This is a sequel of Anon-A-Miss: Friendship is home. This is the story of Sunset Shimmer, Discord, Fiery Flames and much more as they go forth in the New Year to spread Friendship all around when needed. Also to prepare of an upcoming threat.
Sunset Shimmer, Fiery Flames, and Discord are now a team. They will be handling bigger threats of Friendship with or without the Friendship Map. They will take on ponies or creatures that excluded Friendship in their lives and turned to Disharmony. Their adventures will begin and their team will build up.
This takes place right after Nero the Necromancer and Blaze made themselves known towards the final chapter of Anon-A-Miss Friendship is Home. The timeline continues on within this universe.
Another thing, some events as time moves forward will happen with Twilight and her Friendship Quests.
Moments ago, Starlight faced the defeat that her schemes for friendship have backfired. Twilight and her friends along with the other ponyfolk have ruined everything. Discord and Sunset made things worse for her when Discord used his magic to bring rain into the village. Sunset's presence made Starlight uncomfortable with the situation. Now, she's on the run in the everlasting caves. Discord can sense her magic but its faint. It becomes harder as he searches deep within the cave.
"I think we should split up. I'll have my magic rise so you can sense where I am going."
"Sounds good. Wish you luck Sunset and be careful. Starlight Glimmer seems to be a tougher foe for Twilight and she had problems dealing with Starlight on her own."
"Will do Discord. Good luck on your end."
"Thanks," Sunset trotted down the cave in the east and Discord flew towards the west.
Starlight used her magic to replicate a clone by using rocks. The magic she used is similar to the mirror pool. The rock clone only had a limited timespan before collapsing so it should give Starlight an edge in outsmarting and outrunning Discord and Sunset Shimmer. She made 6 clones to confuse the two as she went north in the cave.
Sunset heard hoofsteps coming from her direction. She saw Starlight running away after seeing her. Sunset pushed her pace a bit as she cornered Starlight.
"Don't even try to attack with your magic. I'm prepared for anything you may throw at me."
"Even this?" The Starlight clone threw boulders from herself at Sunset. Sunset was able to dodge each throw as the clone was getting smaller and smaller. It came to a point that the clone stopped throwing as it is no more.
"Wow, that's clever." Sunset thought to herself.
Discord flew all over the everlasting cave on the western side. He was able to find Starlight. He used his magic to get a hold of her but the rock replica made herself heavy for the Draqonacuus to lift as he fell down a little hard. Normally stuff like this doesn't bother him but the magic inside the everlasting cave is changing. Making his chaotic power spike in different various ways. It's all randomized down here. Discord can still feel Sunset's magic aura but it's starting to fade away. He decided to meet up with Sunset until two other rock clones attacked Discord from behind. Sunset Shimmer found more clones but they were quickly blasted by the heat wave from Sunset's horn. Sunset was not up for games. She wanted to see if there is a chance that Starlight can change for the better or at least see what real friendship is all about.
Starlight knew where she was going throughout the caves. She has a map for every single trail in the everlasting. Her boat is on the other side of the northeastern side of the cave. She then creates another clone but this time from the reflection of the crystal wall in the cave. The clone is exactly like Starlight but if a light is reflected on her, she will disappear. Starlight then ran deeper as she can see her boat. The clone found Sunset and begins to fight with her.
Discord destroyed the two rock clones that jumped him from behind. He sensed Sunset magic spiking out of control and followed Sunset's path. Hoping to find her. Making sure that Starlight doesn't get the better of her friend. As Discord made it, he saw Starlight and Sunset having a brawl. A magical warfare. Discord removed the crystal wall and reflected a light beam from his eye to blind Starlight a little. As Sunset went ahead and bucked Starlight, she disintegrated. Sunset winds up bucking the rocky wall behind her as she screamed in pain a little.
"Sunset are you alright?!" Discord shouted.
"Yea, I'm fine. Now starting to have a bruise in my foreleg."
"Ouch...Allow me." Discord uses his magic to heal Sunset Shimmer. The bruise went away.
"Thanks, Discord."
"You're welcome, my friend. Now we must find Starlight before she gets away."
"Right. I believe she went that way," Sunset pointed towards a loud entrance way leading towards a waterfall. "if we can get to her, she won't escape and we'll be able to interrogate her for reasons behind her little stunt back there."
"Agree. Let's move."
Sunset and Discord ran towards the entrance and saw the waterfall inside the cave. They also see Starlight Glimmer clapping at a fail attempt to stop her. She then uses her remaining magic to seal the everlasting cave from connecting to the river Starlight is on. She'll be taking notes. Studying her enemies more thoroughly. To pinpoint an exact revenge date due to Twilight's interference with her friendship ways.
Discord tried to use his magic but the cave's improbable magic made it harder for Discord to teleport. Even Sunset Shimmer had a hard time shattering the rocks that were blocking the way to Starlight Glimmer. For now, both Discord and Sunset Shimmer failed but they will get another chance to get not only even with Starlight, to show her the true meaning of friendship but for her to team up and become a Reformer.
Discord and Sunset headed back out of the everlasting cave the same way they went in. They felt happy that everypony got their Cutie Marks back but defeat is the only thing that stayed in the mouths of Sunset and Discord. They failed to stop Starlight. All they can do now is prepare for the next attack cause by somepony wanting to ruin friendship throughout Equestria. They saw the party that Twilight and their friends were having but Sunset didn't want to be gone for too long anymore. She wanted her son Fiery Flames. Discord's magic is now back in place. No longer out of place and no longer randomized. He can now use his chaotic magic better so he teleported himself back home and Sunset to the Friendship Castle.
