The Bell Strikes Three

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Summer had passed, as did the Fall Equinox, in fact, it was midway from the Equinox to Nightmare Night. Along the road to Chanterlot, as the Sun was trekking to its midday high, a Magicborn man dressed as in the white shirt and black pants of a baker was heading to the capital city. “Hey there, my Magicborn friend.” the voice of a woman that stepped from one of the handfuls of trees along the last stretch of road before the gates. The man turned to see a red-haired woman that looked remarkably similar to a female photographer commissioned by the Chantalot Historical Society to get photos of Princess Twilight Sparkle and her friends for the School of Friendship article, Crackle Cosette. The woman then proceeded to walk up to the man. “Have you heard?” she asked with a smile on her face.

The baker gave her a confused look as he raised his left eyebrow, “About Princess Twilight Sparkle's coronation as the ruling princess?” he asked.ac Soon a smile formed on his face as he lowered his eyebrow, “Who hasn't?” he asked rhetorically, “I'm on my way there now.” he said as he pointed to the city. “So much baking to do and—” he started to explain but was cut off.

“No, no.” Crackle said as she waved her left hand and shook her head. She then looked around and stepped closer to the baker and whispered into his ear, “About the Earthborn.” she clarified.

The baker rubbed the back of his head, “Well I know their crops have been underperforming, but, uh…” he trailed off as he started to hold his chin in thought.

“That's not it.” Crackle said as she shook her head. She once again looked around before she spoke. “They're hoarding most of the food for themselves!” she declared. This got the baker to blink in shock. However Crackle had more, “I heard the Mayor of Appleloosa say that if Magicborn and Skyborn want to eat, they can use their own hands to collect.” The baker gasped at the idea. Crackle stepped to be by his side and placed her arm around his shoulder as she leaned in and whispered. “We Magicborn have to stick together, right?” she asked. The baker nodded before with a dour frown on his as he turned to capital and walked. Crackle turned and headed away and laughed to herself.

As the sun had just begun to crust the midday high, Crackle arrived at Grogar’s lair. She continued into the ‘living’ room of the lair where Cozy was setting in one of the chairs and Tirek and was reading the book with a rendering of Grogar’s Bewitching Bell. Crackle was then consumed by a lime green fire and revealed herself to be Chrysalis. “Another successful field trip, I presume?” Tirek asked as he looked up from the book before he turned the last page.

Chrysalis laughed, “Spreading distrust among the Magicborn and Earthborn is almost too easy.” she looked to a set of dolls of the Twilight and her closest friends. “We could take down Twilight and her friends a hundred times,” she said as she levitated the dolls in her magic. “but as long as they have the "love" of Mystica behind them, they'd crawl back to defeat us.” she continued as she used her magic to slowly rip each doll apart at their seams. “Not anymore.” she finished as the dolls came apart and burst into flames.

Cozy smiled as well as she watched the dolls burn, “No friendship, no magic!” the Skyborn summed up. She then held her chin in thought, “It's so obvious when you think about it.” she mused after looking back at everything. She then turned to Chrysalis, “I did my part freaking out the Skyborn.” she added that she too was working towards their plan.

“And Grogar's long absence has given me time to prepare the next part of our plan,” Tirek said as he shut the book before he got up. He then went to where they hid Grogar’s bell and left the book open on the table. “According to Gusty’s writings, this artifact can strip the magic of any being, location, creature, item, etc. It then holds that magic until it is released,” he said as he held the bell aloft and point to two pages. One page had a rendering of Grogar pointing the bell at a human and a yellow beam came from the bell. The second page had a rending of the bell facing Grogar and a black beam being sent into Grogar as the human was on the floor and was weakened. “Which means all the power inside, most of Grogar’s own power, is ours for the taking!” He was about to kiss the bell, but Cozy took it from him.

“Can’t have you drooling on the Bell.” Cozy explained. Tirek groaned but he then felt a slight drip of liquid on his lower lip. He then wiped his lips and groaned.

Chrysalis looked at the actual written text of the tomb. “We must use the Bell before Grogar’s return!” the deposed queen all but shouted. “I’m sick of waiting for that old goat's master plan,” she added as she slammed the table with her right fist clenched as Cozy placed the bell on the table.

Tirek held out both his hands. “Take my hands.” As the other two looked at him confused, “Unless you'd prefer I take all the magic myself?” he asked. Cozy soften her stance and took Tirek’s left hand. Chrysalis’ face still held her suspicious gaze. “The pact still stands,” Tirek added after a slight sigh. Chrysalis then took Tirek’s right hand and the three looked at the bell. Tirek’s eye became fields of orange, Chrysalis’ eyes became lime green and Cozy’s eyes became red. Then from their eyes went six beams shot into the bell. The bell started to rise into the air and glow. It then turned so that the bottom faced the trio and it rang with a gong that reverberated through the hole lair. After it rang a black sphere appeared in the center of the open area and from it a beam was sent towards the three. The three’s laughter echoed through the lair.

About half an hour later, Grogar finally returned to his lair, in his left hand was pink-colored rock surrounded by gold. “I have returned.” the ram announced. “Twilight Sparkle's coronation is soon, and we are going to ruin it with the help of this artifact,” he added as he looked to the stone. He then frowned as he turned his focus to the altar where he placed his seeing stone. “But to succeed, you must work together,” he added.

“Oh, way ahead of you, Grogar.” came Chrysalis’ voice before Grogar found himself practically glued to one of the stones. The from the shadow emerged Tirek in his state just before he took Discord’s energy. Then Chrysalis, however, the whites of her eyes were fields of green, her body seemed less gangly and her wings were more solid. Finally emerged Cozy, who was now a demigod. Cozy pulled some of her magic into the palm of her hands and from it sent a beam right to the artifact that Grogar had. As Grogar looked in shock at what had just happened, he noticed Tirek possessed the Bewitching Bell.

