said in disgust.

“Yeah and for what nopony knows.” Rainbow Dash added in as she too felt disgust hearing the news from Twilight.

“My brother also knows why Gallant Heart tried to kill me. He was blackmailed with the threat of his younger brother's life over his head.” Twilight said as her friends reacted.

“Shiny said that?” Twinkle asked her sister as Twilight nodded her head.

“Hey Twi, sorry if i'm changing the subject but who's that pony who came with ya?” Rainbow Dash asked Twilight.

“Oh, I'm sorry guys. I forgot. This is my little sister Twinklestar Sparkle.” Twilight introduced her sister. The younger unicorn stepped up to Twilight's friends.

“I didn't know you had a sister Twilight, if I did I would have thrown her a biiiiig party! Well if we weren't still sad thinking you were gone and all.” Pinkie Pie said.

“Oh it's okay. I know of you guys and how your friendship with my big sister helped Equestria time and time again.” Twinklestar told the element bearers.

“Hey Pinkie you better save the party till after we stop Amadeus Blueblood.” Rainbow Dash told Pinkie Pie.

“Right, first thing we need to do is get everypony to safety. The Crystal Empire is our best bet.” Twilight told her friends whom all nodded. Mayor Mare suddenly rushed back inside.

“Everypony is ready to.... Oh my heavens! Princess Twilight?? Is that really you?!” Mayor Mare froze in her hooves seeing Twilight alive and well.

“It's a long story Mayor, right now we need to get everypony over to the Crystal Empire.” Twilight told the Mayor, she nods as she heads outside to get everypony prepared to leave to the Empire.

Soon every family and every citizen in Ponyville gathered to leave via trains to the Crystal Empire. Some felt remorse for leaving, others afraid of the looming threat. Applejack stood with her family as they prepared to leave. “Applejack?” Applebloom looked at her older sister. “Why is everypony leavin Ponyville?” She asked.

“Cause, them nobles started war. Ah don't want you or any of mah kin being harmed.” Applejack told Applebloom whom nods.

“Okay everypony. We need you all to board each train.” Mayor Mare's voice cut through the air as the ponies boarded the trains. Once on board the ponies all waited to move out. Ms.Cheerilee looked out the window of the train seeing the school house a distance away as she sighed.

“If only Twilight Sparkle were here, she'd be able to stop this madness.” Ms.Cheerilee said. She wasn't the only one who felt the same way as many other ponies shared the same settiments.

In one car the element bearers and their families were seated in. Twilight happened to sneak onboard with her hood on as Twinklestar came alongside her. She got noticable looks from many of the ponies on board. “Hey, Ah wonder who that can be?” Big Macintosh asked Applejack.

“Don't worry Big Mac, you'll know soon enough.” Applejack replied. The trains soon departed from Ponyville, the town was soon completely abandoned as the last train left. Back in the mane 6's car Twilight stood up to face everypony in the car.

“Everypony, I think I owe you an explaination.” Twilight began.

“Yeah, it's already breakin mah heart ta leave the farm as is.” Granny Smith spoke up. “ah hope the nobles rot in Tartarus once this war is over.” she said.

“Hey Rainbow Dash, that hooded pony sounds familiar..” Scootaloo said to Rainbow Dash.

“I understand that, but rest assured the nobles and Amadeus Blueblood will be stopped before they can corrupt Equestria under their banner of hate.” Twilight answered Granny Smith.

“Land sakes, your so wise, just like Twilight Sparkle was.” Granny Smith said amazed unaware she was talking to Twilight.

“Well to be frank, i'm that wise because..” Twilight took her hood off as she revealed herself. “I'm still alive.” she said.

“Oh my faust! Twilight is that really you??” Granny smith asked shocked to see her, Big Macintosh was shocked to see Twilight too.

“Whoa! Twilight's alive!” Scootaloo said in shock.

“Oh yeah, we were going to tell you Scootaloo.” Sweetie Belle told Scootaloo.

“So that means.. Button Mash, Featherweight, and Pipsqueak saw you in the library and thought you were a ghost!” Scootaloo couldn't believe what she heard.

“Yeah, sorry I kept myself hidden. I didn't want Amadeus Blueblood's spies knowing I'm alive and well.” Twilight told Scootaloo. She noticed Sweetie Belle and Applebloom not looking surprised.

“Hey sorry Twi but we kinda knew you were alive still. Applejack told me.” Applebloom told Twilight.

“Yeah and Rarity told me too.” Sweetie Belle added on.

“I understand.” Twilight said as she and Twinklestar took their seats.

“Hey Twilight, um who's your friend there.” Applebloom asked Twilight.

“She's my sister Twinklestar.” Twilight answered Applebloom's question.

“Nice ta meet ya. Ah'm Applebloom and these are my friends Scootaloo and Sweetie Belle.” Applebloom introduced herself to Twinklestar and her friends too.

“Yeah, we are part of a club called the Cutie Mark Crusaders. We used to do a lot of stuff trying to get our cutie marks till we got them. Now we help other ponies understand the meanings of their cutiemarks.” Scootaloo told Twinklestar about the CMCs.

“Wow, that does sound cool.” Twinklestar said amazed.

“Yeah it is.” Sweetie Belle said next. “Hey, can you use magic like Twilight can?” Sweetie Belle asked.

“Not yet, my BSBFF is going to teach me how though.” Twinklestar said. Twilight looked at Twinklestar.

“BSBFF huh?” Twilight asked.

“Yeah, since Shiny is our BBBFF you can be my BSBFF, my big sister best friend forever.” Twinklestar told Twilight with a smile.

“Wow, never thought I'd hear that.” Twilight said to her sister. Now Twilight was determined to teach Twinklestar magic.

“Twilight once we get to the Empire what do we do next?' Rainbow Dash asked.

“First we need to tell Shiny and Cadence the situation, next I need to find a way to communicate with Starlight Glimmer and let her know the situation at hoof, and third I hope we can search for Spike.” Twilight told her friends and their families and friends.

“Sounds like a big plan Twilight.” Rainbow Dash said to Twilight.

“I know. For now we can only wait.” Twilight responded to Rainbow Dash. As the ride continued into the late hours Twilight tried to rest though she was worried about Spike and more so what was happening with Princess Celestia, Princess Luna, Discord, and Gladius Stride. She hoped they were okay as she finally succumbed to slumber. Hours passed into days before the trains all arrived at the Empire. The ponies all disembarked as Twilight and her friends stepped off the train as they were greeted by the royal family.

“Twiley, Twinkle, you made it. And I see you brought all of Ponyville with you.” Shining Armor greeted his sisters.

“Yeah, hope this won't be of an inconviniance Shiny.” Twilight told her brother whom nods. “Where's mom and dad at?” Twilight asked.

“Back in the castle with Flurry Heart.” Shining Armor answered.

“So that's her name, I hope my niece will know me as family.” Twilight said to her brother as he motioned for his crystal guards to help the citizens of ponyville to their designated area. The mane 6 along with Twinklestar and Shining Armor headed to the palace where Princess Cadence was waiting at. Once there Twilight and Twinklestar greeted their sister in law and parents. Twilight noticed the bundle Cadence was holding and approached.

“That bundle, is that Flurry Heart?” Twilight asked as Cadence nodded.

“Yeah, I know how much it meant for you to be here when she was born, but those blasted monsters...” Cadence began before Twilight stopped her.

“We'll stop Amadeus Blueblood and his ilk in Unicornia. I promise.” Twilight told Cadence as she looked at Princess Flurry Heart. “She's beautiful.” Twilight said to Cadence before she saw the infant's wings stretch out, she looked both surprised and amazed at her wing span. “She's an alicorn??” Twilight looked surprised.

“Yeah, she surprised Princess Celestia and Princess Luna when she was born.” Shining Armor added in. “Though we had no idea one of those lowly bastards from Equestria's First tried to kidnap her from the nursery. Luckily I was able to stop him with help from Gladius and the royal guards whom were there.” Shining said with a growl. Twilight gasped when she heard this as did her friends.

“Why them twisted monsters! Bad enough they attacked Princess Celestia's school now they tried ta kidnap your baby too??” Applejack said infuriated.

“Man that's the lowest anypony could go! I say we take the war to Unicornia!” Rainbow Dash shouted looking angry.

“I know, those monsters targeted Flurry cause of her connection to me.” Twilight growled.

“That would be kidnapper refused to talk before he used his own magic to snap his own throat.” Shining Armor said with a glare in his eyes.

“Those rotten monsters have it our for our family that's what I'm getting.” Nightlight said to his son.

“They didn't even try it when I had Twinklestar. Why go after Flurry Heart? She's just a baby.” Twilight Velvet said looking at her granddaughter as she used her magic to wave a rattle infront of Flurry heart as the foal giggles and coos reaching for it.

“All because of my plans for reform..” Twilight sighed and lowered her head.

“Twi, you had no idea those jerks were going to try to kill you. If anything those creeps should be sent to the sun or moon.” Rainbow Dash said with a huff.

“No, that would be too good for scum like Amadeus Blueblood.” Twilight lifted her head. “I hope to find a way to communicate with Princess Celestia in Canterlot. I hope she's alright.” Twilight said thinking of her mentor who stood by to battle the unicornian army. “mom, I think the reason might be, is because of what Flurry is, what I am, an alicorn.” Twilight told her mother.

“That would make sense Twilight dear.” Twilight Velvet watched as Flurry Heart started to suck on her rattle.

“It's just guess work.” Twilight told her mother. Twinklestar went over to Flurry heart and played with her too. Twilight excused herself as she grabbed a familiar journal and started to write in it. “I'm sure Sunset will be happy to see this.” Twilight said to herself as she wrote in it. “Sunset, it's me Twilight. I know your going to want to know how I survived, it was Princess Celestia who healed me though it took along time due to the Orichalcum those devils stabbed me with. Sunset, if anything happens or if the Unicornians tried to invade Canterlot High with the portal get all our counterparts together and prevent them from taking Canterlot High. Signed your friend Twilight Sparkle.” Twilight finished as she sets the journal down. “I hope she gets the message.” she said.

Meanwhile in an alternate universe a flaming haired girl was reading from a journal and sighs. Sunset Shimmer was about to close the book when she noticed it glow. “What?? Can it be??” Sunset opened the journal as she read the words that appeared, her eyes widened as tears welled up in them. “Twilight.. You're alive!” she exclaimed before she further read her warning. “Unicornia?! It can't be!” she realized Twilight wouldn't lie about this if it wasn't serious. She knew what she had to do as she shut the journal and went to get her friends, the human counterparts of the mane 6.

Meanwile back in Equestria Twilight was looking at the crystal heart as it shined. Twinklestar joined her sister as she looked at the crystal heart. “Hey twinklestar.” Twilight greeted her sister.

“I know it's late but when will we start the magic lesson?” Twinklestar asked

“Tomorrow, right now it's late.” Twilight told her sibling. Twinkle noticed Twilight looking at the crystal heart.

“it's beautiful huh?” Twinklestar asked.

“Yeah, Spike helped reforge it when the Empire was in danger from King Sombra.” Twilight told her sister as she reflected on how the Empire was in danger from King Sombra and how Spike was able to bring the Crystal Heart back in order to defeat Sombra.

“Guess that's why there's a statue of Spike in the garden. He really is a hero.” Twinklestar said.

“Yeah.” Twilight looked out toward the night sky as the stars illumninated the sky. “No moon, I hope Princess Luna is okay and Princess Celestia too.” Twilight said as she sighed.

“Oh no need to worry about moon butt and sun butt Princess.” Came a familiar voice. Twilight and Twinklestar turned around just in time to see Discord appear with Luna and Celesia, Gladius was with them though he had wounds all over his body.

“Princess Luna! Princess Celestia!” Twilight rushed to the two alicorns.

“No concern for me Twilight? I thought we were such good friends.” Discord huffed as he turned away.

“Sorry Discord, It's just I was so worried about what was happening in Canterlot.” Twilight said to Discord whom nods.

“We may have more to worry about.” Princess Celestia stood up weakly.

“I hope Discord's little trick will buy us time to formulate a plan to stop the unicornians before they take all of Equestria.” Princess Luna added in as she helped Celestia to her feet.

“What trick?” Twilight asked as she helped her mentor.

“Simple, remember when I made your friends act the total opposite?” Discord asked Twilight as he grinned.

“I remember.” Twilight said as she remembered how Discrd discorded the element barrers and herself. “Discord did you...?” Twilight asked.

“As a matter of fact I did. Let's see those invaders fight amongst themselves.” the draconequus cackled.

“The barrier around the castle is reinforced, no matter what happens the unicornians won't set hoof inside.” Gladius Stride told Twilight whom nodded.

“That's a relief.” Twilight said as she looked at Princess Celestia.

“For now, I fear the worst for Equestria.” Princess Celestia went out to view the night sky. Princess Luna followed her sister as she used her magic to raise the moon.

“As do I Tia.” Princess Luna told her sister. “Especially after what I've learned.” she said as Celestia looked at Luna. “I'm sorry Tia, there's so much I've held back but in these dark times they must be known.” Princess Luna said to her sister.

“More secrets moon butt?” Discord asked.

“Princess Luna what's going on?” Twilight asked the night princess as she approached her.

“I know why Amadeus Blueblood sacrificed his own son. I saw it in his dream.” Princess Luna told Twilight.

“I had assumed the nobles would have sealed their minds with that Dreamless Sleep Potion to keep you out, when they feared your alter ego Nightmare Moon.” Princess Celesta said to her sister.

“I read about that potion in my textbooks, they made it as a fail safe to keep Nightmare Moon from attacking them in their sleep.” Twilight spoke up next. Princess Luna nodded.

“Even though now I'm not Nightmare Moon they still fear me enough to use that potion. But as I said before I saw the reason for Amadeus's plans. His own daughter.” Princess Luna said to her sister and Twilight.

“He has a daughter??” Twilight asked in surprise not even knowing of this. “I had no idea Prince Blueblood had a sister.” Twilight said shaking her head in disbelief.

“Indeed. She's the focus of his plans. That monster sacrificed his own son and wife just to make sure his precious Majesty gains power.” Princess Luna growled.

“What?? I knew he was scum but this takes the cake.” Twilight spoke up.

“Indeed, he even taunted me with the knowledge I could have stopped the assassination or even told Tia and Cadence.” Princess Luna shut her eyes. “I could have warned you and your friends about the assassination but I failed to even do that.” Luna lowered her head.

“Princess Luna, even if you did get the word out what would have stopped Amadeus from denying your claims and claim your trying to attack his credibility.” Gladius said to Princess Luna.

“True. He would speak with his forked tongue as usual. I didn't buy his crocodile tears he shed for his wife.” Princess Luna told Gladius, Celestia, Twilight, Discord, and Twinklestar.

“Princess Luna, what about this Majesty?” Twinklestar asked.

“She was a filly when I saw her last. By now she's probably grown up.” Princess Luna answered Twinklestar's question.

“Princess Luna what else did you learn from Amadeus's dream?” Twilight asked now wanting to know.