Spike and Fiery Flames were sleeping. They had a long day having fun and needed their naps. Sunset used her magic to lift Fiery out of Spike's bed but she accidentally woke up Fiery in which he became excited to see his mother. Fiery flew and landed on Sunset's head which brought a smile to her face.
"I see someone is happy to see me."
Fiery nodded his head and hugged his mother's horn with his wings. Sunset felt happy that her little Flame loves her. Sunset gallops towards her room. She's quite tired after the stakeout, the chase and the fight she endured. Sunset got ready for bed as Fiery Flames rested beside his mother. Sunset holds him close to her drifting off to sleep. Discord is sleeping in his hammock. He takes a good look at a photo of him, Sunset and Fiery Flames. He covered Fiery with her paw only looking at Sunset Shimmer.
"Ah...my friend. We tried our best and soon we'll become stronger the next time. Goodnight my little Sun, tomorrow we have a lot to do."
Discord and Fluttershy are having a wonderful time on Tea Thursday. Laughing, telling stories and drinking green tea. Fluttershy mentioned to Discord about meeting a new friend when seeing the breezies. Discord became a bit skeptical about hearing Fluttershy mentioned a new friend. Even though Discord has been hanging out with Sunset Shimmer, he enjoys his time with Fluttershy the most. Fluttershy also mentioned about the Grand Galloping Gala which excited Discord. Discord asked and already thank Fluttershy for the invite but his smile was taken away for a brief moment. Fluttershy already asked Tree Hugger to come with her. Discord decided to leave Tea Thursday but Fluttershy tried to convince him to stay and have a tea cake. Discord took the cakes and teleported out of Fluttershy's cottage. He needed to know if there is somepony that'll be going to the Grand Galloping Gala and see if there is a spare ticket.
The first place Discord goes to is at the Castle of Friendship. He searched everywhere for Twilight but she was not in sight. Discord decided to pay Spike a little visit. Discord appeared in front of Spike's bed scaring him. He asked where Twilight was at and Spike told him that Twilight is helping Celestia in Canterlot. Discord sighed and teleported himself out the castle. He then finds Rarity, Applejack and Rainbow Dash at the boutique. Rarity is already designing clothes for her, Applejack, Rainbow Dash and the CMC. Discord asked if there were any spare tickets but to no avail. Rarity is using her ticket for Sweetie Belle, Applejack using her's for Apple Bloom and Rainbow is using her's for Scootaloo. Discord sighed and teleported himself to Sugarcube Corner. Discord saw something in a different dimension video game and thought it'd be cool to use it to sneak up on Pinkie Pie. He hid in a box as Pinkie gave a customer some goodies. As she went behind the counter, she said hi to Discord. Discord thought about asking Pinkie Pie about her spare ticket but Pinkie asked if Discord would like to try out some of her cakes and goodies. Discord reluctantly said no but a thought came to his mind and perhaps he can make a sweet deal with Pinkie. If he tried all of the cakes then perhaps Pinkie can give Discord her spare ticket. Pinkie and Discord talked for a bit about the Gala. Pinkie mentioned about using her ticket to invite her sister Maud. Discord did not like the sound of that one bit so he canceled the order and teleported away leaving Pinkie behind and upset about all those cakes and goodies packaged with no place to go.
Discord is now walking in the streets of Ponyville gloomy. He is unable to go to the Gala and can't be there with Fluttershy. To try to make her notice him at the very least. Fluttershy walked by with Tree Hugger. Fluttershy introduced Discord to her and Discord doesn't like her one bit. Tree Hugger looked like a hippie who is high right now. Tree Hugger can sense the vibe from Discord. She likes it. Discord left Fluttershy and Tree Hugger.
Discord is now back in his dimension. Upset but he tries to ignore it. He decided to make his house nice and chaotic. As time went on he heard a mail pony screaming. He went out to see and grabbed him. The mail pony gave Discord his letter which had two tickets to the Grand Galloping Gala. Discord directed the mail pony to Oblivion which is the faster route back to Ponyville. Discord is now excited that he'll be able to go to the Grand Galloping Gala but he needed to bring a friend as well. The Smooze is on his mind but there is another friend he had in mind for quite some time now. Discord ripped the fabric of space and headed towards Sunset Shimmer who is with Fiery Flames by the river.
Discord is a couple yards away from a relaxing Sunset Shimmer. His heart is beating fast. It's supposed to be a simple friendly gesture but it felt different to him. Discord began to sweat but reminded himself of Fluttershy and her new friend Tree Hugger. Discord walked his way to Sunset Shimmer. She is on a beach chair staring at the beauty of the river. Fiery Flame is sitting on her head once more relaxing as well. Discord went up to Sunset Shimmer.
"Hey Sunset," Discord said nervously.
"Hey, Discord. What's up?" Sunset said calmly. Smiling at her friend.
"Are you doing anything tonight?"
"Not really. I thought of hanging out with my friends but they got tickets to the Gala. I didn't so I decided to relax for the day."
"Would you like to come with me to the Gala tonight?"
"Sure why not. I have nothing better else to do anyway."
Discord hugged Sunset in victory. He is incredibly happy that not only he has somepony to go to the Gala but to show off to Fluttershy and her friend.
