Sunset and Trixie sat across from each other inside the Crystal Castle. A book in front of each of them.
"Hey Sunset?"
"Yes Trixie?"
"Why was Trixie required for the summoning. Trixie means, Starlight was a better friend to Sparkle then Trixie ever was. At best we might have been freindly rivals. Trixie was always more Starlight's friend then anything else. And what was that line about Trixie being the Lulamoon?"
"I am not sure Trixie, what brought this on?"
"Well we have been going through all that Sparkle's Library has in order to find a reference to the Nightshade, Right?"
"Correct, that is what Princess Luna Asked of us correct."
"And all we have found is that the Nightshade became monsters after Luna became Nightmare Moon, but all that explains is what happened to those nightshade of purest blood, the ones that where of half blood and lower might have become tainted, but they definitely would not have fallen farther then that. What happened to them? Not a reference. Sparkle has all that the Canterlot library had and more, but we find nothing. No family of ponies, no matter how powerful, can do that. To pull that kind of trick off you would need to be able to account for everypony and every being anywhere at all times, which would honestly be truly the most ineeficient way of doing things ever. If one thing can be learned from our experience with Onyx is that he doesn't waste anything, Remember he said 'I am used to fighting above my weight class.' Can't do that if you waste energy, or the fact that he easily used a cold reading to buy himself time to both gather information on us as well as a way that he could break free from the circle. Yeah, Trixie doesn't see inefficiency being in that stallions vocabulary, except as an insult."
"Wow I never thought of that Trixie, I wonder why I didn't?"
"The same reason Sparkle, Starlight, and The Princesses don't, because they have so much power they never have to worry about it, and never did. For those that do, they become experts at energy conservation."
"So, if you where running this search how would you do it."
"Trixie would look at the two outliers, me and you."
"I get you, Trixie, but why am I an outlier."
"Because, you have more of a connection to the world beyond the mirror, the connection of the ones here to Sparkle was less skewed in their favor over you then me, but it still was a bigger margin. Lots more ponies and beings fit the criterea. Besides he refered to you as Sunset of House Shimmer, and me as Trixie The Lulamoon. Knowledge he could not have had. He knew Spikes and Princess Luna's name as well. You can not get those from a cold reading. But we are the two he knew the most about without being told. I said Friend, The Lulamoon. I never said my name. You said one who traveled for and teacher. You neither mentioned your name, nor a connection to Celestia. Still he acted on information he could not have had. Then after the rebuking he made those other claims. We all thought to confuse and disorder us and it was, but maybe he had another reason too. Maybe he wanted us to be on the right track."
"Okay but why? The more we know about the Nightshade the more we know about him. The more we can find out what he is up to."
"Sunset, you ever play Three Card Pony?"
Sunset scratched the back of her head for a moment, a blush upon her face. "Yeah I admit that I used that scam to make a few bits over the years."
"Trixie new you where a bad girl, but what if that was going on? He sends us after our 'lady,' using misdirection and places us exactly where we are wanted and needed. Giving us just enough info to lead us where he wants, when the real trick is happening somewhere else. So the only info that we can trust at this point is what he said in that room," Trixie's eyes became pinpricks as she finished the thought, "a room we never saw him leave......"
Both Sunset and Trixie rose as the two unicorns realized. "He Never left the room!" they shouted to each other.
"We didn't even scry it to check! We saw the open door and assumed he had left. Dear Celestia with the shadows in that room there was many place to hide!" Sunset turned to leave but Trixie grabbed her arm and pulled her back.
"Sunset we have to change our search, We need to check what he said and we are already in the place to do that, the exact place to do that! I think Spike was right, Onyx Nightshade is not a threat, he never was. The real threat is what the questions he introduced mean. Why don't the Nightshade exist, What happened to the remnants, and what is our connection to Luna, Celestia and the Nightshade, respectively."
Sunset paused and then looked deeper in the library. "Trixie, I know where we can find the answers to all of that."
Sunset took a deep shuddering breath. "We need to get to Twilight's personal Library."
Trixie's eyes became downcast, "We haven't gone in there since you arrived through the portal. It hurt to much."
"I know but that is where we will find everything we could possibly need. Twilight was a dedicated student and had a deep love of family, she researched all the noble lines, even Celestia's and Luna's, for fun. If any place has the answers we need it's there"
The two mares, moved deeper into the library, but, unseen a spiked, thin shape followed them. Soon all three had vanished, all on quests of their own, all looking for answers to the questions they held near their hearts.
The Princess, her consort, and their child, sat cramped into the royal chariot. Across from the Royal Family sat the Princess's Crystallier, The King of the Changelings, and his Captain of the Guard. The Cystallier holding his girlfriend tight, her head against his chest. The quiet only broken by the babbling of the Royal infant. Out of the King's mouth green flame materialized. The king snatched the letter, then stopped. He looked to his Captain of the Guard.
"Pharynx it's for you."
All looked to Pharynx, who was as mystified as the rest. The Princess spoke.
"I didn't know you knew Spike."
"I've never met him, Shining Armor would you please put a containment shield around me. Isolate me as much as possible, I don't want even sight or sound to escape it. Make the isolation both ways. Hold the shield till I give the all clear."
Shining looked questioningly upon the veteran, "Any reason for that last request?"
"If it's from spike he sent it to me, I don't read modern Equestrian, Thorax would've mentioned it. So knowing this, what my precautions would be upon the arrival, including the logical conclusion that where I got this is as important as when, it means that this is likely for my ears only. If it's not from Spike it's an assassination attempt and I need to trigger this but limit the damage."
"What will be the all clear?"
"A physical knock on the shield shouldn't be effected by the dampening effect, Thorax will know if it comes from me."
Shining sighed, then shook his head, he often questioned Pharynx's methods, but never his judgment or dedication. "I can find no fault as to your reasoning. Alright, the shield will go up on my mark, in 3, 2, 1, Mark!"
