Princess Celestia and Princess Luna must go to the badlands to hunt a dark spirit while Twilight stays and rules Equestria in their absence.
While the six major dark spirits escape their prison one other lesser spirit named Reaper escapes unnoticed. After his siblings were sealed away in the "Crystal Book" Tales he began his rise to power by heading to the badlands to build an army. Celestia and Luna take it upon themselves to hunt down and seal Reaper away as Twilight is unable to use her power and the Elements of Harmony to take on this task. Celestia and Luna meet new friends, from Equestria to the Badlands, as well as old allies as they track down Reaper.
In a dark room somewhere in the Castle of the Two Sisters sits a stone chest. A light purple seal ripples as the chest begins to shake. With a bright flash a dark spirit breaks free from a fracture in the barrier and erratically flies around before exiting through a spiral staircase. From its escape a powerful dark energy pulses throughout the castle, throughout Equestria, all the way to an ancient burial grounds. The energy triggers another seal at its center to crack.
Luna wakes up from a nightmare in a sweat. She breathes heavily and runs to her mirror. She looks to see if she had turned to Nightmare Moon. To her relief she is still Luna. She rushes out of her room to find Celestia. As she heads out of her room she bumps into a young mare in her night guard. “oh sorry Luna, I wasn’t expecting you awake. I was just about to place your new linens next to your door.” The mare said.
“Oh you are fine Moonlet. Please place them at the foot of my bed. And thank you.” Luna replied.
“Will do Princess.” Moonlet says.
Luna runs to the throne room to find Discord talking to Princess Celestia. Discord turns to Luna and says “Well good morning Princess Luna, I thought you’d be sleeping by now.”
“I would be, but by your presence I gather you felt a powerful dark energy aswell.” Luna replied.
Celestia looked over at Luna and asked “So you felt it too? Discord came to me to inform me that he sensed a disturbing magic just moments ago.”
“It’s a shame really, I was having such a delightful tea party with Fluttershy.” He said floating on his back filing his nails.
“I am afraid that this is something much worse than we might initially asses. “Luna said “The energy was much like the energy that influenced me to turn to Nightmare Moon in my moment of weakness.” She continued.
“Then we should waste no time, inform Cadence and Twilight we’ll need them here as early as possible.” Celestia said.
Celestia wrote a letter to Cadence informing her of the possible danger and immediately received a letter back stating she’d be there by early morning. Celestia then wrote a letter to Twilight Sparkle saying she needs her in Canterlot as soon as possible and that Cadence will be there by morning. She then turned to Luna and said “Luna are you alright to cover the night? After you raise the moon perhaps you can take it easy?”
“I’ll be alright sister, I have many friends to talk during the nights since you approved the return of the night guard.” Luna replied.
“Very well, should you need anything, remember I am always here for you.” Celestia said.
Discord over heard and raised an eyebrow and in his typical fashion floated over put his arms around both of them, pulled them together and said, “Oh how sweet! I want to let you know that I am also here for the both of you!” Celestia and Luna both nervously laugh.
Celestia says “That is very sweet of you Discord.” Then politely removes herself from his arm.
Luna responds with “That is quite generous, I will consider your offer.” She too politely removes his arm from her shoulders.
Discord folds his arms and says “Well then, I guess my sincerity is not just lost on Princess Twilight either.” Discord flashes away.
As night falls and Celestia lowers the Sun, Luna raises the moon. “Have a good night Tia.” Luna says.
“You too Luna.” Celestia replies.
Luna patrols the halls of the castle nodding at her new night guards as she passes. Her patrols in the dream world showed no nightmares and a few disturbances that were quickly remedied. She makes her way to the fountains in the gardens where her new friends Moonlet and Cherry Tune would take their breaks. Moonlet was a dark blue unicorn with gold striped legs and face, while Cherry Tune was a pink Pegasus with a cherry red main, purple headphones, which she didn’t where on duty, and a banjo she’d play at the fountain.
Luna was early to the garden this time as her usually busy night in the dream world would usually keep her passed most of their breaks. She sat at the waters edge and looked at her reflection. She lost herself thinking about if she’d could ever turn into Nightmare Moon again. She shook her head knowing that fighting off Tantibus removed all her guilt and made her even stronger as Princess Luna. She continues to look into the water when she catches a glimpse of a black smoky figure hovering above her.
She turns quickly to look in the sky but whatever was floating above her vanished. Her heart was beating faster when Moonlet said “Hi Princess Luna!” Luna jumped, startled by Moonlet.
“Oh, you scared me Moonlet.” Luna said. “I didn’t hear you walk up.” She continued.
“My apologies Princess, I didn’t mean to sneak up on you.” Moonlet replied. “I brought you some food! Daisy sandwiches!” She said.
“Thank you Moonlet, and I thought I said you can dispense with the princess and call me Luna.” Luna said.
“I’m sorry, but you’re a princess and I am just a unicorn. Not even a part of the royal guard. Just the regular guard.” Moonlet said.
Cherry Tune fell out of the sky with a thud right next to Luna. “Owie!” she said. “This armor is messing with my flight patterns.” She moaned.
“You too with the proper form of address.” Luna said annoyed.
“Yeah, we’re not exactly important ponies. What if someone saw us and we got in trouble for insulting royalty.” Cherry said
“You are important to me.” Luna said.
“Awwww!” Cherry and Moonlet said in unison.
Luna rolled her eyes and said “That’s enough, how about those sandwiches and Cherry did you bring your banjo?”
“You know it!” Cherry responded.
Cherry Tune wasn’t necessarily good at playing the banjo but Luna enjoyed the company and would also play the banjo much more poorly then Cherry. Moonlet would always make the best food and Luna would love to share Celestia's pancake faces with Moonlet. From the first moment Luna told Moonlet of the pancake faces Moonlet would make sandwich faces for her.
After their break they continued their patrol and Luna went to monitor the dream world again until Cherry's and Moonlet's next break. She reviewed the dreams as they floated past and she caught a glimpse of a smoke figure darting around in ponies dream. She entered the dream to see if it had anything to do with the smoke she saw earlier. The smoke turned out to be a fillies nightmare about the Pony of Shadows so she banished the dream and consoled the young filly.
Cadence arrived early morning before the sun could rise. She met Celestia and Discord in the throne room and Luna arrived shortly after. Twilight walked through the main doors and they discussed the dark energy and the stone chest in the Castle of the Two Sisters. Discord and Twilight go to the castle to locate the box and Luna retires for the day.
Luna wakes up for the night shift. She goes to the throne room and Celestia was finishing up with Twilight, Starlight, Trixie, Starswirl and Zecora. Celestia dismissed the participants in the room,the crowd dispersed, and Twilight and her friends stayed in the castle for the night. Celestia turned to Luna in the now empty room. “Preparations for our stand at the burial ground are steadily coming together. Will you be ok tonight Luna?” Celestia asked.
“I’ll be fine Tia. Get some sleep and I will watch the night.” Luna responded.
“Goodnight Luna.” Celestia said.
“Goodnight sister.” Luna replied.
Celestia turned in as the night watch relieved those working the day shift. Luna rose the moon and wandered the halls acknowledging her guards as she passed. “Hello Luna.” a voice range out.
“Who’s there? Show yourself.” She commanded.
“We have not met, but I sensed your darkness a thousand years ago. It was strong, it was powerful, it was… so familiar.” The female voice continued.
Luna looked stoically through the darkness, unafraid and unamused. She caught a glance of a smoke like figure dart through the shadows. “You have no business here, leave at once.” She demanded.
The smoky figure laughed and said “I do hope all this mess blows over. My master has plans for you, and I fear these spirits will just get in the way.”
Luna shot a magic bolt at the figure and it dissipated flowing out of a nearby window. “Reaper sends his regards.” it said. Cherry Tune and Moonlet came rushing in around a corner “Princess Luna, is everything alright?” Moonlet asked. Luna glanced over and said “Moonlet, inform Nightfall that he is to add a few more patrols to the castle perimeter.” “At once Luna.” Moonlet responded before trotting off. “Cherry Tune, I have a special task for you.” Luna said.
Luna and Cherry head to the reserve armory and dig through very old, very dusty armor from the Castle of the Two Sisters. The armor was transferred from the old castle after Nightmare Moon was banished. They locate Celestia's and Luna's old armor and spears. They were armaments from the battle against Sombra and were no longer needed when they found the elements of harmony. Since their connection to the elements was broken Luna thought that they may need it for the battle ahead.
Cherry Tune takes the weapons and armor and repairs dents, scratches, replaces worn leather and straps, and crafts new scabbards for the spears. She also obtains simple robes for the princesses. Luna takes the armor to the night captain Nightfall. An earth stallion who ran a shop at a train rest stop between Canterlot and The Crystal Empire. Luna instructed that these remain available at a moments notice. He acknowledges and puts them in the immediate armory.
Nightfall gives command of the night guard to Moonlet as by midnight he must sleep if he is to run his shop. Moonlet takes command of the night guard and the evening goes by peacefully. Luna, Moonlet, and Cherry Tune take their break and Luna confides in them. Luna begins by saying “Moonlet, as Nightfall is the commander of the night guard you will relay this conversation to him when you see him tomorrow night.”