"Thanks for the hug. I guess it would be a good time to go to try on my new outfit Rarity gave me a while back."
"I'll pick you up at the Castle at 6:30."
"Sounds good Discord. See you later tonight."
Sunset picked up her beach chair using her magic and trotted back into town. She's going to get a few things to add on to her outfit. Discord teleported himself back to his dimension to celebrate. He then grabs his hat and pulled out all the cakes he canceled back at Sugarcube Corner. He would be eating them all in celebration of the Gala tonight.
It is now 6:30 at night. Discord is wearing his orange tuxedo while carrying a chaotic symbol cane. He's in front of the Castle waiting for Sunset Shimmer. Discord's heart pounded a bit faster than usual. He never felt this nervous about a hang out with a friend. Sunset Shimmer seems more than just a friend to him. He had someone to relate to about past sins of conquest. He shook the thought of it for a second and saw Sunset Shimmer wearing a bright color sundress that reflects her Cutie Mark giving the dress a sun aurora and wearing bright orange slippers. Sunset Shimmer looked gorgeous and Discord couldn't help but stare.
"Discord are you alright?" Sunset said waking Discord out of his trance.
"Yes I am," Discord shook his head to wake him up, "you look lavish Sunset." He kissed her hoof.
"Thanks, Discord." Sunset blushes a little. "Ready to go?"
"Yes, I am."
Discord teleported Sunset and himself to Celestia's castle entrance. Twilight and Celestia stood by at the stairway greeting ponies as they come in. Celestia thanked Twilight for helping her set up and organizing the Gala. As ponies were introduced, Twilight was a bit surprised that Discord came to the Gala but she was more surprised that Discord invited Sunset to the Gala. Celestia smiled and let them be. Discord and Sunset made their way up and Discord asked where Fluttershy is. Twilight told him that she is with Tree Hugger in the ballroom.
Discord and Sunset went to the ballroom and saw their friends talking and having fun. Sunset was a little thirsty so she went by to the table to get a drink. Discord saw Fluttershy and tried to get her attention but to no avail. He tried everything even purposely bumping into her. Finally, he got Fluttershy's attention. Tree Hugger had forgotten about Discord earlier today which made him upset. Sunset came back to Discord and she noticed Fluttershy's new friend. Tree Hugger and Sunset talked a bit. Fluttershy was a bit surprised to see Sunset being here but it didn't bother her. Discord was hoping to use Sunset as bait to lure Fluttershy back to him. Discord had feelings for Fluttershy for being his first friend and he wanted Fluttershy to know that he can be her best friend. Something didn't feel right with Discord though but he literally tossed that feeling away into a garbage can.
Sunset came up to Discord to let him know that she wanted to talk with Celestia for a while. Discord allowed Sunset be and she went to have a little talk with Celestia. Discord used this time to persuade Fluttershy into hanging with him. It failed once more as Fluttershy let Tree Hugger know that she's funny in her unique way. Discord tried to improvise with that by doing a stand-up comedy. He fails miserably. Tree Hugger and Fluttershy got really close and Discord couldn't stand for it any longer but Sunset came back up after he brief talk with Celestia. Discord took a moment to rethink his action. If he couldn't have Fluttershy to hang out at the Gala then so be it. Why bother trying if she's going to ignore him. Discord feeling came right back to him hard after it came out of its imprisonment in the garbage can. Discord now feels the need to tell Sunset Shimmer the exact truth about all of this.
Discord went up to Sunset Shimmer. He told her that he needed to talk in private. He used a silencing circle around them so nopony can hear them talk at all.
"Discord, what do you need to tell me about?"
"Sunset Shimmer, I have a confession to make," he said gloomily as ever.
"What is it? You can tell me anything Discord."
Discord sighed heavily and spoke.
"Originally, I've been trying to come here with somepony else just to hang with Fluttershy. She has a new friend but you already met her. It drove me nuts that Fluttershy chose somepony else than I to come to the Gala. She and I are great friends and when I saw her talk about Tree Hugger and having a good time, it'd made me jealous. I tried to ask everypony else in hopes for a spare ticket but to no avail. When I went home, I finally got my tickets. I couldn't just show up here without a friend. I thought about Smooze but then I thought of you. My jealousy side got the best of me. I was using you as bait to lure Fluttershy closer to me but when I saw you at the Castle, I saw something that spoke to me. I couldn't allow myself to become a chaotic fiend again no matter how much I wanted Fluttershy by my side for tonight. When I ignored it, the feeling came back stronger. First I want to say is sorry for being a bad friend to you. There is something else that I want to say but I think it's not worth it anymore. You've been dealing with a lot of problems with jealousy so it's probably best if I go so I won't be a bother to you."
Sunset can only smile at Discord. She hugged him for being honest.
"You know, I had no intentions of coming here because it'll be boring. I didn't have anyone to go with. Also, I can handle the jealousy problem here better than that other hellhole. I am grateful that you are being honest with me. It took the others a long while until things cleared up. If you don't mind me asking, what was that other confession?"
Discord sweat a little. His feet turned to ice. At first, he thought maybe he and Fluttershy can have something but Sunset who is standing in front of him with a similar past of disharmony. It was clear that Discord feeling was pointing towards Sunset.
"I think it'll be best if we were to dance."
"Alright then, let's dance."