The Violet aura of Shinning's Magic isolated the changeling, and then.... nothing. Each passenger straining, the moments passed, until a hard knocking was heard.
"That's Changeling guard code, He's giving the all clear." Thorax exclaimed.
As the shield fell, they all noticed that the letter had been torn to shreds. Pharynx shook, his eyes glaring red, his lips pulled back in a snarl.
Starlight was the first, "Pharynx is everything Okay? What's the matter? Is Spike in danger?"
"Spike's fine," came the low growl, "When I met him, I owe him thanks." Prince Pharynx, Royal Guard Captain of the Changelings, Older Brother to the King of The Changelings, crossed to the door of the airborne carriage.
"I regret that has to be later, I've been informed of another matter that requires my attention. Regrettably, I have to ask you all to trust me and that you need to continue to the hospital. Sunburst, remember to look after my Sis, Starlight and my Little Bro Thorax. I'll meet up with you all at the conclusion."
Sunburst, shook his head, then nodded, "Of Course."
With that, Pharynx opened the door, and when the safety wards re-engaged, he was gone
A bearded Pony sat upon a hill overlooking what had once been his village, but was now ruins infested with field mice and foxes. He thought it strangely appropriate. He had removed his robe and hat, in favor of the nudity ponies of today. It was honestly pleasant to feel the wind against his skin, to enjoy the warmth of the grass in the sinking of the sun. An older unicorn mare approached, her white hair blowing in the wind. She too had taken to going around nude, the stallion admitting it suited her. Laying next to him, she offered him the warmth and comfort of her body. They lay together a moment more, staring out into the forgotten, but not empty, ruins.
The Mare chuckled, "I find it strangely appropriate, Starswirl, that your town has become, field mice being lorded over by foxes."
Starswirl glared upon the Elder Mare., "If naught but field mice and foxes are from this place, what then, Mistmane, am I?"
"Why, it makes you a Silver Fox, Starswirl, my dear." She groused back, placing a kiss upon his lips, the act still new enough to illicit a blush from the Unicorn Mage.
Pulling away, Mistmane stared up at the older unicorn, a smirk and a glint in her eye. Snickering, she leaned in for another kiss, only to watch as, green mist rose out of her beau's mouth, knowing what was coming she leaned back to make room, flame shot from Starswirls mouth, only to coalesce into a sealed letter.
Starswirl, Harrumphed, "I truly wish there was a better way to do that." Grabbing the scroll, he quickly read the contents, then consumed the letter in flames.
Two dark colored unicorns sat across from one another, one small, grey and frail, with a bowl cut mane and piercing eyes, the other was enormous, coloration of dusty black, his unruly pitch black mane framing his handsome face. Both held cards close to their chest, the two mares at their sides smirking.
"Alright Stygian, I call!" Came the pronouncement of the larger stallion, placing his cards upon the table he grinned, his white teeth gleaming on his face. "A Straight Flush."
The smaller unicorn tapped his finger upon his lip, "If I remember correctly Sombra, the only hand that would let me win is a Royal Straight Flush?" The Smaller Unicorn, glanced down at his cards and sighed sadly, lifting his eyes Stygian placed his hand upon the table. "Well, Darn, that means I ultimately win again, would you mind actually being challengeing next time?"
Mage Meadowbrook slapped Stygian across the back of his head, Sombra flinched in sympathy as his opponent hit the table, hard.
"You're supposed to be Nice." Meadowbrook admonished.
"It was just a little ribbing, Sombra can take it, right big fella?" Stygian returned.
Sombra made to answer, but caught the look of the mare next to him. "Radiant, thinks I need to take constructive criticism better, so I thank you for this lesson in strategy and humility." Glancing once more at Radiant Hope he let out a sigh of relief as she graced him with a smile.
"It is good for both of our stallions to get that lesson every so often, isn't it Mage Meadowbrook." Radiant said to her counterpart.
"Indeed, Radiant Hope, it is a good lesson indeed." Stygian wilted under the stare of the Pillar of Healing.
"Maybe my words were harsh, I apologize for any insult."
"Not at all, Stygian, I value input from one that is as Knowledgeable as you." Bowing his own head, the once King Sombra, now purified of his madness, bowed to the former Pony of shadows, two beings that perhaps understood each other better then the mares at their sides.
Both mares gazed lovingly at their Stallions, when, simultaneously, green whispy smoke began to billow out of the mouth of Stygian, as well as Sombra. Forcing it's way out, fire materializied into twin scrolls, each was snatched by its respective recipient.
Both Stallions read quickly, then turned as one to their mares. "I need to get to Canterlot Now!!!!!"
Rarity watched as Spike sent the last of the letters. No, not Spike, this well-muscled dragon in the bed next to her had taken a new name. A name fitting for the Crown Prince of Nothing. This was Crucible. She snuggled in tighter, as she remembered how she became involved in this charade.
Rarity ran, the words of the letter racing through her head.
"Rarity, please come to the station. I need help. I can't do it on my own anymore. I've met someone that can help, but I need you at my side. Please Come. I'll be unconscious when you get here. But he'll explain everything, his name is Onyx Nightshade, he holds all the secrets."
The letter then cut off, causing the Element of Generosity to sprint to the station, not pausing as she pushed others out of the way, only stopping as a tall stallion motioned to her. Strangely, as he moved the crowd parted, but no other reaction was given. Rarity felt as if she and this stallion had stepped away from the herd, into the world beside our own. Following him to the rear car, he gestured for her to enter. Entering the car, she saw Spike, slumped in his seat, she quickly moved to his side.
"If you've hurt him, I do not care who you are, I've not a care what you are, I'll make you pay in ways that only a Lady can. Spike is, always has been, my dearest friend."
"Only a friend, Lady Rarity? Or something more?' A deep baritone echoed forth.
Rarity sighed, "He 's a minor, I've no idea the situation is where you're from, but such a relationship is harmful and inappropriate. As I said, he's my Dearest Friend, I'd never hurt him in such a way."