“You had it all this time?! Why didn't you tell me?!” Grogar yelled as he tried to break free. However, he still wished to know why the backstab.

Cozy chuckled, “We're villains. Duh. Backstabbing is something we do and let’s be honest you’re kind of the biggest threat to us three or should I say, you were.” She then sent a beam to the bell. The bell raised and pointed to Grogar. The bell rang and a yellow beam was sent to Grogar. The beam struck the satyr and he groaned, screamed and cried. Grogar’s body began to twist and contort and then elongate into a serpentine form, as the wings of bat and bird grew from his back as his limbs became those of a lion, an eagle, a lizard, and a goat, the body then became humanoid and ultimately Grogar was not the one standing there, but Discord as a full human, with only the different size pupils of his eyes to show what he is. In the process, Chrysalis’ glue shattered setting Discord free. Discord dropped to his knees with a thud.

As the bell turned down and sat on the altar, the three just stared in utter confusion as Discord struggled to get back to his feet. Discord then snapped his fingers on his left hand only for nothing to happen save just the echo of his snap. Discord then tried snapping eight more times, but nothing happened. He turned to the rest and gave a weak laugh before he ran.

It took a couple more seconds before any of the trio there spoke, “Discord was pretending to be Grogar this whole time?!” she asked in utter disbelief and anger.

Chrysalis then started to clap, “Well played Disco,” she then finished, “But we’ve played better.” she added before she laughed as they all turned to the altar. “No sense in following him. Thanks to Sombra’s solo attempt, the Elements of Harmony are gone, The Rainbow of Light is useless and now that Discord has no power, we have no threats. Besides, we must stick to the plan.” Chrysalis then started to chuckle again and was joined by the other two.

The following day, in the throneroom of Chantalot, Spike was flying around Twilight with a measuring tape as he was measuring the circumference of her head, as the latter was sitting it was Celestia’s throne. Watching the two from down the hallway were Princess Celestia and Princess Luna.

Celestia turned to Luna, “Doesn't she look so adorably regal up there?” the elder princess asked her sister.

Luna took out a handkerchief and wiped the corner of her eyes as her focus was solely on Twilight, "Our little Twilight, all grown up." She said with partial pride. After her eyes were dried she turned to face her sister. "Should we tell her that we've cleared out our royal suites so she and Spike can move in?" She asked pointing to the fact that once Twilight was made ruling princess, the two were going straight into their retirement.

Celestia shook her head, "After the coronation." She replied. The two then turned their focus back to Twilight. "She doesn't need anything else to worry about until after the coronation."

Back at the throne, as Spike jotted down the measurements, "I am really proud of you, Twilight." The dragon said. "It's not every day the ruling princesses of Mystica retire and pass all their responsibilities on to you.”

Twilight chuckled, “Thanks Spike,” She then got up from the throne and turned to look at it. “I never could have gotten here without all my friends. And I am certain that everything will turn out fine as long as I have them.” She slowly shifted her gaze to the many stained glass windows, “We've all faced so much and come out okay.” she said as she recalled each event the windows memorialized before she looked back to Spike. “I know I am up to the challenge of keeping Mystica safe and happy, thanks to my friends because there's nothing we can't handle together,” she said with a smile before she revealed a box that she had hidden next to the throne. “And my longest and most important friends is you.” She then handed the box to Spike. “You’ve been by my side every step. Knowing I could count on you gave me the strength I need. So I want you to be my royal advisor.”

Spike open the box and revealed that there was a medal with what looked like Twilight’s Aura mark with Applejack’s, Fluttershy’s, Pinkie Pie’s, Rainbow Dash’s and Rarity’s Aura Marks replacing the five smaller white stars and with Celestia’s and Luna’s Aura Marks merged and replacing the larger white star under the main purple star. Spike smiled as he put it on. He then flew to right next to Twilight’s check and the two rubbed their check together with their eyes shut before Twilight pulled the dragon into a hug. After a second the two stopped. “Now with the crown fitted, we have to meet up with the others for those royal errands,” Twilight said and the two flew out of the throne room.

The streets of the Chantalot were surprisingly vacant, save for Rarity and Fluttershy as the two were walking. “And you're sure this is where Pinkie told us to get the blackberries for her special coronation dessert?” the enchantress asked as the stands were, by and large, empty, especially the one they were advised to get the produce from.

Fluttershy looked at the stand and around it, “Maybe they keep their produce in the back?” she asked hoping that things weren’t as bad as they seem.

“Nope.” came the voice of an Earthborn man pop out of nowhere, more or less. “This is all we got,” he confessed. “But I got a special on these taters,” he said as he pulled out a handful of potatoes that seemed to rotten. Rarity gagged as she tried to keep her stomach.

Fluttershy turned Rarity away and started to push the enchantress away, “No, thank you.” she said regretfully. “We'll keep looking,” she added as the two left and went down a different street.

Once the two were out of earshot, Rarity started to cough to recover. Once she had collected herself, the two then spotted Twilight and Spike fly towards the two. “Twilight, darling!” Rarity exclaimed as the four greeted each other, “You're just in time.” The enchantress pulled out her notepad, “Only one more pre-coronation stop.” she said as she crossed out an item from that list. She put her notepad back into her pocket, “We're picking up the final touch for your apres-hors d'oevres gown…” she trailed off as the four walked.

Twilight rubbed her chin and looked to the ground as if she was trying to recall something, “Is that before or after the royal marshmallow-eating-contest gown?” she asked.

“What?!” Rarity shouted before she pulled her notepad out in a panic only to stop as she heard Spike attempt to stifle a snicker. “Very funny.” she moaned as she put the notepad back and proceeded to her next destination. However before Rarity knocked on the door, “But I am proud of how far you’ve come, Twilight,” the enchantress added and then knocked on the door. There was no response. “Um, that’s odd.” Rarity said as she held her chin. “They look open.” Rarity then knocked on the door a few more times.

