After Rainbow Dash ruins her chances of getting into the Wonderbolts, a mysterious group called the Shadowbolts approaches her with a chance for revenge
All Lightning Dust ever wanted to do was become a Wonderbolt like her father before her, but after a pony named Rainbow Dash takes that all away, she vows to get revenge. Then a group called the Shadowbolts approaches her and tells her of a way to get revenge, but will she take the offer?
It had almost been one hour since the incident. Everypony was talking about it, about her. Lightning Dust sat in the chair outside Spitfire’s office, called there just after her lead pony badge was taken from her. She was wrongly accused of endangering civilian ponies, and soon her fate would be decided in the office.
"Lightning Dust, you may come in," one of the Wonderbolt guards said. As Lightning Dust got out of her chair she could see Spitfire’s office, and the pony herself. Spitfire had been the Captain of the Wonderbolts ever since her mentor Commander Hurricane retired. She was the youngest drill captain in the history of the Wonderbolts, and true to her name, Spitfire would spit out fire if you got her mad enough. As Lightning entered the office, Spitfire was looking down at her paperwork.
"Please, Lightning, sit," Spitfire said, and Lightning did as she was told. "Lightning, do you know why you were called here today?" she said in a calm manner.
"Yes, Ma’am," Lightning said. "I was called here because of the incident that occurred earlier today."
"Yes, Lightning," Spitfire said "Now usually, I would keep sugar-coating the incident and brush it off, but I'm going, to be frank, and say you really caused a shit show out there."
"Ma’am, I..." Spitfire put her hoof up.
"You put the lives of civilians in harm, and not just any civilians, but the elements of harmony," Spitfire said. "If Cadet Rainbow Dash had not intervened, then this would be a very different scenario than it is right now."
"But Ma’am I was just trying to!....." Lightning Dust said before yet again getting interrupted.
"Lightning, I am trying to be nice right now, but this whole thing is not to be taken lightly. You almost killed the Elements of Harmony," Spitfire said. "And I have been told to let you go from the academy."
"Ma’am?" Lightning said, her pupils shrinking.
"Cadet Lightning Dust, by the rules of the Wonderbolts, I'm afraid you must be sent home immediately."
Lightning Dust looked at her former Commander. She was not going to take this.
"Ma’am, I am not at fault here. If Rainbow Dash had been concentrating when we made that tornado then none of this would be happening!" she said sternly. "I am one of the best flyers you have ever had, and if you let me go then you’re going to regret it!"
Spitfire was now staring at Lightning. Without a word she got up and grabbed an old dusty file off her filing cabinet.
"Lightning Dust, I let you in the Wonderbolts because I saw potential. I saw something that I had not seen since your father."
"Don't you dare bring my father into this conversation! He was-" A loud banging sound cut her off as Spitfire banged her hoof on the metal filing cabinet.
"Your father was a murderer and almost killed me and all my friends!" Spitfire shouted. "He was reckless, deceptive, and above all only cared for himself!"
"He may have been a murderer, but he’s still my father!" Lightning yelled back. "If It wasn’t for Prism and that Doctor he would still be here and not locked up in Canterlot!"
"He belongs there, and by the way you’re acting you should join him!" Spitfire said before she realized what she had just said. She slowly walked back to her desk and turned to the window facing the Academy. "I want you packed and gone by high noon. If you’re still here, I will personally see to it a Royal Guard takes you by force. Goodbye, Lightning Dust." She signaled her guard to come and take Lightning out.
As Lightning was walking out of the office she turned to say one last thing. "I wish my Father killed you all those years ago."
Cloudsdale, 2 Hours Later
As Lightning Dust carried her belongings back to her uncle’s house she couldn’t help but sob quietly to herself.
"Stupid Spitfire. This would have never happened If you were still here, father." She continued to fly until she reached her uncles house. As she landed on the front yard she noticed two ponies standing in front of the door talking to her uncle.
"Are you sure she is ready?" Lightning’s uncle said.
"Yes, her father was her age when he received his first mission, she is ready for her initiation," one of the two ponies responded.
"Uncle Rider?" Lightning Dust said, walking to the door. "Who are these ponies? What's going on?"
"Lightning," Wind Rider said, "What are you doing home? Shouldn't you be at the academy?"
"I..." Lightning said, trying and failing to make up an excuse. "I was kicked out for endangering civilians. I'm sorry, uncle." Tears began forming in her eyes.
"Dusty," Wind Rider said softly as he walked over to hug his niece, "Come inside, it’s about time I told you some things."
Wind Rider’s House
"Lightning, your father’s family, the Dusts, are part of a long line of flyers," Wind Rider said. "Being his brother and the only one still around, it was up to me to take his place at the Bolts. However, being a Wonderbolt was not your father's destiny."
"What?" Lightning said.
"Your father, and his father, and his father's father, where a part of another flying group called the Shadowbolts. They’re like the Wonderbolts but don't have the stupid rules that got you kicked out," Wind Rider said.
"So, my father was a Shadowbolt?" Lightning said.
"Not fully," one of the two Shadowbolts said. "He passed initiation, but his first mission was a failure, so he was not fully taken in."
"Your father's mission was to kill Commander Hurricane, because the leader of the Shadowbolts saw that he would get a protegé who would destroy Equestria," Wind Rinder said. "The Shadowbolts thought that if Commander Hurricane was killed he would have never trained his protogé, but he failed and was arrested."
"So why are you telling me all of this?" Lightning Dust asked. "Am I going to have to go and kill someone?"
"No sweetie, the Shadowbolts have a plan that’s been long in the making, and because your father failed we thought that his offspring would make a good replacement."
"So, I'm going to be a Shadowbolt?" Lightning Dust said.
The Outskirts of The Crystal Empire: One Week Later
As the cold wind blew through Lightning’s fur, she could feel that she was way in over her head. After finding out about the Shadowbolts she was told that in one week the Shadowbolts would return to pick her up so she could meet their leader. After a week they fulfilled that promise and told Lightning to pack her bags and come with them to the outskirts of the Crystal Empire.
"Where exactly are we going?" Lightning said to one of the Shadowbolts.
"The Shadowbolt Camp was created in secret. Our founder created it on the outskirts of The Crystal Empire, the one place where nopony would go searching."
"Who is the founder?" Lightning asked.
"You will find out soon enough," the Shadowbolt said. The group came to a cave with a large opening, and carved into the side of the cave was a pony skull with a wing popping out of the back. As Lightning was led to the camp she was surprised to find what awaited her: an exact replica of the Wonderbolt Flight Camp standing before her, except in the colors of the Shadowbolts.
"This place is amazing," Lightning said, in awe of the sight before her. "It looks just like the Wonderbolt camp."
"The camp was created to rival the Wonderbolts, so what better way to rival them than to know how they think and how they train? So the founder built the camp to look like the Wonderbolts.”
As Lightning and the two Shadowbolts walked around, Lightning took in her surroundings. The cave was lit up by glowing stalagmite crystals, and the buildings themselves were made from storm clouds instead of regular clouds like the Wonderbolt Camp. Then she noticed something out of the ordinary: there was only one living barracks.
"Why is there only one barracks?" Lightning asked. "Where do the rest of the Shadowbolts live?"
"While the Shadowbolts are a secret organization, we lost a lot of our original team during the Crystal Wars. It was not until our new leader that we found a way to replenish our numbers," the Shadowbolt said.
"How?" Lightning Dust said.
Before the Shadowbolt replied the other Shadowbolt had spoken up.
"We are here.” As the three stopped in front of a building, Lightning recognized the architecture: it was a replica of the commanders barracks/office, but much larger.
"Our leader wishes to only speak with you alone. We will wait out here," the Shadowbolt said as the doors opened. Lightning slowly entered and prepared herself for what was to come.
Captain's Quarters/Throne Room
As Lightning walked into the captain's quarters, she noticed it was immediately different from the captain's quarters from the Wonderbolts flight camp; instead, it was an exact replica of what appeared to be Princess Celestia’s own throne room. As Lightning Dust looked around she saw that there were stained glass windows along the walls depicting moments that for her were unknown. However, one window stood out amongst the others: it was of the Shadowbolts and above them was a black unicorn stallion with glowing green eyes and a red-tipped horn. He looked to be of royalty judging by the clothing around him.
"I see you have found the picture of our founder," a mysterious voice said. As Lightning turned around she saw a tall alicorn sitting on the throne. She looked older than Celestia, with a purple and black mane and light cyan fur.
"You’re… You’re..."
"An alicorn?" She said. "Yes, quite surprising for you I'm guessing. However with Celestia as the ruler I'm surprised the entire city of Canterlot isn’t full of them."
"Who are you?"
"My Name Is Princess Cinch, the third sister of Celestia and Luna and the rightful air to the throne," she said.
"Princess Celestia and Luna have another sister?"
"Technically, they have four sisters, but we don't talk about the youngest," Cinch said. "But that’s not the point. The point is that you are here to become a Shadowbolt, and we want you to join us. We're the greatest aerial team in the Crystal Empire, and soon we’ll be the greatest in all Equestria. But first, we need a captain."
"Me, a captain?" Lightning said, shocked.
"Yes. You’re so fast and you could become the leader of our troop," Cinch said. "The best part is you have Wonderbolt training, so you are the best and most logical choice."
"But...why me?"
Cinch got out of her throne and walked to the windows, signaling Lighting to come next to her.
"Your family, the Dusts, were one of the Original Three. They were the first Shadowbolts, and had loyalty in their blood."
"My family is of flyers?" Lightning said. "Like, professional ones?"
"Yes, in a way," Cinch said. "When Nightmare Moon returned three years ago, your grandfather and the other descendants of the Original Three made a promise that they would take back their place in Equestria, and that they would do what they were meant to do."
"And what would that be?" Lightning said.
"To destroy the Wonderbolts and take back the Crystal Empire," Cinch said. "By any means necessary."
"Take back?" Lightning said, "Why would you need to take back the Crystal Empire? They already got rescued from...."
"Ahh, you’re a smart one," Cinch said.
"The Shadowbolts were created by King Sombra?" Lightning said.
"Yes, he created the Shadowbolts when he ruled the Crystal Empire. He wanted to make sure that if he ruled Canterlot, he would have ponies to defend the kingdom just like the Wonderbolts. Except we play dirty and we're not afraid to do things that are dangerous."
"So, you want me to help King Sombra?" Lightning paused to think about her decision. "What's in it for me?"
"Tell me, Lightning, what were are you planning on doing now that your dream has been crushed?"
"I haven't thought about it," Lightning said. "What can a washout like me do in Equestria?"
"You have potential, Lightning Dust. I foresee great things if you join us," Cinch said. "So, what do you say, Lightning Dust?"
Lightning Dust looked at the glass window, pondering. She knew that there was no going back after she took this deal. She could either become a Shadowbolt and serve King Sombra, or she could return home, a failure and a disgrace to her family.
"I’ll do it" Lightning said. "I’ll become a Shadowbolt."
"Excellent," Cinch said. "Now we can begin to train you, and soon you will....." A Shadowbolt ran into the building, huffing and out of breath.
"Your Highness!" the Shadowbolt said. "Urgent News!"
"Yes, what is it?" Cinch said.
"Your Magesty, a new Princess has been announced!"
"A new Princess?" Cinch said, surprised. "Who is the new Princess? Tell me!!"
Lightning Dust was now a full-fledged Shadowbolt. To think only 6 weeks ago she was in the Wonderbolts Academy and now she was the Commander of the Shadowbolts. Well, Commander-in-Training but she was still up there. As Lightning walked around the base she could see lots of Shadowbolts, but, they all seemed... off. Each time she tried to talk to them they would just stare at her with their glassy yellow eyes, almost as if they had no soul inside them.