The Stallion chuckled, "An answer that's no answer, neither conformation nor admittance. I understand why he feels the way he does. You are indeed a Lady"
Rarity turned, her temper flaring, her horn lighting. A wave of his hand, and her gathered energy dispersed. Staggering back, her eyes widened in fear.
"Peace, Lady Rarity, It was meant as a complement. But I think some updating is needed, as well as a lesson in dragon biology. Look again upon 'Spike'."
She turned and saw. Gone, was the chubby cheeks, the baby fat, in its place, lithe muscle and toned form. The ridge that had been his namesake, no longer appeared to big for him, and had flattened, hardening into the protective armor it was always meant to be. His tail appearing more crocodilian that it'd ever been. His features, once merely cute, had sharpened, giving him a lean handsomeness. Blushing, she realized, he'd somehow gone from a child to somewhere around her own age overnight.
"How?"
"Dragons age as they become more powerful, not just from greed. A horde is more then just Gems and gold. It can be knowledge and loved ones. Arcane power, over physical. He was in an Impossible situation and won. But the struggle exhausted him. He needs you, they both do."
"Both?"
A female pony appeared, this newcomer dressed in cargo pants and a blue t-shirt, a vest with many pockets completing the ensemble. She bowed, "I am Aegis Scholar, Sublimati Companion to He that was Spike and is now Crucible in his adulthood, sworn to his assistance and protection, as well as yours."
"Mine?"
The stallion interjected. "Indeed, He needs your help more then any other. Aegis is only a newborn spirit, it is difficult for her to do more then her duty. He loves and is devoted to you. So she's bound to your protection as well. I need you to look after them. Aegis will listen to you. Please, don't to leave his side, remain as close to him as possible. Do you understand what it is that I'm asking? It may include that which is considered unladylike."
"He is mine. He's always been mine. What a Lady does with that which is hers, is no business of others. I'll get him to the hospital so that he can be properly cared for. So that he can rest. We have forced him to be strong alone too long. That will be rectified."
"Then I leave them both in your capable hands. When he awakens, he'll fill you in with what he knows, I've told him to tell all to you. Thank you Lady Rarity, The King on the Iron Throne, owes you a debt." Green mist gathered to the Stallion, then he was gone.
######################################################################################### She smiled again as Crucible pulled her tight, placing a kiss upon her head. Doctor Suture entered the room and soon Aegis Scholar stood in his place.
"Mistress Rarity, Master Crucible, all has been prepared." bowing she faded from view.
Rarity rose, joined by Crucible. His arm around her, they walked into the waiting room as the Heartsong faded. Their friends and family shocked upon the changes between them. Letting go of his beloved, Crucible stepped forward.
"Peace, We are waiting for a few more." the force of his will, silencing the room.
It was then that Thorax, Cadance, carrying Flurry Heat, Sunburst and Starlight entered the room. Shocked Celestia turned to them.
"How did all of you know to come? It shames me, but I didn't send word, I was going to do so, once I had more information."
Cadance answered, "It was Nobodies Business that told us........ FUCK!!!!!"
Crucible's deep laugh echoed through the room. "We'll be needed back at Canterlot, loved ones."
Luna turned to the dragon she'd once known as Spike, "What's happening back in Canterlot?"
Rarity answered, "Several Things, Lady Luna. A Final Verdict will be found, and then Three weddings."
Crucible's laugh echoed out again, "Indeed, My Lady. No more questions, we must make haste. Can't very well be late for Court or a wedding, now, can we, let alone three?"
Still in shock, everyone followed the Dragon and his Lady.
Ember looked out over the Dragon Lands, a small scrap of paper clutched tightly in her hands. It was a simple message.
"Spike's in the hospital." She snarled, to herself. "Thorax knew, and didn't tell me."
Snarling she lashed out at her mirror, shattering it. Ever since Ember had met the Changeling King, something had blossomed between them.
Little Do You Know How I'm Breaking That You've Lied To Me
Slumping to the floor she felt the pain leave her mouth. "Huh, a Heartsong, never knew dragons had them."
Again the words came unbidden, Ember knew from Spike not to resist, to let it happen.
Little Do You Know I Wonder What You See In Me Little Do You Know I Want To Give You All Of Me
She looked down at the report, Thorax knew! He Knew and Hadn't told her. Lied through not telling her, through Omission. Again her claw curled around the report, blood dripping from her hand. She ignored the pain as her Heartsong continued.
Little Do You Know I Need No More Lies Underneath it all I Just Want You To Hold Me Tight I Put Up Walls For The Fear That We Are All A Lie
Surrounding by the broken shards of her Mirror, Ember kneeled. She felt his arms around her, smelled him in her bed. Her tears shattered against the floor.
I Could Forgive You If You Told Your Side Little Did you Know I Know You Lied.
On the other side of Equestria, Thorax stood, waiting for the preperations for the trip to Canterlot. He looked to Rarity and the one that had been Spike, that was now Crucible. His thoughts went to her. He still smelled her upon him, felt her presence. Wanted nothing more to be near her.
"Ember."
Away, Away, I've Loved You And I'll Never Go Away, So Stay I Promise I'll Drive Those Fears Away
He smiled, Heartsong. He imagined she must know what happened. Their relationship had been kept between them. The Changelings and Dragons had never been Allies, had always been at war. There where still no Changelings in the Dragon Lands, probably never would be. Both Races had long memories. He and Ember had just wanted something for themselves. His smiled failed him, as his own tears broke against the ground, turning towards the shadow of a building he leaned. Some random alley within Ponyvile. His tears fell, his Heartsong continued.
My Love Is Here and It will Always Stay, So Please Just Trust In Me Little Do You Know I Hear You Crying When We're Sound Asleep Little Do You Know Our Situation Is Slowly Kill Me
He reached out to the Hive Mind, nothing. Even after the peace Ponyville was, ironically, not a destination for his race. Before, for what would happen to any Changelings found, due to Twilight's and the Element's grudge, and after because they were all needed within the badlands. He Couldn't ask Spike, because although Spike had been his friend, Crucible was still an unknown. Besides, the need for secrecy had even kept the one closest to both of them unaware. Spike hadn't known, so neither did Crucible. Thorax continued to water the ground, again, his quiet Heartsong called out.