“Majesty is a alicorn.” Princess Luna told Twilight, she gasped as she was in shock.

“I can only wager Amadeus and the nobles covered up Majesty's birth to keep us from knowing that an alicorn foal was born.” Princess Celestia said as her horn lit up. “Thought Luna got the information out. Had we known where they were headed at the time we could have captured Amadeus and punish him for all the sins he's committed.” Princess Celestia said.

“Princess Celestia, this could explain why Equestria's First tried to kidnap Flurry Heart. She's an alicorn as well and those maniacs might have been sent by Amadeus when he learned about Flurry Heart's birth.” Twilight spoke up.

“it makes perfect sense to me.” Princess Celestia nodded to her student.

“I wish you all could have seen Amadeus's face when I mentioned Majesty.” Princess Luna smirked.

“Indeed, but what else is he planning?” Twilight asked.

“He intended to arrange a marriage between Majesty and Unicornia's King Dauphin's son Prince Silversteel. By now Majesty is Queen of Unicornia.” Princess Luna informed Twilight Sparkle.

“the pieces of the puzzle are falling in place. Amadeus is using the armies of Unicornia and Equestria's First to force his vision on Equestria. And he's using his own daughter to do it.” Twilight looked determined now to stop the mastermind of her would be assassination.

“We wiped out Equestria's First a long time ago after they bombed Princess Celestia's school. Save for Flurry Heart's would be kidnapper.” Gladius infomred Twilight whom nodded.

“Okay, guess we focus on the Unicornia invaders and eventually getting to Amadeus and Majesty.” Twilight looked to her sister and the princesses.

“Indeed.” Princess Celestia nods her head. Twilight noticed Princess Luna smirking about something.

“Princess Luna?” Twilight asked the night princess.

“Oh sorry Twilight. Just thinking of the torment I left Amadeus. I know I can't harm anybody in their dreams anymore so I left Amadeus a parting gift.” Princess Luna's grin grew wider.

“Princess what did you give him??” Twilight asked Princess Luna.

“The Tantabus. It's giving Amadeus Blueblood eternal night terrors. My way of warning him he'll fall with his precious Majesty.” Luna responded grinning.

“It does serve him right.” Twilight said to Princess Luna though Twilight wanted Amadeus to suffer like she did.

Meanwhile a long distance away a royal caravan arrives in Canterlot. Inside an alicorn in the shadows waited as her soldier reported the situation.

“Your highness. We were able to pacify the guards that turned traitor on us. We suspect it was work of Discord the spirit of chaos.” the guard told the alicorn, she growled.

“And Princess Luna?” Majesty Blueblood asked as she glared at the guard.

“Gone with her sister and Discord. The barrier they placed around the castle seems to be impregnable by all our magics.” the guard told Queen Majesty. She growled before blasting the guard away.

“Weakling fool.” Queen Majesty growled. “I want that barrier destroyed!” she ordered as her guards went to try to pierce the barrier. Majesty looked over at Amadeus Blueblood, the elder blueblood looked like he was dragged through Tartarus and back, his eyes were bloodshot and had many bags from endless nightterrors inflicted by the Tantabus. “Father, i'll make Princess Luna pay for what she did to you. As well as every other alicorn in Equestria till I'm the only one.” Majesty told her father.

“Yes, indeed.” Amadeus said though he looked out of it. Majesty sighed as she returned her focus to Canterlot Castle. “I will rule Equestria and bring it back to it's proper age. My age!” Majesty said with her own determination.

Author's Notes:

It seems Queen Majesty has been revealed. How can Twilight and her friends battle Majesty? And how powerful is the evil alicorn? We'll soon learn how powerful she can be.

Chapter 5 - A clue to Spike's whereabouts

The morning sun shined on Equestria though all was not well as Unicornia's invasion force had struck Equestria. Already the Unicornian army had taken over Ponyville and have fashioned it into a base of operations. Queen Majesty awaited word from the army in Canterlot whom remained trying to pierce the barrier set around the castle by the combined magic of the two princesses and Discord. Amadeus looking frail stood beside his daughter's throne. “Any minute now and they will have that barrier destroyed.” Amadeus told his daughter.

“If they value their lives they will shatter the barrier.” Majesty told her father. “I deserve all power, it's my birthright and I've taken the first step by becoming queen of Unicornia, when I rule over Equestria I'll make everypony bow to me as the Goddess I deserve to be.” Majesty coldly said. “First to ensure my rule, I must connect with my guests.” Majesty's gaze fixed toward her other guest in her caravan, a familiar demonic centaur who looked at the alicorn seeing the evil radiating from her.

“So, your invasion has begun but I can sense you want more.” Tirek looked at Majesty Blueblood and Amadeus. “Not surprising from a weakling alicorn as yourself.” he smirked at Majesty

“You will see me greater than that weakling fool Queen Faust. I need your help Tirek, you have a spell I must master.” Majesty responded to Tirek, he laughs as he heard Majesty's request.

“You dare to master my forbidden magic? What makes you believe I'll submit to a lowly alicorn such as yourself? Although revenge on Twilight Sparkle and her friends will be mine.” Tirek said as he could see a glare from Amadeus Blueblood.

“You dare speak the name of that harlot who tried to ruin Equestria in our presence?!” Amadeus snapped at Tirek before Majesty turned her attention on her father.

“Father that will be enough. Besides Tirek, my father had his assassins deal with Twilight Sparkle, she's rotting in Tartarus where she belongs.” Majesty told Tirek, the centaur smirked.

“Is that a fact?” Tirek asked before a pair of uncornian guards arrived.

“Your highness, the barrier is weakening but it'll take more time before it is fully destroyed.” the unicornian guard told Majesty, she glared at the guard.

“It's not good enough, tell the guards to work double time! I want MY castle cleared of that barrier understood?!” Majesty snapped at the guard. The guard quaked in his horseshoes.

“Yes your highness. B-but our guards made an interesting discovery in the memorial garden. One of the graves was apparently robbed.” the guard told Majesty, the evil alicorn raised an eyebrow.

“Who's grave was it?” Majesty asked. It wouldn't be like Princess Celestia to take a corpse with her unless it was somepony special to her.

“We checked the grave maker, it's the grave of Princess Twilight Sparkle.” the guard gulped as Majesty's horn lit up again, he grew fearful as Amadeus glared at him too.

“Apparently Celestia took Twilight Sparkle's body with her.” Tirek smirked again.

“Majesty dear, there is nothing Celestia can do with the corpse of that harlot. Rest assured once you've taken Equestria we'll deal with Twilight Sparkle's corpse and her friends if they refuse your rule.” Amadeus told his daughter whom nods.

“Tirek. My patience is wearing thin, teach me what I wish to know now.” Majesty told Tirek.

“You dare to threaten me??” Tirek glared before a red beam shot into the centaur's chest causing Tirek to stagger. “Wh-what is this?? Wha-at are you doing to..” Tirek reeled in pain. His chest seemed to be on fire as his breathing became hard.

“I can crush you with ease. But I need you alive to teach me your spell.” Majesty told Tirek.

“ugh.. fine!” Tirek gasped as Majesty released her grip on him. He staggered forward clutching his chest.

“Perfect.” Majesty grinned with pure evil. She prepared herself to learn from Tirek.

Meanwhile at the Crystal Empire, Twilight had begun to train her sister Twinklestar in magic. Princess Celestia observed the two ponies in magic teachings though she can see some worry in Twilight's eyes. “Oh Twilight, if there was some way I can help reunite you with Spike.” Princess Celestia muttered to herself. She noticed a crystal guard approach.

“Princess Celestia, there are two unicorn mares who wishes to enter the empire. They both claim to know Twilight Sparkle.” the guard informed Princess Celestia.

“What was that?” Twilight turned her head to the guard.

“Oh! Princess Twilight! There are two unicorn mares whom are outside the barrier of the Empire, they wish to pass through.” the guard told Twilight Sparkle, she didn't waste time as she followed the guard toward the barrier. Once there Twilight could see snow falling outside the barrier as well as two familiar figures.

“Is that..?” Twilight began as she used her magic to open the barrier enough for her to step outside of it as she approached the two mares.

“Twilight! Rarity wasn't kidding. You did survive!” came the familiar voice of Starlight Glimmer as she hugged her teacher just relieved to see her alive and well.

“So you cheated death, that's something you must teach The Great and Powerful Trixie sometime, but in all seriousness, The Great and Powerful Trixie is happy to see you alive and not in that coffin.” came the voice of Trixie Lulamoon.

“Trixie??” Twilight looked at her old rival as she looked happy to see her. “How did you guys know I was here?” Twilight asked Starlight and Trixie.

“Well. It started when I was searching for Spike. Rarity told me what had happened with you surviving. I'll ask about that later, meantime I searched every place I could think of where Spike could be at but to no avail, I went back to Ponyville hoping to tell you when I found the town deserted.” Starlight began her explaination.

“That was when Starlight and I encountered each other, even I the great and powerful Trixie knew something was off about Ponyville being abandoned. We knew we had to leave if something disasterous was on the way since we both learned about the Canterlot invasion.” Trixie continued the explanation where Starlight left off.

“Good thing my hunch was right and we came here. Besides it's the only logical place to evacuate to.” Starlight finished as Twilight nods her head.

“I was there in Canterlot when Unicornia attacked.” Twilight told her student.

“Unicornia??” Trixie said as she gasped in shock.

“Wait... Unicornia?? They had the gall to break the treaty Princess Platinum signed ages ago to unify all of Equestria??” Starlight said shocked to hear this information.

“Apparently they got no respect for somepony like Princess Platinum. Let's get back inside the barrier.” Twilight said to Trixie and Starlight. The two unicorns nodded as they followed Twilight through the barrier and into the Empire. They soon arrived inside the crystal empire castle as Twilight led them into the main area where the element barrers, the princesses, Shining Armor, Flurry Heart, and Twinklestar were at.

“Hey Starlight, glad you made it here.” Rainbow Dash went to greet Starlight.

“I'm just glad we figured out where you guys were at. I need to tell Twilight something important, I found a clue where Spike could possibly be at.” Starlight told Rainbow Dash.

“Where?! Where is he?!” Twilight asked, her expression was one of worry.

“I tracked a lead I got from a pony who saw a dragon matching Spike's description accompanied by a baby phoenix. They were headed to Baltimare.” Starlight told Twilight.

“Baltimare?? Why would Spike be headed there??” Twilight asked.

“Maybe some of us should go and investigate this lead Twi.” Rainbow Dash suggested.

“Ah reckon that's our only option ta find Spike. Ah say we do it.” Applejack agreed with Rainbow Dash's suggestion.

“Right. Starlight I need you to go with Rainbow Dash and Applejack to Baltimare and see if Spike is still there.” Twilight told Starlight whom nodded to her mentor.

“I can provide a fast way to get there. If you may princess.” Discord's voice echoed as he appeared beside Twilight.

“Fine Discord but just be careful. With Majesty's army about you could run into resistance.” Twilight warned Discord. The Draconequus laughed as he snapped his claw as he, Starlight, Rainbow Dash, and Applejack all vanished to Baltimare.

Once in Baltimare the group began to look around before discovering unicornian guards. “This isn't good.” Starlight said in a hushed tone.

“Man, Unicornia took Baltimare too??” Rainbow dash said in a hushed tone as well.

“We need ta get back to the Empire before they see us.” Applejack told her friends whom nodded, Discord nods as well as he snaps his claw transporting the group back to the Empire.

“What happened?” Twilight approached the group as they returned.

“Unicornia, they've taken Baltimare.” starlight Glimmer answered Twilight's question.

“My only chance to find Spike and those blasted traitors ruined it!” Twilight looked enraged.

“Twi, we'll get that info about Spike. We just gotta flush those racist ponies out of Baltimare first.” Rainbow Dash told Twilight whom nodded.

“Unicornia wouldn't expect a counter attack. I hope Shiny has the soldiers ready for war.” Twilight rushed off to find her brother. Luckily for her she didn't have to go far as Shining Armor along with Gladius Stride were preparing for any kind of attack from the invasion force.

“Twiley, I thought you were still training Twinke in magic, what happened?” Shining Armor turned his attention to Twilight.

“Get your best soldiers ready. Time to strike back against Unicornia!” Twilight told her brother.

Author's Notes:

Looks like the first major battle is upon us. And will Twilight get the clue she's seeking to find Spike?

The Battle for Baltimare! Twilight gets an answer.

“Twiley, I know how bad you want to find Spike.” Shining Armor addressed his sister Twilight Sparkle as they looked over the army of the Crystal Empire.

“I know Shiny, and I know somepony in Baltimare knows where Spike is. I have to find out where he is and if he's there.” Twilight told her brother.

“Twi, we saw the place crawling with Unicornian guards. It won't be easy especially if they have the citizens locked away.” Rainbow Dash floated over to Twilight as she explained the situation.

“She's right Twilight.” Starlight Glimmer added in. “What we need is a plan of attack. We go in with a full frontal assault we'll be sitting ducks.” she told Twilight as the alicorn nodded.

“I'll have one once we get ready to march.” Twilight answered her student.

“Well yer not goin' alone Twi. We're all comin too since we got some payback ta get on them dirty traitors.” Applejack stepped up with Rarity and Pinkie Pie beside her.

“Okay. First we all need to be ready for war.” Twilight Sparkle told her friends. She soon began final preparations with Gladius Strife and Shining Armor.

“Twiley, it's best you stay in the shadows. We can't let any Unicornians see you alive or else they might try to kill you again.” Shining Armor told Twilight whom nodded.

“I know. But I want to be there once we free the citizens of Baltimare and we learn where Spike is.” Twilight told her brother. Shining Armor nods.

“Perhaps I can be of some assistance.” Discord appeared before Twilight sparkle.

“How can you be of help?” Twilight faced Discord as the Draconequus chuckled.

“Simple, the Unicornian army can't fight what they can't see.” Discord was grinning as he spoke.

“Discord what do you have in mind?” Shining Armor asked.

“Oh a simple spell of mine to blind the Unicornian army to your presence. It's dirty I know but hey, they played dirty too Twilight.” Discord told Twilight.

“Do it Discord, once the army arrives in Baltimare. I want you to cast that spell on the Unicornian army.” Twilight told Discord. This surprised the Draconequus. “You are right, they did play dirty when they tried to kill me using Sir Gallant Heart as a pawn. And I've been told what they did to Princess Celestia's school, the school I proudly attended. And it's because of them Spike is all alone somewhere out there in Equestria!” Twilight's rage was showing as her hatred for the Bluebloods was surfacing. How Amadeus got away with attempted murder and slander of her good name, how he used other ponies to get what he wanted.

“Twilight!” Came Princess Celestia's voice as she heard Twilight's outburst. “We all want Amadeus to face his judgment for all he, Prince Blueblood, and Unicornia has done to Equestria.” she said as her wing wrapped around Twilight like a mother protecting her child.