"Commander Dust," a Shadowbolt said.
"Yes, what is it, soldier?" Lightning said. She approached the Shadowbolt soldier who had called her, who had a dark blue and purple mane.
"Please, call me Sky Striker," he said. "We’re now working together, the least we can do is get to know each other better."
"Ok, Sky Striker, what is it?"
"The Princess has requested your presence," Sky Striker said. "She wanted me to escort you."
"Ok, lead the way," Lightning said. As the two walked to the throne room, Lightning noticed that Sky Striker’s uniform was different than the one she was wearing. it had more detail on it, and around the chest area was a badge. "What's the badge for?"
"Oh, this? I got it because of my placement. While you’re Commander-in-Training of the aerial troops, I'm Commander of the ground troops."
"Oh, so you're in the same Command as me," Lightning said.
"You could say that," Sky Striker said. "However, due to you being relatively new, I would say you won’t get your badge until you have been properly given the title of Aerial Commander."
"Oh," Lightning said, looking forward in a disappointed manner.
Captain's Quarters/Throne Room
As Lightning and Sky Striker walked into the captain's quarters, Lightning saw that Princess Cinch was working on some sort of metallic, pony-shaped statue.
"You may leave us, Sky Striker," Cinch said. Sky Striker left, closing the door behind him.
"You wanted to see me, ma’am?" Lightning said.
"I just wanted to check in on my newest Commander," Cinch replied. "Tell me, how have things been for you?"
"They’ve been ok. The rest of the Shadowbolts seem nice enough," Lightning said. She found her eyes drawn to the strange metallic statue.
"Ah, I see you are interested in my invention," Cinch said.
"Invention?"
"You see Lightning, Ive been far away from Equestria. I only recently came back, but not without a few souvenirs," Cinch said, guiding Lightning to the metallic statue.
"What is it?" Lightning asked.
"I call it a Shadow Bot. Its main purpose is to fight and be loyal without question," Cinch said. "They will be fierce on the battlefield."
"So, all those Shadowbolts around the base, are these Shadow Bots?" Lightning said.
"Yes," Cinch said. "Sky Striker, you, and one other are the only ones who are actually alive in this base."
"So that's why there’s only one barracks," Lightning said.
"Yes, the Bots do not need rest. They run on magic, my magic to be precise," Cinch said.
"But what about the two Shadowbolts that took me here last year, or my uncle Wind Rider?" Lightning said.
"The Shadowbolts are resourceful. We have spies and recruiters spread around Equestria so when the time is right, we will make an army that is actually alive."
"So, what do we do until then?" Lightning said.
“I will train you, Sky-Striker, and Nightshade in the ways of the Shadowbolts."
While Lightning did not recognize the name Nightshade, she understood that Cinch knew what she was doing, so she kept quiet. However, she did have more questions.
"When I came here, you said you would help me get revenge on Rainbow Dash," Lightning said. "How will you do this?"
"Do not fear, Lightning, we have spies in the town she is living in. She is tracked and we know where she will be," Cinch said.
"What is she doing now?" Lightning said. "If I want to get my revenge, I must know how she thinks."
"My spies tell me that she, along with the new Princess, are training. It seems the newly crowned Princess Twilight does not know how to use her wings."
"So, she is a personal trainer?" Lightning said.
"No, at the moment it looks like she’s just living up to her element," Cinch said. "But nevermind her. What you need to focus on, Lightning, is your training. How far have you progressed?"
"At the moment, I have mastered the arts of fighting, killing, and I am still working on weather control," Lightning said.
"Excellent, then today we will start to..." but before Cinch could finish her sentence Sky Striker ran through the door. "Ma'am, we have a situation!"
"What is it, Commander?" Cinch said.
"The sun and the moon," Sky Striker said.
"Yes, what about them?" Cinch said.
"You need to see for yourself."
As Lightning Dust looked at Cinch they both eyed each other, and proceeded to walk outside as Sky Striker suggested.
The Outskirts of The Crystal Empire
As Cinch, Lightning, and Sky Striker stepped out of the Shadowbolt Base, they were surprised to find the Sky was different. The moon and the sun appeared to be up at the same time.
"What’s wrong with the sun?" Lightning said.
"I don't know! One minute it was nighttime, the next thing I know the sun comes up and the moon won’t set!" Sky-Striker said.
"Most fascinating. It seems that my sisters have lost control of the very things they were destined to do," Cinch said.
"You said you had Shadowbolt spies all over, right?" Lightning said. "We should attack now, while the Princess are weak!"
"While I admire your passion and devotion, Lightning, it would be unwise. We have no idea what happened, and if something was wrong with my sisters, they would be under constant supervision," Cinch said.
"Still, It wouldn’t hurt to find out what’s going on," Sky Striker said.
"Very well, I will contact the Shadow Spies in Canterlot to see what the problem seems to be," Cinch said. "In the meantime, Sky Striker, take Lightning to the training room. She and Nightshade will train together."
"Yes, Ma'am," Sky Striker said as he signaled Lightning to follow.
"Go with Sky Striker. I will oversee the situation, my young apprentice." CInch said to Lightning as she left to follow Sky Striker.
The Shadowbolt Training Room
As Lightning and Sky Striker entered the training room she came to a stop. Lightning saw another pony in the room with a striking resembelence to Spitfire, however, her coat was light gray and her mane and tail seemed to be full blue.
"You must be Lightning Dust," the pony said. She stopped training and walked over to her "The name is Nightshade, commander of the stealth troops"
"So, you’re the third Shadowbolt here?" Lightning asked.
"Yeah. My grandfather, Midnight Shade, was the leader of the original Shadowbolts before Cinch showed up," Nightshade said.
"So, why are you not in charge now?" Lighting asked.
"When Princess Cinch showed up, my Grandfather said he saw evil in her like Sombra, so he went to the other Shadowbolts and said he was giving CInch the role of leader," Nightshade said. "However, if Cinch were to fall, I would take her place."
"So, you two have never wanted to take the role of leader from her?" Lightning asked.
"Nightshade and I never found it necessary to plot against her. She’s led the Shadowbolts to many great things, and if it wasn’t for her, the Shadowbolt army wouldn’t have been rebuilt by her Shadow Bots," Sky Striker said.
"So, speaking of Cinch, did you guys see the sky?" Nightshade said.
"Yeah, it was really weird, almost as if Celestia and Luna just decided to take a break for an entire day or something," Lightning said.
"I’m sure we will find out soon, we just have to be patient and...." Sky Striker was interrupted by the speakers.
"Commanders, please report to my throne room," Cinch said over the loudspeaker.
"Have you ever noticed that Cinch has more of an I am an authority figure tone then a all powerful ruler?" Lightning said.
"Yah, sometimes Cinch acts more like a school principle than a Princess, but we should go see what she wants," Nightshade said. Lightning, Sky Striker, and Nightshade left the training room to find Cinch.
Captain's Quarters/Throne Room
As Lightning, Sky-Striker, and Nightshade entered the throne room, Cinch was sitting at her throne, waiting.
"You called us, Ma'am?" Nightshade said.
"I have just got a letter from one of my Shadow Spies. Apparently Celestia and Luna have gone missing, and Princess Twilight and the Elements have gone after them."
"We should mount an attack on Canterlot while they’re gone," Lightning said. "Now is the perfect opportunity."
"We cannot attack," Cinch said. "It would be unwise."
"Ma'am, forgive my skepticism, but why are we holding an attack? Lightning is right, all three princesses are gone, and Canterlot is unguarded," Nightshade said.
"While it would be a good idea for us to attack, there are still things that could stand in our way. Princess Cadence could easily take over while the other princesses are gone, and there is also Discord, who most likely would be able to spot us from a mile away." Cinch said "If we attack now, the element of surprise would be lost. As far as Celestia is concerned the Shadowbolts are dead, and until the time is right, it needs to stay that way."
"Yes Ma'am, we understand," Sky Striker said.
"Now, you three may leave. I have much work to do. Nightshade and Sky Striker, continue training Lightning Dust. We have to prepare her."
Alarms, that's what Lightning woke up to. Full-on alarms were engulfing the entire base as Lightning Dust ran over to her uniform and quickly put it on. As she ran out the door she could see Sky Striker and Nightshade running to Cinch’s throne room.
"Hey, what's going on?!" Lightning shouted to the two bolts.
"We don't know, we’re just as confused as you are," Sky Striker shouted back. Lightning ran up to his and Nightshade’s side. "The alarms should only go off in a dire emergency, so I think we should be prepared for a fight," Sky Striker said.
"What kind of emergency are we talking about?" Lightning said.
"The kind that could reveal us," Nightshade said. "Now quit your talking and get to the throne room!" As the three ran into the throne room they could see Cinch was still working on a Shadowbot. Now, however, she was looking at the Equestrian Map.
"Ma’am, what's going on?" Nightshade said.
"Are we under attack?" Sky Striker said.
"Should we prepare for battle?" Lightning suggested
"Not if you all wish to lose your magic," Cinch said. "I put the camp on lockdown until further notice."
"Why, what's going on?" Lightning said
"It seems that Equestria is under attack from an old foe," Cinch said.
"Who?" Sky Striker said.
"He calls himself Lord Tirek, and he’s a powerful being who has the ability to suck all the magic from a being, even Discord himself."
"A being that powerful could make a good ally, perhaps we could..." Nightshade said before getting cut off.
"No.”
"No?" Nightshade asked. "But with his help, we could easily..." before yet again being cut off.
"Lord Tirek is not to be trusted. He is one of Equestria's most feared beings, next to his father," Cinch said sternly.
"Who is his father?" Sky Striker asked.
"That is for another time," Cinch said. "The point is, we must remain here until he is disposed of."
"But, if he is that powerful, who could stop him?" Lightning said.
"My sisters and I defeated him the first time using the Elements of Harmony. Hopefully they will dispose of him yet again," Cinch said.
"You were an element of Harmony?" Nightshade asked.
"Yes, but that was a long time ago..." Cinch said, then for a moment she stared at the wall, thinking.
As Cinch snapped out of her trance, she looked at the map. "My Shadow spies tell me Tirek was last seen in Canterlot, and he will be heading to Ponyville soon," she said. "You will all stand by. If the Elements do not dispose of him, we will go to DEFCON one."
"DEFCON one?" Lightning said. "But you said that was only to be used when we reveal ourselves."
"Yes, if Tirek has his way, he will banish the five Princesses to Tartarus, and then rule Equestria. Without someone to lead the resistance, we can take control," Cinch said.
"This is all theoretical, right?" Sky Striker said.
"Yes, I'm just planning ahead," Cinch said. "Now all of you, get to your stations."
"Yes Ma’am," the three said.
The Shadowbolt Training Room
As the three walked into the training room Nightshade approached the training dummies. "Cinch has no idea what she is talking about..." she muttered.
"What do you mean?" Lightning said.
"If Lord Tirek was such a threat, then we should team up with him!"
"Nightshade, you heard what she said. He is not to be trusted," Sky Striker said. "Besides, if she did trust Tirek, then she wouldn’t have told us about him and why he shouldn’t be trusted."
"Yeah. Knowing Cinch, she would have kept it a secret as to make our enemies not suspect our plan," Lightning said.
"Still, I feel she is making a big mistake," Nightshade said before punching the dummy. "If it were up to me, I would confront Tirek and ask him to join."
"Well, last I checked, Nightshade, you’re not in charge," Sky Striker said.
"Guys, we shouldn’t be arguing. Let's just do what Cinch told us and be on our way," Lightning said. "And Sky Striker has a point, Nightshade. You're not in charge, so I'd be careful of what you say, because Cinch may take it as treason."
Nightshade grunted and continued to punch the training dummy. As she was doing that Sky Striker and Lightning Dust walked out of the training center and walked to the guard towers.