At the top of the door, a small window opened, “What do you want?” the shop owner asked borderline belligerently.

“I was hoping to buy at least one spool of thread.” Rarity said as she particular squinted her left eye as she was taken slightly aback at the near hostility.

The owner pushed open the mail slot built into the middle of the door, “Put the bits in the mail slot.” she ordered. Rarity complied and was given the spool of the thread she sought.

As Rarity started to walk back to rejoin the group, “What was that about?” Twilight asked perplexed at what just happened.

Rarity shrugged her shoulders, “Designers often don’t like being interrupted when they're on a creative roll.” Rarity excused away the actions of the shop owner. She then showed the spool off to the rest, “With thread this exquisite, can you blame them?” she asked the lot. The rest just shrugged their shoulders electing to not question their fashion-savvy friend.

Just above them a cloud dispersed before Rainbow Dash landed right next to Twilight et al. “Weather for the coronation is sunny skies!” the elementalist declared and saluted herself. She then looked to her friends as she slightly squinted. “It was weird, though. Not many Skyborn wanted to help me clear the clouds.” Rainbow said as she thought back to before she left for in the capitol. “They were kinda on edge,” she added just before the lot head a door open and then closed.

Everyone turned into the direction they heard the door, “They're not the only ones.” Spike commented as things seemed to be far from ease.

Rarity laughed, “Well, of course, there hasn’t been a dynastic change in Mystica since the abdication of Princess Platinum, Chancellor Puddinghead and Commander Hurricane for Princess Celestia’s and Princess Luna’s ascension about two millennia, well more so Princess Celestia, as constant and present as the sun. And now with her stepping down, it would make sense for everyone to be a little jumpy. Change does that.” the enchantress continued to rationalize and excuse away the behavior of the citizens of the capitol. She then spotted a slight frown forming on Twilight’s face. “I highly doubt that they worried about you, not with all the times you have saved them.”

This brought a smile back to Twilight’s face, “You're right.” the princess declared. She then looked to each of her present friends and nodded. “I'll just have to let everybody know that even with Celestia and Luna no longer ruling, we'll make sure things stay the same,” she added as she looked to the skies with hope.

About ten minutes later, outside of the entrance to the kitchen from outside the castle, Applejack was getting a basket of apples from a cart all the while was watched by a sole Magicborn guard. as he looked at the basket, Applejack scowled until she spotted Twilight and the rest. “Twilight!” the paladin shouted before she walked around the guard and greeted her friend with a hug. “There you are!” After the hug was ended she pointed over her shoulder to the guard, “You mind tellin' your friend here that I don't need an official guard wherever I go?” she asked before she turned to face the guard and scowl at him, “Especially if he ain't gonna help carry apples.” she added with a clear unspoken huff.

Twilight smiled and walked over to the guard, “I appreciate you taking such good care of my friends, but we're fine now.” The guard bowed his head and left, all the while keeping a suspicious eye on Applejack.

While the guard was still in earshot, “I get security needs to be tight, but he kept callin' me 'Earthborn' like I didn't have a name.” Applejack said purposely loud enough for the guard to hear. “And watchin' me like he thought I'd steal the silver!” the paladin almost shouted. Just then the doors to the kitchen opened with a loud thud as a small mountain of cupcakes and other baked goods came through like a landslide.

Pinkie then popped out of the cascade, “Do not go in that kitchen!” the party-planning baking jester said as she tried to get the frosting off of her hair. Before she allowed any to question her, “For some reason, the bakers are super grouchy with each other. That Magicborn chef started throwing dessert at Mrs. Cake! I tried to help, but I got caught in the crossfire!” she shouted in anger. This was going to ruin the coronation party and Pinkie was powerless to stop it.

Twilight turned to Rarity, “You sure this is just pre-coronation nerves?” she asked as it was clear that there was much more than just what Rarity surmised.

However, before Rarity could respond they all heard a loud groan. The lot turned to see a man who’s eyes were just like Discord’s. “My aching metatarsals!” the man groaned as he sat down, took off his shoes and started to rub his feet. “You know, you forget how convenient snap-travel is.” the man said. If there was any doubt among the seven there that he was Discord, then it was gone.

“Why are you fully human and did you just walk here?” Spike asked as he flew up to the Lord of Chaos.

Discord rubbed the back of his head, “Yes, actually. And I have a confession to make,” he started as Fluttershy walked up to him with her hands glowing the same shade of pink as her hair. “You see, I might have made the teeeeeniest boo-boo.” he then tapped his index fingers together as Fluttershy cast her cure light wounds spell on him, all the while the other six looked to each other bemused at the Avatar. “All very well-intentioned and noble on my part, of course, but—” before Discord could continue he was cut off by the paladin as she drew her sword.

“Get to the point before I bring home my, Discord.” the paladin said as she put the tip of her blade right up to his chest.

Discord crawled back slightly and gave a weak laugh, “You remember that whole thing with King Sombra?” he asked. The seven nodded as Applejack sheathed her blade and Fluttershy started to get bemused as well. “That was slightly my fault. And by "slightly", I mean... I brought him back.” Discord confessed. As the seven looked on in utter confusion. Discord rubbed the back of his head. “It seemed like a good idea at the time. Which is why I also brought back three others who are now on the loose and not really big fans of yours.” Discord added, “So... my bad.” he then gave another weak apologetic laugh as Twilight et al gasped.

About twenty minutes later in the throne room, Twilight et al, along with Princess Celestia and Princess Luna were looking at Discord from the thrones. Luna was the first to speak. “So you thought you could boost Twilight’s confidence by freeing Cozy Glow and Tirek, while simultaneously recruiting Chrysalis, all in a plan to attack her?!”

“Let’s not forget resurrecting Sombra, everyone seems to forget about him.” Discord added.

Celestia took a breath to calm herself silently and was next to speak, “And while you united these them, you pretended to be Grogar?!” Celestia asked her temper still there.