“I know, it's just...” Twilight sighed. “They robbed me of so much, seeing my sister Twinklestar being born as well as my niece Flurry Heart. They even took Flash Sentry's life.” there were tears in Twilight's eyes.

“Twiley.” Shining Armor looked at Twilight and sighed. “Gladius, lets go to Baltimare. Suddenly I feel like crushing some racist unicornians.” he growled as Gladius nodded his head. Discord followed after them.

Days later in Baltimare, the once proud city was under Marshall law due to Unicornia's invasion. In one of the main inns was Sir Morning Blade, he was formally of the royal guards before he betrayed them in favor of serving the Unicornian cause. He was also responsible for freeing Tirek. Morning Blade was busy drinking when a soldier approached him. “What is it?” Morning Blade asked as he used his magic to set his mug down.

“Sir, we've been following reports over the whereabouts of the citizens of Ponyville but so far we've run into a dead end. As for the citizens we have here they will conform to Queen Majesty's rule or be executed as traitors.” the soldier told Morning Blade whom nodded.

“And what of the situation in Manehattan?” Morning Blade asked.

“Our forces are preparing to invade Manehattan, reinforcements will arrive soon to take over the rest of Equestria though there is concerns for the far off regions such as Saddle Arabia and The Crystal Empire.” The soldier told Morning Blade.

“Bah! No desert will stop us nor will any cold.” Morning Blade responded to his soldier.

“There is concern over the barrier around the Empire. If it's as strong as the one that is preventing our forces from taking Canterlot Castle.” the soldier said again.

“Must be the work of that fool Shining Armor. He's known for his powerful wards.” Morning Blade took a drink from his mug. “He won't be much of a problem once we get past his barrier.” he said unaware Shining Armor was about to arrive in Baltimare undetected.

Outside in the outskirts of Baltimare the Equestrian army stood at the ready, armed to the teeth and armored to match. Shining Armor stood at the front ready to lead the attack. “Alright everypony. We stand on the brink of war with those gutless traitors. They conspired to murder my sister Princess Twilight Sparkle and even more so to overthrow Princess Celestia and Princess Luna. They murdered many innocent mares, fillies, stallions, and colts to spread a message of fear in Equestria through terrorist acts. And most importantly they chose to screw with my family. My sister was the first they messed with, and they dared to lay hooves on my baby girl Princess Flurry Heart. Now is the time to strike back!” Shining Armor's voice echoed almost like the royal canterlot voice. The army cheered as they prepared to march into Baltimare but before they could, Discord whom was beside Shining Armor snapped his finger. A wave of magic surrounded the soldiers but seemingly did nothing.

“Lets see if those Unicornians can hit what they cannot see.” Discord grinned as he nods to Shining Armor.

“Then lets start retaking our home!” Shining Armor lead the army into Baltimare. Thanks to Discord's spell the Equestrian army went undetected as they began to ambush and assault the Unicornian patrols. Shining Armor and Gladius Stride made their way through the downtown area as they caught sight of one of the Unicornian guards rush into an inn.

“Sir Morning Blade! We're under attack!” the guard shouted as Morning Blade spat out his drink. He coughed a few times before he glared at the guard.

“Who's attacking us??” Sir Morning Blade stood up.

“The attackers are using some kind of invisibility spell to attack us. We don't know who they are.” The guard replied as Morning Blade grabbed his sword.

“And none of you thought to break that spell?” Morning Blade asked the guard.

“Several of our soldiers tried but failed to dispel it.” the guard answered as Morning Blade growled.

“You better hope no word of this reaches Queen Majesty.” Morning Blade headed out of the inn, as he did he suddenly felt the cold steel against his throat as he froze in his tracks.

“Hello Morning Blade, didn't think somebody like you would turn in his Equestrian armor for the rags of a bunch of racist traitors.” Shining Armor's voice came out as he held Morning Blade.

“Shining Armor?! But how did you..??” Morning Blade struggled as he felt Shining Armor's sword at his throat but couldn't even see it.

“My little secret.” Shining Armor responded as he forced Morning Blade back into the inn, behind Shining Armor was Gladius Stride whom kept two guards at bay though the guards were more in confusion at the invisible attackers. Inside the inn Shining Armor forced Morning Blade into a chair, he kept his sword on the turncoat's throat.

“Queen Majesty will have your head for this!” Morning Blade shouted before Shining Armor growled at Morning Blade.

“Not in this or any life time pal. Besides after what happened to my sister Twilight, Majesty and Amadeus will burn in Tartarus!” Shining Armor growled at Morning Blade.

“Still morning that whore sister of yours huh? She deserved to die for snubbing the Prince of his royal bir-agh!” Morning Blade felt the cold blade close to digging into his flesh. “No! Don't!” Morning Blade suddenly felt fear.

“Blueblood had no right to the title of Prince! After all he was his daddy's little bitch all the way to the end when he pissed himself when he was burned!” Shining Armor snarled. “And as for Amadeus and his new bitch Majesty, I'll enjoy seeing them get what's coming for what they did to my sister Twilight and for forcing my brother in arms Sir Gallant Heart to break his vow of friendship to me and Twiley by attacking her!” Shining Armor snarled louder.

“You fool! Can't you see that she's the cause of the cancer that doomed Equestria?! Queen Majesty is trying to heal Equestria's wounds your whore sister Twilight tried to inflict in her quest to usurp the crown!” Morning Blade shouted as he felt the blade deeply close to cutting his skin.

“Majesty is the only cancer hurting Equestria! Your just a blind fool under her control!” Shining Armor shouted back.

“Thanks for the idea.” Morning Blade's horn lit up as a bright flash suddenly emitted form it. Shining Armor and Gladius Stride were both blindsided by the flash. As their vision cleared they noticed that Morning Blade was gone.

“Damn coward!” Shining Armor shouted as one of the Equestrian guards rushed in.

“Your highness, we've routed the remaining Unicornian forces. They've been locked away as planned.” the guard reported to Shining Armor.

“Good, though that traitor Morning Blade escaped. Used some kind of spell to blindside me and Gladius.” Shining Armor sheathed his sword.

“I take it things went as planned?” Discord suddenly appeared sitting on a stool as Shining Armor nods.

“Discord, you can dispel the invisibility spell now. The unicornian soldiers are prisoners now.” Shining Armor told Discord whom nodded as he snapped his claw causing the Equestrian Army to appear.

“Oh I also took the liberty to disarm your prisoners. They can't fight without their magic.” Discord grinned. Moments later Shining Armor located the citizens whom were locked away. Once released the citizens showed their gratitude to their heroes. Shining Armor headed to a royal caravan that had arrived in Baltimare.

“Is it done Shiney?” Twilight sparkle's voice came from the caravan.

“Yeah. But Morning Blade escaped. Gladius discovered notes and I suspect he's fled to Manehattan to join a squad of Unicornian soldiers arriving there. We can go from here to Manehattan using one of the cargo ships as a decoy.” Shining Armor outlined his plan to Twilight whom nodded. She soon emerged with a hooded robe on and was accompanied by Starlight Glimmer. The two began to question the citizens till they got to the docks, the Equestrian army were loading supplies for the trip to Manehattan in the captured Unicornian ship.

“I hope Shiny knows what he's doing.” Twilight watched her brother and his forces prepare for the next strike.

“Don't worry, I'm sure your brother knows what he's doing.” Starlight said to Twilight as she continued her questioning. She sighed when her questions weren't answered. That was till she met a scruffy looking Minotaur looking over the at the ship he once served on alongside the Captain just before the Unicornians wrecked it as part of their invasion.

“Blasted unicorns. If I see another one I'll..” the Minotaur growled before he heard the sounds of hoofsteps behind him, he turned to see Starlight and Twilight. “What do you two want?” the minotaur asked.

“I'm searching for somepony special to me.” Twilight Sparkle began.

“Who might you be looking for?” the minotaur asked.

“A baby dragon. He answers to the name Spike. Have you seen him?” Twilight asked. The minotaur seemed puzzled before he nods.

“I saw him, had a baby phoenix with him. He paid good bits and jewels to secure a boat to set sail from.” The minotaur mused. Twilight's eyes went wide when she heard the minotaur's answer.

“YOU MUST TELL ME, WHERE IS SPIKE AT?! WHERE DID MY SON GO?!” Twilight cried out almost in the royal voice.

“Twilight, please calm down.” Starlight tried to calm her mentor and friend.

“Easy now. Yeah he and his pet phoenix were on my boat. I say it's suicide for him to head to the Erebus Islands. Oh well his loss then.” The minotaur told Twilight. The alicorn nods as she turned to Starlight.

“Starlight, get the others. We're headed to the Erebus Islands.” Twilight Sparkle told Starlight whom nodded. “Spike I'm coming. Just be safe.” Twilight said looking out toward the ocean.

Author's Notes:

Looks like the battle has been won for now, but Twilight now has a plan to find Spike. Meanwhile Shining Armor and Gladius Strife plan to ambush the Unicornian reinforcements in Manehattan, though knowing now that Sir Morning Blade has fled there after his humiliating defeat. The battle will get intense in the future.

The reunion in Judecca. Unicornia's attack on the isles!

Twilight Sparkle waited at the inn as Starlight Glimmer arrived with the element bearers. They all took seats as Twilight began her speech. “I know where Spike is at. We need to travel to the Erebus Islands.” Twilight told her friends. They all looked surprised and shocked to hear this information.

“Erebus?? Why would Spike go there?? That place is full of ruffians and the rest of their filth.” Rarity said with a shudder.

“I wouldn't blame Spike to be honest since we didn't do a thing to bust Amadeus.” Rainbow Dash added in.

“We were all grief stricken Dash. We all thought we lost our friend and tried to go on even though we all lost a part of us.” Applejack said to Rainbow Dash.

“She's right, we let those meanies hurt Twilight and rob my family too. If we could all take it back we could have done something.” Pinkie Pie sounded frustrated just knowing what a dangerous place Spike was currently at.

“Twilight, what's your plan now?” Starlight Glimmer looked to her mentor as Twilight decided on a course of action.

“I'm going to the Erebus Islands. Any of you are welcome to come with me.” Twilight answered Starlight's question as she looked to the others. Imminently Rainbow Dash stood up.

“Well Twi, count me in!” Rainbow Dash said.

“well ah guess ah'm comin too Twi.” Applejack also said.

“Same here! I can't wait to throw Spike a welcome home party!” Pinkie Pie added in as well.

“Oh.. it does sound like a mean place but we need to find Spike, I'll go too.” Fluttershy added in as well.

“Indeed, I'll go there too.” Rarity added in as well.

“Twilight, I'll go as well. After all we need to be careful at Erebus.” Starlight added in.

“Then lets prepare for our journey.” Twilight told her friends as they all left the inn. Soon hours later Twilight and Shining Armor met on the docks. Twilight planned to take a ship to the Erebus islands while Shining Armor was about to set an ambush on the Unicornians in Manehattan using the captured Unicornia battleship as his own.

“Twiley, be extra careful. No telling what kind of thugs are hiding out at the Erebus Islands.” Shining Armor told Twilight.

“Don't worry Shiny, I'll be fine. And I'm glad mom let Princess Celestia teach Twinkle in my absence.” Twilight reassured her brother as he nods. “Besides you need to be careful too.” She told her brother.

“Don't worry about me Twiley, Gladius and I have it all planned out. Those traitors won't even see us coming till it's too late.” Shining Armor told his sister as they hugged. “You better get ready to bring Spike home.” Shining told Twilight whom nods.

“I will, I promise.” Twilight told Shining Armor. “And I hope for your victory in Manehatten too BBBFF.” Twilight told her brother as Shining Armor nods as he went to the captured ship and boarded it, Twilight went to board her own ship as the two ships began to set sail. Soon the ship was sailing toward the Erebus Islands. Down below Twilight was in her cabin as a pony entered the room.

“It'll take us a few days till we arrive at our destination.” the pony told Twilight whom nodded.

“Thanks, I better rest till then.” Twilight told the pony as he nods and left Twilight alone. Twilight relaxed on the bed in the cabin as she slowly drifted to sleep. As she slept she dreamed she was in Canterlot Castle. She looked around the castle before the sound of hoofsteps caught her attention. She turned to see Princess Luna approach her.

“Twilight, I heard from Tia your intentions of leaving to find Spike. Be careful in these times. Equestria cannot lose it's element of magic again.” Princess Luna told Twilight as she nodded.

“I know, and I know where Spike is at. I hope to return soon with Spike. Then we can focus on bringing down Amadeus and his whole house.” Twilight told Princess Luna. The night princess nodded her head.

“Indeed, but again be wary.” Princess Luna nods to Twilight as she warned Twilight.

“I will be.” Twilight said to the night princess as the dream faded as Twilight woke up. She looked out the window of the cabin as she saw the stars at night. She laid back down and waited.

Morning soon came as the ship continued on it's way. The element barrers were on deck along with Twilight and Starlight. The sun was shining bright as the ship was closing in on their destination. “We'll be arriving soon.” the captain told Twilight whom nodded as she got her hood on.

“We're almost there Spike.” Twilight muttered to herself as the islands came into view. The ponies watched as the islands were closer. Soon the boat arrived in the port town Judecca as it docked, the elements and Starlight disembarked from the boat as they looked around seeing the various species interacting in harmony. Twilight smiled from under her hood. “It's like what I wanted Equestria to be like, before Amadeus spread his venom out.” she sighed as she and the others went into the marketplace asking about Spike. They didn't get much answers till Twilight approached a stand where a dragon was at. “Excuse me but I'm searching for somepony.” Twilight said to the old looking dragon.

“And whom might ye be lookin fer?” the dragon Marc asked Twilight.

“His name is Spike, he's a baby dragon and he ran away.” Twilight answered. Marc only smirked as he looked at Twilight even though she was hooded.

“well, so your lookin fer Spike eh? Well I be knowin where Spike is. But who calls fer him?” Marc asked Twilight's question with one of his own.

“Well...” Twilight began before Rainbow Dash walked up.

“Find anything on Spike yet?” Rainbow Dash asked Twilight as Marc arched an eyebrow.

“The Element of Loyalty Rainbow Dash? Never expected one of ye here in Judecca. Best be wary here.” Marc said to Rainbow Dash.

“What's that supposed to mean??” Rainbow Dash asked the older dragon.

“Fer one thing, the news of the war reached us all here. Could be spies here if ye don't be careful.” Marc answered Rainbow Dash's question.

“What about Spike?” Twilight asked Marc. The dragon nods to Twilight.

“Not here.” Marc answered as he looked toward the direction of the Rotten Barrel. “In there, we won't be noticed.” Marc told Twilight whom nodded. The ponies headed into the bar and inn. Marc followed after them as they all took seats in the establishment. “We should be safe from peering eyes fer your enemies.” Marc told Twilight whom nodded.

“You seem to know so much, especially about Unicornia and Equestria's problems.” Twilight said to Marc.

“Words came to these islands for along time. Especially the assassination of one of Equestria's heroines and newest princess. Aye Spike told me about the assassination and how powerless he felt to do a thing. I be warnin him about revenge and how it can consume ye.” Marc said to Twilight.