"It's not her fault, you know," Sky Striker said.
"What?" Lightning asked, confused.
"Nightshade. She may sound treasonous, but it's not all her fault."
"What do you mean?" Lightning said. "How can her treason not be her fault?"
"Let’s just say Cinch didn’t recruit her under the best of circumstances," Sky Striker said.
"Why, what happened?"
"That's not my story to tell. Besides she would kill me for telling you," Sky Striker said, chuckling at that last statement.
"How did Cinch recruit you?" Lightning asked.
"My family worked at the Rainbow Factory. They were maintenance workers. Little did I know they were actually insane," Sky Striker said.
"What do you mean, insane?" Lightning asked.
"My father was a Shadow Spy for Cinch, put in charge of hiring factory workers. Cinch thought the workers could speed up the Shadow Bot creation process."
"What went wrong?" Lightning asked.
"The power went to my father and mothers’ heads. They thought that they could not only find a good Shadowbolt, but a Pure Shadowbolt."
"A Pure Shadowbolt?" Lightning said. "What's that?"
"A Pure Shadowbolt is an individual who could take orders without question, despite who may die in the process," Sky Striker said. "So, my parents would gather ten volunteers and take them to the factory at night, where..."
"Where what?" Lightning asked.
"They would tell the workers to kKill homeless ponies, by pushing them into the Rainbow Generator," Sky Striker said. "And one saying would always come true."
"What was the saying?" Lightning asked, hesitant to know the answer.
"In the Rainbow Factory, only a single soul gets through," Sky Striker said. As they arrived at the sniper tower they looked at the Crystal Empire in the distance, which appeared to have a shield surrounding it.
"Looks like Prince Shining Armor put the city on lockdown," Sky Striker said, then looked over at Lightning. "Well, I told you my story, what about you?" he asked. "Where did Cinch find you?"
"It's a long story.”
"I think we have time.”
"Well, it all started at the Wonderbolts Academy," Lightning began to explain.
It has been a rough couple of days. The Shadowbolt Camp is still on lockdown, despite Tirek being defeated by the Elements of Harmony, Lightning Dust wrote in her journal. Me and Sky Striker shared stories, why and how we became Shadowbolts. I still have yet to know how Nightshade became a Shadowbolt, but I think with enough time, she will trust me, like Sky Striker does. It was really nice of him to share his backstory with me, he sure is a good friend. There is one thing, however, that caught my attention. Sky Striker said his father was looking for a Pure Shadowbolt. Perhaps that's what my initiation is, to see if I am a Pure Shadowbolt like Sky Striker and Nightshade. Then I can get back at that Rainbow Bitch for taking everything from me... Lightning closed the journal and put it back on her shelf. "Princess Cinch said today the Camp would go off of lockdown" Lightning thought to herself.
"Hey Lightning, come on!" Sky Striker said, then walked to the doorway of the barracks. "Princess Cinch wants us to see her, she says it's about your initiation"
"Ok, I'm coming," Lightning said smiling, then realized what she was doing and tried to hide the smile before Sky Striker could see anything.
"You ok? You seem...different," Sky Striker said.
"I'm fine. I'm just glad I don't have to spend another day in lockdown, that's all," Lightning said, making up an excuse.
"You and me both," Sky-Striker said. He stood next to Nightshade who looked in Lightning’s barracks.
"Sweet Celestia, Dust...your barracks is a mess." Nightshade said.
"Well, you have your barracks and I have mine, and I would appreciate if you would not comment about my barracks, Nightshade," Lightning said aggressively.
"Ugh whatever, let's just go and see what Cinch wants," Nightshade said, then left the doorway and flew to Cinch’s throne room, and Sky Striker and Lightning soon followed.
Cinch’s Throne Room
As the three entered the throne room, Lightning felt that something was off. The room was dark, she could barely see anypony, and the room was cold, like the Crystal Snowlands had blown into the room itself.
"Princess Cinch?" she called out. "Are you here?"
"Yes I am," Cinch said, "and someone has decided to pay us a visit as well." Black smoke started to engulf the room, andLightning saw them: huge green and purple eyes, staring at the three of them.
"King Sombra!" Lightning said, then she, Nightshade, and Sky Striker bowed before him.
"Rise, my fateful warriors," King Sombra said, his voice cold, and could give a filly nightmares for a week. "So, these are the last three descendants of my Shadowbolts?"
"Yes, master." She walked over to Sky Striker. "I give you Sky Striker, descendant of Storm Striker." Sombra then took his natural pony form; he was tall, grey with a moving black mane, and his armor made him larger and bulkier than most stallions.
"I sense great strength in you, Sky Striker. It would be wise, however, to keep an eye on your companions," Sombra said, a smile forming on his face.
"Yes King Sombra, I will take these orders to my grave," Sky Striker said. King Sombra moved to Nightshade.
"You must be the descendant of Shadowstriker. You should be proud to be a descendant of my second lieutenant," King Sombra said.
"Yes, my king. I take my family name most seriously," Nightshade said.
"Be careful of your dedications, for sometimes even the right intentions can lead to one's destruction," King Sombra said. He then walked over to Lightning Dust. He stopped and examined the pegasus. "You must be Lightning Dust. My pupil tells me of your dedication..." King Sombra said.
"Yes my lord, I only wish to prove myself worthy, so I may get revenge on the one that did me wrong," Lightning said.
"How interesting King Sombra said "Your descendant Thunder Dust joined the Shadowbolts for the same reason. He was one of my best warriors, though that same reason he joined ultimately led to his downfall." He ten looked at Nightshade and then back to Lightning Dust. "However, some things were beyond his control, for after my Second Lieutenant....was lost....he let his power go to his head."
"My lord, I will not let my heritage nor my wish of vengeance get in the way of your destiny," Lightning said. King Sombra walked over to Cinch, whispered something in her ear, and turned back to the three.
"In three years time, I will return to lead you all into battle against Celestia and Equestria," Sombra said. "Cinch will continue training you three until that day, but be warned: not all Shadowbolts make it out of this place alive, for if any of you betray my command or Cinch’s you will be sentenced to Death." Then, just as he got here, he turned back into a smoke monster and disappeared into the air.
"Cinch ma’am, if I may ask, why has our leader paid us a visit?" Sky Striker asked.
"Our leader wanted to see who would be leading our army in the coming battle," Cinch said. "And it seems he has also given you all gifts."
"Gifts?" Nightshade said. "Since when does King Sombra, lord of darkness and slaver of crystal ponies, give out gifts?"
"These gifts are not that type," Cinch said, glaring at Nightshade. "These gifts are of wisdom that may help you in the future, and for some of you, I would suggest you take it as if your life depended on it." She walked back to her desk. "You three may leave."
As the three ponies left the room they all had questions on their minds.
"What did Sombra mean by keeping an eye on my companions?" Sky Striker thought.
"How could my intentions can lead to somepony’s destruction?" Nightshade thought, eyeing Cinch as she left the door.
"Sombra said my descendants’ reason for joining the Shadowbolts ultimately led to his downfall, but...how?" Lightning thought. She looked up at the moon, thinking to herself. "What does the future hold for me?"
Two Ponies flew through the air, clashing metal wings and daggers, both seemingly exhausted. One flew left, the other flew right, back and forth over and over again.
"You're not going to win. Unlike the Shadowbolts, the Wonderbolts know how to fight as a team," one of the ponies said. The pony was wearing what appeared to be a Wonderbolt Battle Suit, and had a metal wing with an unmistakable rainbow mane.
The second pony, who appeared to be wearing a Shadowbolt uniform with a strange silver necklace around her, spat the dagger out of her mouth.
"Why do you throw away your life so recklessly, Rainbow Dash?" the pony asked.
"That's a question you should ask yourself," Rainbow Dash said. The ponies flew at each other until they clashed wings and daggers again.
Lightning Dust jolted awake. She was panting, as if she had been fighting someone equal to her strength, but when she looked around she saw only her belongings.
"That was some dreem," Lightning said. It felt so real to Lightning: the struggle, the strength both ponies used against one another. She looked at the clock. It was 4:30 AM; she had some time before the beginning of the day. She got out of bed, got into her jumpsuit, and walked out the door to the training building.
Shadowbolt Training Building
As Lightning walked into the building she could see that Nightshade was here as well, doing her regular workout routine.
"Hey Nightshade," Lightning said as she walked over to her. "I see you're up early today."
"Yeah, well, I wanted to practice some more before the big day," Nightshade said.
"I'm sure the day when we reveal ourselves will come too, Nightshade, but you've got to take a break at some point. It's not like the big day is happening tomorrow."
"You never know, Dust," Nightshade said, a bit of sarcasm in her tone. "With the way Cinch is running things she could make it today."
"Why do you hate Cinch so much?" Lightning asked.
"I don't hate our leader, I just wish she would tell us more things," Nightshade said. "I mean, we don't even know much about her."
"We know she is the oldest of the Royal Sisters," Lightning said, "nd it's pretty obvious that she and Sombra know each other."
"Yeah, well what else do we know?" Nightshade said. Lightning thought for a moment and just stood there blankly. "Exactly, we know nothing about her."
"Yet, I trust you and don't know anything about you," Lightning said, smirking at that last remark. "How can we trust Cinch as you say we don't, if we can trust you?"
Nightshade stared at the wall for a moment. It looked as if she was thinking of something to say, yet she did not know how to say it. "I want everypony to trust me, but after everything that has happened to me, who can I trust?"
"We are a team, we should trust each other if we are going to take what is rightfully ours. We need to know we can trust each other," Lightning said.
"I don't do teams. I only did this job because it's my birthright. Unlike you and Sky-Striker, I willingly came without being asked," Nightshade said. "Furthermore, I don't need ponies like you to tell me to be all friendly and stuff. We are in a war, and wars are not won by friendships, they are won through blood, sweat, and deception," Nightshade then walked to the door and looked at Lightning. She had the same look Spitfire did when she went into the office the day she was kicked out of the Wonderbolts. Nightshade walked out the door, slamming it behind her and leaving Lightning to herself.
"What's the point of trying anymore?" Lightning said to herself, then walked over to the training equipment and began to work out.
Throne Room
As Cinch sat in her throne, she looked over her papers. She had been watching her newest recruit for a while now, and while she was still rusty, she had faith in her; faith that she would be the one to lead them to victory. The only things that stood in her way were Nightshade and Sky Striker. Cinch had noticed that Nightshade had become less trustworthy than before, and it seemed to her that Lightning Dust might like Sky Striker. So she put her papers in her drawers and waited for her guest to arrive. The door then opened and Sky Striker entered the room.
"You wanted to see me ma’am?" Sky Striker said, curiosity in his voice.
"Lieutenant Striker. Tell me, what is your relationship with Cadet Dust?" Cinch asked.
"Ma’am, I..." Sky Striker said before getting interrupted.
"Please, no formalities, just tell me," Cinch said.
"Well, she is nice I guess, but I do see that she wants to spend more time with me when Nightshade is not there," Sky Striker said, letting his guard down to his Commander.
"¨Sky Striker, I think that Lightning may have feelings for you," Cinch said. "This, cannot happen."
"I agree ma’am, this would compromise the mission, Sky Striker said.
""It doesn't matter whether or not Lightning has feelings for you. The important thing is she is expected to do great things because The Shadowbolts have a reputation. And it is that reputation....my...reputation that is responsible for everything we have here," Cinch said.
"I'm confused. So you want me to have a relationship with Lightning?" Sky Striker asked.
"I am simply saying that it would be....unfortunate...if she were to have her heart broken, for it would really affect the way she looks at things, and at ponies."
"I understand ma’am," Sky Striker said. "If I may ask ma’am, what about Nightshade?"