Discord released the silencing circle as it was time for everypony to have a dance. Fluttershy would be dancing with Tree Hugger, Rainbow with Scoots, Applejack with Apple Bloom, Rarity with Sweetie Belle, Pinkie Pie with Maud, Twilight and Celestia came to watch everypony dance. Other ponies grabbed their partners and started to dance. As Discord and Sunset danced, they saw each other eye to eye, not giving a care about everypony else that judge them for dancing. They smiled as they danced slow. Twilight and Celestia watched them more thoroughly than the others.
After 10 minutes of slow dancing, Discord and Sunset were happy. Without thinking they came close, closed their eyes and kissed each other. Everypony's eyes widen in unbelief as they stopped dancing.
"Discord!" Fluttershy shouted.
Discord and Sunset opened their eyes and realized that they were kissing.
Silence reigned for the longest minute possible. Nopony would have ever thought of kissing another creature that isn't their kind. Discord and Sunset blushed at the scenery. Fluttershy couldn't believe that Discord kissed Sunset Shimmer. She thought that maybe Discord and she can kiss or be together. Discord and Sunset Shimmer let go of each other. All eyes beaming at them until Pinkie shouted.
"Sunset and Discord! Together! This is exciting!"
Silence reigned once more until Fluttershy spoke with tears in her eyes a little.
"Please...tell me this is a joke?... Please..."
Discord went up to Fluttershy and looked into her eyes.
"No. This isn't a joke Fluttershy," he took a deep breathe, "I did have feelings for you but I now know those feelings were for friendship. As for the way I feel about Sunset Shimmer," he looked back at her and smiled, "she is my everlasting sun that brightens my heart."
Sunset shed some tears of happiness for what Discord said about her. She went up to him and be at his side. Everypony in the room can see the love that Discord has for Sunset Shimmer. They see the love that Sunset has for Discord. Fluttershy turned and walk away. Rarity and Rainbow Dash followed Fluttershy. For a beautiful moment for Discord and Sunset becomes an awkward moment for Discord and Fluttershy. Discord decided to leave and Sunset walked by his side. Celestia and Twilight could only watch the confusion of love between friends. Discord and Sunset Shimmer headed towards the Canterlot Garden Maze. Fluttershy headed towards the balconey.
"Hey Fluttershy, are you feeling alright?" Rainbow asked.
"No Rainbow. I'm not alright. I thought maybe someday Discord and I would be together. Not him and Sunset. I'm his first friend. I was the one he can trust in," she sighed, "I am happy he found his happiness but I wonder, what made Discord fall in love with Sunset?"
"I think it has to do with the way he approaches Sunset darling. Have you noticed that whenever they hung out, Discord would stare at Sunset when she's not looking and Sunset would stare at Discord when he's not looking?"
"Yea but I thought it's because they have a similar demonic purpose when they didn't have friends in their lives. Just something they have in common. Nothing more or less. Now I see that Discord made his choice. There is nothing I can do. I shouldn't have acted the way I did."
"I think you should go and talk to him, darling. To make amends. You can still be his best friend."
"I will talk to him. I will not let jealousy ruin another friendship."
Around that same time, Discord and Sunset Shimmer sat on the bench looking at the night sky.
"Sure is a lovely night ain't it Discord?"
"It's beautiful when you're here Sunset. Sorry for the uh...awkward kiss and scene."
"No no, it's fine really. I did have some feeling for you actually."
"Really?"
"Yes. When Twilight told me about you at first, I was skeptical but then I reminded myself of the road I walked. You and I have similarities when it comes to Disharmony and conquest. I knew that we can become great friends but as time moved on, I felt something. A feeling that grew as each day comes. When I look at you, I smile. When we hang out, I have the best time with you. You're always caring and creative. You've shown you do have a heart. A kind one. I always thought that I would marry some stallion but it never sunk in. You, however, I can't stop thinking of you."
Discord smiled and shed a tear of happiness. He came a little closer to Sunset Shimmer and held her dear. Sunset looked at the Draqonacuus smiling. The two embraced and kissed each other a second time. This time, nopony is around. They are all alone. The moonlight shined on Sunset's Cutie Mark which made her glow brightly. As they kissed, they felt happy. They felt nothing can split them apart. Discord for the first time in a long time, his true happiness came back. It was long gone due to Nero but he isn't here to ruin the moment. After they kissed, they stopped but hugged.
"I love you Sunset."
"I love you too Discord."
Unknown to them, Pinkie saw the whole thing through her binoculars. Pinkie told everypony in the room about Discord and Sunset being a couple by accident. She didn't mean to spill that out but everypony in the room respected their decision to become a couple. Celestia never thought she sees the day that Discord would be in love with Sunset Shimmer. She thought that Discord would have chosen her but lookers can't be choosers. Twilight couldn't believe what she witnessed. Never in her whole life, she would have seen the impossible. Now she's seen everything.
Fluttershy flew down and saw Discord and Sunset hugging each other. Discord saw and lets go of Sunset. He knew that Fluttershy wanted to speak with him.
"Sunset, I'll be right back."
"Take your time Discord."
Discord and Fluttershy went to a different part of the maze. They are close to Sunset but Discord placed a silencing circle around them.
"Discord, I'm sorry for overreacting back there. I shouldn't have done that. I ruined a good moment for you and Sunset."