“Princess?” Moonlet asks.
“Also to the two of you and Nightfall you must keep this to yourselves.” Luna continues.
“You’re kinda worrying us Luna.” Cherry Tune said.
“I’m sorry, but I fear that the days ahead will be very dark. The spirits we must face in the near future are powerful. Those that volunteer will most likely perish just like the ancients who fought the spirits before us.” Luna said. “If I can’t hold Twilight's shield who knows what could happen to you.” Luna continued.
“We’ll be fine!” Moonlet said.
“Yeah, we joined the guard for the very purpose of protecting Equestria" Cherry Tune said. "We might not be princesses or royal guard or a group of friends whose destinies were entangled before they were born! But we’ll make our differences our own way!” Cherry Tune continued.
“Luna, we’ll be out there with you!” Moonlet said.
“Still be careful though. Moonlet when I learn Twilight's spell I’ll teach it to you so that if the worst happens you can protect as many around you as you can.” Luna replied.
“But I am not a powerful magic user, I just cook decently.” Moonlet says
“Moonlet, try for me... please.” Luna pleads.
“Yes princ--, Luna.” Moonlet replies.
The remainder of the night went along smoothly. Luna continued her patrols in the dream world for the night and Moonlet and Cherry continued their duties. The two mares discussed their meeting with Luna among themselves. “It’s not that I don’t absolutely adore Luna and I am grateful that we became friends. But I don’t know what she sees in us that we mean so much to her.” Moonlet said.
“I understand where you are coming from but maybe the nights get lonely and the addition of the new night guard gives her that feeling of friendship she might not always get alone at night.” Cherry said.
“I mean, do you think that if any other pony happened to show up at the fountain that night she’d just make friends with them instead of us?” Moonlet asked.
“Possible, but remember she said she heard us laughing at my terrible banjo practice and that’s why she came down.” Cherry reassured. “Nopony else on nights makes as much noise and laughter as us two. And when Nightfall gets involved its even more crazy!” she continued.
“That’s true I guess. Maybe I am just worried that we’re just some random ponies that’ll be a faded memory as time goes by.” Moonlet said. “Don’t you think that eventually she won’t need us anymore?” Moonlet
“Well, as her friends we need to be there for her and if we fade out then we fade out and we should be happy that she found even greater friends!” Cherry said cheerfully
“Cherry how do you make to most depressing notion sound positive?” Moonlet asked.
“Because, regardless what happens with us and Luna we still have each other.” she said “…….. and Nightfall.” She continued while chuckling.
“That’s true! Thank you Cherry for making me feel better. You didn’t have to play me that terrible song you normally do either!” Moonlet said.
Reapers minion watches from the shadows and after she sees enough, she flies away from Canterlot into the mountains. Reaper floats by and asks, “How’d it go Phantom?”
“I’d say it went quite well. She knows you’re watching and I sense she is starting to doubt herself, if she wasn’t already.” Phantom said.
“Let’s hope these ridiculous creatures can force my brothers and sisters back in there hole.” Reaper says. “I’d rather like a chance to take the power of Nightmare Moon for myself.” He continued.
Phantom says “Master I found out that there’s another princess. Her name is Twilight –“
“Sparkle.” Reaper interrupts. “Yes I am aware. Let us take a look at her castle while she’s away.” He continues.
Phantom and Reaper head to Twilight's castle. They search her library paying no mind to the sleeping dragon in Twilight's room. Reaper finds history of her friends and power, as well as all the foes she’s vanquished. He discards those books with disgust and locates an old dusty book Twilight brought from Klugetown after the Storm Kings defeat. It told of an ancient castle built by travelers escaping a growing cold caused by the Windigoes.
The castle and surrounding village did not fare well in the arid climates and the castle and village was eventually abandoned. “That’s where we need to go Phantom.” Reaper says. “Go to the badlands and locate this castle. And tell me everything you can about this Klugetown.” He continues.
“Of course master.” Phantom replies.
“I shall meet you there once I find out how my siblings fare against this… Princess of Friendship.” Reaper laughs.
Reaper watches from the peak of the mountains as the kingdoms of Equestria gather at the burial grounds. The massive shield used to encompass the epicenter was clearly visible from his vantage point. As the battle plays out, Torment is shattered, and the spirits that made up the behemoth were slowly put to rest. Reaper has enough information that he departs the burial grounds and heads for the castle in the desert beyond the badlands.
Reaper meets Phantom at the edge of the castle village. She informs him that the area is being inhabited by local thieves and brigands. “Well then, let’s pay them a little visit shall we.” Reaper says. Reaper changes his mist-form body into one of the local populace. A black cat in dark robes. Phantom changes her form into a black bird in the same dark robes.
As they approach the village the brigand sentries stop them. The guard commands “Stop! Where do you think you’re going?” The massive shark bodied ruffian towered over them.
“Why, we are just a couple of travelers, looking for trouble.” Reaper says while staring the looming creature in the eyes.
“Why don’t you go before me and my friends make you, runt.” The guard replies.
Reaper laughs and says “Friends? How fascinating. No wait, boring. You and your… “friends” can try.”
“Alright enough of this, you’re starting to annoy me, time to go.” The guard said as a dozen of his friends gather around. The group charges forward and Reaper releases a force of dark energy knocking them all back. The loud noise caught of the attention of the brigand leader, a bird of golden feathers and brigand apparel, and his close advisor, a commander in the brigand pack who wore a rams skull helmet. They rush down to his guard post to investigate the explosion.
“What’s going on here?” the leader asked.
“Sir, those two are dangerous they’re trying to get in.” the guard said.
“This is a safe place for everyone to escape the Storm King you know this.” The leader said.
“But they said they were looking for trouble. Besides the Storm King is gone and so is his rule.” The guard responded.
“True enough, perhaps we just need to talk things out, see what they want.” The leader said. He walks over to the approaching pair and says “Greetings I am Condor! I lead these creatures. Welcome to Sand Dune! I hear you’re looking for trouble?”
Reaper stops in front of Condor and replies “Yes, as a matter of fact I am.”
“Well you won’t find any here. Well, not anymore.” Condor says while looking back at his guards. “Maybe I can interest you in some hospitality instead?” Condor continued.
Reaper sighs in disgust and says “Enough of these pleasantries, you and everyone in this village belong to me now.” He juts forward, grabs Condors face, and releases miasma from his paw. “Time to release your darker selves.” Reaper continues.
Condor struggles to fight off his grasp and his second in command charges Reaper. Phantom blocks the second in command and he’s unable to reach Condor. Condor looks back at his commander and while struggling to breath says “Go!” he coughs. “Get everyone to safety.” He says while gasping. His body goes limp and he starts to lose his color. Reaper drops him to the floor, where he slouched on his knees.
Condor stood up turned to face the commander and the on looking guards. His eyes black with pin sized white pupils. He lets out a breath. “Round up your brigands Condor, and bring them to me.” Reaper says before releasing a large blast of miasma. The commander jumps back and away from Phantom and the approaching miasma. “Everyone run! Get out of town. Take nothing with you.” he says while running to his headquarters.
The commander barges in the headquarters and shouts “Set, Bast! Gather the crew now, we have to go.” “Sir?” they both ask while standing. “There’s no time, Bast, take command of Mandjet. Set, you’re with me in Mesektet.” “Yes sir!” they respond. “Bast runs to an airship, rallies her crew, and they depart in quick fashion. Set and the commander ready another airship and follow closely behind. They fly towards the mountain ranges far from Sand Dune.
The commander looks back and sees many creatures trying to flee but the miasma field quickly engulfed the village and shortly after, the castle where their headquarters were. “What was that captain?” Set asked. “Something not from here, something evil.” The captain replied while removing his helmet.
Reaper returned to his mist-form as did Phantom. They glided through the village heading towards the castle. The creatures around them fell and struggled to breath in the miasma. They then go limp and then stand in the same manner as Condor. They were now dry husks of their former selves under the influence of Reaper.
“It’s time Phantom, time to grow our army and spread my control over all the lands.” Reaper said. “We’re going to need some more recruits. Go out and find me some will you?” he asks.
“At once master.” Phantom replies. She darts away and searches the nearby area for towns, villages, wanderers, airships, and any other living thing around the area. After an afternoon of scouting she returns with a report of a dragon migration in progress. “Good job Phantom, follow me. We should pay them a visit.” Reaper says.
Reaper and Phantom fly to a dragon resting area, a crater, where a few dragons were lazing about. They float down and Reaper manages to snag an unsuspecting dragon and corrupt it with his miasma. “Hey what do you think you’re doing?” a red dragon shouted
“That thing has done something to Scaleblade!” a green dragon growled.
The dragons banded up in defensive positions while Reaper expelled and miasma in the crater. The dragons breath fire and diffuse the mist with little effort. At that point a much large dragon climbed over the other side of the crater and asked, “What’s this?” He asked
“Their bad news Apep!” the red dragon said again.