"She has been a thorn in my plans....if she continues to go the way she is, then let's just say she will be, dealt with."
"Yes ma’am," Sky-Striker said as he walked out the door. As he opened the door, however, Lightning Dust walked up to the building.
"The princess just wanted to check on my progress. You?" Sky Striker said.
"Actually, she asked me to come as well," Lightning said, blushing a little.
"Well I gotta go, see ya later...Dusty, Sky Striker said, walking out the door, the nickname in question making her blush more.
"Please, Lightning, come in," Cinch said.
"You wanted to see me?" Lightning said.
"Lightning, you and I both know that what you do during your free time is of little interest to me, but while you're here, your training requires your complete focus," Cinch said.
"Yes, I am aware, ma’am," Lightning said.
"Then why is it that you look so distracted?" Cinch said.
"It’s Nightshade, ma’am. Every time she talks to me she acts like I'm the enemy, and she also continuously insults your leadership," Lightning said.
"I am aware of Nightshade, and trust me when I say it's all being handled. However, with your initiation coming up, I need you at full attention."
"Yes, ma’am," Lightning said.
"Now, go and continue training," Cinch said.
"Ma’am, If I may ask, what is going on in Equestria?" Lightning said, stopping at the door.
"My Shadowspies have told me nothing. The Princesses have not done anything, the only thing that has happened was a little skirmish in a town at the outskirts of Equestria about two months ago," Cinch said. "Apparently the leader of the town was driven out by a revolution, but it's nothing that concerns me. One measly unicorn won't be any trouble."
As Lightning left the room Cinch pulled out some papers, then picked up a paper labeled Equestrian Convict List and set it down next to Lightning’s file. She grabbed the papers and put them in her desk.
Lightning Dust rose early today. In three weeks she would be given her initiation, and she wanted to be prepared for whatever task Princess Cinch wanted her to do. As she walked to the training grounds she noticed that Nightshade and Sky Striker were talking to each other near the mess hall. She ignored them and continued walking to the training grounds.
"Hey Dust, wait up!" Sky Striker said he ran over to her side. "Where are you going in such a hurry?"
"Oh hey Sky, I was just going to the training center to..." Lightning said before getting interrupted.
"You know, I think you should really consider relaxing a bit," Sky Striker said.
"What?" Lightning said. "What do you mean, relax? I have my initiation in three weeks and I need to be prepared for whatever Cinch may give me."
"Hey, listen to me: you don't need to train. Cinch would not have you take the test in three weeks if she did not think you were ready," Sky-Striker said.
"Yeah, I guess so, but I just have a feeling that I need to prove myself to Cinch, ya know?"
"Is this still about Nightshade?" Sky-Striker said with a roll of his eyes.
"I'm sorry Sky, she just really bothers me. It seems like she always bothers me some way or another."
"Maybe you just need a break, you know? Spend some time doing something else," Sky-Striker said.
"And what do you have in mind?" Lightning asked, smirking.
"How about....you and me..tonight, at the watchtower."
"If I didn’t know any better, I'd say you're asking me out on a date," Lightning said.
"What If I am?" Sky-Striker replied.
"Then maybe I’ll say yes," Lightning said.
"Then it's a date," Sky-Striker said, smirking. "Now you should probably go and train. Cinch does not make initiations easy. They’re always unexpected, with unknown consequences."
"What was your initiation?" Lightning asked.
"Cinch made me go to the Crystal Empire outlands, and I had to bring back an Ursa Major’s tooth. It nearly killed me, but I got the job done."
"You don't think she will make me do something like that, do you?" Lightning said.
"No, she will most likely pick something that will challenge you," Sky Striker said. "It will also make you confront your greatest fears."
"So, you were afraid of Ursa Majors?" Lightning asked.
"I had a friend when I was a filly. She went to play with a couple of our friends and when the three came back, an Ursa had attacked her, and she lost her horn," Sky Striker said. "After that I was terrified of them—until Cinch told me to get the Ursa tooth, that is— and after that I wasn’t afraid."
"Nightshade said she needed to kill Prince Blueblood," Lightning said, "but she failed, so why did Cinch pass her?"
"Nightshade was afraid of killing. She may not have killed Blueblood, but she did kill some guards," Sky Striker said. "She conquered her fear."
"So that means I'm going to have to conquer my fear?" Lightning said.
"I would guess so, but you can do it," Sky Striker said.
"I don't know, Sky. I’ve only ever had one fear, but not even Cinch could know about it."
"Trust me when I say this, Lightning Dust: Cinch knows everything." Before Lightning Dust could respond a cold wind blew into the cave. The stalagmites began to freeze within seconds, the floor began to frost, and the lights in the cave went off.
"What the hey?" Lightning said. "Since when does the cave get this cold?" All of a sudden, the loudspeakers came on and Cinch’s voice came on.
"Attention all Shadowbolts: the cave is going into lockdown. There is a severe snowstorm surrounding the Crystal Empire and its adjacent areas. I will update you all as soon as more information is available," Cinch said. The loudspeaker turned off, leaving Sky and Lighting alone in the now quiet cave.
"Well then, it looks like we are off duty until the storm passes," Lightning said.
“So, about that date?" Sky Striker said.
"Meet me at the west lookout tower in 20 minutes, ok?" Lightning said.
"Got it," Sky Striker said, he then started walking to his barracks.
"So, little Dusty has a date?" Nightshade said, stepping out of the corner she was hiding in.
"H-How long have you been hiding there?!"
"Long enough to know that you have a crush on Sky Striker," Nightshade said, "and I think it would be best for you to not do what I think you want to do."
"What's wrong with me wanting to date Sky-Striker?" Lightning said. "It's not like it's affecting you."
"Yeah, well, it’ll affect all of us if you and Sky Striker get together," Nightshade said. "Not only will you two distract each other, but your relationship could jeopardize the entire mission!"
"Oh shut it Nightshade, you’re just jealous that I'm with him and you’re not," Lightning said. "And if you get in my way...I will end you!" Lightning said, then flew off to the west lookout tower, to meet her date.
West Lookout Tower
As Lightning landed at the lookout tower, she could see that the metal on the tower had frost on it. She put her hoof to the metal and felt how cold it was.
"Well, it might be cold, but it looks fine enough to be on," she said to herself, then climbed the ladder to the top of the tower. As she walked onto the top of the tower, she could see that it was lit up by candles and there was a blanket on the floor with two plates on it, with some hayburgers, and hay fries.
"Hey Dusty," Sky-Striker said, climbing up the ladder behind her. "Well? Do you like it?"
"Hey, I just wanted to make things as nice as they could be, that's all," Sky-Striker said.
"Well you did great," Lightning said. She and Sky then walked to the blanket and sat down, and started to eat the food "So, you think that Cinch has my initiation thought out yet?"
"Listen Lightning, you need to stop worrying. You have impressed me from the moment you got here, and I have no doubt that you will make a great Shadowbolt," Sky Striker said.
Lightning blushed at the remark. She took a deep breath and spoke, "My father..."
"What?" Sky Striker said.
"That's my greatest fear. Ever since I found out about his murders I was terrified that he would kill me," Lightning said. "I know I'm an older mare, and I know that he would never hurt me, but I always was worried about what he would do if he escaped, what he would say to me, what he would do..."
"Hey, it's ok. After my parents got arrested, I was scared too, but after they died in prison, I learned that they can't ever hurt me."
"My dad is still in prison," Lightning said. "He has a life sentence."
"I'm sorry, Lightning. Did you two used to be close?" Sky Striker asked.
"I was closer to my mom, but he still wanted the best for me," Lightning said. "I miss him at times, but....he killed somepony."
"But...we kill ponies," Sky Striker said.
"Yeah I know, but I haven’t killed before," Lightning said. "It just seems impossible to do, to take someone's life."
"What about the pony who got you kicked out of the Wonderbolts," Sky Striker said. "Rainbow Slash?"
"Rainbow Dash, and...Yeah I hate her, but she doesn’t deserve to die for it," Lightning said.
"You do realize if Cinch or Sombra ever knew this, you would be kicked out...or worse."
"I know, but I trust you, Sky," Lightning said.
"I trust you too, Dusty," Sky-Striker said. As the two leaned into each other both grew blushes on their faces, and their faces got closer and closer until their muzzles were inches away from each other.
"Sky...I..." Lightning said before the two ponies’ lips came into contact with each other.
They embraced each other in a warm, loving kiss, and as Sky broke it he replied, "I love you too, Lightning Dust."
Lightning walked to her bookshelf and grabbed her journal, then grabbed her quill with her mouth and started writing in her journal.
"It has officially been 10 months since I joined the Shadowbolts. My relationship with the team is rocky, but I feel that will all soon change: my initiation is tomorrow. Cinch has not said anything to me about what I need to do. Hopefully I will pass the test and be what my father could not.” Lightning spat out the quill and closed her journal, then put it back in her hiding place and walked to the closet. She put on her uniform and walked out of the barracks, only to be stopped by Cinch.
"Cadet Lightning," Cinch said.
"Ma’am!" Lightning said. "What can I help you with?"
"Lightning, I came to check on your progress. I have hope that your initiation will go well."
"I believe my training has gone well, ma’am, and I am prepared to do whatever I need to do," Lightning said.
"Excellent. Now, I have another thing to ask of you, Lightning," Cinch said, her tone changing.
"Yes, Ma’am?" Lightning said.
"An anonymous letter was sent to me yesterday claiming that you and General Sky Striker are seeing each other in a romantic relationship," Cinch said.
Lightning Dust froze. Would she be killed? Exiled? Kicked out?
"Ma’am, I...."
"At the moment, there will be no punishment given to you, Lightning."
"Ma’am, I don't understand."
"Yes, it is true that dating other bolts is not strictly approved, but the bigger problem is that we have a traitor in the bolts."
"Ma’am?!"
"The Shadowbolts have to work as a team, and going behind each other's backs and trying to get them expelled is not acceptable," Cinch said. "While we are devious and work to do these things to others, your team is your family and we do not betray family. Furthermore."
"Understood, ma’am," Lightning said. "And ma’am, If I may be so bold, I think I know who might have given you that note."
Captain's Quarters/Throne Room
"As you all know, when you first joined The Shadowbolts, you swore an oath that you would work together for the good of the Shadowbolts and the New Equestrian Vision." Cinch said. Lightning, Sky Striker, and Nightshade were all in the Captain’s Room waiting for Cinch to finish her speech. "Part of working together is trusting each other with everything. Now, you are all young, so breaking minor rules is to be expected, but going behind somepony’s back is strictly unacceptable." Cinch stepped off her throne and headed to the three ponies. "Commander Nightshade, please step forward."
As Nightshade stepped forward she could see Cinch’s eyes; they were full of disappointment, but also rage.
"Yes ma’am," Nightshade said. "What is it?"
"Nightshade, tell us," Cinch said, "why did you join the Shadowbolts? Do not lie, I will know."
"It was my birthright, ma’am," Nightshade said. "I was born to be one."
"Is there no other reason?" Cinch said "Perhaps, jealousy?"
"Ma’am?"
"Is it not true that you have a sister, Nightshade?" Cinch asked.
"Yes ma’am," Nightshade said.
"And isn't it true that you also legally changed your name to keep others from connecting you to her?"
Nightshade remained still. Lightning could see she was breathing heavily, and for the first time in her time at the Shadowbolts, she saw Nightshade was afraid.
"Yes ma’am," Nightshade said.
"So then Nightshade, what is your real name?" Cinch said
"My Real Name" Nightshade said she took a deep breath, and for a second was silent. "My Name Is Solar Flare."
"And tell me, why was your name so important that you felt the need to change it?"