"Fluttershy, I forgive you. We are friends after all and friends forgive each other. I'm sorry for how I was acting a bit towards you and Tree Hugger. I was jealous that you gave Tree Hugger your ticket instead of me. I took Sunset but used her as bait to try and get your attention but it didn't work. My feelings for Sunset Shimmer was too much for me to pass up. Also, I wanted to be with you at the Gala tonight. Just us having fun but you were focused on Tree Hugger. That was why I gave up trying to grab your attention."
"Discord. I'm sorry for ignoring you. I should have known that you wanted to hang out with me."
"It's fine Fluttershy. Let's just be friends ok?"
"No, let's be best friends."
Discord and Fluttershy hugged each other and Fluttershy flew back to the Gala. Discord broke the silencing circle and explained everything to Sunset Shimmer. The two decided to stay in Canterlot Garden Maze to stargaze at the night sky. As Fluttershy flew back up with a smile on her face, everypony continued to party at the Gala.
The night at the Gala went pleasantly for everypony. Discord and Sunset now being a couple. Fluttershy resolved her issues with Discord. Everypony having a night they'll never forget. All except for one pony in particular. The pony left the Gala with vital information about everything that is necessary. Soon everything will collapse on Equestria. Time is clicking towards the end of days...
Sunset Shimmer and Fiery Flames are with Discord in his dimension waiting for everypony else to come for dinner. Sunset and Discord talked about Starlight Glimmer. She would make an excellent Reformer and learn the ways of Friendship. Discord started to cough uncontrollably. It didn't make sense to why Discord was all of a sudden coughing. Discord's body also changed color then he passed out. Sunset tried what she can to help Discord. She took him to his bed on the wall. After laying him on the bed, something caught Sunset off. A quick glance at the window is all that it took to get her attention. Outside of Discord's dimension, you can see rippling effects. Sunset has no idea how to explain to Discord but she did. He quickly got up and looked before collapsing and realized that time is changing. Discord's appearance began to harden. Sunset became scared and she tried to leave Discord's room to head back to the castle for help but the portal is no longer there. Discord coughed some chocolate but his sickness has gotten worse. Sunset tried using her magic for healing purposes but to no avail. Discord for whatever reason was turned to stone.
An hour later, Discord is no longer turned to stone but acted very differently. The rippling effects outside of Discord's house changed again but there is now a new color to represent a change. The first change was black and now the second is green. Sunset Shimmer is having a hard time figuring out what the colors of time mean. Discord looks like he's drained physically and emotionally. He's trying to grasp on the situation but having a harder time figuring it out. Sunset went up to him and all Discord can do is look at Sunset before falling out.
Another hour passed by and now Discord is turned back to stone. The rippling effects are changing again but the color is now blue. Discord's dimension even took a turn as it is now a void of darkness. No stars or anything that resembles for being a chaotic dimension. Just something you look up at night with no stars and moon. Sunset decided to check on her baby Fiery Flames to see how's he's doing. Fiery Flames is alright. For some reason, he like her are not changed by the wave change of time. It adds more questions than answers. Fiery Flames flew and landed on Sunset head. He feels unsure and uncomfortable by the sudden changes within the past hours of being here. Sunset then heads back up to Discord to see how's he's doing despite being turned back to stone.
Hours went by as Discord went through many different transformations. Going back to be stone again, acting as the Lord of Chaos tormenting Sunset for a while then back to being stone again. It drove Sunset and Discord to insanity as the variety of colors changing as the ripplings got stronger and stronger. Finally, the ripples have changed for the final time. It is now a darkish red and black fusion. Discord is no longer a stone statue. The chaotic dimension is now falling apart. Discord is now back to being sick but for the worse. He's now dying slow.
"Discord, do you have any idea for what has happened because I can't figure out the sudden changes outside."
"I do..." coughs out his magic power. "Time is being changed as we speak."
Sunset eyes are wide open for the horror that time itself have been manipulated.
"It's the only reason why I was changing differently."
"Then why are you dying?"
"The colors from the rippling effects stands for villains taking over Equestria or have something that'll ruin it by all means."
"It was black at first then green, blue, yellow, red, brown and now, a darkish red and black."
Discord put the pieces together and he got scared by what each color represented until the final colors which scarred him the most.
"I figured out what each color represents but Sunset Shimmer, the last color that you're seeing is the worst of them all..."
"I'm listening."
Discord sighs. "Black represents King Sombra, the Shadow King. Green represents Queen Chrysalis. Blue represents Nightmare Moon. Yellow represents Flim and Flam for whatever reason..." Discord shakes his head a little. He's getting dizzy. Sunset helped him sit up straight.
"You alright?"
"No, not until time is restored."
"Alright then..."
"Now where was I...oh yes! Red represents Tirek. Brown represents the old me...sorry for torturing the Tartarus out of you." He blushed in embarrassment.
"It's fine Discord. I know you weren't you. So what's the final color stand for?"
Discord throw up in his mouth and swallowed it. He didn't like it one bit and to even speak the name of what the darkish red and black stand for.
"Darkish red and black represents..." Discord having a hard time speaking, he's shaking uncontrollably, "Nero the Necromancer."
Sunset eyes widen a second time. Nero the Necromancer is now in the current timeline doing whatever he feels like doing.
"Is he the reason why you are dying?"
"Yes...Judging from my physical state, he'd already drained my magic power from my stony prison. I'd still be alive in stone but completely drained and when broken free, I'll die. Right now I'm slowly decaying. Can't have two Discords in one timeline, therefore, I'm either being erased from time or joining the other Discord in the afterlife."