“A little puff of smoke trying to mess with us? How utterly pony of you.” Apep said while the others chuckled.
“Phantom.” Reaper said.
“Yes master?” she replied
“Remember when I said you have always been so useful to me?” He asked.
“I do.” She said while she turned to look at him.
Reaper thrust his mist-form arm into her and grasped at her center. “Master!” she strained to say.
“It’s time you fulfill one final favor.” Reaper said. He pulled his arm out of Phantom and revealed a bright white orb of energy. “Too kind for your own good.” He said while her mist-form body faded into the air. He looks at the large dragon and charges at him. He imbues Phantoms energy with a powerful miasma and as the large dragon opens his mouth to breath fire, Reaper launches the orb directly through the flames.
Meanwhile the two airships traveled into the mountains touching down on a grassy plateau. Large bulls made their way to the airships and the crews. “You are not welcome her strangers.” The head bull said.
“Please. As many of your kind as sought our hospitality in Sand Dune would you not show us your hospitality in kind Apis?” the captain said.
“Who are you and how do you know my name?” Apis replied.
“I don’t know you. My father knew your father. And they were as close as brothers.” The captain said.
“I see, so you’re the son of Solair….” Apis said. “Well then you and I are practically brothers!” he continued with cheer! “Come, we have much to discuss. The Minotaurs have taken the passes below and broken our long held treaties. They say that we allowed the Storm King to use them and their resources while we profited from it.” Apis continued.
The crew of Mandjet and Mesektet tell of what just happened to Sand Dune and the fact the the Storm king has been gone for quite some time now. The bovines take the crews to their village and discuss a strategy to take back the Labyrinth Mountain Pass. The commander suggests to make peace again as they fear that Reaper might attack and corrupt the creatures of the mountains.
The commander and his crew along with Apis and his top advisors meet with the leaders of the Minotaurs. The two tribes with mediation of the commander persuade the Minotaurs and the bovines to settle their differences and urge them to prepare for Reaper should he ever try to conquer either of the two mountain dwellers.
Celestia and Luna carry Twilight to her chambers in Twilights castle. “Take good care of her Starlight.” Celestia says softly.
“I will Princess Celestia.” Starlight replied.
“You too Spike, she’s going to need you the most during her time of grievance.” Celestia said while Spike reveals himself around the bedroom door frame.
“Is she going to be okay?” Spike asked.
“So long as she has you and Starlight she’ll be ok. Though it might take time.” Luna said.
“We must get back to finding Reaper.” Celestia said. “If he is even a fraction as powerful as the six spirits we faced then Equestria is in danger.” She continued.
They say their goodbyes to Spike and Starlight and head to Canterlot. “Our scouts have come up empty in Equestria.” Luna said. “We might have to send a special force beyond the badlands” she continued.
“I agree. It’s time we send a small scout team to Klugetown and see if they can find any indication of Reaper.” Celestia said. “I’ll send my day shift liaison Sunny Side and two of her best investigators and you can send your night shift liaison Nightfall and two of your best guard.” She continued.
“Yes sister, that’ll grant coverage during the night and day.” Luna said. “I know just the two I am going to pick.” She continued and flew off.
Luna rests while Celestia calls on Sunny Side to explain her mission. Sunny Side is a light tan earth pony with a bright yellow mane-hawk and yellow tail. She’s the liaison between day operations and night operations. Sunny Side enters the throne room to respond to Celestia's summons. “Princess Celestia, I am reporting as ordered.” Sunny said sharply.
“Please Sunny Side, no need to be so formal.” Celestia said. “Though this is a serious matter, please be relaxed.” She continued.
“Yes Ma’am, of course.” Sunny replied still rigid in posture.
“Right! You and two others from the day guard are headed to the badlands to seek out signs of Reaper. You and an additional two investigators will head out with Nightfall and two of his accompanying guard. You’ll set out at sunset after you’ve met up with the other team.” Celestia said.
“Of course princess!” Sunny replied. “Ma’am. I have one question.” She continued.
“Yes?” Celestia said.
“My little sister and I run a Barn and Stable in Ponyville. When I go who’s going to take care of her?” Sunny asked.
“I see, and as the day and night liaisons are new positions due the reinstatement of Luna's guard there’s no one else that can go in your stead.” Celestia said. “I can show you to our guard assistants program and they will help with your sister.” She continued. Celestia points Sunny in the direction of the agency.
Sunny arrives at the agency, goes in removing her helmet, and approaches the clerk pony saying “Hello?”
“Oh hey dear how can I help you?” the clerk asks. Sunny explains the situation and the clerk pony responds quickly and efficiently, “I know of an ex-guard pegasus who was part of the Wonder bolts reserves. She’s now a very prominent dancer here in Canterlot but is currently seeking employment through our agency due to the harsh conditions caused by recent magical disturbances caused by the defeat of Torment.”
“Okay….” Sunny says.
“Oh you’ll like her she baby sits for me every now and then. Delightful young mare. And very trustworthy!” the clerk pony said. “Her name is Promenade and she’s a wonder with children and she’s super smart so she’ll be able to run your Barn and Stable while you are gone. Don’t worry all your bits will go to you on your return as this agency pays the salaries of our workers! Sign here.” She continued.
Sunny signed the contract and was given the rest of the day to meet with Promenade and talk to her little sister Meryl about the deployment.
Luna woke up to lower the moon just as Celestia was setting the Sun. Celestia informed Luna that the two teams would be setting out tonight and that Luna will have to conduct the briefing for the departing group. Cherry Tune, Moonlet, and Nightfall met up with Sunny Side, Bulldoze a rather large and uncharacteristically strong unicorn, and Sunspot a petite but agile and witty Pegasus. Luna filled them in on their mission.
Luna greeted the six and explained, “You are going to set up a working headquarters in Klugetown. There we have a rather resourceful ally named Capper. He’ll receive word of your arrival before you get there but be sure to keep a low profile as ponies don’t normally travel that far and if you’re in too large of a group you could tip off Reaper of our intentions.”
Luna bid Cherry and Moonlet farewell and the six were off. They took the train half way to their destination and over a couple days walked through the desert toward Klugetown. At the edge of the city they formulate a plan to go in and meet Capper in groups of two. Cherry and Sunny went in first, and after a few moments Bulldoze and Moonlet, lastly Nightfall and Sunspot. The groups had ample time to get to know each other and the team dynamic was shaky at first but came together by the time they arrived.
Cherry and Sunny meet Capper and he takes them to the airship port headquarters where Capper and a group of ex-pirates were fighting off brigands who had been increasing their raids. “Cherry Tune, Sunny Side, meet captain Celeano and her crew.” Capper said.
“Hey there little ponies! I am glad to see you here!” Celeano said. “Though I had hoped to see Princess Twilight and her friends, I still feel good that Celestia sent her guard to help us out.” She continued. Cherry and Sunny look at each other and then back at Capper and Celeano.
“Haven’t you heard?” Cherry Tune asked.
“Heard what?” Capper replied.
“Twilight has been… out of commission for many days now.” Sunny said. “And her friends... they are…” Sunny paused.
“They won’t be coming.” Bulldoze said while he and Moonlet were being escorted into the meeting by one of Cappers helpers. “The great heroes gave their lives to protect all of Equestria during the battle at Torments edge. Only Twilight survived out of the six of them.” He continued.
“That can’t be.” Celeano said.
“It’s true.” Nightfall said entering the room with Sunspot. “The six of us, and many thousands more were there when the fate of the Equestria, arguably the world, was threatened by the release of the dark spirits. We all witnessed as they carted off the elements of harmonies stone bodies.”
“Boy you two certainly have a way of breaking bad news to creatures.” Moonlet said.
They worked out the details to their lodgings and place of work. The day shift would send Bulldoze and Sunspot out to search for clues while Sunny compiled the reports and organized work for Capper and Celeano. Sunny would then brief Nightfall on their findings and leads before Cherry and Moonlet worked the night looking for and investigating information.
Meanwhile Capper and Celeano would continue their operations fed by the reports from Sunny and Nightfall. Capper and Celeano had become a sort of law enforcement in Klugetown. Standing up to outside disturbances while keeping the piece in the city. The dynamics in town started changing after Twilights visit and the creatures inside began to look out for one another without a quid pro quo mentality.
However when the brigands, who normally kept to themselves since Storm Kings rule, started blatantly creature-napping during all hours of the day and night. Those taken are never seen again. The Equestrian guards, along with Capper and Celeano build lasting relations between Klugetown and Equestria over their period of time working together. Each week they’d send Celestia and Luna a report detailing the lifestyle and leads for Reaper.
Many moons go by and the team trace back the origins of the hordes to an ancient castle that has since been occupied by the bandits and renamed Sand Dune. Though no creature knows when Sand Dune suddenly became more aggressive they do say the creatures that are brigands are no longer as they were before. Rumors spread of zombies and others speculated sand golems.