"Because my mother’s name is Stormy Flare, and my sister is Spitfire Flare, captain of the Wonderbolts," Nightshade said.
"So the truth comes out," Cinch said. "You may return to the group....Solar Flare." Nightshade cringed at the name and slowly walked back to the group.
"Solar Flare, because of your treasonous backstabbing to your fellow bolts, your rank as Commander of the Stealth Division will be revoked, and you will make up 100 hours of training until you prove yourself worthy of the rank."
"Yes ma’am," Nightshade replied.
"You will continue to be called Nightshade by your peers, but from here on out, I will call you by your real name as punishment."
"Yes ma’am," Nightshade said.
"Everyone except for Sky Striker, please go back to your barracks for the rest of the day," Cinch said. "Tomorrow is Lightning Dust’s initiation into the Shadowbolts. Rest up and be prepared."
"Yes ma’am," all three ponies responded. Lightning and Nightshade left the room, leaving Cinch and Sky alone.
"Sky-Striker, I must say, I am impressed with the way you handled this situation," Cinch said.
"I’m doing as you said, ma’am," Sky Striker said.
"Now, as for the second part of your plan?"
"Do not worry, ma’am, I have it all under control," Sky said.
Cinch got down from her throne and approached the map of Equestria. "My spies tell me that my sisters have been inactive for some time," Cinch said. "However, I have a feeling that will all change soon..." But before Cinch could finish her sentence the door blew open and another pony came in the room: another Cinch.
"Back away from the imposter, General Sky-Striker!", the Cinch look-alike said. Nightshade and Lightning Dust came running in to see the two Cinches facing each other.
"Please tell me I'm not the only one seeing double," Lightning said.
"For once I can say you’re not crazy," Nightshade said.
"That Cinch before you is an imposter, a changeling sent by Queen Chrysalis," one Cinch said.
"Do do not believe her, she is the imposter. General Sky Striker, kill her," the other Cinch said.
"I...I don't know who the real one is..." Sky-Striker said in a confused manner. Before anything else could happen Nightshade flew into the air and grabbed a spear hanging from the wall.
"All right you bitches, one of you is the real Cinch, and the other is a slimy, yellow-bellied changeling. Now because you both look the same, Lightning Dust will just have to ask you something only the real Cinch would know," Nightshade said.
"Are you crazy?! I know nothing about Cinch, and you expect me to ask her something about her?" Lightning said.
"Would you just trust me?!" Nightshade said.
"Oh yeah, trust the pony who almost got me expelled from the Shadowbolts. Ok, seems great!"
"First off, if you didn’t get all mushy with Sky Striker, none of this would be happening! Second off, I didn’t send that letter!" Nightshade said.
"Oh yeah, next you're going to tell me that you're secretly an alicorn."
"Would you two stop arguing for one Celestia-damned minute and work together?!" Sky Striker said.
Lightning looked at Nightshade, took a deep breath, grabbed the spear from Nightshade, and then walked away from her into the center of the room.
"Ok Cinches, all I have is one question, and one question only."
"And that would be?" one of the Cinches said.
"Where were you before you came to the Shadowbolts?"
The Cinches looked at Lightning, with a confused look.
"Could you please clarify?" one of the Cinches said.
Lightning then chucked the spear at the Cinch, piercing her skin and sticking in her chest. The Cinch’s skin changed color from cyan to black and her mane disappeared completely, turning into blue scales. The now-revealed changeling fell dead on the floor.
"Excellant work, Lightning," Cinch said walking over to her.
"Lightning How...How did you know it was the Changeling?" Sky Striker said.
"Because the real Cinch would never tell us the truth, nor would she ask for clarification," Lightning said. She walked over to the changeling corpse and grabbed the spear, handing it to Cinch. "Ma’am, how did a Changeling get into the base?"
"Yesterday, a group of five changelings found the bace, and infiltrated it while we were all asleep," Cinch said. "They took me with plans of bringing me to Crysalis, but I escaped and killed the other four."
"How did they even know where we were?" Nightshade said.
"I was going to inform you later today, but my shadowspies told me that the changelings have taken and replaced the Princesses and the Elements of Harmony. However, it will not be long before they are stopped," Cinch said. "In the meantime, the camp is on lockdown until further notice."
"Yes ma’am," the three ponies said.
"Lightning, please stay. I have something to talk to you about."
"Yes ma’am," Lightning said. She watchced as Sky and Nightshade left, then Cinch walked over to her desk and pulled out a note.
"I am afraid that everything the changeling imposter did today was what I was going to do. It seems the changelings have gotten ahold of mind copying spells."
"Are you going to expell me, ma’am?"
"Lightning, you just saved the Shadowbolts. However, I will still have to punish you for your violation of the rules," Cinch said.
"Yes ma’am, I understand," Lightning said.
"You did well today, Lightning Dust. I have high hopes for your initiation tomarow," Cinch said. Lightning left the room, leaving Cinch alone.
"Hopefully she will know what to do," Cinch said to herself, then pulled out a folder marked Equestrian Convict File. On the side of the folder was the name Tiny Dust.
The day had finally come, the day of the initiation. All of Lightning’s training, all of the trials she faced, had lead to this moment. Lightning walked to her closet and pulled out her Shadowbolts uniform. It was black, purple, and yellow. She also had fancier goggles, purple with a yellow stained glass in them. She slipped into her uniform and looked at herself in the mirror, for once in her life she felt like she was meant to wear the uniform.
"You look great," Sky Striker said from the doorway.
"Thanks. I don't know what it is, but this uniform just feels right,"Lightning said, looking at herself in the mirror.
"You nervous?" Sky Striker said.
"Yeah, but I know that if I try my best, I can prove myself to Cinch, and then I can finally have my revenge."
"Hey, you’ll do great," Sky Striker said. He walked over to Lightning and grabbed her waist. "You know, that uniform looks tight, perhaps I could...."
Lightning put her hoof to his muzzle. "Save it for after the initiation, then we can see what kind of things...intrigue you." She kissed Sky Striker passionately. He returned the favor, and they stood there for a couple of seconds before ending the kiss.
"I'd like that very much."
"Now come on, I have an initiation to pass." Sky Striker walked out of the door, and Lightning soon followed.
Shadowbolt Training Room
As Lightning Dust walked into the training room, she could see that Sky Striker and Nightshade were sitting in placed chairs. The two of them were sitting together, although Cinch was standing in the middle of the room.
"Lightning Dust, today you will perform two trials to prove to me, as well as your fellow bolts, that you are worthy of becoming a Shadowbolt," Cinch announced. "In these two tasks, you will face not only your fears, but the one obstacle that faces you. Now, Lightning Dust, are you prepared to undergo these challenges?”
"Yes ma’am, I am prepared for anything you throw at me," Lightning replied.
"Then let the Shadowbolt initiation begin!" Cinch boomed. "Your first test is to face the one obstacle that faces you right now." She raised her hoof in the air. "Solar Flare, please step forward."
Lightning, surprised at the statement, looked over at the equally confused Nightshade as she stepped forward.
"The first part of your initiation will be a duel. Your goal, Lightning, is to pin Solar Flare until she can't move," Cinch explained. "There is no time limit, and there are no rules. Anything goes."
"Yes Ma’am," the two ponies said.
Cinch grabbed her clipboard. "Then let the initiation begin!"
As soon as Cinch finished speaking Nightshade lunged at Lightning, causing her to instinctively fly up into the air. Lightning could see Nightshade grab a dagger from the weapon stand. She turned around and flew into the air, and Nightshade charged at her with a spear she had grabbed from the weapon stand. Lightning dodged the attack, and seeing her opportunity, made a dive bomb to the weapon stand and grabbed a sword, then turned and charged at Nightshade.
"I need to find a way to get around her without getting myself injured," Lightning thought to herself.
And so the two ponies continued to battle each other Lightning Dust and Nightshade flew through the air, their weapons clashing again and again as both tried to find an opening. They slowly wore each other down, neither one giving the other an angle as they fought. One flew left, the other flew right, back and forth, over and over again. Lightning got an idea. She spat out the sword she was holding in her mouth, making Nightshade give a confused look.
"Is she giving up already? This is almost too easy, soon Cinch will see who the better Shadowbolt is," Nightshade thought. She aimed her spear at her target, and using her toned pegasus vision, she located her target: Lightning’s left wing. She started to spin in a circle, and once done she spat the spear out of her mouth, causing it to fly at Lightning, who veered suddenly toward the ground, causing the spear to hit a rope behind her. The light connected to the rope fell right onto Nightshade’s back, bringing her crashing down to the ground. Lightning walked over to her sword, picked it up, and walked to Nightshade, who was staring directly at her.
Lightning spat out the sword next to Nightshade.
"Looks like I have the upper hoof," Lightning said mockingly.
"Well....do it, go and kill me. Prove that you are the superior Shadowbolt," Nightshade said.
Lightning looked over at Cinch; she had a stern look to her face, and she slowly nodded her head.
Lightning picked up the sword, then slammed it down right next to Nightshade, chopping off a small piece of her ear.
"You...You didn't finish me off?" Nightshade said, confused.
"Killing you would just be doing you a favor, and you are my teammate. Whether we like it or not, we have to work together."
"Excellent work, Lightning," Cinch said "I was wondering what you would do if you were given the chance to kill Solar Flare, and it seems that I now have my answer." Cinch put her clipboard down and stared at Lightning, who still had Nightshade pinned down. "Now," Cinch said with a soft yet firm tone. "Kill her."
In Cinch's eyes Lightning could only see death, while in Nightshade’s she could only see fear.
"Cinch, please!" Nightshade gasped, desperate and helpless, her cool and sleek attitude completely gone. Her courage was now only a bitter memory, and she was reduced to begging for her life.
"Lightning," Cinch murmered quietly, "finish her." Years of Wonderbolt training and her parents’ morals made Lightning hesitate; she looked down and saw Nightshade. She didn’t see a Shadowbolt soldier, she saw a beaten, broken, cringing mare who she shared her practical life with.
"Lightning," Nightshade said, "I..." but before she could finish her sentence, her head was sliced off with a glowing purple aura-covered sword. Lightning could only stare at the corpse. The teammate she called her enemy was now dead right in front of her.
"It is all right, Lighting," Cinch said, walking over to her putting the now blood stained sword down. "She was going to die one way or another. It might as well have been by the one she betrayed."
"But.....she...she was unarmed," Lightning choked out.
"Lightning, remember your training, remember the oath," Cinch cooed. "We do what is necessary for the good of Equestria, for the glory of Sombra."
"Y...Yes ma’am," Lightning whispered.
"As for your initiation, you passed part one; however, part two will be the one thing that will truly tell us if you are prepared to become a Shadowbolt."
"I can't believe she’s gone.." Lightning said. She and Sky Striker were now standing on the outside of the training room building. "I know that she betrayed The Shadowbolts, but was it worth killing her?"
"Cinch had her reasons for killing Nightshade, and unless we want to end up like her, I think that it’s best we don't question her."
"But that's what she wants, Sky!" Lightning said. "She wants us to be afraid! She killed Nightshade not just to show that betrayal is wrong, but to strike fear into us just like..." Lightning stopped for a moment, then quietly turned her head to the entrance of the cave. She stared at it for a second, taking in what she had finally realized.
"Lightning?" Sky Striker said he put his hoof on her. "Lightning, what's wrong?"
"I finally get it," Lightning whispered.
"What?" Sky Striker asked.
"I'm ready for the next challenge," Lightning said.
"Are you sure?" Sky Striker asked. "Cinch said you could use this time to prepare yourself, yet you’ve only been out here for five minutes!"
"I know what I have to do, Sky."
"If you say so," Sky Striker said. "I'll go tell Cinch you're ready." Sky walked out of the room, leaving Lightning to herself.