Discord gave a nervous laugh, “Well, you sending Twilight to Magiville, then Krystalopolies, then sending her that old spellbook has done wonders for her development, I thought could replicate it and do it better.” he started to explain. He then tapped his index fingers, “Also there was the off chance that the three would conclude that Grogar was a bigger threat then they could handle and maybe reach out to you and possible reform…” Discord then gulped as he saw all the glares from all save Twilight, as she was just staring into the void. “Besides look at happened after you defeated Sombra and how great a job you did,” He directed to Twilight, “All the confidence you gained. Remember the cheering? The fist-bumps?” he asked as he looked towards the others hoping for them to see beyond his mess up.

Twilight was the first to speak, “Except it was all a lie. Well-intended it might be.” Twilight said with a sigh and shook her head. Discord felt the room drop at least ten degrees due to the disappointment Twilight et al felt. Twilight’s eyes widen in terror, “You've been setting up challenges for us the whole time, haven't you?” she asked as doubt had crept in. “None of our successes were actually real.”

Discord crossed his arms and rolled his eyes, he then raised one hand and started to count off “I was a statue when you faced Nightmare Moon and Nightmare Rarity, Chrysalis’ invasion during Shining and Cadance’s wedding, your first run-in with Sombra, and I was stripped of my power when you faced Tirek. Besides, I never heard of Starlight until after her time-travel thing, I also had Orderitis when you were on the lamb from Tempest. Need I go on?” he asked as he lowered his hands with a slight huff. “Of course they were!” he shouted as he wanted to pull his hair and eyes out. He took a breath and placed a hand on his chest, “You just had an extremely good-looking safety net during that thing with Sombra.”

Everyone gave a silent sigh before Spike spoke up, “And how was that supposed to help again?” the dragon asked.

“I intended to prepare Twilight for anything by orchestrating an epic attack at her coronation.” Discord declared as he crossed his arms as if his plan was obvious.

“You beast!” Rarity shouted. “Don't you know how much this day means to me?!” the enchantress continued as she reprimanded Discord. “Do you have any idea how many hours I put in and how much material I used to make Twilight's dress!” it wasn’t a question and Discord intelligently kept his mouth shut. “Why wait until now for such a horrible plan?!” she asked the question on everyone’s minds as to why Discord made this plan.

Discord crossed his arms, “You don't take a final on your first day of class.” he said as he winked to Celestia. If looks could kill, Celestia’s glare would have converted all of the matter that made Discord’s body energy in a Planck. Discord then turned his attention to the rest. “Just think – after defeating those three baddies at once, Twilight would have to believe that she's the leader we all know she is!” Discord disclosed the reasoning behind his plan.

In an instant, Celestia had flown up to Discord and was right in his face. “You have made a grave misjudgment, Discord.” the solar demigod all but hissed as her anger was just about to boil over. “Pray tell us that there is nothing else to tell us?!” She leaned back slightly as she kept her gaze on Discord as he gulped. “Be swift!” she ordered.

Discord gave a weak laugh, “Which would you like first, the good news or the bad news?” he asked as he took a step back.

Luna was the one to speak as she flew up to right in Discord’s face, “That wasn't the bad news?!” she shouted.

“Alright, I’ll start with the bad news.” Discord said as he took another step back and raised his hands. “All my chaos magic is…” then trailed off as he was reluctant to confess and ashamed of his situation, “gone.” he finished. “Trapped in Grogar's Bell.”

Spike sighed as he facepalmed himself, “So what's the good news?” Spike asked.

Discord closed his eyes and waved his left hand slightly, “Chrysalis, Tirek, and Cozy Glow now have all of the real Grogar's magic.”

Everyone was just stunned silence. They could understand why Discord would consider losing his powers was the bad news when given the chance. But this, this was just beyond even his warped sense of well anti-reason. Twilight started to pant. Celestia turned to her student and pulled her sister with her. “We need to make a plan,” she said to the two. “Maybe it's not too late to stop this disaster from happening!” she exclaimed in a fleeting hope that they could salvage the situation.

“I... I need some time to think first.” Twilight said as she rubbed her temples as she tried to focus.

“There isn't any time!” Discord shouted. “Look what I overheard them saying!” he said before he snapped his fingers. There was a moment of silence as Discord was forced to recall that he was without magic. “Ugh!” he groaned. “Just listen to my voice and use your imagination!” he declared as he was prepared to narrate.

Rarity reached into her purse and pulled out her memory gem, “No need.” she said before she more or less shoved the gem into Discord’s forehead. ‘OW!’ he shouted. “Oppies, I was confident that you could handle that.” Rarity replied coyly. Discord rolled his eyes before the lights that hint to film projections came from them and hit one of the walls.

The projection showed Chrysalis, Cozy and Tirek walk to the table that ‘Grogar’ used for his crystal orb. “But we’ve played better,” she added before she laughed as they all turned to the altar. “No sense in following him. Thanks to Sombra’s solo attempt, the Elements of Harmony are gone, The Rainbow of Light is useless and now that Discord has no power, we have no threats. Besides, we must stick to the plan.” Chrysalis then started to chuckle again and was joined by the other two.

Cozy was the second to speak, “Don’t worry, Chrys, the ‘Lame Six’,” she said clearly mocking Twilight and her five closest friends, “are so busy being perfect, they haven't even noticed what we've been up to.” she stifled a giggle, “Have I mentioned how great revenge is?” she asked rhetorically.

Tirek was the last to speak, “I hope you got a name for this place picked out because it's time to destroy Mystica!” he declared. The three then started to laugh. At the moment Discord’s vision changed as he turned to face the exit and he ran.

Rarity then removed the gem as Discord’s memory faded. The lord of chaos quickly turned to Twilight and the other princesses, “They're probably on their way to attack Chantalot right now!” he concluded, not un-erroneously.