One evening just after sunset the six ponies were gathering for a briefing outside the city limits about a confirmed report of Reaper. The survivor described the sighting as their airship flew nearby the ancient castle. A fireball shot out from a hole in the castles roof and struck their balloon. The only one to get away was the hippogriff telling them the story who says he witnessed a large smoke like figure walking the castle perimeter.
During the meeting a large group of brigands who had followed the hippogriff, ambush the group. Moonlet and Bulldozer pulled their spears from their packs and began fending off the offenders. Cherry and Sunspot took to the air and started striking the horde with their spears from above. Sunny and Nightfall protected the hippogriff and bucked the advancing renegades.
The hordes size grew in numbers and the seven began to fall back to the city. Moonlet gets overwhelmed and is grabbed by the horde, Bulldoze and Sunspot rush in to try and save her but they eventually get swarmed and dragged away. Cherry, Sunny, and Nightfall, push the hippogriff towards the city and they begin to flee. Celeano and her crew were patrolling the night sky when they see the skirmish.
Celeano sounds the alarm and the official city guard are alerted to the brigand attack. They rush out of the city to protect the remaining Equestrian guard and secure the hippogriff. The horde backs off, returns to the desert and to their castle. Cherry Tune says, “We have to go back for them!” as she tries to take to the sky.
Cherry stops and looks back. “But if we don’t save them he’s going to know anyway!” she cries.
“I am sorry little pony but we can’t go after them. With a horde that size it’ll take all of our forces to even make a dent and we can’t leave Klugetown defenseless.” Celeano says.
Cherry looks at Celeano turns back at the horde and flies off anyway. “Cherry!” Sunny Side shouts.
“I’m sorry, I never meant for this to happen.” The hippogriff said.
“No, it’s not your fault. You gave us the final piece of the puzzle.” Nightfall replies. “In a few days our leaders will be here and this nightmare will be over. We must send word of Reapers sighting.” He continued.
“What about Cherry and the others?” Sunny asked.
“Sunny, I want to go after them as much as you do. But Celeano is right. The odds are against us. Only the princesses can save them. And the sooner they know that Reaper is here. The better chances they have.” Nightfall said.
Nightfall and Sunny return to the headquarters and write their report. But without any unicorn to send the letter they’ll have to mail by hoof. Capper tells of two sisters who live in Klugetown who happen to be unicorns. Sapphire Spark a light blue unicorn with and electric blue mane and Sugar Cloud another light blue unicorn with light blue and gold mane.
The two are immediately asked to visit the headquarters. Upon their arrival Nightfall asked without hesitation, “Can either of you perform a transportation spell?”
“Uh.” They both react.
“This is important!” Sunny snapped.
“I can.” Sugar Cloud replied. “Where’s it going? Mount Eris or Black Skull Island? Or the Bovine tribes in the mountains?”
“It needs to go to Princess Celestia. In Equestria.” Nightfall said.
“I’ve never done anything that far before. And I usually have to have line of sight to visualize where it’s going.” Sugar Cloud said nervously.
“I need you to focus young filly. Here is Canterlot and Princess Celestia.” Nightfall says as he pulls out a book of Equestria history and points to pictures inside. Sugar concentrates and cast a spell at the scroll. It slowly vanished with a spark. “I did it! I think.” Sugar said.
“I do hope so.” Sunny said.
“It’s late, Sunny you should rest. Our work here is done. We’ll need our full strength tomorrow.” Nightfall said.
“Why?” Sunny asks.
“Because you and I are going to bring back our friends.” Nightfall says.
Back in Canterlot a scroll materializes over Celestia head as she sleeps. It falls on her face and wakes her up. “Luna, I thought you said you’d take care of the mail at night.” She said aloud. She reads the letter then jumps out of bed and rushes to find Luna. “Sister. They found him!” Celestia said while bumping into Luna in the halls.
“Are they sure?” Luna asks.
“They say they received an eye witness account that describes Reaper accurately.” Celestia replies. “We’ll need to prepare Twilight for our departure. She’ll need to take care of Equestria in our absence.” She continued.
“Do you think she’s ready?” Luna asked.
“We’ll need to take a couple days to ease her into it.” Celestia says.
“I’ll start preparations immediately, continue your rest Tia, I have the night as always.” Luna said
“Of course Luna, I’ll prepare the staff during the day. Goodnight sister.” Celestia said.
Celestia heads back to bed and Luna continues to watch the night.
Sunny and Nightfall wake up early morning. With directions to Sand Dune and a days’ worth of supplies packed they head out into the desert. The pick up the trail which is easy as a large army can’t really cover up its tracks in a desert. They find Cherry's’ spear laying on the ground and fear that she has been taken too. They continue to Sand Dune and before they get into visual range they see Cherry holding on to Moonlet.
Cherry had carried Moonlet away from the hordes, while Moonlet held up her spear. She dragged Moonlet for hours before collapsing of exhaustion with Moonlet in her arms. Sunny and Nightfall rush over and check their vitals. “The're alive.” Sunny says.
“Good, but where’s Bulldoze and Sunspot?” Nightfall responds.
“Should we go on?” Sunny asked.
“Can you carry them back to town?” Nightfall replied.
“I think I can build a makeshift stretcher that can hold the both of them.” Sunny said.
“Then do that and get them back to town. I’ll continue ahead.” Nightfall said”
“Are you sure that’s a good idea?” Sunny asks.
“No, but it was a long shot we found Cherry and Moonlet. I am hoping we get lucky twice.” Nightfall said with an optimistic smile.
“Be careful Nightfall.” Sunny said.
“You too Sunny.” He replied.
Nightfall charges off towards Sand Dune as Sunny completes the stretcher and drags Cherry and Moonlet back to town. As Nightfall arrives at the edge of Sand Dune he peers into village. He doesn’t see Bulldozer or Sunspot but he manages to gather numbers on how many brigands were occupying the city.
He makes a decision to return to the village. On the way back he locates Bulldozers and Sunspots weapons by the glint they made in the sand. He gathers them up and continues to walk to Klugetown. Overhead he hears a thunderous roar slowly getting louder and louder. He looks into the sky a sees a silver dot streaking across the horizon. He ducks down and covers the spears in sand as to hide the glint from the sun. But the object had already changed its course and started to head towards him.
“Oh great.” Nightfall says. He stands up draws his spear. The object dived down and stopped suddenly in front of him kicking up sand. “Sup!” a voice range out.
“Sup.” He replied.
“Don’t remember me do you?” She responded
“I’m afraid not." Nightfall said while slowly lowering his spear.
“I’m Sapphire Spark! Your one and only expert on mechanical magic this side of the Badlands!” Sapphire said. The sand settled and she hovered above the ground. A wing shaped device was attached to her back and it glowed with magic. It rumbled as it kept her airborne.
“Aspiring to be princess are we?” Nightfall said.
Sapphire rolled her eyes and said. “Bleh! Nah, but I always wanted to fly. Right from when I was a little filly.”
“A unicorn who wanted to fly and made it happen…. Now I’ve seen it all.” Nightfall replied.
“Look do you want my help or not? I am only out here looking for you because your friend Sunny Side asked me to do her a favor.” Sapphire asked. “And it’s a good thing she and I spoke after my sister sent your letter cause I can actually kinda stand her. You on the other hand.” She continued.
“Wow! You are unpleasant.” Nightfall said. “But if you’re willing to get me back I won’t say no.” He continued.
“Very well grab your things and lift your arms up.” Sapphire said.
Nightfall grabbed the spears and lifted his arms. Sapphire flew up behind him and grabbed him from under his arms. “Hang on buttercup!” She said before shooting off into the sky. They make it back to Klugetown and meet up with Sunny. Cherry and Moonlet had recovered and were already up and walking around. Moonlet had been clawed and could potentially lose vision in her right eye and her entire right side of her face was scratched up. The bandages covered the damage but it would leave a permanent scar.
Cherry runs up to Nightfall. “Did you find them?” She asked.
“No, I am afraid not.” He replied placing Bulldozers and Sunspots spears on a table. “Cherry I was wrong. You managed to save Moonlet by yourself. I’m sorry.” He continued.
“I didn’t do it alone. Bulldozer and Sun recovered their weapons and managed to get to Moonlet. She was unconscious and wounded. When I arrived they were surrounded but holding them off.” Cherry said. “Bulldozer told me to get Moonlet away from the horde while they fought the brigands. So I did.” She continued.
“What happened to Bulldozer and Sunspot?” Nightfall asked.
“I don’t know, I left with Moonlet and only saw them get swarmed by the brigands. I must’ve carried Moonlet around in the desert for hours before I couldn’t go on anymore.” Cherry said.
“I’m sorry Cherry.” Nightfall said.
“Don’t be Nightfall, you did the right thing.” Cherry said. "Celestia and Luna will be here soon enough and Reaper will be sealed away." she continued.
“Right. Let’s go home. By the time we make it back the Princesses should be well ready to return to the Badlands and finish what we started.” Nightfall said.