"You can do this, Lightning. You know what you have to do, just go in and do it," Lightning thought to herself. "When you do this you will finally prove to all those who doubted you: Spitfire, Rainbow Dash, The Wonderbolts, they will all know soon why they should not have messed with me."
Shadowbolt Training Room
"Lightning Dust, you will now face your final trial. This will be the hardest of all, so prove to me, as well as your companion, that you are worthy of becoming the Shadowbolt you were meant to be," Cinch said. "Are you prepared to do what is necessary?”
"Yes, Ma’am," Lightning replied.
"Sky Striker, bring out the hostage," Cinch said. Sky Striker walked to the back doors with a chain wrapped around his hoof, pulling in the prisoner, who had a burlap sack around his head to avoid knowing where they were.
"Your final task, Lightning," Cinch continued, "is to kill the one pony who stands in your way, the pony who has always held you back." Cinch nodded to Sky Striker who removed the sack to reveal an Aqua-Marine pony. He had yellow mane and tail, with a hint of gold around his tips, and was short in structure. This was none other than Tiny Dust, her father.
"D...Dad?" Lightning said, shocked at the pony who stood before her.
"Lightning?" Tiny said, "Is that you?" Tiny looked to his surroundings, taking in where he was. "I’m....back at the base?"
"Silence!" Cinch shouted. "Tiny Dust, you are here today to receive your punishment."
"Punishment?!" Tiny exclaimed in shock.
"Seventeen years ago, you were assigned a mission to kill Commander Hurricane. However, in doing so, you not only failed to complete the mission, but you also compromised the entire Shadowbolt Operation! For your betrayal, you are to be executed!"
"Wait! Cinch, please!" Tiny begged. "Give me another chance! I only said those things so they wouldn’t connect me to you!"
"While I find that believable, you still uttered the team name. You are lucky no one there besides Hurricane knew what you were talking about," Cinch said, "You compromised the Shadowbolts and our plans to stay a secret, therefore you must be silenced. Permanently."
"And you want me to do it?!" Lightning said.
"Lightning, your father has always stood in your way. You yourself said that you were terrified that he would kill you," Cinch said. "Thus the only thing to do is to kill him first."
"I would never kill my daughter ,Cinch!" Tiny said, turning to his daughter. "Lightning please, believe me when I say it was a mistake joining The Shadowbolts. I have had a lot of time to think, and becoming this," Tiny waved his hoof around the room, "isn’t right. It will only end in death and destruction!"
Lightning stared at her father, looking into his eyes. She could see remorse and honesty shining in them..
"You left me," Lightning whispered.
"What?" Tiny asked, confused.
"You left me! Did it not once occurr to you that becoming a Shadowbolt would mean leaving me behind?!" Lightning growled, her voice getting angrier. "After you left my life became hell. Mom left me, she just gave me to Uncle Wind Rider for thirteen whole years. I thought he was my dad, he hid the truth from me!!"
"Lightning please, I..." Tiny began, but was grabbed by Lightning.
"I wanted to become a Wonderbolt so I could tell the ponies who thought you were insane that they were wrong. I wanted to believe that you were wrong, but not even the Wonderbolts let me prove that so they kicked me out! Cast me aside, all because you killed people, all because you were never there for me!!!" Lightning grabbed the sword next to her. "For seventeen years!! I waited to see you, for seventeen years I wanted to believe that everypony was wrong, and now here you are begging me to forgive you?!"
"Lighting please, I just want....." but before he could answer, he felt a cold metal object pierce his chest. He looked down to the sword that went through him, then back up at the pony who pushed that sword.
"Well this is what you get, father," Lightning spat, her eye twitching just a tiny bit, but before she could pull out the sword, Tiny moved his hoof to her cheek, touching it then falling to the ground, motionless, forever silenced. Lightning pulled out the sword slowly, taking in the moment of glory she had rightfully earned.
"Well done, Lightning Dust," Cinch said, "you have completed your initiation." Cinch walked up to Lightning, who turned to face her leader. "I now pronounce you the Commander of the Aerial Division."
"Thank you, Ma’am," Lightning said.
"You may go back to your barracks for the day. Tomorrow you and Sky Striker are to report to my office so you may receive your first mission."
"Yes Ma’am," Lightning and Sky Striker replied, then walked out of the door to Lightning’s barracks.
"How does it feel to finally be a Shadowbolt?" asked Sky Striker.
"It feels right," Lightning replied, "like this is what I was born to do, born to be."
"Well, now we can relax knowing that soon we will rise above our enemies and show them no mercy."
"Yes, no mercy," Lightning said, "only one can remain, and that is the best."
"So, it seems we have the rest of the night off," Sky Striker said. "How about I help you out of that tight suit?" He put his hoof to Lightning’s flank.
As the sun rose in the east, Lightning slowly opened her tired eyes, then turned over to see that she was not alone in her bed, next to her was Sky Striker, who by the looks of it was very much still asleep. She quietly moved out of bed and walked to her cabinet, pulled out her Shadowbolt Uniform, and put it on. She opened the door slowly and walked out, closing the door slowly as to not wake Sky.
"Well I better take a lap around the cave to warm up," Lightning thought to herself. She took off into the air and started her laps. As she flew around the cave she recalled back to yesterday, and everything that had happened to her. Nightshade, her Dad, both of them were gone now, and knowing Cinch she probably already had a plan to explain both of them being missing. Lightning stopped mid-air. As she looked outside of the cave, The Crystal Empire seemed to have a shield around it, but strangely it didn’t seem like it was being attacked. Lightning flew to the cave entrance to investigate, only to find Cinch waiting there.
"I see you have noticed the shield as well?" Cinch said, turning her head slightly to Lightning. "I was about to sound the alarms when I saw that the city does not seem to be under attack."
"Why would they have there shield up then?" Lightning asked.
"At the moment, I haven't the faintest idea. However, my Shadowspies will report to me soon enough," Cinch said. "Where is Commander Sky Striker?"
"He must still be asleep, should I wake him?" Lightning said, a hint of red covering her cheeks.
"No need, you both need your rest. Today you will be receiving your first mission." Cinch turned and started to walk back into the cave. "Oh, and Lightning Dust?"
"Yes Ma'am?"
"Be on your guard today. This mission will be a challenge for the both of you, and unless you want to end up like your father, I would suggest that you follow the commands I give you" Cinch said, with a stern tone
"Yes Ma'am" Lightning said, saluting
Captain's Quarters/Throne Room 1 Hour Later
"The two of you will go on your first mission outside of the Shadowbolt Base. It is of great importance that you stay hidden, as to not draw suspicion," Cinch said. Lightning and Sky Striker stood in front of her throne, both listening to Cinch's instructions. "As far as Equestria is concerned you are both missing. The only people aware of what you are doing are the few Shadowspies that watched you grow, so you must conceal your identities."
"Will we have assigned identities, ma’am?" Sky Striker asked.
"Yes, I have personally chosen fake identities for you two to use. You will go by these names in public, you may only use your real names when you are alone," Cinch said, then floated out two ID's using her levitation spell, giving them to Lightning and Sky Striker.
"Sky Striker, you will be known as Thunder Charge," she said, "and Lighting Dust, you will be known as Comet Thunder."
"Yes ma'am," the two ponies responded.
"Your mission is to go to Cloudsdale, take the Wonderbolt Tour, and survey the Wonderbolt HQ so we may know areas to attack it when the time comes."
"Ma'am, I'm sorry to interrupt, but I am known by Spitfire and Rainbow Dash, two Wonderbolts who would spot me if I go on this tour."
"That is why you, Lightning, will be going on a different mission."
"What mission is that, ma’am?"
"You are to go to Canterlot. I want to know what is going on that would make the Crystal Empire raise their defenses. After you are done you will both return to the meeting point, the Ponyville Express Train Station, you will both ride the train and meet up, after that you will return to me and report your findings."
"Yes Ma'am," the two ponies said.
"You may go," Cinch said, and Lightning and Sky proceeded to walk out the door and to their missions.
Canterlot
As Lightning got off the Ponyville Express she could see the towering city, its white and golden architecture blinding everyone who came with all its beauty. Lightning approached the nearest coach.
"Where to, Ma'am?" the pony asked.
"The Hay and Stay hotel, and please be quick," Lightning said.
"Ok then, that will be 20 bits," the pony replied.
Lightning handed him the bits and got into the coach wagon, then the coach wagon started its way to the hotel. She now had to find out how exactly she would be able to infiltrate the most fortified place in all of Equestria without getting caught.
"So what do you think about that Friendship Festival coming up?" the coach pony asked.
"Friendship Festival?" Lightning asked, "What kind of festival is that?"
"You're not from Canterlot, are you?" the pony said.
"Yeah, I have been away for a while," Lightning replied, scratching the back of her head.
"Yeah, Princess Twilight said that it would be a good idea to have a festival to celebrate Friendship as a whole across Equestria. She even got Songbird Serenade to perform!" the pony said. "It’s all very exciting, and it’s suppose to happen in a couple of months."
"Sounds fun, I hope I can attend," Lightning said.
"Well, here we are: the Hay and Stay Hotel."
"Thanks," Lightning said, then walked over to the entrance of the Hotel. As she entered the door she could see that the hotel lobby was not very well decorated, and there seemed to be a restaurant off to the side of the building where ponies could eat, She walked up to the counter.
"Hello, um, I have a reservation here under Comet Thunder?" Lightning said, hoping that her reservations were set up.
"Yes, hold on please," the counter pony said, then started to check her list. "Ahh yes, Comet Thunder. I have you right here." The pony floated over her room key. "You are in room 112, on the right."
"Thank you." Lightning grabbed the room key, and proceeded to walk to her room. "Well then, it looks like my infiltration is done. Now I just have to find a way to get into the castle."
As Lightning entered her room, she could see that is was nothing special. It had all the necessities a bedroom needed: a bed to sleep on, a dresser to keep clothes in, and a bathroom for, well, bathroom stuff. She walked to the bed and put her luggage on the bed, then walked to the window and opened the shades. She had a full view of the castle, as well as the town below.
"Now how am I supposed to do this?" Lighting asked herself. She knew she had to find a way to get into the castle. That, however, wasn’t as easy as it sounded. "Perhaps I’m thinking about this too hard."
Lighting walked to the door, closing it as she entered the hallway. She approached the secretary of the hotel.
"Excuse me, do you know if there are any tours of the Canterlot Castle. A friend of mine said there were and I just wanted to double-check."
"Oh, you must be talking about Royal Tours," the secretary said. "Yes, it is a yearly, one-of-a-kind tour of the castle. However, you may want to hurry because today is the last day of tours."
"Thank you. And where might I find the beginning of the tour?" Lightning asked.
"Just go to the castle entrance, there should be a booth set up," the secretary said.
"Thank you," Lightning said, then exited the door and went off into the large city.
Canterlot City
Lightning walked down the busy streets of Canterlot. Due to the fact she was in a cave for over three years, Canterlot was certainly something worth checking out. However, she had a mission to complete, and she would not let anything or anypony stand in her way. As she continued talking she noticed that the Royal Guard was almost on every street corner, and from what she had learned, they only did this when there was a chance of attack. As she continued down the street the castle entrance could be seen a couple of miles away, and she took notice of the booth next to the gate just as the secretary had said.
Lightning, seeing the opportunity to get into the castle, approached the booth.
"Excuse me, how much for a tour?" Lightning asked the booth attendant.
"Ahh yes, tours will begin in a moment. You're just in time as well, this is today's last tour," the booth pony said. "If you could just join the group over near the gate, then the tour will begin momentarily."