“Yeah, those scumbag nobles were behind the assassination of Twilight. Though the mastermind escaped punishment while his own son Prince Blueblood was punished.” Rainbow Dash said to Marc.

While the conversation was going on, inside the kitchen was Spike. Though he was much older than he was when Twilight was murdered. A moment Spike would never forget or forgive. It was the reason he left Equestria after he felt there was no justice besides Prince Blueblood and Sir Gallant Heart's execution along with the rest of the conspirators but Spike knew deep down Amadeus was the one behind it yet no pony would hear him. But since he arrived in Judecca he proved himself as a member of the Red Lightnings Guild even raising to the rank of one of the Big Four when he rescued a boat full of slaves from slavers. He looked at Peewee as the Phoenix chirped. “Guess after today we can plan our return to Equestria, with the war brewing this is my chance to get Amadeus for what he did to mom.” Spike said to the phoenix as he was preparing dinner. As he was preparing the food he heard voices outside in the dining area. “More customers?” Spike wondered as he peeked out the window to the dining area. He gulped and ducked back. “What are they doing here??” he said to Peewee in a hushed tone. He never expected to see Rainbow Dash, Starlight Glimmer, Fluttershy, Rarity, Applejack, and Pinkie Pie sitting with Marc! Though he noticed there was another pony hidden in a hood. He knew he'd have to face them someday.

Back outside the ponies and Marc continued to converse. “So let me get this straight. Spike is part of a guild?” Twilight asked Marc. The dragon nodded his head to confirm Twilight's question with an answer.

“Twilight if we find this guild we might find Spike.” Starlight suggested though she was unaware that Spike was in the kitchen. Spike was listening in on the conversation when he heard a voice he thought was silenced by the traitors.

“Mom??” Spike wondered. “No.. it can't be her...” Spike shut his eyes as visions of Twilight laying in her glass coffin came to mind. The funeral, still fresh in his mind. He could see the sad faces of Twilight Velvet wailing and crying for her baby filly as Nightlight held her, Shining Armor in his formal uniform holding his sobbing wife Princess Cadence. He can see the sadness in the faces of his friends and the other ponies, even the younger fillies and colts that knew Twilight were sad too. Spike growled to himself and shook his head. “I still can't forget those images Peewee.” Spike felt the Phoenix nuzzle him. He pets Peewee's head. “but what if it is?” Spike wondered as he got the food ready to serve. “I have to know if old memories are messing with my head.” Spike got the food ready as he placed it to be served though he wanted to greet his old friends though he wondered if Celestia still had a price on his head. He decided to find out. Meanwhile the group ate and were amazed at the taste and quality of the food.

“Ah must say the cook here cooks great food.” Applejack said as she enjoyed her meal.

“Well the new chef was a real blessing when he came here. Didn't think he'd go on to be so much more.” Rupert, the old griffin whom owned the Rotten Barrel said to his guests.

“Really?” Twilight asked Rupert.

“Yeah, said he was from Ponyville though he came to these parts, guess he wanted to leave his past behind.” Rupert answered Twilight's question. Twilight blinked as she looked at Rupert.

“Is he here?” Twilight asked Rupert. The griffin smirks as Twilight's question.

“He should be finishing up his shift as we speak.” Rupert answered Twilight, Spike continued to listen in. His mind was racing with thoughts, was Twilight really alive?? And if so, how?? Spike remembered seeing Twilight in the morgue, the deep wounds in her body, the fatal one across her throat, he remembered those images well. There shouldn't be no way to survive yet Twilight did so. He sighed and looked to Peewee as he prepared to face his friends he fled from and possibly the specter of his own deceased mother. Spike stepped outside and saw the ponies as they all stood up seeing Spike.

“Spikey Wikey?? is that you??” Rarity said surprised to see Spike looking older than the last time she saw him.

“Yeah, it's me Rarity.” Spike replied as he was suddenly hugged by the ponies. He had a smile on his face seeing his old friends again. “But how did you guys find me?? I wanted to surprise you guys by coming home.” Spike asked the other ponies.

“We learned about your trip back in Baltimare.” Starlight answered Spike's question. “Unicornia started the invasion of Equestria. Shining Armor was able to recapture Baltimare.” Starlight explained to Spike.

“So it's happened. Amadeus showed his true hand.” Spike growled.

“Aye, so yer chance at revenge has finally come Spike.” Marc approached Spike whom nods.

“But one thing.” Spike looked at the hooded mare. “You sound like my adopted mother Twilight Sparkle, but she died.. How is it you sound like her?” Spike asked the hooded mare unaware whom she was.

“Spike, I'm shocked you didn't recognize me. Must be the hood I'm under. Can't let Amadeus know how much of a failure Prince Blueblood really was.” Twilight answered Spike as she took her hood off.

“Wha..? M-m-mom?!” Spike's eyes widened as he saw Twilight's smiling face before him.

“It's me Spike.” Twilight assured Spike. The dragon looked shocked and stunned, his mother he saw dead in the morgue and in her coffin at the funeral now stood before him alive and well. Tears welled in his eyes before he hugged Twilight as he let out his tears and cried, he hadn't cried like this since he was younger, when he thought his mother was taken from him forever. Twilight hugged Spike back as she felt tears in her own eyes. “I got worried about you Spike when I learned you ran away. I'm glad your safe.” she told Spike as she hugged him.

“But how? How did you come back from the grave??” Spike asked as he wiped tears from his eyes.

“It was Princess Celestia's healing magic that saved my life, though when I was in hibernation it made everypony think I was dead.” Twilight told Spike everything she knew. Spike nodded as he understood what Twilight was telling him.

“I'm just glad your alive and well, right now we need to help Equestria. I heard about the war and I want to help in anyway I can.” Spike told Twilight whom nodded. “Marc taught me so much, and now I want to use those teachings to help our home.” Spike said to Twilight.

“Right now my brother is leading the charge against Unicornia. I hope he's okay.” Twilight said thinking of Shining Armor and his battle plan against Unicornia. She hoped he was doing well.

“He is?? I wish I could be there with him. Me and the guild.” Spike said to Twilight. The Alicorn looked at Spike and nods her head.

“I heard you were part of a guild here. From what that old dragon merchant said your in the Big Four.” Twilight said to Spike.

“Yeah, after I rescued a ship full of slaves.” Spike said as he explained what had happened that night when he rescued Aquilina and the others who were kidnapped by slavers to be sold into slavery, the heroic act got Spike into the Red lightnings Guild and even more so he rose in rank to the Big Four. Spike had worked hard and trained hard to hone his own skills in preparation to battle Amadeus and the Unicornia forces. “I had planned to return home, to help bring Amadeus to justice for what he did to you Twilight.” Spike said to his adopted mother.

“Amadeus will have his day of reckoning soon, him and Majesty.” Twilight Sparkle told Spike, she now was determined to stop the Bluebloods and their attempt to usurp power. That night the seven ponies decided to stay the night at the Rusty Barrel. The ponies also met and befriended Aquilina as well.

Late that night Twilight was asleep when she found her dream visited by Princess Luna. “Princess Luna?” Twilight addressed the night princess.

“How has the journey gone?” Princess Luna asked Twilight.

“We found Spike. He's ready to come back home now.” Twilight answered the night princess. Princess Luna nods her head as she looked at Twilight.

“That is a relief. But still Twilight be careful. We cannot lose Equestria's light again.” Princess Luna told Twilight. The younger Alicorn nods her head.

“I know. This time I'm ready for anything.” Twilight told Princess Luna.

“I best be leaving now, we shall see thee when you return to the empire.” Princess Luna said to Twilight as the dream started to fade. As it did Twilight awoke as the morning sun's light was bright. She yawned and rubbed the sleepiness from her eyes as she went to the window to look outside to see the morning sunrise over the ocean. That's when Twilight heard a commotion and looked over to see an army of soldiers bearing the Unicornia crest.

“Unicornia?!” Twilight gasped as she heard the door open as Spike rushed in with the other ponies. “We got a problem!” Twilight told everybody in the room.

“We heard ya shout Twilight, what in tarnation's goin on?” Applejack asked.

“Unicornian forces are in Judecca!” Twilight looked back toward the window. The ponies and Spike rushed over and gasped seeing the invaders.

“Twilight, what should we do?” Rainbow Dash asked, though she hoped the option to fight would come up.

“We got no choice but to fight them.” Twilight said before she heard another commotion, she looked to see the Unicornians under attack by a group of figures of many species including griffons, dragons, minotaurs, and ponies. Spike recognized the figures and grinned.

“Good thing the Guild was on high alert.” Spike wanted to go down and join in the fray. He rushed downstairs with the ponies following as the fighting grew more tense as they exited the Inn. Once on ground level they can see the Red Lightnings Guild in battle with the Unicornian invaders. The fighting raged as the Guild members battled the Unicornian invaders, the griffon members took to the skies as they fired their projectile weapons down at the unicornians, the minotaur members attacked with clubs and axes among other weapons against the invaders, the dragon members were attacking with fire breath, some with ice breath against the invaders.

“That the best ye got??” Marc snarled as he was in battle with the unit's commander. The commander, a unicorn stallion swung his sword with magic at Marc as the dragon dodged the attack as he struck the commander with his claws which were engulfed in flames. The unicorn screamed as the fire burned his hide. A soldier tried to come up behind Marc but was cut off by Spike who slashed the guard from behind with his own claws. The soldier cried in pain as he tried to turn to attack Spike only for Spike to blast the soldier with a fireball setting the soldier on fire. Meanwhile the ponies joined in the fight with each pony using their talents to fight the unicornian invaders. Rainbow Dash flew through the skies as she slammed her hooves into the soldiers whom tried to follow her. Fluttershy backed away from two soldiers only for Fluttershy to stare into the guards' eyes causing them to flee in terror.

Meanwhile Pinkie Pie was using her antics to confuse the soldiers before allowing Applejack to slam her hooves into each soldier. She turned and caught one of the soldiers with a rope she grabbed from the ground, using it like her lasso. “Ya ain't goin anywhere!” Applejack shouted.

Rarity was busy using her magic to slam gemstones into the attacking soldiers from every angle. “Take this you ruffians!” she shouted as she focused her magic as she caused a hailstorm of diamonds to slam into the soldiers. Meanwhile Starlight Glimmer used her magic and teleportation spells to catch the soldiers off their guard. Two of the guards however started to converge on the hooded form of Twilight Sparkle. Twilight only shook her head seeing them.

“So it's come down to this. Well I knew Amadeus was up to something.” Twilight muttered before her horn lit up under her hood before she unleashed a powerful magic blast on the soldiers sending them flying into the ocean. Soon all the captured soldiers and the commander were gathered up, though there were many casualties for the Unicornians as they were sent off to be locked up.

“That should teach them a lesson about attackin Judecca under our watch.” Marc wiped some blood off his claw as Spike nods his head.

“My question is how they got here so fast. There wasn't any sign of any war ships in the area when we arrived yesterday.” Twilight said as she watched as the prisoners were led away.

“Twi, we should get back home to the Empire. We can figure this whole thing out when we get there.” Rainbow Dash told Twilight whom nodded.

“Yeah, let's get ready for our journey home.” Twilight told her friends as they returned to the Rusty Barrell. Soon hours later the group were boarding their ship back to Equestria. Spike would join them after saying his goodbyes to his fellow guild members and hoped one day once peace has been achieved he could return to further help the guild. Spike soon boarded the ship with a few bags and with Peewee sitting on his shoulder.

“Well, let's get ready to go home. I just hope Princess Celestia isn't mad at me for running away like I did.” Spike said as he approached Twilight.

“Don't worry, she'll be just as happy as I was to see you.” Twilight assured her adopted son. Soon the ship sets sail back to Equestria. Though that night Twilight wondered how her brother Shining Armor did in his battle against Sir Morning Blade and the unicornians in Manehattan. She hoped he was alright. However something else bothered Twilight, how the unicornians got into Judecca so quickly. Twilight knew this was a mystery that needed to be solved and hopefully this will be solved.

Author's Notes:

Now that Twilight and Spike are reunited they soon make the journey home to Equestria but what did happen in the battle of Manehattan? Stay tuned to find out.

Chapter 8 Manehattan battle. A mysterious stranger appears

As they said their goodbyes, Shining Armor headed to the captured ship as he boarded it, he looked off toward the direction of the ship headed toward the Erebus Isles. “I hope for your safety Twiley. And bring Spike home with you.” Shining Armor said as he watched the ship with Twilight and her friends in it set sail. He boarded the captured unicornia warship as he met with it's captain and exchanged words of his plans with him. Soon he went down below to his quarters as he went in to rest, his thoughts were focused on his sister's mission and on his own. He also had thoughts about his family, his wife Princess Cadence and daughter Flurry Heart, he wanted to help make a safer Equestria for Flurry to grow up in.

Hours passed on the trip as the guards prepared for the inevitable battle. Gladius Stride went into Shining Armor's quarters as he knocked on the door. The door opened as Gladius stepped inside as he sat across from Shining Armor. The two exchanged glances before the silence was broken by Gladius. “Your highness, the soldiers are ready for battle. Once we arrive in the harbor it's your lead.” he said to Shining Armor as he nods his head.

“Good, sooner we capture that traitor Morning Blade the better.” Shining Armor said to Gladius before he grew serious. “Gladius, we need to have a talk.” Shining told Gladius Stride. Gladius nodded knowing what this was about as a soundproof spell engulfed the room.

“It's about my brother Sir Gallant Heart isn't it?” Gladius asked Shining Armor as he nodded.

“It's what he told me before he was executed along with Blueblood and the rest of those traitors.” Shining answered as he noticed the wide eyed look in Gladius's eyes.

“I knew he was undercover for Princess Luna if that's what you were going to tell me. Princess Luna revealed that to me and Princess Celestia when your sister Princess Twilight returned from the grave. I still wonder why he did what he did to her when he had a look of regret on his face.” Gladius sighed still trying to fathom why Gallant Heart did what he did to Twilight.

“That's the problem, Gallant had no choice. He told me himself that night in his cell before the executions. He told me that Amadeus Blueblood was in his home.” Shining noticed the wide eyed look in Gladius's eyes turn into a glare of anger.

“That bastard was in my brother's home?!” Gladius shouted.

“Yeah, somehow Amadeus knew that Gallant was undercover.” Shining Armor said as Gladius agreed.

“That's why he had that look of regret in his eyes when he and those traitors attacked Princess Twilight. I prayed to Faust to help his soul find peace even though everypony would rather him rot in Tartarus.” Gladius said lowering his head.

“Amadeus will pay for what he's done, mark my words.” Shining Armor could see the pain Gladius was feeling. “Gladius, I need you to know this. Gallant said that Amadeus threatened him with your life. That if he didn't take Twiley's life, he'd have his men take your's instead.” Shining Armor told Gladius. Gladius's head snapped up as he stared at Shining Armor in total shock.