“Then we'll stop 'em!” Pinkie declared. Before Twilight could protest, “So what if Discord tried to be a set of training wheels concerning Sombra,” she said as she seemed to pop out of Twilight’s hair. “don’t you recall he got nailed to the floor and it was Sombra that actually gave the whole ‘the magic is inside you’ speech.” she then held her chin as she thought back to that day. “Granted he did it to mock us. But that’s beside the point. All you have to do is go through another Twilighting and we’ll be fine. And right now that means making charts and stuff.”

Twilight smiled as she took out a few pieces of parchment. “If three of our most dangerous unreformed foes are coming for a fight, we’ll have one waiting for them. But we need to warn Starlight, Chrysalis will want to settle their score first before she comes for us. Also, we need to let Cadance and Shining know, we might need them to mobilize Krystalopolie’s own forces to either aid or to secure a place to retreat to. We must also get the Pillars, any delay they can offer will be a Godsend.” she dictated as the quill started to write. “Call the rest of the ESM, the ultimate battle for the fate of Mystica is coming!”

Hours before and back inside Grogar’s former lair, Cozy, Chrysalis and Tirek were standing around the table with the Bell. Cozy took a breath to calm herself down. “We're not going anywhere until you two stop arguing!” she shouted to the other two. She turned her focus to Chrysalis, “Chrysalis, say something nice about Tirek.” she ordered as she calmed down.

Chrysalis groaned before she looked at Tirek, “He… actually looks… gr.gr.gre..great buffed up.” she struggled to say. “THERE ARE YOU HAPPY?” she shouted at Cozy.

Cozy just smiled and turned to Tirek. The Spellthief sighed, “She’s… actually very brilliant.”

Cozy smiled, “See it wasn’t so hard to find one thing to compliment the other.” The recently made Demigod then turned her focus to the bell, as did Chrysalis. “So about the-” she started, both started to look at it longingly.

“Are you both insane?” Tirek asked. Before either could answer he took the Bell. “Grogar’s Bewitching Bell doesn’t just give the recipient the raw power of the magic it injects into them. The magic and every aspect of it merges with the recipient. Why do you think you’re a demigod, and look at your own changes?” he asked the two. “Only Discord or another Erisadies, can control if that is even the right word, the chaos.”

Neither Cozy nor Chrysalis were convinced. “Looks like your argument wasn’t up to snuff.” Cozy pointed out. Tirek rolled his eyes. “However if you were to use a guinea pig to prove your point, I'll volunteer.” She smiled. Tirek sighed and then rang the bell pointing at Cozy. The Bell gonged and the magic trapped inside was sent into Cozy. Cozy’s body grew until she was like a woman of her actual age (late twenties) gorgeous while she was twenty feet tall she was still proportional and semantics, while her wing looked more like bat-like wings in structure. She looked at the other two and started to laugh as if she had outsmarted both. “Fools!” her laughter bellowed.

“Now I have more power than both of you!” she shouted as her demigod focus gem started to glow. “Kneel before my might!” she ordered. Chrysalis started to cower behind Tirek. Cozy then zapped just above Tirek only to conjure a rubber chicken. After it fell on him almost pathetically, Cozy tried to use the magic three more times only to summon pineapples. The pineapples then seemed to have mouths and snarled before they attacked Cozy. Cozy screamed for her life before she could be mauled by her creations, Tirek rang the bell and Discord’s magic was pulled out of Cozy returning her to normal and vanishing what she conjured.

Tirek turned to Chrysalis and just looked at her. Chrysalis sighed, “Fine, we’ll leave it in the Bell.” she consented with a huff. She then turned to the exit. “We've got a kingdom to conquer.” The trio turned and headed out of the liar, Cozy holding on to the bell.

With the three at the exit and looking out, “So, where should we strike first?” Cozy asked.

Chrysalis laughed, “Everywhere,” she said and the three head off in their own directions.

Twilight, and all's not well

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About two hours since Twilight sent out her letters, the generals and colonels of the ESM were gathered in the throne room alongside the Archdruid along with other heads of religious order’s armed wings, and a certain blue-haired sentinel. All of whom had joined Princess Celestia, Princess Luna, Discord, et al. Twilight was flying just above the thrones, “We've faced the enemies of Mystica before. And we've always succeeded, no matter the odds.” she started her speech to build up the confidence of those there, “That wouldn't be possible without all of you.” she acknowledged the efforts and actions of everyone besides her core friends. Discord was about to say something but he spotted Spike giving him the evil eye. Seeing the dragon’s eyes left Discord mute. If Twilight saw that, she showed no signs of it and continued her speech, “So I ask for your help again today in what is our biggest battle yet. All of Mystica is at stake, and I can't do this alone.” she confessed as this was clearly not a fight she can fight alone. However, she smiled as she looked at the group in front of her, “But I'm not afraid. Because with friendship as our armor and teamwork as our power, no one can ever bring us down!” she declared as she thrust her right arm into the air to rally them.

Just then the throne room doors were swung open as most to the ESM that was stationed in the capital were thrown while in a red aura. Once they all landed Cozy hovered in, “Oh, come on!” she groaned in anger, “Where'd you get that? A daily affirmations calendar?” she asked as she rolled her eyes at the speech she heard from the other side of the door. She then pooled her magic into her right hand and sent a blast sending Celestia, Luna, Discord, Spike, Twilight and her friends towards the thrones. With the lot blasted back, Cozy started to laugh, “It's true! demigods really do have more fun!” she laughed again and sent another beam.

As Cozy made it into the throne room, The Pillars and Stygian had arrived not far from the mountains just south of the capitol. Stygian was looking through a collection of news reports on Tirek’s last attack along with Twilight’s notes and the records of Tirek’s first attempt with Scorpan. “So what are we up against?” Star Swirl asked the scholar.

“Tirek can drain the magic and life force of other beings, with Magicborns being the easiest he can drain from, then Skyborn, then Earthborn, and then beings like Discord and finally Demigods.” Stygian summed up. “So we have to be cautious when he conjures an orange ball of magic in his hands,” the scholar added.