"Ok, thank you," Lightning said. She walked to the group of ponies that were gathered near the gate. As she approached the group of tour ponies, she got a better look at the entrance of the castle. Its wooden gate could easily be broken by a stallion with a lot of strength, something Sky Striker could easily do. She also got a better view of the guard towers, each occupied by three or four royal guards, which on its own would take a while. Luckily the Shadowbots could get through them easily.
"Mares and Gentlecolts, thank you for waiting," a voice said, and a pony with a white coat and a nicely done black mane and tail walked up to the group. "My name is Raven Inkwell, but you all may refer to me as Raven. I will be your tour guide for this evening."
Canterlot Castle
Lightning, for all her time spent in the Shadowbolt Camp, always imagined walking up to Canterlot, but under different circumstances. As Raven led the tour group around the castle she looked around the marvels of structure, taking in every single detail of it: the thickness of the walls, the many entrances, and most importantly how many guards were at each area of the Castle. While Lightning blocked out much of what Raven was saying, she did take notice of things that were said that might come in handy.
"Now what most ponies don't know is that this was not Princess Luna and Princess Celestia’s original castle. In fact, this castle was built after the Shadow Wars. The fabled Castle of the Two Sisters is in fact the original home of the two princesses."
Lightning had learned about the Shadow War from both her days in school, and from Cinch herself. She never really found the war interesting, but when she learned from Cinch that the Shadowbolts had teamed up with Nightmare Moon, she became much more interested in it.
"Now usually the tour would go on into the royal throne room. However, currently the princess has told me to keep away from it. Hopefully by the time we circle back around we can get a quick look."
"No, I need to see the throne room! If something is going on in there, it probably has got something to do with the Crystal Empire having their shield up!" Lightning thought to herself. She quickly thought of a plan, but then realized she could use the oldest trick in the escape book.
"Excuse me, do you know where the restrooms are?" Lightning said.
"The restrooms are to the left of the previous hallway," Raven said. "However, due to castle rules I will have to have a Royal Guard escort you there."
"Uhh, yes, I understand, thank you," Lightning said through clenched teeth.
"Right this way, ma’am" The pegasus guard said. Lightning turned to him and did as she was told.
Castle Hallway
"I’m sorry sir, but how long until we reach the restrooms?" Lightning said
"It’s just a couple more minutes," the guard said. "When Celestia built the castle she wanted to make sure the only restrooms were hers, so everypony else’s, are quite far back from the throne room."
"I take it Celestia was worrisome?" Lightning asked.
"You have no idea," the guard said.
"Well here we are, the public restrooms." The Guard said
"Uhh thank you, sir. I'm guessing you’re going to wait out here for me?" Lightning asked.
"It’s part of the Protocol, so yeah. If you need anything just holler," the guard said.
"Understood sir."
"Uh, sure" Lightning said. She walked into the restroom and began her plan of attack. "Ok now, let's see what I have to work with," Lightning said to herself. She turned the sinks on and stepped into the stall, then began to work on the vent cover. Luckily Lightning was good at busting things open, so with a loud bang the vent cover was kicked off of the wall.
"Is everything ok in there?" The Guard asked.
"Uhh, yeah I just saw a rat, sorry," Lightning said, trying her best to sound frightened.
"All right," The Guard said.
Lightning, having gotten away with the lie then climbed into the Vent System, and with her training, and her studying the wall layout of the Castle, began to make her way to the Throne Room
Canterlot Castle/Throne Room
As Lightning continued to crawl through the vents she started to hear voices, then noticed a vent shaft up ahead. She quickly crawled to it and what she found left her in awe. She had a full view of the throne room, and the best part was no one could see her. She looked through the vent to see the ponies in the room. Celesta and Luna were there, which was no surprise. She then continued to look around and froze. Right in the group of six ponies was none other than Rainbow Dash, and she could only guess that the rest of the ponies in the group were the Elements of Harmony.
"I simply cannot believe how tall you've gotten!" a voice said, taking her out of her trance. The voice appeared to be coming from an old gray stallion, with a blue and yellow robe along with a pointy wizard hat.
"Well, it has been over a thousand years. Will you stay here and teach magic once again? My sister and I have such fond memories of your lessons," Celestia said.
"As long as you don't ask for those essays we owed you before you disappeared," Luna said, followed by a chuckle from Celestia.
"Lessons? What are they talking about?" Lightning thought.
"I'm not certain Canterlot is where I belong. The realm has grown, and I believe I'll have a look around before I settle in any one place," the gray unicorn said.
"And I long to see what has become of my home," a blue earth pony said.
"I believe we all do," an elderly old female gray unicorn said, gesturing to another group of ponies, who by their looks alone, seemed like they are dressed in an oddly outdated manner.
"Then I hope you will return to Canterlot on occasion and share the wisdom of your great experience with the next generation of ponies," Celestia said, with glee and happiness in her voice. Whoever these ponies are, they certainly had Celestia and Luna’s full attention.
"We would be honored. But if it is wisdom you seek, look no further than your own pupil. She showed me that the power of friendship is a magical force indeed, and that in turning away from others, you hurt yourself as well," the gray unicorn said, gesturing to Princess Twilight, who was standing with the rest of the Elements.
"It's funny. I thought meeting my idol would give me all the answers I ever wanted," Twilight said, then walked over to a light purple unicorn with a blue and cyan mane and tail. "But instead, I forgot what I already knew. Good thing I had a student of my own to remind me."
I don't understand. Who are all of these ponies, and why did Princess Twilight mention meeting her idol? Lightning thought to herself.
"And so you are sure that The Pony of Shadows is truly gone?" Luna said.
"Princess Twilight and Mrs. Starlight showed me the light, Your Highness. Were it not for them I would be trapped in the darkness still," a small gray unicorn said. "The pony of shadows is truly gone, and will hopefully never return."
"Then it seems I can inform Princess Cadence and Prince Shining Armor to lower the shield over the Crystal Empire," Luna said.
"So the Pony of Shadows was real?! I guess Cinch wasn’t kidding when she said myths are just history that is lost to time," Lightning thought ."Well I got what I came for, now I can get out of this place."
Ponyville Express Station: Canterlot
As Lightning waited for Sky to show up, she continued to think about the conversation in the throne room. There was something about that group of ponies that Celesta and Luna were talking to that seemed off. She had learned all about Celesta and Luna's personal Helpers and Friends from CInch, yet she couldn’t seem to recall Cinch mentioning a wizard, a gladiator, a viking, an Old Japony mare, a witch doctor, or a Neighipt princess in her lessons. As she tried to think about it, the Ponyville Express pulled in. She saw Sky walk out of the train and walked to him.
"How did your tour go, Thunder Charge?" Lightning asked.
"It went well, Comet Thunder," Sky said. "How about we get on the train so we can talk in our rooms."
"Excellent idea," Lightning said.
Ponyville Express
As Lightning rolled over to the side of her bed, she felt exhausted. She turned to Sky and looked at him.
"You know, I’m getting the hang of this Shadowbolt mission thing," Lightning said.
"So you’re not just saying that because of the awesome sex we just had?" Sky said, smirking at the now blushing Lightning Dust.
"Oh shut up, you," Lightning said, punching Sky’s shoulder. "Besides, after we win the war and Cinch takes her rightful place in Equestria, me and you can finally rest and have a normal life."
"Yeah, a normal life," Sky said. He looked up at the ceiling and pondered. "We used to have normal lives, yet it's because of the Shadowbolts that they were taken from us."
"What do you mean?" Lightning said.
"I mean think about it. Your dad was arrested because the Shadowbolts told him to do the crime he did, my parents became insane and died because of the job the Shadowbolts gave them, and Nightshade became a Shadowbolt because it was in her blood," Sky said. "If none of the Shadowbolts interfered with our lives, then we could be living in the normal world, with normal jobs, and we would still be with our families."
"Sky, the Shadowbolts are all that I have left...you are all that I have left," Lightning said. "I don't care what happens to the Shadowbolts as long as you are still there by my side. Nothing can stop me from being with you."
Sky looked at Lightning for a second.
"I’m glad to hear that, Lightning," Sky said.
Shadowbolt Cave
"I see you both made it back," Cinch said as Lightning and Sky walked through the entrance to the cave.
"Ma’am!" Lightning said, saluting. "We have much to report to you about our findings."
"And I wish to hear about everything, but first, Lightning, did you find out about the shield? It went down just a couple of hours ago," Cinch said.
"Yes ma’am, it appears that the Pony Of Shadows had returned to Equestria and that the Elements of Harmony, along with some odd ponies, helped to defeat him," Lightning said.
"Odd?" Cinch said. "How so?"
"I don't really know, ma’am, they were all wearing old-fashioned clothes." Lighting said.
"Out of time you say?" Cinch said, interested. "What do you mean by that?"
"One of the ponies was dressed as a gladiator, and another was dressed as a Neighipt Princess," Lightning said.
Cinch froze for a moment before clearing her throat.
"Did one of these ponies have a blue robe with stars on it?"
"Uhh yes ma’am? Why is that important?" Lightning said confused
"Star Swirl the Bearded, he has returned," Cinch said.
"Star Swirl?!" Lightning said. "As in Star Swirl, the unicorn who taught Celestia and Luna when they were still foals?!"
"Yes, that Star Swirl," Cinch said. "With this information, we must move our plans back."
"What?!" both Sky and Lightning said.
"Tell me, where is Star Swirl now?" Cinch asked Lightning.
"He said he is going to travel Equestria, so he may know what has changed while he was gone."
"Then we must use this information to our advantage," Cinch said. "We will begin our plans to rule Equestria within the next two months."
"Yes ma’am!" both Sky and Lightning said.
"Until then, continue training, heighten your skills, and be prepared to mobilize at any time. Soon we shall show Celestia and Equestria that the Shadowbolts have returned, and they will not stop until they achieve total victory!" Cinch shouted.
"Yes ma’am!" Sky and Lightning shouted. "For the future of Equestria!!"