It was noon and Sunny, Nightfall, Moonlet, and Cherry Tune leave Klugetown on their way back to Equestria. By the evening they make it to the train station and take rest under the terminal overhang. The train would arrive by morning and so would the clerk ponies operating the tick service. As the sun sits low in the sky the four took this time to relax and decompress over their months in the Badlands.
A couple of days go by and Sunny, Nightfall, Moonlet, and Cherry Tune arrive in Canterlot around noon. The four report to Celestia and immediately prepare Celestia's and Luna's armaments. Luna had woken up and met Cherry and Moonlet by the fountain. “Oh Moonlet I’m so sorry.” Luna says while gently placing her hoof on Moonlets scarred face.
“It’s not your fault princess Luna. It’s how we low ponies make a difference in Equestria!” Moonlet responds.
“How many times do I have to say? You are not low ponies. Nopony is. We all play our parts” Luna says.
They continue to catch up and Moonlet had made her famous cucumber sandwiches with the same smiley faces on them. Cherry brought her banjo and Sunny and Nightfall joined in the small get together while Celestia awaits Princess Twilight's arrival.
Earlier in the morning Celestia sent a letter to Twilight stating she has an important task for her. When Twilight arrives in the throne room Celestia greets her and started to explain “Twilight, when the spirits broke free from their tomb your actions and that of the creatures of Equestria sealed them away, but it wasn’t just because the chest was removed from its resting place that weakened the seal. A spirit broke free from the box which caused a ripple of dark energy that triggered the seal at the burial grounds to falter.”
Celestia walked over and continued, “The spirit that broke from the chest was a lesser spirit called Reaper. He aggravated the burial grounds barriers and woke up his sleeping siblings. That in turn made things much worse. Had they been dormant we would have had more time but when they woke they began attacking the seal from inside out.”
“I asked you here because we located Reaper in beyond the badlands.” Celestia said.
“I’ll make sure he doesn’t get away Celestia!” Twilight replied.
“You mistake my intention Twilight.” Celestia said “Luna and I must go and try to capture him in the same manner as we did the others. You must stay here and rule Equestria while we are away.” Celestia continued.
“What? I can’t rule Equestria, let me capture Reaper, if he’s a lesser spirit, I should have no problem trapping him.” Twilight said.
“Twilight… You have gone through so much in the last few moons. You saved your friend Discord from himself, noticed his pain when so many of us didn’t.” Celestia replied. “But what I can see is that you are still hurting from the loss of your friends. Luna and I can take on Reaper, you must rule in our stead.”
“Yes princess.” Twilight said while lowering her gaze to the floor.
“Twilight.” Celestia responded while lifting Twilight's chin up. “I have no doubt you could find a way to defeat Reaper. But I can’t risk you again. I need you here, to take care of yourself.” She continued.
Twilight looked up at Celestia and nodded. “Celestia. Can I see them?” Twilight asked.
“Are you sure?” Celestia replied.
“I think I am ready.” Twilight said.
“Very well, I'll give you the magic to open the vault and I’ll walk with you.” Celestia responded.
Twilight and Celestia arrive at the halls to the vault. Twilight breaths in and exhales. “I can take you to the vault but I must go to Luna and prepare for our travels.” Celestia says. They walk silently to the vault, the guards coming to attention as they pass, and before Twilight opens it Celestia nods with a sad smile and then heads to the armory.
Celestia flies down into the courtyard where the fountain is and approaches Luna. “It’s time sister.” She says. The two princesses walk into the armory and Moonlet and Cherry Tune help them dawn their armor and robes. They secure the Princesses spears, wrapped in leather and cloth scabbards, on each of their backs. Celestia and Luna remove their crowns and hand it over to Cherry and Moonlet.
“Sunny, thank you for taking on this mission. Your little sister will be thrilled your back.” Celestia said.
Luna looks over at Cherry and Moonlet “Take care of Twilight. Show her the devotion you’ve shown me.”
Celestia and Luna fly off as the sun sets and by sunrise stand at the edge of the badlands. Both carrying their satchels and armaments on their backs.
“Are you ready sister?” Celestia asked.
“Ready as I’ll ever be Tia.” Luna replied.
“Then let’s find Reaper and seal him away so he won’t cause any more trouble in our realm.” Celestia said.
They head to Klugetown and meet up with Capper and Celeano. They say that since the Equestrian guards left the hordes had doubled their attacks and creature-napping. They explain the origins of the castle and how Reaper now controls the brigands. Capper also fills them in on the loss of Bulldozer and Sunspot and show them the memorial made out of their spears.
The two princesses thank Capper and Celeano for their support and information and head out to face Reaper. Before they go Celeano asks Celestia if she could find a friend of hers called Ra. She explains that Ra was a pirate just like her and when the Storm King came he refused to serve him. After that his ships were destroyed and Ra fled to the brigands. Celestia says she would keep an eye out and take care not to harm him if she can help it.
Celestia and Luna arrive mid-day at a hill that over looked Sand Dune. They look into the village and see the hordes start to rustle. The bandits swarm out of the town and head straight for them. From sharks, cats, unicorns, pegasus, ponies, birds, griffons, and hippogriffs. The massive group advances. Celestia and Luna cast off their robes and Scabbards revealing their ancient royal armor and spears. Celestia's was a bright gold shaft with a yellow blade with sun patterns. Luna's was a dark blue shaft with silver accents, her blade was crescent shaped to mirror the crescent moon.
Celestia and Luna stand their ground and wait for the closest attacker. He swings at Celestia and she butts him with the back of her spear. The cat got back up and charged again. Celestia and Luna both saw that the creatures were no longer themselves but dusty husks of their former selves. As they hadn’t encountered this kind of magic before they couldn’t undo the apparent curse.
“Luna, there’s too many and it doesn’t appear we can help them.” Celestia says while fighting off more aggressors careful not to harm them.
“I agree Tia.” Luna says. The both use a magic burst to clear the area then ready their spears, blade forward this time.
“Let’s fly passed them and take out Reaper.” Celestia said
“Hopefully that will save them.” Luna said.
They take to the skies knocking the few flight capable hordes away. As they approach the castle Celestia and Luna are both struck with multiple fireballs that unexpectedly shot from an opening in the roof. They both plummet to the ground land in the middle of the crowded battle field. The impact cleared out some of the horde and they turn to dust.
“Luna!” Celestia says while slowly standing. Her armor damaged by the blasts.
“I’m fine Tia!” Luna replied, her armor also damaged. “Looks like we’re fighting our way through.” Luna continued slightly excited for the aspect of combat.
“Looks like it.” Celestia agreed unaware of Luna's glee.
The hordes swarm from every direction and they fight through back to back managing to keep their flanks clear. More and more brigands appear to pour out of the city and every time Luna or Celestia tries to fly off they get barraged by fireballs. They begin to tire and with each passing minute another strike from a bandit lands a hit.
“Tia, we can’t keep this up.” Luna said
“I know Luna, we must get out of here.” Celestia replied.
“Quickly now, we’ll take turns clearing an escape. “Luna said.
“Right!” Celestia acknowledges.
Luna faced towards the mountain range, lowered her head, and shot a beam of magic through the crowd. It cleared a hundred feet in the horde formation. Luna then ran to the end, with Celestia in tow, clearing the enemies that fell into the rift. Celestia covered their back on the way, and before they reach the end Celestia takes to the front and clears another hundred feet towards their escape while Luna provides security.
They continue their escape taking turns defending and clearing finally reaching the edge of the horde. As they run to the mountains they deflect rocks being thrown by brigands and fight of the few remaining flyers attacking from above. The chase went on for a mile or two before only a few bandits were behind them.
They reach the mountains and find only small crags to escape through. The mountain pass gradually narrowed and the mountains shot up on either side. A few brigands follow them in and Luna and Celestia struggled to fight them off. After the last of the horde was turned to dust the two princesses collapsed from exhaustion. After fighting in full armor and using their magic to escape they could barely lift their wings.
“I think we lost them.” Luna said breathing heavily.
“Hopefully that was the last of them.” Celestia replied.
“I think we grossly underestimated Reapers powers Tia.” Luna said.
“I had not considered he’d create such a large force in such a little amount of time.” Celestia said looking up at the blue sky through the mountains.
“None of us did dear sister. Not even Starswirl's assessments could have predicted this.” Luna replied. “What do we do now, Reaper surely would have seen the both of us out there. Who knows what he’ll do knowing he fought off the two of us.”
“We must get back to Equestria before it’s too late. With that army he could conquer all of our kingdoms include those beyond in little time at all.” Celestia said.
They hear a rock fall from the pass ahead and they slowly stand and ready their spears. They look on searching the dust and shadows for any movement. Several large Minotaur emerge from the opening and slowly approach the two sisters. They stood almost twice as tall as Luna and were not armed or armored.
“Well what do we have here? Not exactly the lifeless hordes we’ve been defending against.” The biggest one said emerging from the middle of the group. “Then again doesn’t seem to be much life left in these two anyway.” He continues.
“Stand back, we have fight left in us yet.” Luna said snapping her spear at the beast.
“Calm down sister, these are the Minotaur of the Labyrinth Mountain Pass.” Celestia said. “I hope that they would remember what I did for them thousands of years ago.” She reassured.