“Right,” Star Swirl said with a nod as he pulled out a telescope to see if he could spot Tirek while the spellthief was far off.

However, the ground erupted behind the seven and Tirek emerged as in his left hand and from it came an orange beam that struck Star Swirl and Stygian. As the two fainted, Tirek absorbed the magic and life force as Flash Magnus and Rockfoot tried to attack him. Tirek laughed as he sidestepped and Rockfoot smacked Flash Magnus with the head of his shovel sending the warrior into Mistmane. Before Rockfoot could do anything, Tirek grabbed the giant of a man with his right hand and placed the orb on Rockfoot’s chest. Rockfoot quivered and spasmed as not only his inherent magic was drawn from him, but the power that transformed into his current state, changing him back to what he was, smaller, thinner, and any metric weaker than even Stygian. Tirek laughed as he threw Rockfoot into Meadowbrook and turned so that he could drain the power from Flash Magnus as he tried to sneak attack after recovering.

“Is it the best you can do?” Tirek asked with a chuckle. He then bashed Magnus aside as Mistmane tried to follow her friend, however, she too was drained of her magic. Tirek then turned to Meadowbrook as she tried to heal Rockfoot. Once she too was drained, he then noticed there was a Pillar missing. “Oh Somnambula, there is no hope in running.” Tirek laughed before he turned to see the last Pillar fly towards the city. Tirek then took a deep breath before he cast a teleportation spell to be right in front of the Pillar of Hope. Somnaumbula collided with Tirek and landed on her rear. Tirek laughed as he shoved the orb into Somnaumbula’s chest. “You had barely two years to learn about me, I’ve studied you six for decades before I arrived in Mystica, the first time,” Tirek added before he threw the depowered Skyborn towards the rest. He then opened his mouth and drank the magic he extracted. Once it was all consumed, he licked his lips, “Like a fine wine, season with age.” Tirek the turned and started to walk to Chantalot like he owned the place, “And I knew the perfect dessert to this legendary meal.” He continued to laugh as the seven were left barely able to move.

In the School of Friendship, as Cozy was making her way to the throne room before Tirek tackled the Pillars, Starlight was directing the students through a grate large enough for someone the size of Big Mac or Bulk Biceps to slip through with ease. The grate itself was just over a root of the Tree of Harmony which was being used as a slide, at the other end were Sunburst and Trixie to catch the students as they slide down. “Stay with your buddy and keep close to Counselor Trixie and Deputy Headmaster Sunburst!” Starlight ordered as she tried to stay calm, but anyone can tell that she was fearful of what was about to happen.

Suddenly there was a loud boom from outside the building on the grounds of the school, “Starlight, star bright. Where's the binder I want to fight?!” came the voice of Chrysalis as the elven queen continued to blast the school’s building as Starlight looked out one of the windows to see Chrysalis blast the school grounds.

Starlight then turned back to the grate as the last student slide down, “We got this.” came Sunburst’s voice in an attempt to reassure the new headmistress.

“Besides, nobody does a great and powerful escape like Trixie,” Trixie added before the grate was shut.

Starlight closed her eyes and took a breath and in an instant, she had teleported herself to be outside on one of the gables. “You do know it’s school policy for guardians to make an appointment.” she jabbed to get Chrysalis’ attention. As the deposed queen turned to face Starlight, “Although last I check, you lost parental rights over Ocellus!” Starlight then tackled Chrysalis and teleported the two away.

The two arrived somewhere in either the Crystal Mountains or the Hyperborean Mountains, it was difficult to tell and landed in the snow with a thud. Starlight then pushed off of Chrysalis and prepared to bind her next series of spells. Chrysalis emerged second and looked around the area, seeing the snow and hearing the howling wind. “What is this place?” Chrysalis asked.

Starlight was still preparing her series of bond spells, “Somewhere you can't hurt anybody!” she answered as she cast her spell.

Chrysalis almost effortlessly swatted the spell to the side with her left hand and prepared her own counter-attack in her right hand, “Wrong. I can hurt you!” she then blasted Starlight. Starlight teleported to another part of the area. Chrysalis growled and this was repeated almost five times, “Stay still so I can blast you!” she shouted.

“Maybe if you said the magic word.” Starlight joked before she teleported again. All the while she dodged Chrysalis’ blasts until she managed to guide Chrysalis into an attempt to tackle her. As Chrysalis tried, Starlight once again teleported and Chrysalis found herself under a ledge of snow. Too late Chrysalis realized that Starlight tricked her to be caught in an avalanche. Before she could respond the snow buried her eighteen feet deep. Starlight smirked as she turned to walk away. “So much of a rematch.”

Just then Chrysalis blasted the snow off her and the force knocked out Starlight. Chrysalis chuckled as she wrapped Starlight in a cocoon. “Indeed, it was quite the rematch.” She then picked up Starlight and prepared to teleport, “Now I'll have all eternity to take my revenge on you!”

Back in the throne room, Cozy had without much effort thrown around the guard. Not that the guards weren’t trying to seize and need be kill her. However, Cozy conjured a shield bubble and laughed at the attempts before she conjured a portal to the pond on the grounds under her assailants, sending them into the pond. All save Flash Sentry, “You know, you can be a real cunt, Glow-senpai.” Flash cursed as he drew his sword. Cozy only laughed before Flash charged at her, “STAR SABRE!” Flash shouted but the shield bubble didn’t break as he was forced back sending him into the wall.