"No...You can't die!..." Sunset is in tears after what Discord has said.
"Sorry Sunset but there is nothing my magic can do to save me..."
Sunset cried her eyes out. What seemed like hours, it felt like a few minutes of crying for Sunset Shimmer. Sunset didn't know what to do until it hit her.
"What if I were to go back in time and find out what went wrong. If I can figure out the problem then perhaps I can set things straight."
"That could possibly work!"
Fiery Flames like the idea but he wants to go with Sunset Shimmer back in time.
"Sorry Fiery but you can't go. It can be dangerous for you."
Fiery Flames began to cry for the first time. He didn't want to stay. He wanted to go with Sunset but she made herself clear that Fiery will stay. Sunset gave a look at Fiery and he remained silent. He turned knowing he made his mother displeased. Sunset groaned and turned to Discord. Discord could only laugh a little for seeing a show for the first time ever.
"I'm ready Discord."
Discord used his last remaining magic and opened a portal to where time changed. Sunset looked back for a second then she throttled enough courage, bravery, and determination to step into the portal. Unknowingly to Sunset, Fiery Flames flew behind her and rested deep within her mane. Sunset felt something but ignored it. She thought maybe its the effects of the portal.
Sunset arrived where the problem first escalated. She was quite surprised to see Twilight and Spike battling with Starlight Glimmer. Starlight gave Twilight enough problems that enraged her. Starlight stopped Rainbow Dash from achieving the Sonic Rainboom which cause Twilight to use her magic as a portal appeared. Sunset thought it'd be wise to follow them so she did. She used her magic and levitated well enough to enter the portal. She landed far but close enough to see them. She also saw the devastation that the Necromancers brought. Sunset turned and saw corpses of Necromancers and Dragons. She understood that they just had a brawl and still continuing to do so as the bodies are fresh. Sunset overhears the Dragon that was talking to Spike about a village known as Equal Pacific. She knows where that is as Discord brought her over there. Twilight, Spike, and Starlight ran so Sunset stayed behind and followed them hoping they don't look back.
6 hours later, Sunset saw what Equal Pacific look like. She saw different creatures working well together. She remembered that most of them hated ponies and their land. Now it seems that they put that all aside. Sunset trotted down to get a closer look. She was quite amazed to see another Starlight Glimmer but she looked damaged. After hearing the whole conversation, she decided to let herself be known. She is now standing right behind them. Sunset took a breathe and spoke.
"Twilight."
Twilight turned and became overjoyed to see Sunset Shimmer.
"Sunset!"
Twilight hugged Sunset Shimmer then pulled away from her.
"How are you here and," she observed Sunset thorough, "how do you know me?"
"I was with Discord when a chain of events happened. Apparently, outside of Discord's house, there were some rippling effects with colors explaining what was going on in the timeline. I saw the different variety of colors pinpointing that other foes in Equestria took over and reign either supreme or cause a downfall. It wasn't pretty for Discord as he turned to stone multiple times and tortured me when he reverted to the Lord of Chaos. He sent me back in time so I can figure out how to fix our timeline but now I know that is was you Starlight that causes the end of the world scenario."
Starlight could only look away. She closed her eyes and trotted away knowing that she did cause an end of the world scenario. Sunset calmed herself down a little.
"Look, we need to fix this right now."
"I know Sunset but now it's not easy. The Friendship Map is destroyed thus we are unable to use it to go back in time and fix it. We are now working on a plan to take down Nero and his Necromancer army."
"I'm in!"
A loud chirp that agreed as well can be heard. Fiery didn't mean to speak out loud but the excitement got the better of him. Sunset closed her eyes as she got heated.
"F-F-F-Fiery....!"
Fiery is now caught red-handed. He got out of Sunset's mane and flew on the ground looking at his mother worryingly, unsure what or how to react next. Fiery also feel sadness in his heart as he did disobey his mother's wishes but he couldn't help it. He loves being close to her. Sunset could see how sad and worry Fiery is. She couldn't stay mad at him for doing what he did.
"Come here..." She opened her hooves so Fiery can hug her which he did. Sunset felt boiling hot tears streaming down on her coat. She knew that Fiery is sorry. "I'm not mad. I promise I'm not mad at you. Now that you're here, perhaps there is something that you were meant to do."
Fiery dried his eyes with his wings and flew back on Sunset's head. He remained silent but listened.
"When I tell you something now, there is no ifs, buts or whats about it. You have to do it. Now, we're in a dangerous world and I can't afford to lose my baby boy."
Fiery nodded. Understanding what his mother is saying. He saw the horror the world of today has to offer. Nothing but pain, suffering, and death. There is no peace, love, and tenderness here.
"So Twilight, how is everyone gonna gather the survivors of this world and try to attack Nero?"
"Everyone here will form into search parties that'll stretch throughout the outer reaches of Equestria. Sombra and Cadence are working on a search party as we speak. We need everyone's help to defeat Nero as the Dragons by us some time. What about this world's Spike? How are we going to find him?"
"I know somepony who can get his attention," Reaper said.
"Who can get his attention then?"
"Her name is Sunny Flare. She's the only pony I know that can send a signal flare bright enough for Spike to see. She lives on the outskirts of the Crystal Empire. She along with a new rising of bolts can help us. Celestia and Luna have the Wonderbolts, we have the Shadowbolts. Sunny's friends will help us. Each of them has a unique skill. Blaze also believes that they have the magic strong enough to give Nero a run for his money in case he were to fall."