“You mean banish us to the mountains, cause tensions between the bovines and Minotaur.” The large beast said. “I don’t remember you Princess Celestia, but my mother spoke fondly of you. I am Crete, son of Pasiphae.”
“You know these Minotaur sister?” Luna asked.
“I helped, or thought I helped settle a dispute between bovines and Minotaur. This was after I had banished Nightmare Moon. And it was not from this side of the mountains either.” Celestia said.
“No. That was on the Equestrian side. We have since made our way through every turn and every cave in these mountains blocking those who would threaten your peaceful kingdom from coming through the pass. Meanwhile your bovine friends claim the grassy plateaus above.” Crete said.
“I thought we had brokered a peace between the Minotaur and the bovine with Pasiphae and Solaire.” Celestia declared.
“You did. But when the Storm King came through he destroyed what we had as we defended your kingdom and the bovines caved in to his demands. We sent word to you over and over and got nothing in return.” Crete responded. “But fear not princess we still uphold our duties to the crown. And thanks to our new leader the bovines and Minotaurs are once again at peace.” He continued.
A cat jumped out from behind Crete. She landed between Celestia and Crete, she wore leather armor and a chakram hung from her waist. She smiled and said “I am Sekhemt. Daughter of the chief. I saw you two from the top of the mountains. You came from Sand Dune didn’t you?”
“Get back Sekhmet! You know you’re not supposed to be this close to the desert.” Crete said.
“Oh come on, with these two and your squad I think I am fine.” Sekhmet said. She walks up to Celestia and grabs her hoof and says. “Come on! I’ll take to our village!”
Crete grumps. “Very well, let’s show our little pony friends some Minotaur hospitality.”
Some of the other Minotaur secure the flanks and the group heads further into the pass. They reach a grassy valley with huts all around. “This is Labyrinth!” Sekhmet said. “You can stay here while you rest up.” She continued. “I run this village down here. My dad runs Pasture up on the plateaus. You can stay in my hut tonight then I can introduce you to my father tomorrow!” Sekhmet went on to say.
“Thank you Sekhmet but I fear we must be going as soon as we are able.” Celestia said.
“Yes, we have to rally our people and strengthen our defenses back home.” Luna said.
“Oh…. I understand.” Sekhmet said lowering her head. “Well at least spend the night. I never met a real life princess before. Especially Celestia and Luna of all princesses!” she continued excitedly.
“Luna? What do you think?” Celestia asked.
“It’s a long trip back Tia, a good night’s rest will do more good than harm.” Luna replied.
“Very well, we’ll stay the night.” Celestia said.
“Yay!” Sekhmet said while jumping with excitement.
“But we must be going early tomorrow morning.” Celestia interrupted.
“No problem!” Sekhmet said giving the peace sign.
Celestia, Luna, Sekhmet, Crete had dinner in the chief’s hut and they were served delicious Minotaur delicacies and delicious cider, surprisingly enough from Sweet Apple acres. “It’s not the best cider we had but it works.” Crete said. “We used to make our own cider but the hordes cut down our orchards in a hidden valley in the mountains.” He continued
“Yeah they used them to make weapons and stuff.” Sekhmet said. “We managed to fight them out but every tree was gone by then. Our new saplings are doing quite well though and we should have our own cider with a couple of years.” She continued.
“If we survive...” Crete said.
“Yeah… If we survive.” Sekhmet said deflated.
“Oh! I didn’t mea-- That is to say –“ Crete stumbled to say. “I’m sorry Sekhmet, my pessimism got a hold of me again.”
“It’s ok, it’s been hard for everyone.” She replied. “And the battle ahead is going to be tough as well.”
“Battle ahead?” Luna asked while drinking her third cider.
“Yeah, the Minotaur, bovines, and the creatures at Klugetown have been planning a large scale force to take back Sand Dune.” Sekhmet said. "Capper told us we begin in a couple of days. Every able bodied creature is going to be there! We heard about what happened in Equestria at the Battle of the Dark Spirits and that story spread around here and Klugetown. Every creature is going to put everything they have to overcome this dark spirit!”
“That’s… incredible!” Celestia said sipping her cider. “I hadn’t thought the story of our battle made it this far yet.”
“Yeah it did! One of our messengers that sent our letters came back and told us about it!” Sekhmet said. “His name is Iron Will and he told us that him and creatures from all over Equestria came together as one and with all of their strength, and by their will, they stopped the Dark Spirits.” She continued. “He said that’s the closest thing to his destiny he felt in a long time!” She went on.
“And his stories motivated you to fight Reaper? The dark spirit here?” Luna asked.
“Of course, Iron Will has a way of inspiring creatures to be who they were meant to be!” Sekhemt said “He spread the word in Klugetown and he’s now working on getting the hippogriffs involved.” She continued. “If you two warrior princesses stayed and helped us we would for sure defeat this Reaper!” she went on.
“I don’t know.” Celestia said. Sekhmets demeanor fell sharply. “But I think you might run Iron Will out of business because you definitely have a way with motivating creatures.” Celestia continued with a smile.
Sekhmet looked up hopeful and asked. “What do you mean?”
Celestia looked at Luna and she nodded. Celestia said, “We will help you and those beyond the badlands. Who knows how long Luna and I will be away if we go back to Equestria. And if he knows were coming he’ll be able raise a stronger army.”
Sekhmet inhaled excitedly! “No! Way! This! Is! Awesome!” she said ecstatically. “Since you will help us, can you bring this to Capper in Klugetown? It’s the battle plans from our group here in the mountains. I was going to deliver it myself in a few days but as you two are here I thought maybe you could coordinate with them!” She continued.
“Of course Sekhmet. We will deliver the plans to Capper and make arrangements in Klugetown!” Celestia said. “Right sister?” she asked.
Luna had finished her fifth cider and was well passed out lying next to the table. Celestia drew a blanket over her and chuckled. “Goodnight Luna.” She said.
The next morning Celestia gets up discards the broken pieces of armor. She grabbed her spear, boots, the letter to Capper, and flew to Klugetown. Luna was still asleep after the long day before so Celestia felt she needed to stay rested. She asked Sekhmet to inform Luna of the current plan. Celestia would command the Klugetown creatures with Capper and Luna would command the Minotaurs and bovines with Sekhmet. Celestia arrived at Klugetown and met up with Capper.
“Well now, this IS interesting. I never thought I’d fight side by side with a princess.” Capper said. “First I help rescue one and now this! I’m turning into a regular knight in shining armor!”
“As if Capper.” Celeano said walking into the old headquarters “Once a trickster always a trickster.” she quipped jokingly.
“You got me there you old pirate.” He remarked back.
After the greetings, Celeano asked about Ra. Celestia said she didn’t see anyone that matched the description but couldn’t tell either way due to the condition the horde was in. Celeano sadly acknowledged and continued with planning. Capper explained that he hadn’t thought about attacking Sand Dune until he met Sekhmet. He explained that he and Celeano were surveying the area around the town when they saw Sekhmet and a few Minotaurs running from brigands. The crew aboard the airship diverted to rescue them and when they got to talking they mentioned a full scale push back of the horde.
He continued to say that even though the full force of the hippogriffs could not help that, after a rather “persistent” and motivational Minotaur convinced a couple dozen to lend a claw. Celeano jumped in a said that the young cat, Sekhmet, took a liking to Capper and the he had been “persuaded” by her flirtatious manners to offer up Klugetown resources for a last battle.
Capper denies any such things and says “I have no idea what you are talking about. I am doing this for all the creatures.”
“Oh yeah sure! I noticed you got two letters in when the plans were supposed to be on one. Let’s see it.” Celeano teased.
Capper shoved the other letter in his pocket saying, “This is from yesterday, it’s top secret.”
Luna had woken up and Sekhmet relayed Celestia's intentions. Luna acknowledged and prepared her remaining armor. Her Spear, helmet, and boots were all that was usable and she discard the rest. She reviewed Sekhmet's battle plane and made a few adjustments on tactics. The bovine herd was marching down from the plateau through the Minotaur passes. With the combined bovines and Minotaur they had a reasonable force to push back the hordes.
Celestia also adjusted the battle plans for the Klugetown grown forces and was surprised at Celeanos airship tactics. Celestia sent a letter to Luna and confirmed that they would meet up before dawn at the edge of Sand Dune. The two sisters spent the night apart at their respective towns and by early morning they began the march to Reaper.
The moon was full in the night sky. It provided illumination over Sand Dune and the castle. Luna and Sekhmet walk to the hillside from Labyrinth and Celestia and Capper met them from Klugetown. They peak over the sandy hilltop and watch for movement. Reaper must have known of their presence because the hordes started to swarm out of the town. Celestia and Luna readied their spears.
Celestia and Luna charge in heading straight for the tip of the horde. Capper and Sekhmet stayed behind and waited for the princess’s signal. Luna charged ahead shot a blast of magic at the closets brigands. And Celestia came in slashing away at the filling attackers. At that point Capper and Sekhmet charged in soon followed by the creatures of Klugetown from the left flank and those from Labyrinth from the right.