Celestia and Luna were the first to recover from the group that Cozy blasted. The two nodded before they turned to Cozy and took a few breaths before Celestia’s hair began to shift towards looking much like a flame, as Luna’s shifted to be reminiscent of Nightmare Moon. A golden light pooled in Celestia’s hands, and argent light pooled in Luna’s. Each of the sisters' eyes became fields of light that matched the magic in their hands. Celestia’s body took on the vague outline of a lion as her wings looked like an eagle’s. Luna’s wings took on a bat’s form as her body had the slight outline of a mixture of a deer and hare. Cozy snickered as the two blasted her. However, it was then that Cozy pulled out Grogar’s Bewitching Bell and rang it. The bell not only took the beams that Celestia and Luna sent to her, but all pulled out Celestia’s and Luna’s magic, changing Luna to what she appeared as when she was liberated from Nightmare Moon’s hold. In Celestia’s case her hair became a bright pink, and like Luna, lost her amazonian stature.

As the sisters’ powers were stripped, Twilight and the rest recovered and were on their feet, save Discord, who was cowering being the thrones. “NO!” Twilight shouted.

Once the power of the two demigods was stored in the bell, “That's the problem with you Magicborn and Demigods.” Cozy said as looked down at Celestia and Luna, “You're so reliant on all your special power, you forgot to use your brains!” she shouted before she started to laugh.

As Cozy was caught up in her laughter, “Keep telling yourself that!” Twilight shouted as she nodded to Rainbow. Rainbow then flew so fast from where she stood and around Cozy that a rainbow followed her in her wake.

Cozy was caught up in the wake and forced to spend around and around that she didn’t see anything until she found herself staring down the business end of a party-themed bazooka. “Surprise attack!” Pinkie shouted before she pulled the trigger firing a great amount of confetti and streamers right into Cozy’s face forcing her back.

As Cozy coughed and attempted to get her bearings, she spotted Fluttershy hovering with all the geese hovering around her, all of them had eyes were fields of pink lights. “Fly, fly, fly!” the druid ordered the geese. The geese squawked and honked as they all flew at Cozy.

Cozy screamed as she shielded herself from the geese only for her to be caught off guard before Spike exhaled fire at her. Cozy barely dodged it only to be assailed by the geese, Rainbow dive-bombing, and Pinkie’s party bazooka along with blasts from Twilight, only to also have to dodge Spike’s fire again and diamonds flung at her by Rarity. All this diverted Cozy from Applejack’s rope as the paladin pulled her to the floor. As Cozy recovered, she found herself surrounded by Twilight et al, each with a weapon at the ready. Cozy cowered slightly but looked over Twilight to the stained glass windows over Celestia’s and Luna’s thrones and smiled before she conjured a shield bubble around her.

Twilight paused and then turned to see the window over the thrones exploded with Starlight in a cocoon thrown in knocking Twilight et al off their feet. This was followed by Chrysalis flying into the throne room with Tirek, following suit, by climbing in after he blasted more of the wall exposing the full outside. As he came in he spotted Discord, grabbed him and threw the fallen lord of Chaos into the group. Twilight was the first to recover and conjured a shield around her, her friends, Discord and the princesses as they slowly got to their feet. Chrysalis laughed at what she saw, “You think your pathetic shield can stop us?” she asked and chuckled again. “The Pillars have been defeated by Tirek,” she said as she pointed to the spellthief. Tirek patted himself on his shoulder with a smirk. “Your school is abandoned, thanks to yours truly,” she said as she pointed to herself with a wicked grin. “Face it, Twilight. You've lost!” the deposed queen declared.

Twilight locked her gaze at Chrysalis, her stance adamant in her resolution, “You can attack us and we may fall.” Twilight conceded. “But Mystica will still stand, united in friendship. And we won't stop until we defeat you, no matter how many you take down!” Twilight challenged her faith absolut. The trio laughed in response.

Tirek was the first to speak of the trio after they finished laughing, “Didn't you all notice something was wrong in Mystica?” Tirek asked in a way calling attention to what Twilight et al experienced earlier the day. “We've been busy.” Tirek stated, “A whisper here, a rumor there, some destroyed crops here, some property damaged there, one person turned against another here, a community put on the edge there…” Tirek trailed off slightly, “Until the whole realm is on edge, only waiting for that just one tiny thing to push things over the brink.” He finished the explanation. Everyone was slightly confused about what he said. Tirek then looked squarely at Twilight, “Really, someone as well versed as you should be familiar with Lingchi, or the old phrase, ‘It’s the last straw that breaks the camels’ back’?” Tirek asked. Twilight’s head dipped as she started to see what lead to this moment.

“You’d be surprised how much three amoral people with a goal can accomplish in about four months.” Cozy added. “And with your boy toy knocked out into next week, there’s no one to help and with the power of Grogar in us and both the Elements of Harmony destroyed and The Rainbow of Light lost to you, and no Crystal Heart here, no Rainbows of Mass Reformation to save you.” She then flew to the side as Chrysalis flew to be right in front of Twilight, with only Twilight’s shield separating the two.

“You know what's stronger than friendship, Twilight?” Chrysalis asked before she let herself be consumed by lime green flames and changed to look like Sombra but with batlike wings that in the venue of Chrysalis' own wings and the wings of the four demigods. “Fear!” Chrysalis shouted before she changed back. While in the form akin to Sombra before Chrysalis fully changed back to her new empowered state, Twilight screamed in terror and the shield spell shattered as Chrysalis blasted it.

Before anyone could respond, Tirek grabbed Twilight and threw her into a wall, “'Cause when you have to protect yourself, you don't have time for anybody else.” he pointed out as he picked her up with his magic and threw her right into the window of their fight shattering.

However, Twilight was not thrown out of the castle as she was pulled back in by Cozy. The vile demigod used her magic to throw Twilight right to the trio’s feet, “Too bad you never taught that in school.” she mocked Twilight as the three began to pool their magic into their hands.

But before they could blast her, a part of a pillar was thrown into the three knocking them back. Twilight turned to see that it was Rarity that threw the pillar. Rarity was panting as her hands were still up and her focus gems glowing. Twilight smiled and quickly ran to her friend. Unbeknownst to the princess, the three got back up. Rarity spotted this and quickly pulled some of the rubble that Tirek made upon his entry to form block the oncoming attack. “Go, Twilight! Get help!” She screamed as she rushed to the stone and in an attempt to enchant it so that it could survive the oncoming blast of all three of their foes.