Little Do You Know, I'm Trying To Get Word To You Discretely Little Do You Know, I Just Need To See Your Eyes.
Two Lovers, separated only by distance, reached out, unknowingly singing the same words.
Please, Just Stay I Love You, And I'll Never Go Away, Just Stay I Love You So Please Don't Be Afraid, Just Wait. This Love is Ours and Never Gone Away, Stay
Ember looked to the direction of Ponyville, singing out her lament she again gave sound to her pain. Behind her, unseen, a shadow took form. Called to her pain, Called to her anger, Called to her Fear.
So Please Don't Lie To Me
In that random alley, as the others prepared, Thorax issued his wish, his hope, trying desperately to make her hear him.
Stay, Stay
Ember, called, seeking her love. Why had he done this? Had it been just to get close to a potential rival? Had he been feeding on her? Was this all some Joke to him!? The Shadow sped towards Ember, emboldened by the surge of negative emotions.
Stay, Stay
Again they both sang out, knowing that they called out to emptiness. Knowing that there was no way their message could get through. But, hoping, desperately that maybe just a small part would reach the other.
I'll Love You Till All The Pains, Away, Stay I Promise There's No Need To Be Afraid, So Stay This Love We See Is Always Gonna Stay So Lay Down Next To Me So Lay Down Just With Me So Please, Just Come Hold Me
Ember fell silent, her head bowed, tears in her eyes. In that moment the Shadow struck and gone was Ember, Queen of the Dragons, born was the Shadow Dragon. Turning her head from Ponyvile she looked in the direction of Canterlot. They where the ones that gave her these emotions. The Ponies wanted her to be more like them, time to show them a DRAGON"S HEARTBREAK! Screaming, she launched herself towards the city on the mount, growing in size and terror, her own father, failing to know her and cringing inside his cave.
Unknowingly, Thorax sang his last hope, his last desperate plea to the woman of his heart. The one he missed more then anything, The one he needed, now and forever more. The one he feared he had lost.
Cause Little Do You Know I Need You At My Side.
Turning back to the others he dried his tears, no sense in crying now. He would have to apologize to Ember when he saw her next. He hoped she could forgive him. Slowly he rejoined his friends, to whatever his mother had planned at Canterlot. To a wedding or to a war.
Sunset and Trixie made their way towards Twilight's lab. The silence of the Crystal Castle hanging over the two mares as they made their way through the labyrinth of corridors. Trixie let out a snort, then a laugh. Covering her mouth as she began to cry tears as the laughter didn't stop.
"Trixie!" Sunset moved to the mare, but Trixie shook her head.
"Trixie is fine Shimmer, She just remembered that you and I have no problem navigating the castle."
"Why is that so funny?"
"Because Starlight lives here and still gets lost!" Sputtering Trixie lost it again, as Sunset herself began to snort. After a couple of minutes, the laughter faded, and the two friends went forward once again. Reaching the open door to the lab, they entered. Sunset glancing around, took stock of her surroundings, the bacon haired unicorn considering where to start.
"If I know Twilight, those Genalogy records would have to be over there." Shimmer pointed to the far side of the room, behind the glowing portal.
"Sunset should the portal be open like that?"
Sunset smiled at Trixie, "Twilight kept it open so that I could visit as I pleased. When I came through this last time, it didn't feel right to close it."
Trixie nodded as the two girls made their way to where Sunset had pointed. Looking at the tall case, scrolls packed into neat and orderly rolls. Both girls stared for a moment. They both knew the system that Twilight had used, as both had assisted the Alicorn on more than one occasion. Trixie shook her head.
"It seems almost wrong to disturb this." The Powder Blue Unicorn whispered, the last bit of Twilight in existence that was undisturbed. That hadn't had investigators eradicating her organization. Trying to understand what would make Tempest and Flash do what they did, why they murdered the princess of friendship. And what had happened to Tempest's Purple Hedgehog Assistant. Where had Grubber gone? Why was he not at the castle that day?
A voice echoed out behind them, gravelly and rough. "Then maybe you should just leave it."
Both mares turned to see Grubber standing at the Mirror, much thinner, but with that same smile he always wore. Speaking again, he addressed them both.
"I go through this gate to a new world to leave that which has taken all from me. I go to escape from the justice of the ignorant. For there is no justice for me here." Bowing the Hedgehog darted through the portal, laughing.
Sunset shreiked in rage. Running for the portal, she went through only seconds behind her escapeing prey. He had to have the answers to why his boss did what she did, and how she turned the Equestrian Flash to her cause. Vanishing into the portal herself, leaving Trixie behind.
Trixie moved towards the portal to pursue them both but a flash of light knocked the book from it's pedastal, breaking the connection. Cursing she moved forward. As much as she hated to admit it the replacemnet of the book and the working of the controls for the portal were beyond her. She didn't have the training or the knowledge. Kneeling down she retreived the book and brought it over to Sparkle's desk for safekeeping. When Starlight returned the book could be returned and the portal reopened, but in the meantime the book would be kept safe.
"The Mare that helped defeat our mother, she is alone, we see." came a voice of many speaking as one.
Trixie turned, trying to see beyond the door to who was talking, "Hello, who's there?" She called
A black cloud began to make it's way into the room. The forms of chnglings in various states of suffering and decay plain within it. Shifting and rolling the amourphous cloud answered. A hundred dead changlings all whispering to Trixe at once.
"We are Legion, for we are the many, the 100 uncounted. We are the forgotten. The ones that died but were never found."
Trixie shuddered, standing tall she answered Legion, "I am Trixie Lullamoon, what is your business in this place?"