The Minotaurs with their speed and their size were the first to plow through the horde quickly catching up to the Celestia and Luna. The forces clashed together but the creatures of the badlands kept their momentum. Capper and Sekhmet catch up with the princesses and push forward.
Capper then shot a flare into the air and the airships who were waiting beyond the line of sight of the castle made their advance. Celestia looked at Capper and said, “We need to get inside to stop the siege weapons from firing their artillery.” Capper nods and shoots a number of blue flares towards the castle. The blue flare blinded the castles vantage point long enough for the airships to get in range. A few dozen well armored hippogriffs stood at the ready on the ships decks. When they saw the blue flare they took off.
The hippogriffs flew down and struck the ground with force enough to clear away the brigands around them. Once the area was clear the Minotaurs who prepared a charging line ran in creating a clear path forward and securing the brigands outside it. The line continued all the way to the castle after each group of two or so hippogriffs dived in and the Minotaurs charge secured the clear space.
Celestia, Luna, Capper and Sekhmet follow behind the advancing line all the way to the castle doors. The four cautiously enter and advance inside as the battle raged on outside. Not a single member of the brigand horde was inside. They stop mid-way through the greater hall as they catch a glimpse of two glowing white eyes in the shadows. It growled and walked into the moonlight pouring in from the broken roof top.
“Is that… a dragon?!” Capper asked. The dragon charged and the four jumped away to the sides.
“Go! Find Reaper and end this!” Sekhmet said.
“We can handle this!” Capper continued.
Celestia and Luna nod and rush passed the mid-sized dragon. It snapped at them as they pass but Sekhmet’s chakrum struck it in the back of the head before returning to her. It turned to Capper and Sekhmet. “You ever fight a dragon?” Sekhmet asked.
“Not exactly, I met one once. I tell you about it later.” Capper replied.
The dragon charged and Sekhmet and Capper jumped around the halls evading it’s slow but powerful attacks. They struggle to find a vantage point to go on the offensive but eventually Capper comes up with a plan. “Sekhmet, hold off from attacking him and I’ll make him face me.” Capper said.
“I got you!” she responds. She stops throwing her chakrum and hides in the shadows. Capper jumps into the middle of the hall and pretends to be out of breath. “Woo.” He breathes heavily. “You gotta slow down now. You might hurt somebody.” He continues. The dragon whips around stares him down and inhales. “Oh dear.” Capper says.
As the dragon draws in its final air Sekhmet jumps up from behind and with her chakrum in her hand strikes the back of its next. She continues forward landing just in front of Capper. The dragon bursts into dust behind her. Capper stands their gawking. “I’m surprised that worked.” He said.
“I’m not, my father trained me well.” Sekhmet said winking at him.
The hall shook as may more growls were heard emanating from the surrounding halls. More glowing white eyes emerged reveal more dragons. “Time to go?” Capper asked.
“Yep.” Sekhmet said.
They rush out of the main doors just in time. The corridor created by the hippogriffs and minotaurs was breaking apart. The two joined the creatures and made their way back to the front lines. During the retreat the dragons started flying out of the broken roof tops and headed for the nearest airship. “He has dragons!?” Celeano said. The dragons made quick work of the canvas flotation device and brought the airship down to the ground smashing into the hordes.
“Alright! Offensive positions, ready for a broadside!” Celeano barked.
The ships turned to port and brought around the harpoon guns. The dragons take off from the downed ship and head to the next closet. The canon lines open fire and launch untethered harpoons in the direction of the fallen airship. Many of the dragons burst into dust and as they fall the crews and those on the ground hear a massive growl come from the castle. The top of the castle breaks apart as a huge dragon climbs out and takes aim at a nearby vessel.
Celestia and Luna find their way to the throne room, the roof and walls had holes in them, damage due to time. The moonlight beamed on Reaper who was sitting on the throne. “You’re little army is pathetic, and embarrassment even. How could the great Celestia command such meek creatures?” Reaper taunts.
“Enough Reaper, it’s time to end this.” Celestia said.
“How dull. Why don’t you go play with my pet Apep Celestia, I only need Luna.” Reaper says.
A loud growl emanates from outside. “Ah looks like he find your friends. Better go help them he can be… a little rough.” Reaper chuckles.
“When we defeat you, our friends will be safe.” Celestia said.
“Uh why am I still talking to you.” Reaper said. He floated out of his chair releasing trace amounts of miasma undetectable by either Luna or Celestia. “Luna come, let’s talk.” He continued while floating around Celestia. “I want to see Nightmare Moon, I’ve heard so much about her.” He went on to say.
“Nightmare Moon is gone, and she will never exist again.” Luna proclaimed.
Back outside Apep had destroyed another ship, he looks at Celeano and takes aim. He breathes in and before he could finish his attack a large harpoon with a large chain flew passed from the aft of Celeanos fleet striking Apep in the side. Two airships emerge from the clouds that had been accumulating and launch two more harpoons with chains. The first ships commander had a ram skull helmet and his second in command was a Fennec fox named Set, accompanied by a black cat named Bast. On the other ship a pony called Sia, a bird called Hu, and a Unicorn named Heka stood at the helm.
Apep writhed around then took aim at the approaching ships. Celeano commanded another barrage on the giant dragon. A volley of harpoons struck Apep swaying his attention back to the original fleet as he roared.
Reaper continues to antagonize Luna biding as much time as he can in hopes his miasma takes affect weakening her will and forcing out Nightmare Moon. “Your weak forces will soon be the dust of my new army, and with them I’ll destroy Equestria.” Reaper says still floating around the two princesses. “Only the power of Nightmare Moon can stop me.” He continues.
“Enough!” Luna says stomping the ground. She looks at Celestia and nods. Celestia looks over and returns the gesture and in an instant they charge Reaper. They take turns striking at him leaving no opening for him to counterattack. Reaper dodges effortlessly knowing that he can accelerate the process if he keeps them active.
The new ships turn hard to port and put tension on the chains lodged into Apep. They hit their boosters and pull the dragon fully out of the castle. Apep stumbles forward and strike the ground crushing many brigands to dust. The remaining three ships from Klugetown fire their harpoons behind the command of the ram helmed commander.
Apep recovers and tears out some harpoons from his side and launches them back at a Klugetown ship. The ship gets struck all over but remains airborne. The creatures on the ground are being pushed back and the horde seems to gaining more and more members no matter how many are turned to dust.
Apep lets out another growl and those creaturs on the ground closest to him are stunned momentarily. Apep then emits a bright light from his eyes directing it at the airships. The crews and commanders are suddenly paralyzed. The ram helmed captain was at the head of his ship. He could only look on as his crew who couldn’t move, Sekhmet on the ground about to be overrun, and he glances at the Klugetown ships and sees Celeano also paralyzed.
Celestia and Luna trade lunges and strikes at Reaper to eventually over his dodges. Before they could land a first strike a gold trident materialized and blocked both their attacks stopping their momentum. Reaper laughed, “Your spears can’t hurt me, even if you were to land a hit.” He begins his attack and in quick succession. Neither Luna nor Celestia could get an attack in as he was too quick with his barrage.
He pushes them back, knocks Luna aside, and strikes Celestia in the head. Before she could recover he hits her again with the back of his trident throwing her to the back of the throne room. He then turns to Luna and begins the assault backing her slowly into a wall.
The ram helmed captain looks down and sees his necklace hanging. On it are pictures of his mother, Bast, and Sekhmet, and a picture of him and Celeano. He struggles to grasp it, then looks up at Set and yells “Set your smokescreen!” Set looks over, nods and struggles to make is way to the edge of the ship. He pushes a large container near the bow, lights a fuse and forces it over board. It falls towards Apeps face as the dragon turns to face the ship.
The container explodes right in front of Apeps face releasing red sand and shrapnel into his eyes. With Apeps stare broken the captain recovers from the paralysis, throws off his helm revealing a bird with golden feathers. “Great work Set!” Ra says.
“Thanks Ra!” Set replied.
“Alright Set get your spear ready and let’s finish this.” Ra says.
Ra commands his ships to fire the remaining harpoons while grabbing one off the deck. The Kluge ships follow suite and launch right after. Ra moves to the edge of the ship, jumps down, and throws the harpoon at Apeps face. Ra lands on the ground and pulls on the chains trying to pull Apeps head forward. Capper and Sekhmet run over and help pull the chain which causes some of the larger minotaurs to join in. Set lowers is helmet grabs his spear stands at the edge of the ship and says, “Here goes nothing.”
Luna continues to fend off Reapers attacks before being pushed against the wall. She struggles to defend the onslaught and in a split second and a miscalculation Reaper knocks her spear up and with enough force to release it from her magical hold. In the split second it takes for her to realize she’s open Reaper strikes at her. She quickly puts up a bubble shield but the trident was already close enough it gets lodged inside the forces field. Celestia gets up, shakes off the hit, looks over, and cries out “Luna!”