“He... He used me as a pawn to force my brother to attack Princess Twilight?!” Gladius asked still shocked and now angered.

“Yeah, the lowlife bastard.” Shining growled. “When Gallant told me this, I couldn't blame him. After all he wanted to protect you just as I wanted to protect Twiley.” Shining Armor told Gladius as he nodded too.

“I know...” Gladius sighed out of frustration. “Shining, I know I can rest easier knowing my brother wasn't a traitor but now I know that coward Amadeus blackmailed him. I swear he'll pay for forcing dishonor on my family.” Gladius said to Shining Armor. The Prince of the crystal empire nodded his head in agreement.

“He will pay Gladius. As of right now if I even see Amadeus I will take him down.” Shining Armor vowed.

“He will pay Shining, for what he's done to both our families. He has my brother's blood on his hooves and your sister's too.” Gladius said to Shining whom nods in agreement.

“Right now we need to concentrate on freeing Manehattan, once we've done that we can figure out our next move against the Bluebloods and Unicornia.” Shining Armor told Gladius as they began to prepare their stragety. Soon night fell as the ship continued to it's destination. Shining Armor was trying his best to sleep though his restlessness. He soon started to dream though it was a dream of worries over Twilight and her endeavor, and the worry of his wife and daughter back in the Empire.

“Shining Armor, do not worry.” Came a familiar voice as Shining found himself facing Princess Luna. “Cadence and Flurry Heart are safe as is Twilight.” Princess Luna told Shining Armor.

“I'm glad for that.” Shining Armor sighed in relief. “Princess, I do have to ask you something. About Sir Gallant Heart.” Shining Armor began as he could see Princess Luna wince a bit at the mention of Gallant's name.

“So you know he worked for me in secret. When did he tell you?” Princess Luna asked as she was curious as to what Shining Armor had to say.

“Yes, he told me before he was executed alongside those traitors and Prince Blueblood.” Shining Armor answered Luna's question. “He told me why he attacked Twiley when he did.” Shining Armor began as he lowered his head.

“Why did he choose to help the hooves of those dastardly traitors?” Princess Luna asked.

“Gladius Stride.” Shining Armor answered Luna's question. Luna gasped when she heard the name of her sister's loyal guard.

“Sir Gladius??” Princess Luna asked in shock.

“Yes, that devil Amadeus Blueblood was in Gallant's home and forced him to attack Twiley or else Gladius would die instead of Twiley.” Shining Armor told Princess Luna, the Alicorn couldn't believe what she had just heard.

“So that explains Sir Gallant's actions. Amadeus will have his judgment day.” Princess Luna replied.

“Either at my hooves or Gladius's hooves.” Shining Armor agreed.

“Agreed, for now Shining Armor focus on the freedom of Equestria. We shall do what we can here in the Empire. Taking back Canterlot will be our toughest mission.” Princess Luna said as the dream seemed to fade as Shining Armor woke up from his dream, dressing in his disguise he checked to see the morning sun rising up. “Morning already. We should be arriving soon.” Shining Armor soon went up to the desk as the rest of the soldiers awakened and soon dawned their disguises. Gladius Stride stood at the side of Shining Armor as he began to explain the course of action once in Manehattan. The soldiers all listened as the ship soon docked. Shining Armor looking out from behind his helmet saw two commanders awaiting on the dock. “No sign of Morning Blade but I can bet he's here hiding somewhere.” Shining Armor said to Gladius as the two disembarked and met with the two commanders.

“So what happened in Baltimare? Word reached us that the armies of Equestria ambushed you guys.” The first commander asked Shining Armor.

“It was a losing battle, we were forced to flee and regroup.” Shining Armor responded using a spell to alter his voice. The commander nodded his head.

“Sir Morning Blade is afraid of what Queen Majesty will do to him once she learns we lost our stronghold in Baltimare. We don't dare lose Manehattan.” The commander said as he led Shining Armor and Gladius into a nearby inn, once inside Shining could see many unicornian soldiers inside. Shining looked at Gladius as they sat at a table nearby. “Still amazing how fast her majesty grew. Heck Lord Amadeus said her ascension was glorious, even going as far as to say that Queen Majesty's rise to glory dwarfs that of that traitor Twilight Sparkle's ascension.” the commander said, Shining shot a glare from behind his helmet at the commander though from a glance nobody could even tell he was glaring.

“I don't know, I heard that Princess Twilight's magic was at a far advance level even when she was a unicorn.” Shining Armor said in his disguised voice.

“Heh, that's because that harlot was a low born commoner, just like her brother. How he married Princess Cadence is beyond me when Prince Blueblood would have made a better husband for her, heck think of the foals they would have had together.” the commander said unaware Shining Armor was sitting right next to him glaring deeply at the commander who just insulted not only his sister but his wife as well. “Anyhow, her majesty was born an Alicorn from a pure Unicorn line, man she'd probably make Princess Platinum bow to her. Guess that's why she married Prince Silversteel. Shame what happened to Prince Silversteel.” The commander said.

“What happened to the Prince?” Shining Armor asked, this was some information he could bring back to the Empire. Luckily his disguise was holding up.

“The Prince took ill and died sadly.” The commander responded. “Lord Amadeus made sure the Prince had a funeral worthy of a king.” he added on. Shining Armor looked at Gladius as they exchanged a quick word hidden by a soundproof spell small enough to hide their words. “Anything wrong?” the commander asked.

“No, I was sending my right hand back to the troops. They need some R&R.” Shining Armor replied, of course what the commander didn't know was Gladius was about to give the signal to the disguised troops to attack. Outside Gladius headed to the ship as he raised a hoof to the troops as they disembarked from the ship. One unicornian guard noticed the army of troops disembarking from the ship and approached them.

“So your the returning troops from Baltimare. Sir Morning Blade will be relieved some of hi..” the guard began to speak before one of the troopers bucked him in the jaw knocking him out cold. Gladius raised a hoof.

“FOR EQUESTRIA!!” he shouted as the troops charged into battle bum rushing the unsuspecting Unicornian troopers. Soon the streets of Manehattan began a massive battleground. Back at the inn the commander heard the commotion outside and spat his cider out.

“What the heck was that??” he started to rush outside only for Shining Armor to grab the commander and slam him through a nearby table. The other commander withdrew his sword only to be hit by a chair thrown by Shining Armor using his magic, he grabbed the commander using his magic.

“That was for Twiley!” he shouted before he slammed the commander headfirst through the inn's glass window. “And that was for my wife!! Nobody insults my Cadence and gets away with it!” Shining Armor snarls as he charged outside as the commander now bloodied from his wounds tried to escape only for Shining to pin him down with his magic. “Where's Morning Blade?!” Shining Armor shouted.

“Not here.....” the commander struggled as the battles raged on around them as the Equestrian troops battled the Unicornian invaders. Gladius Stride turned his attention toward another squad of Unicornian soldiers as he blasted them with his magic sending many of them down.

“Not bad for a scrub. Was that all Gallant Heart ever taught you?” Came a voice as Gladius turned before being sucker punched by Sir Morning Blade.

“Morning Blade, you traitor! How could you side with those tyrants?!” Gladius stood up as he spat out a bit of tooth that was chipped inside and some blood.

“Queen Majesty will rule this world far better than Celestia and Luna could ever hope to. Twilight was just an obstacle in Majesty's way. She needed to die.” Morning Blade responded.

“Cold as ice. That's why you helped Tirek escape Tartarus.” Gladius Stride withdrew his sword and rushed to attack Morning Blade only to be thrown into a wall. Gladius hit the wall with a sickening thud as he slumped down.

“Pathetic, don't understand why Gallant Heart put up with you.” Morning Blade withdrew his own sword as he approached Gladius.

“He's..... He was my brother.....” Gladius stood up finding the will to stand up. “He wanted to keep me safe from monsters like you and the Bluebloods... I understand why he chose his path.” Gladius spat blood from his mouth as Morning Blade drove a hoof into Gladius's stomach sending the stallion reeling.

“Then you should have joined him, you should have seen that traitor Twilight Sparkle for what she really was. A traitor who wanted Celestia's throne and her power!” Morning Blade shouted at Gladius.

“No........ Twilight was no traitor!” Gladius, grimacing in pain stood up. “Neither was my brother........ he told her he was sorry for what he did that night......” he winced in pain.

“Soft to the end, I always figured as much.” Morning Blade raised his sword about to deal the killing blow when he felt hooves strike his side. He cried out as he went down in pain.

“Not as soft as you are!” Shining Armor shouted, he had finished the commanders off when he learned of the fight between Morning Blade and Gladius. Luckily Shining made it in time. “Morning Blade, killing you won't be enough! I'll make sure justice is served.” he said as he tented to Gladius's wounds.

“Shining.... didn't think you'd make it.” Gladius said to Shining Armor as he was helped up. “If he were here, Gallant would have done the same.” Gladius said as blood ran down from his mouth.

“If you know a good healing spell I suggest you use it now.” Shining Armor told Gladius.

“Justice??” Morning Blade stood up as he glared at Shining Armor. “You fool, there is no justice! Not till Queen Majesty rules over all!” he shouted as he grabbed his sword. “Now....... I'LL SEND YOU TO TARTARUS WITH YOUR WHORE SISTER!!!” Morning Blade shouted as he charged Shining Armor with his sword out. But before Morning Blade could connect he found himself crashing into a barrier. The impact knocked the butt of his sword into his own head knocking himself unconscious. Shining Armor turned around and smirked having set a ward in place knowing what Morning Blade was about to do.

“ No Morning Blade, Tartarus is a place reserved for your buddies Tirek, Amadeus, and Majesty.” Shining Armor growled at the unconscious Morning Blade. Soon the Equestrian army began to chain up the beaten Unicornians. Shining Armor had stood in the inn as Gladius's wounds were tended too, luckily for Gladius none were mortal thanks to a healing spell Gladius knew. Shining Armor however pondered the new information he was given.

“Sir, we've located the prison camp and were able to overpower the guards there, the citzens are safe now. Apparently they were trying to force the citizens to bow to Majesty or face death.” the guard told Shining Armor.

“That's a relief. Right now we'll need to return to the Empire. I hope Twiley is okay too.” Shining Armor couldn't help but worry about his sister.

“Why that's easy Shiny.” Came a familiar voice as Discord appeared. “Ooh looks like I missed all the fun.” he pouted.

“Discord, just in time. Maybe you can get us all back to the Empire.” Shining Armor turned his attention to the spirit of chaos.

“Oh yes indeed, consider it done Shiny.” Discord snapped his claw as he, Shining Armor, Gladius, and their prisoners were taken to the Crystal Empire. Once they arrived the Empire's guards quickly herded Morning Blade and the captured Unicornians to the dungeon while Shining Armor and Gladius Stride went into the castle with Discord.

“Shining!” Princess Cadence rushed to her husband as she threw her arms around him and kissed him.

“I'm glad to see you too hon, where's Flurry at?” Shining Armor asked as Twilight Velvet arrived with Flurry Heart.

“She's right here.” Twilight Velvet approached her son as she hugged him. Shining could feel the tiny hooves of his daughter hug his nose. He laughed.

“I take it you two were victious?” Princess Celestia entered next with Princess Luna.

“We've taken back Manehattan. This should send Amadeus into a frenzy. Though I did get some information on how Majesty became queen. She married Prince Silversteel.” Shining Armor began to explain what he learned while disguised. Celestia looked surprised when she shouldn't have been.

“So Silversteel is dead. And I know Amadeus must have had a hoof in it.” Princess Celestia responded.

“Yeah, most likely to ensure Majesty reigns alone as queen. What worries me is that she rose in magic faster than Twiley did.” Shining Armor told Princess Celestia.

“What?!” Princess Celestia shouted in shock.

“This cannot be!” Princess Luna added on also in shock.

“Shiny, how can this be?” Cadence asked Shining Armor.

“Cadence I wish I knew.” Shining Armor.

“Same here, I want to know how Unicornia got their soldiers to the Erebus Islands in short time.” Came a voice as Twilight Sparkle walked in with Starlight Glimmer, the element bearers, and Spike.

“Twiley! Man I'm glad your alright.” Shining Armor greeted his sister as Twilight Velvet hugged her older daughter just relieved to see her.

“BBBFF how did it go?” Twilight asked before she noticed the injuries Gladius Stride suffered.

“We freed Manehattan. Morning Blade is our prisoner. Now we can focus on getting Amadeus and Majesty.” Shining Armor told Twilight as she nods her head.

“Believe me, I want first crack at Amadeus for what he did to Twilight.” Spike growled at the mention of Amadeus's name.

“Spike?? Man you had us all worried when you ran away.” Shining Armor greeted Spike

“Sorry guys, I was just so upset nobody was going after Amadeus Blueblood I just snapped and ran away. I did get involved with a guild and made new friends in Judecca.” Spike began to tell his tale about the isles and the training he received from Marc.

“Sounds like your ready for war Spike.” Shining Armor told Spike.

“yeah, hey how did those jerks get to Judecca that fast anyhow? We didn't see any warships there.” Rainbow Dash spoke up.

“I think I know how they did.” Starlight Glimmer spoke up as she stepped forward.

“Starlight what is it?” Twilight asked her student.

“It happened a while back, when you were still in hibernation Twilight. I went to visit your memorial when I was confronted by Amadeus Blueblood in the memorial garden.” Starlight Glimmer answered, the room felt silent as nobody said anything. Twilight Velvet knew what this could mean as she quickly got Flurry Heart out of the room. Lucky for her it was the right decision as Princess Celestia broke the silence.

“THAT ROTTEN MONSTER WAS IN MY MEMORIAL GARDEN?!” Princess Celestia shouted as her eyes went white, her mane exploding into flames as bright as the surface of the sun.

“Tia calm yourself!” Princess Luna tried to calm her sister down.

“He... was that close to me?!” Twilight growled hearing Amadeus was close to her gravesite.

“Yes. Queen Cicada helped him get there. He tried to recruit me into his army but I refused his offer and told him off. He swore next time he saw me he'd kill me.” Starlight recalled that night in the memorial garden.

“Wait Cicada?? I met a changeling in my travels who said Cicada displaced him in Chrysalis's hive and became queen.” Spike spoke up

“No way the changelings would help a bunch of racists like unicornia!” Rainbow Dash spoke up.

“Knowing Amadeus, he must be deceiving them somehow.” Twilight said.

“BBBFF! BSBFF! Your safe!” Twinklestar rushed to her siblings.

“hey Twinklestar, keeping up with your magic studies?” Twilight said to her younger sister as she nods.

“Yeah. I'm beginning to understand a lot of things but there's still so much to learn.” Twinklestar said to her older sister. “Sunburst was helping me too.” she said proudly.

“I'm glad to hear that.” Twilight said to her sister. “But right now we need to figure out why the changelings are helping the Bluebloods.” the Alicorn pondered.

“No, there is even more at stake than you realize. And welcome back to the land of the living Princess Twilight Sparkle. None of us foresaw your return from death.” Came a voice from the shadows.