Laughter made up of the voices of 100 damned souls filled the room, before that echoing voice spoke. "We come to make sure that all the works of Twilight Sparkle come to naught. That all she helped shall fall. We come for vengeance for ourselves and our mother. We come to kill thee."
The ephemereal changelings moved forward as one, in death gaining the legendary hivemind of their kind. Trixie backed away, she had no defence against a being like this. There was not a trick or a spell that she new that worked her. It was then that she heard the noise. It began as a low hum and as whatever it was got closer it grew into a roar, Trixie smiled, she new what was coming.
Green flame arced around the Dark being, driving it back, as the most powerful of the warrior caste to ever have lived, the master shapeshifter, Pharynx himself landed oin front of Trixie, Green flame arced from his body as he rose, his eyes blazing red with rage. Looking upon those before him, he snarled.
"You that have lost your lives, you have no right to take her. She is MINE! You are nothing more than a memory best forgotten, a memory called forth to stab at what we have become. Begone lest I show my wroth to thee."
Trixie smiled, this was her stallion, kept a secret so that she had one thing she didn't have to share with the stage, one thing he didn't have to share with his brethren. Something that was there own.
The darkness before them spat back. "We will not be denied. You who were are commander stand with her? You have betrayed us! It is you that should beware our wroth, beware our rage, our PAIN!"
Pharynx smiled, "You have made thy choice, now live with the consequences."
The King on the Iron throne, Onyx Nightshade, and The Queen of The Changelings, Chrysalis stood close to one another, their hands held as if about to start a dance.
"Alright, let us try this once more," Onyx said.
Stepping forward, he took Chrysalis's hand in his, channeling energy, he reached for her mind, asking her to join with him. In turn, Chrysalis extended her own thoughts, answering his call. Invisible energy humming in the air, a static charge causing goosebumps along both participants skin, gathering until collapse as, once again, the energy grounded out instead of forming the telepathic gestalt.
"What am I doing wrong?" Chrysalis pleaded, "We need to get this right but every time I reach for you, I can't sync the bond."
"Maybe it's not you." Came the reply, Onyx's eyes were shadows, his brow lined with thought. If this did not get solved things would get complicated quick.
"Oh, no! Don't give me that it's not you it's me crap! Whenever someone says that it's YOU!" Chrysalis turned and leaned in the doorway of the room Onyx had taken her to. Strange runes, etched into the stone ran in lines throughout, forming circles and other geometric shapes.
She heard Onyx chuckle. The slim tall Stallion walked over to the Changeling queen, placing his hand on her shoulder he gently turned her to him. Pulling her close he wrapped his arms around her and held her. Kissing the top of her head he explained.
"I know your entire life, but you know very little of mine. You've had the highlights. I've not given you the opportunity to know it all." Withdrawing back he faced her with a stern look, "That ends now. Come, I know what we must do."
Gesturing with his hand, the doorframe became etched in runes Chrysalis was well familiar with. She watched as he masterfully crafted each rune purely from memory, she shivered as he spoke the word of opening, his baritone carrying the power of a King. The Door swung open, no longer into the hallway, but into the Leaden Path edged with Iron. Still holding herself against him, they stepped, as one, into the Underworld.
The mists of the realm of the dead swirled around them, never quite breaching the path. Swirling amorphous shapes drifted within the emptiness, half heard sentences snickering through the moras. Onyx looked out into the void and began a Heartsong. Of his own volition he sang, pouring all he had to say to this one held tightly in his arms.
The Things Inside Of Me I Didn't Let You See They Stay Caged But They Need To Come Out
She saw an underground tomb, a place for the dead. Yet, inside horrid things that had not the decency to stay dead slumbered through the day. Striding to the locked entryway, at the head of a column of prisoners strode her Onyx. But this was not her Onyx, this was who he had been. This was him newly ascended the throne, this was Ettiene Navar. Ettiene turned to those haggard prisoners, pronouncing his judgement.
"You of the Corvino, branch family of the Navar, have tainted yourselves with Necromancy and Vampirism. You conspired to force the love of my life to flee her home, making it so that I can never again meet her in this life. You attempted to convert me into a blood slave under the control of you Vampire Elders. You stand traitors to the Navar and all that we stand for. Thus my judgement is clear." Turning to the nearest guard he ordered, "Open the tomb and let them join the ones that slumber during the day. Seal the tomb forever more when you are done. Let the Corvino see what the ones that promised them power do when their hunger gets the better of them."
The Guard blanched, taking a step back, but Ettiene would not be denied, "Place them inside, and seal them in or join them."
Into the tomb the Corvino went, men and women. But the horror was not done. Turned to those Navar not of royal stock he said, "Now, go and find all of those of the Corvino blood that are but infants, for they too may be tainted. Into the fire they must go. Lest we all be loss. All of you allowed this to happen, allowed the Corvino to become corrupt. You Courtesan Navar were to busy pursuing your drug addled dreams and paid no attention to your duties. So now the blood of the Corvino are upon the hands of all Navar, never to have our hands cleansed."
Don't Turn Away From Me These Things Inside Of Me I Touch The Rage and I Can't Contain It
The One Chrysalis knew as Lady Midnight sat next to Ettiene as he sweated upon a bed, chained he was. Thrashing and cursing, begging for just one drop of Vitae. Ettiene, himself had become a blood addict. Using the Blood of Vampires to empower himself so that he might protect others. In the end, Lady Midnight had come and had him chained to his bed, forcing him to undergo a complete detox, cold turkey. She sat next to her Lord and wiped his brow with a cloth, attending to his toiletries as he could not be trusted to be free. She sat until it was over, reading to him the Book of Lore, so that he might remember that even the King was not beyond answering for the consequences of his actions.