"Isn't Blaze immortal?"
"He is but he can still turn into a necromancer."
"Oh..."
"Well, we'll discuss more another time, right now, we need your help to start packing for a long trip to see Sunny Flare and the Shadowbolts. We need Spike and his crew to help big time."
Sunset Shimmer agrees. She and Twilight are now packing up for days worth of travel. Starlight Glimmer trotted away to be alone for a while. Spike helped out with everyone else. Tomorrow, everyone will know who they'll be teaming with. They'll know their objective as Operation: Condemn Nero will be underway.
Right after Discord sent Sunset Shimmer into a time portal, he remained on his bed reflecting on his past. The one creature that tormented his life. Nero is on his mind. How he hated him for what he's done to his species...especially his mother. The only other Draqonacuus he ever cares for. Discord shed tears as he remembers his time with Eris. They were short-lived but worth having the time being happy. Discord remembers the day he was born by coming out of a cotton candy cloud. He spoke as Eris held him calling him his baby. Holding onto Discord as long as she could. Discord couldn't help but cry to his mother. Hoping to see her again at least one more time.
An hour past by and Discord can hear Nero lurking in his household. Discord covers his body with the blankets hoping that Nero would pass by but he didn't. Nero came in the room. Smiling widely.
"Ah, Discord. It's so good to see you again."
Discord began to pant. There is nothing he can do. His magic is fading away and so is his body. Slowly disintegrating by the second.
"I once told you that you will lose something more precious than life...Your family. Everyone you know and love will be erased. The best part about it is, you will get to endure every second of it before time collapses."
"Time...collapsing?"
Discord revealed himself to Nero. Nero is standing next to Discord. Smiling and waving. It sent chills down Discord's spine. From being called a monster to seeing one. Discord couldn't help but breathe heavily.
"You see, our timeline is changing due to some ponies interference. They created a timeline when I emerge and take over Equestria. Sure I gained all that was needed from the other world but seeing you in a stone statue and taking away the remaining magic in your stony imprisonment was totally worth it."
"But...I'm right here."
"Yea, about that. You're a drifting creature without a body. A wandering soul soon to be erased but I won't allow it just yet. I want you to suffer by watching your friends suffer in a world ravaged by war between Necromancers and all creatures of the world."
Nero used his magic to create an hourglass. A minute in Discord's dimension is a day in the new timeline. Nero was even kind enough to open a time window for Discord to see his friends enduring the new world in the new timeline.
"Let's see how many days they survive before the hourglass is filled. When the hourglass is full, you will cease to exist. Good luck. I have a world to conquer."
Nero left Discord's house and dimension. Discord could only watch how Sunset Shimmer is doing. She is petrified by the scenery. Discord even saw Twilight, Spike, and Starlight. How they were handling things at Equal Pacific. Seeing his beloved Sunset with them gave him a satisfactory. Discord then saw a minute go by and a piece of him evaporating. It didn't hurt him but it terrified him. Discord got up and looked at the ceiling.
"Why...me? Why...now when I have friends and a family to call my own... What have I done...to deserve this?"
Discord couldn't help but cry. He reflected everything in his past from the good to the bad to the ugly. He reminisces and laughed off as he knows that Sunset Shimmer and Twilight will find a way to bring back order to the timelines. It's only a matter of time. Discord grabbed popcorn from his emergency stash and starts to eat. He now sees his friends at the Crystal Empire. Getting ready to launch an assault on Nero.
"Take him down. Give him a beatdown. One from me. Wooo!"
Discord didn't care that his body is evaporating as much as Nero explained to him. He cared about seeing his friends succeeding and changing things to the way it's supposed to be. Nero on the other hand, he's planning something else to mess with Discord. His target is none other than Sunset Shimmer. Taking her away from Discord will really set him over the edge.
Time is on the essence as Nero makes his plans and Sunset Shimmer along with her friends bringing the fight to Discord. What an exciting turn of events Discord is saying to himself. Trying to ensure himself that Sunset is a force to be reckoned with untapped potential of becoming a Princess. Maybe stronger than Twilight Sparkle. Only time will tell as these events occur...
Discord watches as the Elements of Harmony are now choosing a new set of wielders. He is now seeing the end of days. Cheering on the heroes of the new timeline as he evaporates. His tail and wings are gone. He's enjoying the show as Nero comes for a visit.
"So, enjoying the show?"
"Nero, please. You feed on fear and I...no longer fear you."
"Is that so?"
Nero grabs Discord and throws him on the floor. Discord spits a little then Nero steps on his tongue. Discord removed his tongue and grows a new one. Unfortunate for him, it speeds the process of his disintegration.
"Careful, you may not exist by the time Sunset saves the day." Nero laughed.
"She will stop you. They will stop you in that timeline."
"I know."
"Wait...what?"
Nero chuckles.
"I know they'll stop me. This is a test."
"A-A-A-A test?"
"To defeat my opponent, I have to learn from my opponent."
Discord begins to pant. He's powerless to do anything when Nero. He can only watch.
"You see, I know that Twilight and her friends are special but Sunset Shimmer, she's the key to your demise and yet, you allowed love to make you stronger but blind as well."
"It doesn't matter. You will fail Nero."