“Who's there??” Shining Armor grabbed his sword with his magic. The four Princesses all lit their horns ready for anything.

“There's no need for violence Prince Shining Armor.” the voice spoke again.

“How can we trust you?” Shining Armor asked. The figure emerged revealing himself as a buck garbed in a cloak appeared. The Buck had a short blonde mane as his antlers softly glowed from the runes carved into them, his eyes glowed a soft purple as he approached the group.

“A deer? Here in the Crystal Empire??” Princess Celestia approached the deer.

“Yes. And I have much to tell you.” The Buck responded.

Chapter 9 Prophecy Revealed.

“Wait, what do you mean by that?” Twilight asked the robed deer. She had to know what this deer knew.

“What I have to say is of most importance. And I can see you've brought two of the stars together.” The deer said as the runes on his antlers softly glowed.

“Stars? What does he mean by that Twilight?” Twinklestar asked confused as she could see the same reaction in her older sister's face.

“I think that's what we all like to know.” Shining Armor spoke up next as he sheathed his sword.

“This war, all the events leading to it. We have foreseen it all.” The deer replied

“Wait a minute, y'all knew about this war and what happened ta Twilight too??” Applejack asked.

“Yes, when we learned of the death of the Princess of Friendship we knew the prophecy was about to come to pass.” the deer replied.

“Prophecy? What Prophecy?” Spike asked.

“I remember the prophecy about Nightmare Moon's return. But what other prophecy could there be?” Twilight wondered as the deer turned his attention toward her.

“Then you don't know of the prophecy that your demise was the first sign of. A war that would even threaten the gods watching over Equestria.” the deer replied.

“What?!” Twilight froze as did everybody else in the room.

“It can't be... How could a war threaten the gods?” Princess Celestia asked.

“The Dark Star is the real threat. Already the Dark Star has power but if the Dark Star isn't stopped it could be the end of everything.” The deer replied.

“The Dark Star??” Twilight said.

“Yes but your return from death was unexpected. Perhaps your return might serve as a key to helping the stars defeat the dark star.” the deer told Twilight Sparkle.

“You keep mentioning this dark star. Who or what is the dark star?” Twilight asked the deer. Now she had to know about this prophecy.

“For ages we've seen the stars, yours in particular Princess Twilight. Your ascension was written in the stars. You were destined for greatness before tragedy befell you. My brethren and I knew your assassination would begin a series of events leading to the rise of the dark star, though there are stars in particular that will stop the dark star before the dark star can bring eternal darkness.” the deer began. The room fell silent again.

“But who is the dark star?” Starlight Glimmer broke the silence as she asked again.

“We forseen the dark star's appearance in the stars. Sometime after Princess Twilight's assassination.” the deer replied.

“But you still didn't mention who this dark star is.” Rainbow Dash spoke up.

“the Dark Star was born in the family of traitorous blood. That is all we know.” The deer replied.

“traitorous blood?” Twilight began to ponder.

“BSBFF? He said the traitorous family, you don't think....” Twinklestar began to speak when she saw her sister's eyes widen.

“Of course! I should have guessed the Dark Star is Majesty Blueblood.” Twilight responded to both her sister and the deer.

“your insight seems correct Twilight Sparkle, no wonder why you ascended like you did.” the deer nodded.

“Which means if anypony else knows about the prophecy they would have tried to take down Majesty at her most vulnerable, during her foalhood.” Twilight said as she pondered if anypony else knew about the Dark Star Prophecy.

“Twiley, we can't forget the attempt on Flurry Heart's life by Equestria's First. Those filthy traitors tried to take my daughter.” Shining Armor added in. He froze as a sickening thought hit his head. “You guys don't think that rat Amadeus knows about the prophecy?” He asked.

“That's a hard one, to be honest I wouldn't even know.” Twilight responded to her brother as the others agreed.

“if he does then he would have made moves to protect Majesty during that time. Right now we need to find a way to push Unicornia's invasion back before we go to capture Amadeus and Majesty.” Princess Celestia spoke up.

“Right. We'll need to send our forces to the other captured cities. Thanks to Morning Blade's notes I grabbed in Manehattan I found they have more prison camps in places like Fillydelphia, Appleloosa, and a large one in Las Pegasus. There seems to be plans to launch an assault on Cloudsdale too.” Shining Armor said to the group.

“What!? No way they'll attack Cloudsdale while I'm around!” Rainbow Dash shouted. Cloudsdale was her first home before she moved to Ponyville. She already had to abandon one of her homes to Unicornia, she wouldn't dare do it again.

“We can't forget the other lands either like Griffonstone and the Dragons too.” Spike spoke up as Twilight nods her head.

“Agreed. I'm also concerned about other races too, like the Sea ponies and the Hippogryphs. They could be in danger from Unicornia as well.” Twilight added in before a guard rushed up.

“Princess Twilight, a unicorn mare was found outside the barrier.” the guard began to speak up.

“What? Take me to her.” Twilight told the guard as he led Twilight outside.

“Anypony else have a feeling of Dejavu?” Pinkie Pie asked the group. Meanwhile Twilight and the crystal guard made their way to the barrier as Twilight recognized the collapsed form in the snow. Wasting no time, Twilight exited the barrier and used her magic to help the fallen Sunset Shimmer into the barrier. Once inside Twilight helped Sunset inside as she used her magic to help Sunset into the castle, once inside Sunset began to stir from the warmth inside the castle.

“Sunset? Are you okay?” Twilight asked as Sunset looked at her as a smile formed on her face.

“Twilight, I'm glad to see you again.” Sunset replied as she looked up at the others surrounding her, including her former mentor Princess Celestia. “Canterlot Castle.... I saw unicornian guards inside it. Barely managed to escape.” Sunset told Twilight and Princess Celestia.

“No, the barrier at the castle has fallen.” Princess Celestia lowered her head.

“I'm sorry, I wish I had gotten here sooner guys. Had to get the others to seal the portal in case they tried to invade the human world.” Sunset told Twilight and the others.

“Good thinking, I'm sure our human counterparts understood the situation. Right now we need to focus on taking back Canterlot.” Twilight told Sunset whom nods in agreement. “For right now you need to rest Sunset, you've been through a lot to come warn us what was happening.” Twilight told Sunset whom nodded again.

Meanwhile at Canterlot Castle, Unicornian guards patrolled the throne room that once belonged to Princess Celestia and Princess Luna. The thrones of the two sisters were left in ruins as Amadeus Blueblood watched on, he especially enjoyed Luna's throne being destroyed. “After you get rid of these eye sores I want a throne here for my Majesty, something to reflect her rule over all of Equestria.” he ordered as the guards nodded and headed off to fulfill Amadeus's orders. He soon found himself alone, he had sent Tirek to guard Majesty back in Ponyville while dispatching Cicada to put down a changeling rebellion. “Blasted bugs, can't even see the vision we placed for them. Once that so called changeling king is put down, Cicada can return to help me and Majesty retake the lands those blasted Equestrians stole from us.” Amadeus growled as he closed his eyes and sighed, he suddenly yelped as he saw the eyes of the Tantabus looking right at him. “Gah! Damn it! Luna will suffer for what she did to me!” he snapped.

“Still suffering Amadeus Blueblood? I'm surprised you've lived longer than I had expected.” came a voice from the shadows. Amadeus glared as his horn lit up as he scanned the shadows before he saw it, a buck in red robes and runes on his antlers, his red mane was flowing as he grinned evily at Amadeus. “Put down your magic Amadeus.” Nazo spoke up.

“Only you.” Amadeus lowered his horn as he looked at the buck. “What are you doing here?” he asked.

“Surprised your daughter isn't here.” Nazo said in his raspy voice.

“She is well protected, besides none can fathom her power. Especially once Lord Tirek finishes training her.” Amadeus told Nazo, the buck shook his head.

“You think that would be enough Amadeus?” Nazo laughed.

“What's so funny??” Amadeus glared.

“Considering the fact, my brethren believe something has altered the prophecy I once told you about.” Nazo responded to Amadeus's question.

“What do you mean?? Speak now!” Amadeus shouted.

“It's simple.” Nazo began to respond.

“What's simple?! Answer me or so help me I'll see you hanged in the square as a warning to those who dare defy the Blueblood name!!” Amadeus snapped.

“Was that a threat?” Nazo shook his head and laughed in his raspy voice. “The real threat is the one your son failed to kill. Or maybe her brother's best friend failed to murder her. Or perhaps...” Nazo began before Amadeus grabbed him with his magic.

“NO! THAT HARLOT IS DEAD!!! DEAD YOU HEAR ME!!! DEAD! DEAD! DEAD! DEAAAAAAAAAAAAAD!!!” Amadeus snapped as he held Nazo with his magic. The buck struggled for air before his runes lit up brightly, blindsiding Amadeus as he let Nazo go. The buck cough and gasped for air.

“Amadeus. I could have killed you but I'll let that happen naturally. But it is true, your son and your hired hands failed their mission. Though it's amazing how many ponies she fooled by appearing dead. Or maybe it wasn't her intention to fool her friends and family.” Nazo smirked as Amadeus was white with terror. The last thing Amadeus wanted to hear was Twilight Sparkle being alive.

“No... This can't be right..... She died, everypony saw her corpse! She should be feeding maggots in Tartarus!” Amadeus shouted.

“You honestly believe that your pathetic excuse of a son could get the job done? It is to laugh.” Nazo replied to Amadeus.

“She won't matter, dead or not. Majesty will destroy her once she gains her full potential.” Amadeus warned Nazo.

“Surely you believe that. But consider this. What if she cannot defeat Twilight Sparkle?” Nazo responded to Amadeus as he dusted his robe off.

“Blast the luck, if that harlot is alive that would explain Equestria's counterattack on Unicornia! I must warn Majesty.” Amadeus responded. “If what your saying is true. For all I know you could be lying about Twilight Sparkle being alive.” he said to the buck. Nazo only laughed and shook his head.

“You'll know soon enough Amadeus Blueblood.” Nazo returned to the shadows, exiting the same way he came.

“Blast that buck. This is making things worse! Tirek better not screw this up or else he'll pay!” Amadeus rubbed his forehead with his hoof, now the thought of Twilight surviving the assassination attempt started to haunt his every thought, he realized with terror this could give a new playground for the Tantabus to play in. Out of rage and frustration he fired a burst of magic toward Luna's throne obliterating it's remains. He was breathing heavily as his head throbbed. Again he rubbed his head trying to calm himself, the last thing he'd want is to fulfill Nazo's prediction of his demise.

“Lord Amadeus!” came a voice as a guard rushed into the throne room hearing the sudden explosion. “What happened?” he asked.

“Nothing... just releasing frustration.” Amadeus responded.

“I see.” the guard responded as Amadeus returned to a more calm state.

“I do have an important matter to attend to, apparently my idiot son left a loose end I must tie up.” Amadeus said to the guard. “Ready my caravan, I have a grandson to meet.” he said with a malicious glare, the guard nods and rushes off.

“And to think the Pie family gave us the means to end that usurper's life without even knowing it, time for me to claim my “receipt” for a job well done.” Amadeus said with a laugh as he left the throne room.

Showdown in Rockville, Twilight vs Amadeus!

It was a stormy night as a caravan bearing the Unicornia coat of arms arrived at it's destination, Rockville. Inside the caravan was Amadeus Blueblood as he sipped from a cup of tea. He knew to have patience if he was to collect his “receipt” for a job well done after the Pie family had given his son and their fellow conspirators the metal they need to kill Twilight Sparkle, but after hearing Nazo's words could the Princess of Friendship be alive? No, he had to shake that thought lest his dreams be tormented by the Tantabus again. “Curse that Nazo, if he didn't put that thought in my head, that blasted Tantabus wouldn't be tormenting me with that harlot's image!” Amadeus growled as he sipped his tea. It wouldn't be long till they arrived at the Pie family rock farm.

Meanwhile at the Crystal Empire, Shining Armor and Gladius Stride met in the war room as Shining was going over Morning Blade's notes in a strategy to free the towns listed in the notes. “Right now, our best bet is to hit Las Pegasus.” Shining pointed out on the map before them.

“Agreed, from what the notes say this is one of their biggest slave camps. The notes seem to hint at others not listed.” Gladius said as Shining Armor nods his head.

“We need to find those unlisted camps and free the prisoners. Once we've done that we begin the push backs in Ponyville and Canterlot.” Shining Armor said to Gladius.

“Agreed, once the Bluebloods pay for their sins I can only hope my brother Sir Gallant Heart can rest in peace.” Gladius added in.

“Same, even he was nothing more than a pawn in their plans.” Shining Armor responded as he noticed Twilight enter the war room with the other element bearers, Starlight Glimmer, Sunburst, and Sunset Shimmer.

“Shiny any progress?” Twilight asked her brother.

“We've decided to hit Las Pegasus next, that's where the largest of the slave camps is at.” Shining Armor told Twilight.

“We also found hints toward more slave camps not listed in Morning Blade's notes.” Gladius adds in.

“Las Pegasus might be our next point of attack. Hopefully we'll get clues to more of Unicornia's slave camps.” Twilight said to her brother.

“Agreed.” Shining Armor said as he studied the map before them. “Gladius prepare a strike team. We'll need to be ready for an all out battle.” Shining Armor told Gladius as he nodded and headed off to ready their forces.

“In the meantime, I want to learn more about Majesty Blueblood's rise to power.” Twilight said to the element bearers.

“Same here. From what the Prince found out it seems to be connected to the death of Prince Silversteel. If there is a connection involving Amadeus Blueblood we'll be sure to find out.” Sunburst told Twilight.

“Do what needs to be done. We need all the information we can get on how Majesty rose to power.” Twilight told Sunburst as a guard arrived in the room.

“Your highness.” the guard said to Shining Armor. “One of our spies has reported a caravan has left Canterlot.” the guard told Shining Armor.

“Is it Majesty?” Shining Armor asked.

“If it is Majesty then this could be our chance to capture her.” Starlight Shimmer spoke up.

“Starlight's right. This could be our one chance to take down that tyrant.” Sunset adds in.

“No, it's not Majesty Blueblood, but rather her father Amadeus Blueblood.” the guard said as both Shining Armor and Twilight reacted.

“Where is he headed?” Twilight asked the guard.

“Twiley this could be our chance to capture Amadeus, believe me we've all wanted this chance.” Shining Armor said to Twilight as she nods.

“Yeah, everypony in this room would love to have a chance to get that rat!” Rainbow Dash spoke up.

“Agreed.” Twilight said to Shining Armor and Rainbow Dash. “Where is he heading?” Twilight asked the guard.

“From what we've learned, he's headed to Rockville. Said something about “Claiming his receipt for a job well done.” not sure what he meant by that.” the guard answered Twilight's question.

“WHAT?! THAT'S MY FILLYHOOD HOME!!!” Pinkie Pie suddenly shouted. “Oh no! He might be after Shale!” she gasped.

“Shale?” Twilight turned to the pink mare.