Those Slashes On My Arms My Friends Start To Fall It All Awakes And I Feel So Twisted Hidden Inside My Head In My Soul Cries The Dead Please Won't You Come and Help Me End This Make This End
Again Chrysalis looked, grasping tighter to the man next to her. The duty of the ruler was to commit those sins that let their people thrive. She herself knew the guilt that a Queen carried. She had made decisions that had almost doomed her race. She saw more, Ettiene, casting out Lady Midnight. Them both saying such awful words to each other. She watched as the pale thin woman went out into the world, having lost everything. Saw Lady Midnight get trapped within something horrid. Not able to have the man of her choosing she punished herself for losing her one. Thus when Ettiene found her, it was in an alleyway attending to one of lesser value. Incensed, he crippled the one that would dare to defile her, then handed what was left over to true monsters, beings of darkness and terror. Beings that owed him favors and where quite fond of Lady Midnight. Beings that promised the defilers screams would last at least a month. Taking her to him he asked her, "Why?"
"Because He never would've left me." Was her reply to him.
It's Just Beneath The Skin This Struggle I Can't Win I Must Confess I'm Only A Monster I Hate All I've Done My Nightmare's Never Done I Will Confess I'm Only A Monster I, I, Am Such A Monster I, I, Am Only A Monster
After her answer he held her a moment, then looked into her eyes, "Follow Me." He said
"Where?"
"To our home."
Almost dragging her through the dirty, foul, dark streets of that city, until they came to a building, as foul and diseased as any others. Pulling her through the door and up to his room, the two of them passed into his small apartment. Pulling her close as the doors shut behind them, he said for all that were watching,
"This is how one treats a Lady,'
Then he leaned in and kissed her as she should always have been kissed, his only apology and his only attempt to say the words that should've been said years ago, but now could never be said. The doors closed and those that spied could see no more. The message, however was understood. Lady Midnight belonged to the King On The Iron Throne, and he to her. It would be the first and last time they ever made love.
These Secrets That I've Kept They Just Poison Me They're Contained But I Might Just Lose It Cause When They Come Out They Shatter All Tear Me Down Please Can You Save Me From This Make This End
Mortally wounded, Lady Midnight was carried out of that place of terror and horror by her king. Her blood stained his chest and he cared not. Neither one said a word, words left unspoken were left unspoken. No effort was made to ease the suffering of the other. He carried her and she was carried by him, nothing more. Sometime in that walk she died, and he carried her into the secret path's of her people, for she was a Lady of the Slaugh, and thus deserved a royal burial. He brought her to their secret place, laying her down, surrounded by her brethren, Ettiene, using his bare hands and whatever he had on him, tore up the wooden floor, then chipped his way through concrete, until an acceptable grave was dug. None moved to help or hinder him, and when it was done, he alone placed her body inside. Arising out of the hole, bleeding and dirty, he was set upon by her people. They had been driven mad with grief, and blamed him for the loss of one if them that was most beloved. Exiling him from that place they abandoned him within that city, deep among his enemies, nevermore to be near her again.
It's all so deep within Not Just Beneath My Skin I reach out and My Heart Beats Faster I Want This All Just Gone No Nightmares Over, Done
Walking towards those he could still call allies, Ettiene was dead inside. The very monsters that would ordinarily strike at him, wilted back. They recognized that he had nothing left to lose. His family was shattered, His Lady Midnight gone, even his burning rage, that had kept him warm amidst the coldest darkness was nonexistent. He stalked forward, knowing that for him, tomorrow either did not exist or would never end. All those that preyed on others stood aside to let Ettiene pass. Even his allies stood aside, their questions left unanswered. Upon gaining the solitude he desired, he did not scream, he did not cry, he did not grieve. He cleared a table of all things, then removed all those tools and weapons he still had on his person. Lining them precisely on that grey table. Every item in its place and a place for every item. After removing all of his tools and weapons, he proceeded to calmly strip himself of all of his armor. This time hanging those things upon the appropriate rack. He continued this until he was all but naked. Turning to it all, he began to clean and restock those items depleted, replacing them within the correct spot on his armor. When he was done, he was ready.
I Must Confess I Always Needed My Monster You See Me Deep Within You're Underneath My Skin I Must Confess Can You Be With This My Monster Please, Please, Don't Leave This Monster Please, Please, Don't Leave This Monster
He went from dark place to dark place. Every evil deal he had ever turned down, he took. Ettiene, in vengeance for Lady Midnight gathered enough power to destroy equestria several times over. He called all the dark things and pointed them at that which took what was most precious from him. He bound spirits of earth and air, became a blood addict again, took into himself pieces of the unhallowed dead, so that he could use their powers, made deals with dark spirits of corruption and murder.
I Hid From The Dark It Ripped Me Apart No Second Chance For Me It Took My Soul It Took My Heart Nobody Heard Me Scream Please Don't Turn From Me I know It's Inside Of You To Stop My Monster
The Assault on that place was bloody, death on a scale never before seen. All that was dark converged on that place. And at the center, in the thick of all the violence and death was Ettiene. He gave no mercy nor asked for none. As he passed none survived, the very walls bleeding in lament that one such as him walked the world. There was no heaven for Ettiene Naver walked the world, thus God had forsaken all.
This Comes From Deep Within It's Underneath My Skin I Must Profess, I Never Beat My Monster I Chose What I Became Now That It's Done
Together We Can Beat My Monster Please Hold Me Deep Within Your Heart Will Always Win Please Help Me Beat My Monster
Soon he stood before the one that had taken it all from him, surrounded by not just the evil of that place, but the evil he had brought to that place. The Thing before him spoke, it voice unnatural and pained.
"I am the God Here, I Control All, Where Do You Think You Are?!"
Ettiene smiled. It was then she saw her Onyx as he answered. "I'm standing at ground zero, Ivzohv!."
At His command all the Spirits that Onyx had bound broke free of their bindings and began to take their aggravations and rage out on all of those around them, as they made their way to Onyx, so that he could know their displeasure as well. Again the smile and again she saw her Onyx as his next words where simple. "Dominus Mortus, Get me to someplace safe, that I might heal and recover."