Nero chuckles as he stares at Discord.
"And you will lose something precious to you more than your own life. I look forward to that day when I come back from the other side."
"Good luck. The gates are sealed."
"Are they?"
"Yes, there are!"
"Believe in your lies all you want. It won't change a thing."
Discord gives Nero his version of the Stare which only made Nero laugh more.
"You are such a child."
"If, you're here then who's in there?"
"A clone of mine. He knows how I think and react. Though there is a flaw. He thinks he is the real me and the others don't have a clue."
Nero leaves Discord for now. Discord is in disarray. He doesn't know what to do. How to handle all of this. All he can do is what the inevitable.
Discord saw how things were taking a different turn. Everyone united and each of them hurting Nero. Discord shouted cheerfully as the Elements of Harmony hits the clone. He was surprised that the clone is still standing. Laughing and mocking his enemies that the attack fails. When Nero collapses, Discord is hoping to see Sunset Shimmer delivering the final blow, however, it was Starlight Glimmer who went up to the clone and killed him right then and there. Discord could have sworn that Nero said that Sunset is the key but now, Nero has another enemy to look out for. Discord smiles knowingly that he'll have another friend to team up with. As he saw his friends going back in time, he is no longer disintegrating. He is back to his normal chaotic self.
"I'm back!"
"For now that is."
"Nero!"
"Enjoy the victory but the war is about to begin."
Nero leaves a second time. This time he won't be coming back as his essence disappears.
Discord teleports to the Friendship castle and celebrates with his friends. He'll soon get to know Starlight Glimmer as he plans on having her join the Reformers team. In due time though, he'll have to sit down and talk about Nero the Necromancer.
A half-hour goes by as Discord celebrates the return of his friends. Twilight and Sunset explain everything that has happened while Starlight Glimmer is sitting at a corner not wanting the look of faces by their friends. She's not ready for them just yet after everything she's pulled. Changing the timelines and making everyone worse. Everyone sighs that everything is finally over but not Discord. He has something to say.
"I know that you, Starlight and Sunset have defeated Nero but I hate to say that it wasn't him."
"What?! What do you mean Discord?" Twilight asked.
"Nero the Necromancer came to me and mock me as I was evaporating away. The whole thing was a test to know his opponent better."
"A test?!" Twilight shouted.
"Yes. He said that he'll be back but I'm not sure how though. All I know is that he isn't here in Equestria. He's someplace else."
"Where though?" Sunset asked.
"He's in the mirror." Blaze said as he walks in the castle's map room.
"Blaze?!" Twilight and Sunset shouted.
"Yea, I know where Nero is. I think I know what he's planning to do over there."
"The portal is closed. There is no way he can make it over there..." Sunset said. Now thinking that Nero is possibly near Canterlot High.
"As long as magic exists, nothing can remain shut. He's there. I can feel it."
"Alright, Blaze. Before we go any further there is something that you have to..."
"I know what you're going to say. How time was manipulated and you fought one of Nero's clones."
Eyes widen for everyone in the room.
"How did you know that?" Twilight asks.
"I'm a Necropony Twilight. My magic is different than yours. I saw everything through the other Blaze eyes. I could not control him but I only watch what he did. I'm fully aware of Nero's capabilities and his strategies."
"Then, what's he doing Sugarcube?" Applejack asks.
"He's bringing an army to bring down all life in Equestria as we know it."
Silence reign for a few moments.
"If you don't mind. I want to use the mirror and finish Nero before he comes back."
"Wait, if you go in, you won't be able to use your magic," Twilight stated.
"Yes, I will. My magic is different and not bound to any laws of reality. I'll be fine."
"You're not going alone," Twilight said. Her friends nodded in agreement.
"I can't take everyone with me. Also, Equestria needs you Twilight along with your friends. Besides, I know who I want to tag along with me." Blaze says as he looks at Sunset and Discord.
"No.., I'm not going back," Sunset said.
"You must. You and Discord are the only ones who can come with me. To defeat Nero, I can't do it alone."
"I'm in," Starlight said. "If I'm going to be a member of the Reformer, then I need to step up for the team."
Sunset looks down. She wants nothing to do with the Rainbooms but with a serious threat in the other realm, she has to try and stop Nero before he comes and destroy everything in her home. Sunset sighs in defeat and is willing to go with Blaze. Discord is already going. He wants to put an end with Nero so he can be free from his tyranny.
"Then it's settled. We leave now."
Twilight and Discord reactivate the mirror.
"Now, there may be a slight change of course when you enter. It should still leave in front of the Canterlot High statue but time will be different when you arrive. Sunset, take the journal with you and document what you see over there."
"I will Twilight," Sunset said.
"This is going to suck," Discord said.
"Hmm, I wonder; what our counterparts are doing."
"I don't want to know. We have a mission to complete."
Everyone enters the mirror. Inside is a long path to the other side. Discord, Sunset, Starlight, and Blaze walk down the pathway. Sunset feels uncomfortable going back to the hell hole she went through but now, she isn't alone. She has the support she needs to endure possible weeks looking for Nero.
"Prepare Nero, here we come."
Days passed as Sunset, Starlight, Blaze, and Discord emerges from the other side. It's Monday night and Sunset has her group come back to her old apartment. When they got there, she went in and the apartment becomes an HQ. They'll have to stake out for a while and hope that Nero hasn't made contact with anyone at Canterlot High School.