Reapers bears down on his weapon, cracking Lunas shield. He stares at her through the fissures and says, “Become strong again, be the true ruler of these lands, become Nightmare Moon!” His trident slips further into the barrier. “Or you will be destroyed!.” He continued. Luna struggles to keep up bubble and it shatters against Reapers power.
Reapers weapon nearly impales Luna but he whipped around and blocked Celestia spear which she had hurled with an immense force. Celestia's spear was burning with golden flames but was deflected by his trident and lodged itself into a wall. Celestia stares with piercing eyes at Reaper, her main almost as fire. She growls, “Stay away from my sister!”
“Daybreaker!?” Luna says in shock.
On the edge of his ship Set raises his spear then jumps off. He starts a spin to increase the striking power of his weapon. Ra shouts “Alright every creature. Pull!” The dragons head lurches forward just as Set comes into range. He comes out of the spin, locks on, and strike with his full momentum. His blade cuts through the dragons scales with ease. The giant beast bursts into dust and a bright white orb hovered over the battle field for a moment then flew off. Set landed safely on the ground as the dust settled behind him.
“Father!” Sekhmet said to Ra.
“Good to see you again sweetie! Your sister will be glad to see you unharmed!”
“Father?” Capper questioned.
“No time for that young feline, we’ve got work to do!” Ra replied.
The group fall back and set up a perimeter. They fight the hordes from the ground and use the remaining airships to launch attacks from above. The victory against Apep halted the hordes advance and, with the sun just under the horizon, gave a little momentum back to the creatures of the Badlands.
Reaper glances back at Luna and says “Daybreaker?” He looks back at Celestia “Now this IS interesting. Here I thought Luna was weak of will. Who’d of thought my miasma would corrupt the great Princess Celestia!”
“Celestia?” Luna questions.
“Fear not dear sister, Daybreakers powers and mine are one in the same.” Celestia said. Her main as fire and eyes darkened. "Now get up Luna.” She barked.
Luna stands, grabs a hold of her spear for support. “Yes sister, I am up!” She said.
“Together we are stronger than this dark spirit, he will not corrupt us, and he can not defeat us!” Celestia reassured.
Reaper gives a chilling smile at Celestia and says, “Is that so!” He materializes dark smoke blades and launches them at Celestia. She quickly puts up a shield but at the same time his trident shot backwards striking Luna in the abdomen.
Luna gasps and looks at Celestia, while Reaper still grinned. Lunas eyes teared up as she asked “Tia?”
“Now you are alone!” Reaper says with glee.
Celestia's main and eyes return to normal as she cries out, “Luna!”
“Now show me Daybreaker, even more powerful than Nightmare Moon. Show me!” Reaper demands as he pulls his trident form Luna. She falls limp and hits the ground.
Celestia closes her eyes filled with tears. “I can’t lose you, not again. Not to him.”
Reaper positions his trident next to him and say “Daybreaker does not need—“
Celestia quickly opens her eyes and glares Reaper down. “I am NOT Daybreaker! And I never will be!” She proclaimed. “I am Celestia, Princess of the Sun, ruler of Equestria. And this will be the last time you see the light of day again!” she said.
“Hmph, what a waste.” Reaper said disappointingly.
He hurled his trident with full force at Celestia. Her horn started to glow and she charged forward. She jumped up and with great reflexes and kicked the weapon aside. She took flight and conjured an ethereal blue bow simultaneously drawing the string and placing Reapers trident in place of an arrow. She imbued the weapon with her light, and raised the sun over the horizon. The beams shot into the broken roof of the throne room, from behind Celestia. It blinded Reaper for moment as she charged her shot with the full power of the Sun.
Reaper recovers and quickly morphs into a vicious creature with many eyes, a large circular mouth encircled with teeth, and dark smoky tendrils protruded outward from his mist-form. He flung his writhing extensions toward Celestia from all directions in hopes to snare her and consume her body. She looks directly at Reapers center unphased by his approaching attack and lets loose her arrow.
The trident pierces Reaper through and through lodging itself in the ground behind him. With a gaping hole in his mist form body it quivered and shook as he struggle to maintain his form. The trident had torn away his core and it was lodged in the trident. He growls and slowly fades out of existence and the core burst into nothing.
The sun began to fully rise over the sandy hill and as the creature of the Badlands continued to fight, the hordes slowly crumble and dissolved into dust. The group cheers on the ground which alerted the airships who also began cheering. Celeano smiled as she peered over the edge then she quickly frowned. She dove off her ship with her crew and landed a few meters away from Ra and his group. Sekhmet sees Celeano and then grabs Capper saying “We’d better go say hi to my brother. Hey Set!”
“What why?” Capper asks as he notices Celeano charging forward. “Oh I think you’re right, let’s meet your…brother?” he continued confused to see Sekhmet referring to the fenic fox as her brother.
Celeano stomps forward and stops directly behind Ra. With her crew looking on she shouts “Ra!” He turns around while putting his helmet on. “Uhh” he says while rubbing the back of his neck and faces away. She’ll pulls the helmet off and stares him at him.
He nervously turns to face her and says, “Well hey there Celeano!” She shoves him and asks “That’s all you have to say?” Ra responds “Well I uhh, but there’s this... And the Storm King.” She hugs him and says, “I thought you were one of them. Where did you go?”
“It’s… a long story.” He replied returning the embrace.
The rest of Ra's’ crew disembark their ships near Ra and Celeano. Some of the crew were part of his old pirate days and they greet Celeano. Capper walks over and asks, “Hey now, have y’all seen the princesses?” The crew rush to the castle and begin to search the halls and chambers. Ra, Heka, and Capper make their way to the throne room where they find Celestia holding Luna in her arms. Ra, Capper, and Heka run over.
“I tried healing her but I used all my energy on Reaper.” Celestia says choking back tears. Heka looks Luna over and says “Here let me see her.” Celestia reluctantly hands Luna over to Heka and he gently lowers her to the ground. He casts a warm light from his horn and Luna's wounds begin to heal. “She’ll need a couple days to rest. And not in a place like this of course.” Heka said.
“Thank you.” Celestia replied.
They take Luna back to Klugetown and a few Minotaurs, bovine, hippogriffs, and some creatures of Klugetown stay at Sand Dune. The princesses rest while Ra and Celeano catch up on lost time. Sekhmet takes Capper to meet her “siblings”, Bast and Set, as well as the rest of the crew. Ra tells Celeano that she can have Mandjet, his second airship he modeled after Celeanos old ship that was destroyed by Tempest.
A couple days later Luna had made a full recovery and Celestia packed their old armor that the bad landers gathered up after the battle. Celestia and Luna boarded Mandjet and Captain Celeano directed them to Canterlot. The ship flies over Canterlot market. Tempest, who was visiting with Starlight and Trixie and drinking a cider, looked up and with wide eyes, gasped choking on her drink and struggled to breath.
The airship docks at the balcony behind the throne room and Twilight walks out to meet them. Celestia and Luna disembark the airship and wave goodbye to Celeano and her crew as they fly back home. “Princess Celestia! Luna” Twilight said excitedly.
“Princess Twilight!” Celestia said as she, Luna and Twilight give a group hug. Discord blinked in just at the last second and joined in.
“Oh it is so good to see you ladies.” Discord chimed.
“It’s good to see you too Discord.” Celestia said.
“You‘ll never guess what your star pupil accomplished Celestia!” Discord said while pointing at Twilight's wings.
“They’re gone!” Celestia said.
“Yes but she returned to me my dear Flutter Shy! What an amazing leader she turned out to be aye Princess Celestia.” Discord chimed.
“Don’t worry princess I still seem to have all my magic that I had as an alicorn.” Twilight replied.
“I don’t know what to say. I don’t think I have ever seen anything like this before.” Celestia said
“Well I got my friends back and I managed to rule Equestria, at least for a few weeks while you two were gone!” I think it was a worthwhile trade off.
Celestia looks at Luna and says, “I understand how you feel. I’d have given anything to get my sister back.”
“But she’s right there.” Twilight said.
Celestia chuckles and says, “I’ll tell you about later.”
The four walk into the throne room and Twilight's friends, Trixie, Starlight, Tempest, had rushed to the thrown room and Luna's friends, Moonlet, Cherry Tune, Sunny Side, and Nightfall were all there waiting for the princesses return. Sugar Cloud and Sapphire Spark who were also there, started their journey to Equestria after the defeat of Reaper to tell Twilight of the success. Promenade was there with Sunny's’ sister who was being introduced to Sweetie Bell, Apple Bloom and Scutaloo.
Celestia and Luna sat on their thrones and smiled as they looked upon the new friendships being made and the bonds created in hard times. They looked at each other with renewed strength and confidence that they could overcome anything.
Nightfall, Moonlet, Sunny Side, Promenade, Cherry Tune, Sapphire Spark, and Sugar Cloud came together and discussed each of their minor roles in the past few moons. Even though they were not princesses or, great heros, nor were they royalty or extraordinary ponies, they all played a critical role to each other, the lives of the princesses, and the lives of every creature in Equestria.