You, Never Lose Control You're Indomitable You Can Beat My Monster You, You Beat My Monster
The Oldest of the Dead, the one being that both consider Ettiene a friend and still owed him a favor, pulled him through the barrier between worlds, dragging him down to the bottom of creation, were he endured torture in order to heal what he had done to himself. He was placed somewhere he couldn't escape so that he would be safe. In the end he even gave up his name so that he and others could heal. He stayed at the Nadir of creation, content to end his days as the universe burned around him, but then he had been called to Equestria. To bring the Judgement of the Dead, blessed be. Chrysalis hugged him tight, no longer a Queen and a King, just a stallion and a mare. In that instant, the Telepathic Gestalt happened, and the two most damaged beings in two universes went out into Canterlot Castle, taking hold of all the minds the encountered as they did so.
Pharynx looked out upon the 100. Those changelings lost in the assault on the wedding of Princess Cadence. Those 100 that had never come home, doomed to die. They more than anything else had destroyed his loyalty to his Queen. That she led them into a battle they could never have won. They also were the reason that he had waited so long to share his love with the rest of the Hive, lest the secret of the 100 come out. Only he among the changelings had done the math. Queen Chrysalis had ordered him to remain quiet. After the reformation of his kind, he feared that if he shared his love the secret would come out. That Thorax would find out. Pharynx smiled, his brother would have declared war on Equestria on the spot. That smile was short lived. Declared war and lost. So Pharynx did what he always did, acted in the best interests of his people.
Arise No More Can't Be Reborn
His Voice Rang Out to Them. The green flames still burning, enshrouding his form.
Here It Goes Here It Goes Here It Goes
No!
He stood, as he always did.
One, Nothing Wrong With Me
Between Those He Loved
Two Nothing Wrong With Her
And Those That Would Take Them From Him.
Three, Your The Wrong Thing Here!
He Was Pharynx, strongest of the Warrior Caste
Four, You Have Got To Leave!
He Was Pharynx, And None That He Loved Would Be Taken From Him Again.
One, It's Our Time To Live!
Not While their was breath in his body.
Two, It's Our Time To Love!
He Would Be Damned First.
Three, You've Just got to GO!
The Emerald fire of Pharynx magic blazed as he moved forward, his form a mere suggestion as he dove into Legion. His Heartsong screamed his demand, these beings had been raised. They had been called. His Honor demanded he alone sent them back the Elysian Fields. Such was his duty, Such was his burden
Let These Souls Rest Evermore Let These Souls Rest Evermore Let These Souls Rest Evermore Let These Souls Rest Evermore Let These Souls Rest Evermore Let These Souls Rest Evermore
The Dark Shape of Legion engulfed Pharynx emerald fire stifling it. But still his Heartsong could be heard. Trixie smiled nastily, her Pharynx wouldn't fall so easily. His Heartsong once more shouted forth.
Pushed To Far This Needs To End Let Them Go Let Them Go Let Them Go Now.
Legion hissed in pain as Green Fire burst through, pushing them away from Trixie. Once more Pharynx stood in front of the one he loved. Once more he Sang.
One, You Got To Rest! Two, You've Past Your Time! Three, This Hate Has To Die! Four, Nothing Wrong With Sharing Love!
Pharynx stood, wreathed in smokeless fire, staring sadly at Legion. This old hatred. This Old Evil. It was Everything that he had ever fought against. It was why he had protected Thorax, It was why he had done all he had ever done. This old hatred was not going to take another soul from him. Not today, not ever.
One, I Deserve To Live. Two, She Deserves To Live Three, You Need To Rest
Flowing forward, he sang his plea to these that had been his comrades. Those he had protected. Those he had lead.
Let Your Souls Give Up Your Rage! Let Your Souls Give Up Your Rage! Let Your Souls Give Up Your Rage! Let Your Souls Give Up Your Rage! Let Your Souls Give Up Your Rage! Let Your Souls Give Up Your Rage! Let Your Souls Give Up Your Rage! Let Your Souls Give Up Your Rage!
As he advanced, Legion fell back before him, he sang his pain out to those fallen that had given all. Given all so that the Changelings could have a chance. They had succeeded. For it was in that battle that Thorax had grown sick of it all and sought another way. They were heroes. It sickened Pharynx that they were being used in such a way. When he found out who or what had done this, he would be making his displeasure known. Tears forming in his eyes, he sang his understanding.
Flesh Of My Flesh Blood Of My Blood You've Been Called, But Not By Your Will Alone You've Been Broken Called Back From Death's Rest Fallen To Hate Corrupt From Fear.
As his flames touched Legion, they bowed their heads. Legion's darkness fell before Pharynx's warm fire. Of no more consequence then a passing nightmare. Their pain and hatred confounded by his love for them. He bore them no ill will. But he would not let them indulge in the meaningless cycle that his brother had ended. He would not let them harm any others.
One, You Need To Die Two, Bid This World GoodBye Three Your Time Is Past Four Our Love Will Last One, It's Our Time To Live Two, It's Our Time To Live Three, It's Our Time To Live Seek Your Vengeance Nevermore Seek Your Vengeance Nevermore Seek Your Vengeance Nevermore Seek Your Vengeance Nevermore
As Legion Faded, Pharynx gave one last command to these that had been his soldiers. One last order to carry out.
Just Go! Just Go! Fust Go! Just Go! Just Go!
As they passed, his fire once more extinguished, and he was once more himself. Sagging to the floor, he felt the strong arms of his mare enclose him. Leaning into her, he sobbed quietly as she held him. Trixie said not a word, just held this strongest of males. Everything else could wait.
A slender faceless stallion turned in a direction it had not thought of in a long time. Tightening it's tie and brushing the dirt from its dress pants, the last Slenderpony moved towards Canterlot, obeying a call from one that it never thought to hear from again. The dark things were gathering, it was time for an ending. It was time for renewal.