“Yeah, my nephew. Marble's son.” Pinkie Pie answered.

“I think I see where this is going, Amadeus must have known Prince Blueblood got Marble Pie pregnant. We got to get to Rockville before it's too late!” Twilight said to the other elements and the other ponies in the room.

“Right, we'll wait till you guys have Amadeus captured before we march on Las Pegasus.” Shining Armor said to Twilight as she nods. Soon moments later Twilight prepared herself for the journey to Rockville, she wasn't going alone as Pinkie Pie wanted to go with her as did Spike whom wanted his chance to get at Amadeus Blueblood.

“Twilight are you sure you want to do this?” Princess Celestia asked.

“I have to Princess, after all Amadeus has done to me and my family it's time he paid the price.” Twilight Sparkle answered.

“Be careful honey, I don't know what we'll do if we lost you again.” Twilight Velvet called to her eldest daughter.

“Don't worry mom, I'll be fine.” Twilight assured her mother.

“Twiley? Could I at least go with you?” Twinkle Star asked her sister.

“No, your studies need to come first. If that buck was right your going to play a major role in all this and I can't afford you to be harmed or compromised if that happens.” Twilight told her sister as she and Pinkie boarded the train to Rockville, Spike following along with Peewee. Soon the train took off toward Rockville. “I just hope we are in time.” Twilight looked out the window at the passing scenery.

“Same here Twilight. I hope my family is okay too.” Pinkie Pie couldn't help but worry about her family, especially her nephew Shale Pie.

“Yeah, believe me I've been waiting for this chance.” Spike added in, he couldn't wait to get revenge on Amadeus.

“Spike, I know you want Amadeus as bad as I do. But don't let yourself be consumed by hate or revenge.” Twilight said to Spike.

“I know Twilight, it's just for so long he got away with murder, well attempted murder and nopony ever thought to arrest him. That's why I ran away, I felt there was no justice outside those traitors being executed for harming you.” Spike told Twilight as he sighed.

“Oh Spike, you know Sir Gallant Heart didn't want to do it. I saw the look of despair in his face before he slit my throat with the orichalcum blade.” Twilight told Spike.

“They forced him?” Spike asked.

“Yeah, I found out from Princess Luna that Gallant was working for her and Shining Armor also told me Amadeus forced him to attack me.” Twilight told Spike as the dragon nods his head.

“Then I can't even blame Gallant Heart for what he did.” Spike told Twilight. “And what Starlight said about Cicada, I met a changeling in my travels, he looked way different from the changelings Queen Chrysalis once ruled over. He said his name was Thorax and he said he was the Changeling King but his throne was usurped by Cicada during a changeling civil war.” Spike told Twilight about Thorax.

“So Chrysalis's hive was split between Thorax and Cicada?” Twilight asked.

“Yeah, that and those under Thorax's rule moved into the Changeling Republic Princess Celestia set for them in your memory. Cicada struck and took over the Changeling republic with her army. But the thing is she also had Unicornia's forces helping her army take over the republic and Thorax found himself exiled and on the run.” Spike answered Twilight's question as he explained what Thorax had told him.

“That explains the deal between Cicada and Amadeus. Where is Thorax now?” Twilight asked Spike.

“Not sure. Thorax said he would rally help to take back the republic and overthrow Cicada. I hope he's successful.” Spike answered Twilight.

“Same here Spike, and I now realize we'll need help from all the other species in Equestria if we are to stop the Bluebloods.” Twilight said to Spike.

“Yeah like the Griffons and Dragons, oh and the Yaks too! And we can't forget the Hippogryphs too!” Pinkie Pie spoke up.

“Good thinking, though the Hippogryphs might be a problem, from what I've heard they were enslaved by the entity known as The Storm King. I dunno if it's wise to antagonize him.” Twilight said to Pinkie Pie.

“Aw nuts!” Pinkie Pie responded.

“You don't think the Bluebloods would try to recruit Storm King would they?” Spike asked Twilight.

“I'm not certain Spike. After all they have Tirek as an ally. Shiny confirmed it when he captured Sir Morning Blade.” Twilight said to Spike. “And that buck told us how powerful Majesty is. Still it's a possibility we can't ignore.” the alicorn said

“You got a good point there.” Spike said to Twilight.

“Yeah, besides wouldn't Storm King have a different philosophy than Tirek?” Asked Pinkie Pie.

“Yeah, that and what would stop Tirek from stealing Storm King's magic? We'll have to investigate the Hippogryphs soon enough.” Twilight responded.

The train continued it's journey till they reached their destination in Rockville, Twilight, Spike, and Pinkie all got off the train, Pee Wee perched on Spike's head as they disembarked, Twilight once again dawning her hooded cloak as she expected a confrontation with Amadeus. “Pinkie lead the way to the farm.” Twilight told the pink mare as she rushed on ahead with Spike and Twilight behind her. They soon arrived only to discover Unicornian guards outside the front way and the caravan outside.

“Only a couple of guards, I can take them easy.” Spike told Twilight.

“Spike wait.” Twilight told Spike as she noticed the back way was unguarded. “We can sneak in through the back.” She told Spike and Pinkie as they headed toward the back. Sure enough they were able to approach the back of the farm house as the trio peered inside to see two guards standing in the doorway with their backs turned.

In the living room of the farm house, Amadeus sat sipping tea from a teacup, several guards were beside him and with their weapons drawn on the Pie family. “So we've come to an agreement to allow me to take back my grandson.” Amadeus said to Igneous Rock.

“Go to Tartarus with your bastard son!” Igneous Rock shouted at Amadeus.

“I'd rather not, I'd have to see that harlot Twilight Sparkle down there since she deserves to rot there for her attempt at usurping Celestia's crown. Not that she deserves it.” Amadeus responded.

“You have no right to speak ill of Princess Twilight after all she's done to save Equestria time after time!” Igneous Rock responded.

“Then you are as blind as Celestia was, Twilight Sparkle was a traitor and her death was her punishment for trying to usurp the crown.” Amadeus told Igneous Rock.

“That's what you and your toadys all believe. Twilight Sparkle was no traitor to the crown! My daughter was her best friend, and even she knew Twilight was never capable of betrayal!” Igneous Rock retaliated with his own speech. Amadeus glared at Igneous Rock as he stood up.

“Are you implying that I'm a liar??” Amadeus glared at Igneous Rock.

“As a matter of fact yes!” Igneous responded before he felt the force of Amadeus's magic blast him in the chest sending him reeling backwards into the wall.

“Igneous!!!” Cloud Quartz cried out.

“Grandpa!” Shale wanted to go to his grandfather's side but he was prevented from doing it by the Unicornian guards.

“You simpleton! How dare you accuse me of lying!” Amadeus glared at the fallen Igneous Rock. “I'm far above you! I could easily have your lands if I wanted to!” He snapped. “And you dare put that alicorn harlot above me?!” He growled at Igneous as he was about to blast him again. But at that same moment the two guards that were standing in the doorway to the kitchen were suddenly blasted on by confetti and streamers. “What?!” Amadeus suddenly looked toward the kitchen as he saw the two guards struggling to get the streamers and confetti off them. Before Amadeus could even make a move, the two guards were suddenly struck by Spike. The dragon's claws with ignited with flames as he struck the guards sending them down. “So, the harlot's son decided to show himself.” Amadeus turned his attention to Spike.

“You don't know how long I've waited for this moment Amadeus Blueblood.” Spike growled as he got ready to fight. “After all you did to my mother Twilight Sparkle, to all my friends!” the dragon narrowed his eyes.

“If only you were there in Canterlot, Sir Gallant Heart would have gutted you like a pig in front of your whore mother before slitting her throat.” Amadeus darkly said to Spike. Spike suddenly let out a loud yell as he charged Amadeus as he swiped the unicorn's face with his claws sending him reeling.

“GUARDS! KILL THAT WORM!!! KILL HIM NOW!” Amadeus cried out as he tried to heal his bloody wounds on his face. The guards obeyed as they readied their spears to attack Spike, the dragon however blew a fireball at the guards burning their weapons. The guards charged at Spike only for “Boulder” to smash them both from behind, Maud Pie was able to get her pet rock to use as a weapon on the two guards.

“Your mine Amadeus Blueblood!” Spike shouted as he charged at Amadeus only for the unicorn to blast Spike with a burst of magic sending him into the wall.

“You insolent brat! I'll make sure you have your reunion with Twilight Sparkle, in Tartarus!!!” Amadeus suddenly launched a large magic blast at Spike causing an explosion where Spike was at. “There, one less dragon to worry about.” Amadeus turned his attention toward Shale. “Now my grandson, come with me.” he said to Shale.

“Never! Your not my grandpa!” Shale shouted as he stood at Igneous's side.

“You dare to deny me!?” Amadeus stalked Shale.

“Hey! Amadeus! You missed me!” Came Spike's voice, Amadeus turned around only for Spike to suddenly dive down smashing his foot into Amadeus's face sending him down to the ground, Twilight and Pinkie rushed in just in time to see Spike hovering in the air with wings.

“I had no idea he had wings!” Pinkie Pie said to Twilight.

“Me neither.” Twilight responded.

“Oh yeah, heh. I forgot I had these. I'll explain later. Right now let's arrest Amadeus.” Spike told Twilight as she nods her head. Amadeus suddenly got up slowly, glaring as blood streamed down his face.

“You miserable whelp! I'll tear those wings off your back then destroy you!!” Amadeus glared at Spike.

“Not while I'm here Amadeus Blueblood!” Twilight shouted at Amadeus. The elder Blueblood froze in his tracks. His eyes wide with terror having heard a voice he was sure was silenced.

“No! This can't be! This is madness!!” Amadeus shouted.

“Wrong Amadeus. It's very real.” Twilight revealed herself as she tossed her cloak off. “Your son failed again Amadeus.” She said

“No! No! You can't be alive!!! I saw your corpse! I saw it in the memorial garden!! You can't be alive!!” Amadeus shouted.

“Igneous look! Pinkie was right!” Cloudy Quartz said to her husband.

“I don't believe it. And just when Equestria needs her the most.” Igneous said with a smile on his face.

“Pinkie, get Shale out of here. Take your family with you.” Twilight told Pinkie as she rushed to get to her family.

“Come on guys, I think Twilight wants this one on one.” Pinkie told her family, they all started to leave before Amadeus used his magic to grab Shale.

“Hey! Mom! Grandpa! Grandma! Help me!” Shale cried out.

“Let him go Amadeus!” Twilight shouted as her magic focused in her horn.

“Never! I won't give him up to a lowly harlot like you! You who don't even deserve to be an alicorn let alone royalty!” Amadeus shouted at Twilight.

“Fitting how you say that Amadeus since that describes your tyrant daughter Majesty to a T!” Twilight retaliated. Amadeus glared at Twilight with his full hatred.

“DON'T YOU DARE SPEAK ILL OF MY DAUGHTER!!!” Screamed Amadeus.

“Why not? You did it to me, and turned a lot of ponies on me. Besides, I bet it wasn't easy to hide Majesty when she was a foal.” Twilight suddenly glared at Amadeus. “After what your buddies did to Princess Celestia's school and the attempt on Flurry Heart's life when she was minutes old!” She glared.

“Lies! All of it!” Amadeus shot back. “And your harlot niece was part of a prophecy I've heard of. The Black Star that would doom Equestria if she weren't destroyed!” Amadeus spat at Twilight.

“Wrong again Amadeus! I know the prophecy and I know whom the Black Star really is. It's your tyrant daughter Majesty! And I plan to expose her as such!” Twilight responded.

“So you know of it. It doesn't matter. Majesty is far more powerful than you are! It is our family's destiny to rule! She is the one destined to bring Equestria back to it's golden age!” Amadeus responded.

“Golden age? Your trying to keep us all in the dark ages Amadeus! And I know it wasn't right to push my reforms on everypony. But what you did wasn't right either. Two wrongs do not make a right.” Twilight responded back.

“You fool! This is the time two wrongs did make a right. My daughter who will save Equestria from your treacherous hooves!” Amadeus snapped at Twilight.

“You're the only fool Amadeus! Majesty will only hurt Equestria!” Twilight argued back.

“More venomous lies from you? I shouldn't have expected no less from you Twilight Sparkle!” Amadeus growled back.

“I'd expect more from you Amadeus! I had to endure your lies and slander for the longest time, and for what?? Just because of your petty grudge against my family! The fact Shining Armor married Princess Cadence and had a beautiful alicorn foal! The fact I became an alicorn princess and your so called precious son never did! I heard what he said about me during the trial! If anypony had no right to be royalty it's him! I wonder if Sir Blueblood is shaking his head right now in Elyseum in shame because of you two cowards!!” She snapped at Amadeus.

“How... dare you!!!!!” Amadeus threw Shale aside as he glared with pure hate in his eyes. “You have no right to speak of my ancestor like that!!!!! You have no right to speak of my family!!! You have no right to speak of your family's ill gotten gains from the crown!!! YOU HAVE NO RIGHT TO SPEAK OF ANYTHING INVOLVING MY FAMILY!!!! YOU TRAITOR!!! YOU HARLOT!!!!!” Amadeus shouted.

“All bark and no bite? I had thought better of you Amadeus. And I know you threatened the life of my student Starlight Glimmer. I cannot forgive you for that!” Twilight glared back at Amadeus. “And I'll see to it that Majesty will not reign in Equestria!” She got ready.

“You cannot stop her, nothing can stop my daughter from taking her rightful place as ruler of Equestria! The Bluebloods will finally have their destiny! A destiny written in blood!!” Amadeus snarled back.

“Your right about one thing, this whole thing is written in blood, the blood of all those innocent mares, stallions, fillies, and colts whom were murdered by Equestria's First's hooves, and the blood of Flash Sentry! It's because of you he's gone!” Twilight snapped at Amadeus. The last part held more emotion in Twilight's voice as she mentioned Flash Sentry's name

“Is that what you think? I could care less about those foolish students in that foolish school! And I could care less about some pathetic pegasus!” Amadeus snapped. “After all, he was a fool blinded by love for a harlot like you!” He growled.

“You wouldn't know the first thing about love!” Twilight Sparkle snapped at Amadeus.

“Silence!” Amadeus retorted as he glared. “I'll have to finish what that pathetic son of mine failed to do!” he used his magic to grab one of the fallen guard's spears as he prepared to hurl it at Twilight Sparkle. “Not even your strongest ward can stop this!” He shouted.

“You're right.” Twilight Sparkle said. “But do you have the guts to dirty your own hooves after having so many do it for you?” She asked as she saw the rage in Amadeus's eyes.

“Damn you!!!” Amadeus shouted as he hurled the spear at Twilight, but before the tip could even touch Twilight she zapped it with her magic disintegrating it in mid air.

“It's over Amadeus, admit defeat right now.” Twilight warned Amadeus.

“Never! I'll never admit defeat to the likes of you!!” Amadeus growled as he began to focus his magic. Twilight got ready as her horn lit up. “I'll see you destroyed! I'll never let you near my Majesty!!!” He shouted.