Alarms, that's what Lightning woke up to. Full-on alarms were engulfing the entire base Lightning then ran over to her uniform and quickly put it on. As she ran out the door she expected to see Sky Striker running to Cinch’s throne room, but he was strangely absent
¨Is Lord Tirek attacking again? that's what happened the last time the alarms went off like this¨ Lightning thought to herself, she then ran to the entrance of the cave, the shield to the Crystal Empire was indeed activated, but this time, something was trying to break into it, it appaired to be an Airship with a strange glowing blue symbol on it, the ship began shooting what appeared to be explosives at the shield
¨I see you managed to get her in time¨ Cinch said landing on the edge of the entrance
¨What in the name of Celestia is going on?¨ Lightning said ¨Who is attacking the Crystal Empire?¨
¨Its not just the Crystal Empire, all of Equestria is being invaded¨
¨By who?!¨ Lightning said
¨For once, I do not know, I have never seen anything like this in my entire life¨ Cich said ¨However it seems that whoever these people do not know who we are, so we can use that to our advantage¨
¨Im guessing that The Elements Of Harmony are dealing with this threat?¨
Cinch was quiet for a moment, she then spoke up in a tone that almost seemed worried ¨Celestia, Luna, and Cadence have been captured and turned into stone, and The Elements of Harmony were last seen falling down a Waterfall, and have yet to return¨
¨What?!¨ Lightning said, shocked ¨Your saying that Equestria is completely defenseless?¨
¨Yes, even The Wonderbolts where defeated, it seems that Equestria is now under the rule of whoever is leading this assult¨ Cinch said
¨We....we have to do something!¨ Lightning said ¨Without the Elements of Harmony or the Princesses Equestria will fall!!¨
¨I am fully aware Lightning¨ Cinch said ¨But this is only Day one of the invasion, and this army has taken down the most powerful force in Equestria, to attack now would be foolish¨
¨Then what can we do?!¨ Lightning said
¨Hope that the Elements of Harmony return in time¨ Cinch said
¨You mean we are not going to go into DEFCON one?¨
¨I do not want to rule Equestria if it means having to take down an enemy that already did it¨ Cinch said ¨Besides, we can use this situation to our advantage, once the Elements of Harmony take back Equestria, it will take time for them to rebuild, then, when they are week, we can take controll¨
¨I...I understand mam¨
¨Untill then, I want you to remain at guard, you are our last hope of victory¨ Cinch said
¨Me?¨ Lightning said ¨What about Sky, he is also part of the plan¨
Cinch looked out for a moment, Lightning could see that Cinch was hiding something, something that was not good ¨Lightning what I am about to tell you will make you upset at me, and you must promise me that you will never look at me as the one at fault¨
¨Mam?¨ Lightning said
¨I had asked Sky-Striker to go to Canterlot to oversee The Friendship Festival with some of my Shadowspies¨ Cinch said ¨I had thought that everything there was vulnerable to an attack so we could launch our plans, however...¨
¨Mam, what...what happened to Sky?¨
Cinch sighed and slowly turned to meat Lightnings eyes ¨Lutenit Sky-Striker was killed during the invasion of Canterlot, only one Shadowspy made it out to tell me of his fate¨
Lightning froze, she replyed those words in her head over, and over again, her skin began to heat up, her teeth began to clench, she began to dig at the ground with all four of her hoofs she remembered the conversation on the train ride home from her first mission ̈ ̈Sky, The Shadowbolts are all that I have left...you are all that I have left ̈ Lightning said ̈I don't care what happens to the Shadowbolts as long as you are still there by my side, nothing can stop me from being with you ̈
Sky looked at Lightning for a second ̈ I'm glad to hear that Lightning ̈ Sky said
Lightning looked at Cinch, her leader, her princess, the only one who would take her in, after everything that has happened to her, The Wonderbolts, Her Father, Nightshade, and now Sky the only pony Lightning truly loved, was this her fate, was she destined to never be happy, to never be normal?
¨Lutenit Lightning Dust¨ Cinch said, snapping Lightning out of thaught
¨Mam, permission to take the rest of the day off...¨ Lightning said, her tone flat
¨Your request....is granted Lightning, however, I expect you to be on your guard until tomorrow¨
¨Yes mam¨ Lightning said
¨Oh and Lightning?¨
¨Yes mam?¨
¨Due to the fact that you are now the sole Shadowbolt left in this camp, I am going to promote you to Major General of the entire Shadowbolt Army, you will become my personal second in command¨
¨I understand mam¨ Lightning said ¨Thank you mam¨ Lightning then started walking until she reached Skys Barracks, she slowly opened the door and entered the room, she walked over to his bed and put her hoof on it, then she felt something, something she had never felt before, even when she was killing her father, she had not felt this. it was something new, something, powerfull, something that needed to be let out, and so Lightning did just that...
¨SKY!!!!!!!!¨ Lightning shouted, she screamed at the top of her lungs
Cinch’s Throne Room
Cinch sat at her throne, she could hear Lightning shouting from Skys Barrack, she sat back and pondered. Lightnings training had come along very well, it was not until she killed her own father did CInch see the passion in Lightnings eyes. She only needed that one push, the thing that would make her see that Cinch was the only thing she had left in this world, while Sky-Strikers death was not planned, she felt that it was the thing she had been looking for, the thing that would prove to her, that Lightning Dust, is a Pure Shadowbolt.
"Shining Armor?" Princess Cadence asked. "Shining, I need your assistance."
"Cadence, what's wrong?" Shining said as he walked through the door. He could see that his wife wasn’t looking well.
"Shining, it’s Flurry. She isn’t settling down for her nap, and I have a lot of things to do. Can you please take care of it?"
"Alright Cadence," Shining said, then walked into Flurry's room. As Cadence walked down the hall she looked out the window of the Empire she was proud to call her home. As she continued to walk down the hall she came across a darkened hallway. Unable to see she lit her horn, only to find the body of a Royal Guard.
"Oh my Goddess," Cadence ran to the guard and cradled his head. He was still breathing, but barely. "Guard, please speak to me, what is your name?"
"Cough Flash, Flash Sentry."
"Flash, what happened? Who did this to you," Cadence asked with motherly concern in her voice.
"I...I don't know, she was wearing a mask," Flash replied.
"Guards!!!" Cadence shouted. "We have a man down!" She saw something in the corner of the room, something alive.
"Show yourself!" Cadence shouted, flaring her horn in defense.
"You will find out in time. For now, take this as a parting gift!" the mare replied. She threw a silver dagger at Cadence, who quickly dodged out of the way, but before she could get up, the mysterious mare flew into the air and sped down the hall.
"Princess Cadence!" a guard replied. "What happened?!"
"A mare in a black and purple suit just stabbed this guard and took off down the hall, you need to apprehend her!"
"Yes ma’am!" the guard said, then started running down the hall until he reached the balcony. He then saw the mare in question, she was wearing a black, purple, and yellow jumpsuit. She also had goggles with purple with a yellow stained glass in them, on the suit where the Cutie mark usually was a pony skull with a wing popping out of the back. The only distinctive features of the mare were her mane and tail, a combination of light and dark yellow.
"Halt! Stay where you are!!"
"Sorry sir, but I have other things to do," the mare replied, then took off in a fancy takeoff style towards the Crystal Empire outskirts.
Guard what happened?!" Shining Armor said as he ran up to him.
̈ ̈ I'm afraid not sir, however, I must meet with you and Princess Cadence in private, I believe you should know some things our Intruder did
̈ ̈Shining!̈ Cadence said, running up to the guard and Shining.
”Cadence, how is the guard? Shining said.
"He...he is dead, ̈ Cadence said with deep sorrow.
̈ Don't worry Cadence, this guard says he has valuable information, ̈ Shining said.
̈ ̈Yes sir. When the suspect took off it was different from other pegasi, suggesting training. Something that The Wonderbolts might know. ̈
̈Well then, it looks like we should contact Spitfire and tell her of the incident. She might have a rogue bolt, ̈ Shining said.
Just then another guard came up to the group. “Sir, we found this weapon at the crime scene, we thought you should look at it.”
̈ ̈Let me see it, ̈ Princess Cadence said. As she inspected the dagger she saw the symbol on the hilt. "No, that's impossible ̈
̈ ̈Cadence, what is it?" Shining asked.
"We need to go to Wonderbolts HQ immediately, ̈ Cadence said.
̈ ̈Ma’am, I don't understand. What's so important about that symbol?" the guard asked.
̈ ̈Because it's the symbol of King Sombra’s royal air force, the Shadowbolts, ̈ Cadence said.
Shadowbolt Cave
As Lightning Dust landed on the runway, she saw that Cinch was waiting for her.
̈Ma’am, I successfully did as I was told. ̈
̈Were you spotted?̈ Cinch asked
̈ ̈Yes mam, Princess Cadence and a Royal Guard got a good look at me ̈ Lightning said
̈ ̈Excellent, now we can begin with phase two. ̈ Cinch said.
̈And what exactly is phase two?" Lightning said.
̈ ̈Knowing the Princess, she will most likely go to The Wonderbolts. When they hear of your description they will want to mobilize every unit they have, for this. ̈ Cinch held up a flyer in the air with her magic.
̈ ̈The Grand Galloping Gala?̈
̈Yes, this is the first celebration they are having since The Storm King Invasion, ̈ Cinch explained, ̈and so it will be the perfect opportunity to attack the Wonderbolts HQ. Most of the bolts will be at the Gala, giving us the element of surprise. ̈
̈And I will lead the attack?" Lightning said.
̈ ̈No, you are going to crash the Galla. ̈
̈But ma’am, you just said that all the bolts will be there, I will be outnumbered!"
̈ ̈Not if you do Maneuver 17, ̈ Cinch said.
"You mean, you want me to create a tornado in the Gala?!" Lightning said.
"It’s only fitting to do the very Maneuver that got you kicked out of the Bolts at the place you will take them down, ̈ Cinch said. ̈And if you do the maneuver correctly, you may even knock out some of the Wonderbolts, including Rainbow Dash. ̈
̈Rainbow will be there?" Lightning said, shocked.
"I have reliable sources that tell me she is going to be going there, ̈ Cinch said ¨Now before you leave, Lightning, I must show you something. ̈ She started walking past the throne room to a dusty old building with a metal door and lock on it. Cinch used her magic and opened the door to reveal an orange crystal shaped like a sun, and surrounding the crystal was a golden necklace.
̈ ̈Ma’am?̈ Lightning asked ̈What is this?"
"I have kept this a secret for some time now, Lightning Dust. This is the 7th Element of Harmony, ̈ Cinch proudly said, ̈ otherwise known as the Element of Empathy. ̈
̈But, why do we have it?̈ Lightning said. ̈To my knowledge only an Element of Harmony can use it. ̈
"This is true. However, I am working on a spell that will change that. ̈ Cinch levitated a book off of a dusty shelf. ̈This is a copy of Starswirl the Bearded’s Diary. I went to great lengths to acquire it. ̈
̈ ̈So, what exactly do you need from it?" Lightning said.
As Cinch flipped through the pages, she stopped at a page that had a picture of the Elements of Harmony.
"You recall that Starswirl and the Pillars made the Elements?" Cinch said.
"Yes, why?" Lightning said.
"When The Pillars created the Elements of Harmony, they brought peace to the land. But little did The Pillars know, there was an old legend that states for every good thing that is created there must be an opposite, and so when the Elements of Harmony were created, their twins were created as well, The Elements of Disharmony," Cinch said, then closed the book and put it back on the shelf.
""So we need to find The Elements of Disharmony?" Lightning asked.
"The Elements of Disharmony have not been created yet," Cinch said. ̈ That's why we have this. ̈
"Now I’m confused. What do you mean, not created?" Lightning said.
"In order for the Elements Of Disharmony to be created, you need to have its twins," Cinch said. "Just like the Elements of Harmony, they need people with the traits of the elements and with them being the Anti versions of the elements they would be; Dishonesty, Cruelty, Loneliness, Greed, Betrayal, Negativity, and Apathy," Cinch explained.
̈So how do we create the Elements of Disharmony?" Lightning said.
"I have studied a spell that can turn the elements we have into their counterparts. However, it will take the energy out of me, so the Wonderbolt HQ attack will most likely take place tomorrow. ̈
"I understand ma’am, but if I may ask, who will wear the element?"
"I am hoping that both me and you will be able to use it, however you will mainly be the one to use it, Lighting, ̈ Cinch said.
"I understand, ma’am, ̈ Lightning said.
̈Now go. The Gala is in a few hours, so go to Canterlot and do what you have trained to do. Soon we will show Equestria that The Shadowbolts have returned!"
̈ ̈Yes ma’am!" Lightning said.
Canterlot
As Lightning Dust looked at the castle she saw the ballroom. After the Canterlot Tour she went on, she took notes of where each room was and what it was for. She knew that the ballroom was the perfect area to meet her rival. As she looked through the binoculars she could see her target, the Main Stage. As she saw the band ponies play music she got up and then saw her next target, a cyan blue pegasus, the one who ruined her life: Rainbow Dash.
̈Now it's my time, ̈ Lightning said, then flew into the air and started spinning in a circle, over and over again until the area around her got grey. Then, using all her might, she flew straight into the ballroom window, pushing the tornado with her. As she flew in the center she could see all the ponies in the Gala. None of them knew who she was, but they would soon know. They would all know.
"All right," Lightning Dust said, "tell me where I can find Rainbow Dash and Princess Celestia, and no one will get hurt!" Right then and there, Lightning knew if she ever wanted to leave… she would have to fight her way out.