The pool of shadows bubbled, gathering the last of its power. For the first time in ages being forced out of its liar to take a direct hand. Darkness flowed out into the world, seeking a host to enact its will. The last Nightshade had come. It was time to make sure there would be no more. Just as it had all those years ago. Now, a more direct hand would be required.
The carriage landed on the steps of Canterlot Castle, the city eerily quiet. The usual crowds absence giving a somber mood to the bright whites and golds of the courtyard.
Shining Armor disembarked from the carriage, using one of his shields to set a perimeter. Scanning the area, he signaled to the occupants.
"Arlight, I want Sunburst and Starlight to flank me, while Rainbow take point but stay within sight. Applejack, Pinkie, and Rarity, stick close to the princesses. Spike, I would like a word." Captain Shining Armor ordered.
Stepping off the carriage, Crucible smiled at the surrounding area.
"So serious, Shining, I assure you there is no threat to you or anyone you care for," Crucible assured, "Just a Session of Court or a wedding, possibly both!"
Turning to the rest of those present, Crucible countermanded Shinings orders, "Now then, Starlight you're the maid of honor. The other bridesmaids will be here in a moment. The Father of the bride will be arriving shortly as well as witnesses for the case. Cadence I believe you will be coordinating with Luna being the justice of the peace. Pinkie, you're in charge of the wedding cake and all of the deserts, the entirety of the castle chefs will be at your disposal. Applejack, you'll be in charge of the food. If you ask it will be provided. Rainbow Dash and Fluttershy will be in charge of entertainment for the reception. Fluttershy I believe you will find that the animals will be most cooperative with you. Rainbow, I'll need a sonic rainboom dropped right over the heads of the bride and groom as they exit the church. I am the best man. Thorax, you and Pharynx will be in the mens wedding party with me. Rarity, my sweet you shall be in charge of wardrobe. Celestia and Luna are part of the family of the bride. Shining I need you to in charge of logistics. With me being a part of the wedding it will fall to you to be in my staid. The failure or success of this whole wedding will be on your shoulders."
"What the hell, Spike? We are dealing with Chrysalis here. You expect me to believe she put me in charge of making sure her wedding succeeds? She's not that stupid. I'm trying to keep us safe and you countermand everything like your my commanding officer -" Shining snarled
"That is because I am your commanding officer," Crucible interjected, "You never resigned your commission as Captain of The Royal Guard. Therefore as the heir to the Princess of Friendship's throne I am one of those rulers that you are duty bound to follow. Unless any of the other Princesses present want to overrule me?" Crucible glanced at the other Princesses, silence answered.
Looking back to Shining, he continued, "And My name is Crucible now. As for Chrysalis all will be answered. And I think when you hear the full story you will not be so quick to judge."
Shining's eyes narrowed, "She mentally assaulted me and almost killed my wife -"
"For which I am very sorry for," Chrysalis's deep voice echoed into the clearing, "Just as I am very sorry to be doing this."
Green sludge pinned Celestia to the ground, as Shining turned he was slammed by a green mist that defined itself into a unicorn stallion.
"Please, know Captain Armor, I hold you in the highest esteem," Onyx assured, "But I can not allow you to interfere with the judgement of the dead."
Rising to his feet, Shining formed a purple barrier. Shoving it forward the Knightly Unicorn was surprised when Onyx dismissed it with a gesture. Two more Onyxes descended down the steps. One a Pegasus, the other an Earth Pony. The Pegasus shot forward, delivering a kick to the face of the former captain of the Guard, staggering him. The Earth pony followed up with a buck to Shinings face that made even Applejack flinch. As Shining Armor fell Chrysalis restrained Shining with her green slime.
Luna turned, "What is the meaning of this? Report Nightshade!"
The tap of a cane was heard and a fourth Onyx joined them. Approaching Luna he knelt, "Forgive the Violence of my entrance, my liege. I do this according to your last order onto me. I do this to institute the Judgement of the Dead as you commanded."
All eyes looked to Luna, the night princess merely sighed, "Which of course means that I have to stand between you and them. Tell me, Chrysalis looks better then last I saw her, is that your doing?"
Onyx smiled, "Of course, I healed her and fixed her pattern. Something that should have been done a long time ago. In turn she agreed to be my agent and through me yours."
Luna's sigh was deeper this time, "Which means that as long as she holds to that agreement Chrysalis is under my protection too."
Cadence stepped forward, trembling and clutching Flurry Heart to her chest. "Auntie Luna, what is going on?"
Turning to her niece Luna smiled, "A show, young Cadence. A Danse Macabre, one unlike any you have ever seen. One that shall put all things to right," Turning from Princess Cadance back to the Kneeling Onyx Luna asked, "Am I correct in that my Vassal?"
"Indeed, my liege. All the disparate threads cut loose by the death of Princess Twilight Sparkle shall be woven back into the greater tapestry. To be solved as she would've in life."
Applejack stepped in front of her friends, "Alright I have had enough! I want to know what in Sam Hill is going on! What is Chrysalis doing here? Why'd you need us? And What does this have to do with Twi?"
"Simple, oh element of honesty," Onyx chuckled, "The Judgement of the Dead is when I am called to handle the last affairs of the deceased, as the deceased would have them done. In this case I also bring those that conspired to kill her to light and adjudicate punishment as she would have wished. It is what we will be doing tonight." Onyx explained.
"So, your gonna remove all the lies and bring the truth to light?" Applejack queried.
"Such is my duty and burden," Onyx clarified, "I have been doing this a long time."
A roar cut through the air, interrupting further questions.
Onyx looked skyward and cursed, "It looks like our first Bridesmaid is a little early," Turning to Thorax, Onyx snarked, "Please, King of The Changelings, control your date! The Rest follow, much to do and we've so little time."
Green Magic lifted both Celestia and Shining, both unable to break free of the green slime.
"I have Celestia!" Shouted the Earth Pony Onyx.
"We Have Shining Armor!" Chorused the pegasus and unicorn versions.
Moving in sync the trio moved the immobilized pair into the castle, while the rest of the wedding party followed suit.