“Amadeus you can't keep this up forever! Stand down now!” Twilight responded.

“Never!!! Time to die traitor! And this time … STAY DEAD!!!!” Amadeus shouted as he unleashed his full magic power in one huge magic blast fired at Twilight. But the alicorn suddenly uses a ward to stop the magic as she was able to deflect the magic blast back at Amadeus, the unicorn's eyes widened as the blast hit him knocking him out of the Pie family farmhouse. He landed on the ground outside with a loud thud.

“I wish you could understand the error of your ways Amadeus.” Twilight headed outside with Spike and Pinkie following, behind them was Igneous Rock and Cloudy Quartz.

“Is it over?” Cloudy Quartz asked. Twilight looked down at Amadeus as the unicorn laid on the ground before he suddenly struggled to get up.

“Not yet.” Twilight warned Cloudy Quartz as she took a defensive stance as Amadeus stood on his feet gasping for air. His body was racked with agonizing pain as blood leaked from his mouth.

“C..Curse you Twilight Sparkle! Curse you and your damned family!!!” Amadeus spat some blood from his mouth. “How is .. How was it possible your family... Your damned family stole the Bluebloods' birthright!” He staggered toward Twilight, the madness in his eyes apparent. “How was it you stole what should have been my son's birthright... How was it a low born unicorn like you... stole from my son... his ascension! How?? How did you... How did you become what he should have been?!” Amadeus said as he growled and gasped for air.

“You never even gave thought to the magic of friendship Amadeus, neither did Prince Blueblood. And it wasn't by choice I became an alicorn, it was by fate.” Twilight Sparkle responded as she locked eyes with Amadeus.

“Lies!” Amadeus snapped at Twilight Sparkle. “How dare Celestia snub my son, her nephew by choosing a commoner! Even Cadence was given to some low born peasant of a unicorn, when she could have married into my.. my family!” Amadeus coughed again as blood seeped from his mouth.

“Shining Armor earned his place, and the love of Princess Cadence. Something Prince Blueblood could never understand. I'm glad Rarity saw him for what he was at the Gala.” Twilight responded as she recalled her first Grand Galloping Gala and how Rarity tried to impress Prince Blueblood till she saw him for what he was.

“It won't matter.... Majesty will avenge me! She will destroy your pathetic friendship with power! It's the thing she learned as a filly before she became the queen Equestria needs!” Amadeus struggled for breath.

“She will fail like her brother did, just as you did Amadeus. I'll make sure of it Amadeus.” Twilight responded.

“Never! You'll never match her power!” Amadeus growled again. “Especially once Lord Tirek finishes training her! Even your..your pathetic elements of harmony will be no match for her power!” He grinned as blood seeped from his mouth. “Even if I..I don't see her final ascent. I will know she will succeed, she will fulfill Sir Blueblood's wishes.” Amadeus replied.

“I highly doubt Sir Blueblood wanted his bloodline tarnished.” Twilight responded as Amadeus glared at her.

“Silence!!” Amadeus snapped. “My family was denied for far too long... At last we have the power to strike back against all whom wronged us! You, Celestia, Luna, all of them! Majesty will crush them under her hooves!” Amadeus snarled before Spike rushed at Amadeus and drove his flaming claws into the unicorn's face. Amadeus screamed as he felt the flames burning his face as Spike drove his claws into his flesh. Spike withdrew his claws as Amadeus fell to the ground, his face burnt and bloody.

“Sorry Twilight, he was talking too much.” Spike told Twilight.

“Don't worry Spike, he wasn't going to listen to reason anyhow.” Twilight told Spike as he nods.

“Is it finally over?” Cloudy Quartz asked.

“Looks that way.” Twilight approached Amadeus's body as she used her magic to scan his body. Amadeus started to move again as Twilight backed away. He slowly stood up as he glared at Twilight.

“D...Da...DAMN YOU TWILIGHT SPARKLE!!! DAMN YOU AND YOUR WORM OF A SON!..” Amadeus shouted before he finally slumped down no longer moving.

“Amadeus, you let power corrupt and consume you. And your vile poison split this kingdom. Now you'll answer to a higher authority.” Twilight turned back toward Igneous Rock and Cloudy Quartz. “It's over. He's dead.” She told them.

“After what he did to my family and to yours, he deserves to rot in Tartarus with his bastard son.” Igneous Rock said.

“Grandpa, why did he call me his grandson?” Shale asked.

“Shale my boy, he was a twisted monster.” Igneous responded to Shale.

“Dad, he has a reason to know.” Marble Pie walked up.

“Mom?” Shale looked at Marble.

“I'm sorry Shale, I didn't want you to know but that rat forced my hoof. Shale you see..” Marble let out a sigh.

“Marble, don't worry. We're all here if you need us.” Maud told Marble, Limestone and Pinkie both nodded.

“Thanks guys.” Marble said

“You have us as well Marble.” Igneous told Marble.

“Shale honey, Prince Blueblood was your father.” Marble told Shale

“You mean I'm royalty too?” Shale asked

“Well in a way but we didn't want you to know. But that blasted monster showing up here pretty much exposed it.” Igneous Rock told his grandson.

“Makes me feel ashamed to be related to a monster like him. He was no grandpa to me.” Shale told Igneous.

“Twilight, what do we do about Amadeus?” Pinkie Pie asked.

“Good question.” Twilight looked down at Amadeus's body before she noticed a set of glowing red runes from the shadows. Nazo suddenly emerged as he looked at Twilight Sparkle before looking down at Amadeus's body.

“So, the rumor was true. Welcome back to the land of the living. Not that you'll be here for much longer.” Nazo told Twilight Sparkle.

“Another buck from the great forest?” Twilight Sparkle asked.

“Actually, I'm not like them. I serve a far greater power. One you cannot even fathom.” Nazo responded. “I do owe you a bit of thanks for fulfilling one of my predictions I gave Amadeus.” Nazo grinned.

“Let me guess, that power wouldn't be Majesty would it?” Twilight asked.

“Yes, and her ascension must not be stopped.” Nazo told Twilight.

“I can't allow a tyrant like her to rule over Equestria.” Twilight told Nazo.

“You can try, but already her power is far beyond yours Princess.” Nazo responded. “Soon you will meet the star that will extinguish yours!” he grinned.

“I highly doubt that.” Twilight responded. “And I bet it was you who told Amadeus about the prophecy of the Black Star.” Twilight added on.

“Of course, to protect our Goddess we needed to make sure she can never be harmed in her foalhood. At her most vulnerable. But yet there were some who knew and even came to Unicornia to assassinate her, but they failed. Though I do admit Amadeus was brilliant enough to persuade those that the alicorn whom represented the black star would be born in the crystal empire. I never imagined one would try to take the life of an innocent foal.” Nazo chuckled.

“That innocent foal was my niece!” Twilight glared.

“You heartless monster!” Igneous shouted.

“Careful old one, I'd hate to splatter your blood in front of your family.” Nazo warned Igneous Rock before he turned to Twilight. “As for you, stay out of our Goddess's way and she may spare you. That is, if she's not forgiving of you after what you did to her father.” Nazo warned Twilight.

“I don't fear Majesty, and me and my friends will stop her before she can ascend!” Twilight said. Nazo's antlers suddenly lit up brightly causing a blinding light to blindside Twilight, Spike, and the Pie family. When the light faded Nazo was nowhere to be found. “He escaped!” Twilight said as she focused her eyes after the blinding light.

“Forget him Twilight. If he shows up again we can take him.” Spike told Twilight as she nods.

“So what do we do with Amadeus's body?” Pinkie Pie asked Twilight.

“No way I want that monster buried here.” Igneous spoke up.

“Don't worry. I'll think of something.” Twilight answered, she came up with an idea. “I just remembered the volcanoes in the Dragon Lands. It's a distance away from here but I should be able to reach it with my magic. I won't be long.” Twilight used her magic to levitate Amadeus's body before she teleports herself and Amadeus away from the Pie family home. The two arrived at the brim of a smoldering volcano close to the Dragon lands. She sets Amadeus down as she looked over the edge at the smoldering magma below in the crater. “This is it Amadeus.” Twilight looked at Amadeus as she used her magic to lift him up over the edge of the volcano. “For so long you've tormented my family and for what? Was it hatred toward me and Shining Armor? Was it because you believed that I stole the honor you felt your son deserved? Was it out of pure jealousy you slandered me before everypony? Was it out of spite you made me look like a traitor trying to usurp Princess Celestia's crown?” Twilight asked as she looked at Amadeus's lifeless body. “Was it fear that you threatened my baby niece's life to protect your daughter's life by lying about the prophecy?” Twilight asked again. “Amadeus, if only you could have understood the message of friendship, the very message I believe in. Without friendship where would Equestria be at? Without friendship, I never would have met my five best friends and reforged the Elements of Harmony, Without friendship, Princess Luna would still be corrupted as Nightmare Moon, without friendship Discord would still be evil, without friendship Queen Chrysalis would have stolen my brother's heart and forced her rule on Equestria, without friendship King Sombra would still be ruling over the crystal ponies and the empire, without friendship there wouldn't be any chance of stopping Lord Tirek, without friendship I wouldn't have been able to help Sunset Shimmer and Starlight Glimmer, without friendship Canterlot High would be enslaved by the Dazzlings.” Twilight closed her eyes and sighs. “I know my breath was wasted on you and those who sought to destroy me years ago. I know many of them paid the price for their betrayal while you escaped like the true coward you were Amadeus. I pity you.” Twilight opened her eyes. “Farewell Amadeus Blueblood, I know you don't deserve a proper burial. You better hope for mercy in the afterlife, cause I know you don't deserve it.” Twilight said before she dropped Amadeus's body into the volcano. She watched as Amadeus's body become engulfed in flames as it sank into the molten magma. She waited till she couldn't see Amadeus any longer, her work done she teleports back to the Pie Family home just in time to see the Pie family and Spike getting ready to leave.

“Is it done?” Spike asked Twilight.

“It's done.” Twilight replied as she approached the caravan as she entered it. “Let's get back to the Empire, I hope Shiny and Gladius won't be disappointed after they learn what happened here.” She said.

“We're all ready to head to the Empire as well.” Igneous Rock told Twilight as she nods, she noticed a journal in the caravan as she reads a few pages from it.

“Maybe this won't be a total loss, looks like Amadeus was keeping a journal. I'll learn more from it once we get back to the Empire.” Twilight closed the journal as she, Spike, and the Pie family left the rock farm. It wouldn't be long for them to arrive back at the Crystal Empire.

Meanwhile in Everfree Forest, a large caravan flanked by Unicornian soldiers marched through the forest. Inside the caravan was Majesty Blueblood along with Lord Tirek. The two were deep into conversation.

“I still feel your not ready to learn my spell. At least until your magic is strong enough to use it without any side effects.” Tirek said as Majesty glared at him.

“You foolish centaur. My father and even that buck Nazo believe I'm strong enough. Besides once I gain the power here no pony will stand in my way. And remind me to have that idiot Morning Blade disemboweled for failing to defend two cities.” Majesty growled, she was in a very foul mood finding out about Equestria's push back against Unicornia. “I never even imagined those little foals trying to resist my rule. Oh well not like they will have a choice when I ascend to my rightful place.” the evil alicorn said as Tirek nods. The caravan soon stopped.

“Your highness, the path ends here.” Came the voice of one of the guards.

“Is that so?” Majesty grumbled as she and Tirek exited the caravan. The forest seemed to be darker as the evil alicorn approached the end of the path, that was when she saw it. “Looks like we won't have to go far.” She began to approach her destination as Tirek followed her. The two stopped before a tree at the end of the path. The tree looked nothing like the others as it was adorned by six different symbols. Tirek only glared seeing the symbols of the mane 6. “Tirek this is it. What I've been seeking.” Majesty told Tirek.

“This tree? Other that it bearing the symbols of Twilight Sparkle and her friends I see no interest in this tree.” Tirek said to Majesty as the evil alicorn glared at Tirek.

“This is no ordinary tree, this tree houses the Elements of Harmony. A power that should rightfully be mine.” Majesty told Tirek as she approached the tree. “Hear me tree of harmony, I am Majesty Blueblood, ruler of Unicornia, ruler of Equestria! The soon to be Goddess of Equestria. I ask of you to give me the Elements of Harmony!” Majesty said to the tree. The tree remained as it is.

“No response.” Tirek said as he noticed Majesty glaring at him before she glared at the tree.

“Hear my royal voice! I demand you give me the Elements of Harmony right now!!!” Majesty shouted at the tree. This time the symbols on the tree all began to glow. “Finally! Now give them to me!” Majesty shouted but to her surprise a figure materialized before her and Tirek. The figure before them took the form of Twilight Sparkle herself.

“Majesty Blueblood.” The figure addressed Majesty in Twilight's voice.

“So, the deceased Twilight Sparkle haunts the very tree of harmony??” Tirek asked.

“My father said you were dead! How is it you are here? Unless you are nothing more than a spirit. If that is the case then begone! Begone and let me have MY Elements of Harmony!” Majesty shouted at the spirit, the spirit seemed unfazed.

“You radiate many things. Greed, Anger, Jealousy. Those are not qualities of the Elements of Harmony.” The spirit told Majesty, causing the evil alicorn to glare at the spirit.

“Are you saying I'm unworthy?!” Majesty growled as she asked.

“Yes, as your brother was unworthy of being an Alicorn.” The spirit replied causing Majesty's rage to grow even more. “Only those who can show the signs of Generousity, Kindness, Honesty, Laughter, Loyality, and Magic can hold the elements. Only six ponies showed those qualities. You Majesty Blueblood are not one of them for you do not have any of the qualities of the elements.” the spirit explained.

“Are you denying me?!” Majesty responded as she was trembling with rage. “NOBODY DENIES ME!!!! I AM MAJESTY BLUEBLOOD!!!! RULER OF ALL EQUESTRIA AND FUTURE GODDESS!!!!! NOBODY DENIES ME!!!!” She screamed with the obvious temper tantrum before her horn lit up in a crimson red color. “If I can't have what I want...I'LL MAKE SURE NOPONY ELSE CAN!!!!” she screamed before she fired on the tree with the full force of her magic. The tree reacted as it tried to deflect Majesty's magic but as it did the magic began to increase from Majesty as the tree tried to keep up but ultimately the tree began to crack before eventually it finally shatters in a fury of sparks and embers. “This is what happens to those who dare deny me!” Majesty glared as she walked away back to the caravan. Tirek followed, both amazed and in fear of what he saw.

“If this is how powerful Queen Majesty is now, what will she be like at her full potential?” Tirek pondered to himself as he joined Majesty. The caravan soon began to leave Everfree Forest and the smoldering remains of the tree of harmony.

“Tirek, we'll return to Canterlot. Once there you will show me your strongest spell. I cannot be denied my full potential any longer.” Majesty told Tirek as the centaur nods. The caravan continued toward Ponyville before making it's long journey toward Canterlot.