Before Twilight could counter, Applejack rushed to be by Rarity’s side and placed one hand on Rarity’s shoulder and the other on the stone, each was glowing red delicious red. “We'll hold 'em 'til you get back!” the paladin declared as Fluttershy, Pinkie, Rainbow, Spike, Celestia, and Luna joined the two.

“It's our only chance!” the druid shouted as like Applejack she placed a hand on Rairy and one on the stone, her hands were both light pink.

“You'll come up with something to save the day!” Rainbow added as her hands glowed the seven colors of the rainbow as she placed them on the stone.

“You always do!” Pinkie shouted as she, Spike, Celestia, and Luna put their backs into holding up and back the stone.

“We believe in you!” the three groaned and strained against the assault.

Twilight was about to protest when Discord took her by her shoulders and looked her straight in the eyes, “Fly, you fool!” he ordered before he joined the rest.

The tears in Twilight’s ears didn’t stop flowing as she turned away. She looked to the sky as if to ask someone, ‘Why?’ but she could not wait for an answer. Her focus gem started to glow and she was gone.

A Twilight Campaign

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Hours later, deep in the almost long-forgotten caves under Chantalot, Celestia, Luna, Starlight, The Pillars, Stygian, Applejack, Rarity, Spike, Rainbow, Fluttershy, Flash Sentry, and Pinkie were locked up in various cells. Celestia and Luna were in one, the Pillars and Stygian in another, Flash and Starlight were in their own cells, while Applejack and the rest were in a cell together. The cells were carved into the walls with a variant of the gue Chrysalis uses to make cocoons as the bars. Cozy hovered in front of the cell with Applejack et al. “And now for your complete destruction!” the deranged demigod taunted as she looked into the cell. “Won't that be fun?” she asked them rhetorically.

As she started to pool her magic into her hands, Chrysalis pulled her back, “Patience, Cozy.” she playfully scolded. “Destruction is so... permanent.” the queen stated, with far too much amusement. “We need to show the rest of Mystica that we've broken their heroes first,” she said as pointed to all the other key prisoners. She then started to chuckle, “Besides, we should have fun with our guests.”

“No!” Tirek shouted, cutting Chrysalis’ amusement short. “We should hunt down Twilight Sparkle.” he countered and gave his own thoughts on what to do. “If history has taught me anything as long as she or any other wanna-be hero is out there, that person dangerous.” Tirek scold as he looked at the absence of Twilight.

Chrysalis chuckled at Tirek’s concern finding it misplaced, “Is the big, strong spellthief that scared of one little princess?” she mocked. Tirek growled at that. Chrysalis waved her hand, “Relax. It's not like her friends are going anywhere.” she pointed out. “And given how easily Sombra bested Cadance, Shining Armor and the Crystal Heart, they pose no threat to the three of us.” She added. In Starlight’s cell, she tried to cast a spell, only for her magic to fizzle out. Chrysalis chuckled at the attempt, “The fools brought the remains of my throne to Chanalot to protect themselves. Hah!” she laughed as she called attention to some of the stones embedded into the crystal of the caves. “Those shards block their magic.” She informed. She then saw Cozy getting close to the cells again. She swiftly pulled Cozy back, “Careful,” she informed. “Being too close and the shards cancel even our powers, even my own. While we are far more powerful now, as we discovered, Grogar’s magic is intermingled with our own, and the shards of my throne negate all but Changeling magic.” She acknowledged the flaw in their power. She then drew a line in the ground a noticeable distance from the cells, “But on this side of the cavern, we're the most powerful beings in Mystica, thanks to Grogar's Bell.” she then tugged on a chain. “Isn't that right, ‘Grogar’?” she asked mockingly as she pulled a chained Discord into the light.

As Tirek and Chrysalis laughed at Discord’s current state, Cozy looked at the bell and reached for it. This was spotted by Tirek, “What are you doing?!” he asked as he pulled the bell away from her. “You remember what happened when you tried to take Discord's chaos magic?” he asked rhetorically as he scolded Cozy.

“But it has Celestia’s and Luna’s magic in there too!” Cozy whined in protest. She looked at the bell, “I could be so much more powerful if I just could have—”

“You mean what we could have? Remember own deal!” Chrysalis cut Cozy off as she joined Tirek in reprimanding Cozy. The three then developed into a shouting fest between them.

Inside the cell that Applejack and Twilight’s closest friends, the six turned to each other, “This is really bad.” Fluttershy sighed commenting on the situation.

“Twilight is still free.” Applejack pointed out. “Also Cadance, Shining, Flurry, Trixie, Thorax and so many others can still help us if we can reach them.” She continued as she was looking on the brighter side. However, she scowled as she recalled their current situation. “But first we gotta find Twilight. She's probably already figured out some way to defeat those three.”

Rainbow smiled in agreement, but frowned as she pushed against the ‘bars’, “Any idea how we get out of here to do that?” she asked, “Because with these ‘bars’ there's no way anybody could get through this.

At this point, Discord managed to get to his feet and walked over to the cell, “I'm so sorry.” he said, his voice utterly saturated with guilt and remorse. He then picked up a crystal, “It made so much sense in my head.” he sighed. He looked away towards Celestia, “I saw how much Twilight grew with each of her victories, even those that Celestia directed her to.” he turned back to Applejack et al, “Twilight would defeat her worst enemies and would be filled with confidence. I truly did have the best intentions.” he dipped his head as tears started to drip down from his eyes. “I swear I'll make it up to you.”

All six could only give bemused gazes at Discord.“That's gonna need to be a pretty epic make-up,” Rainbow stated what was on her mind and the others.

Tirek then blasted the bell away from the three, “None of us can use the princess' magic until we figure out how to handle that fool's ridiculous chaos magic!” he shouted, getting everyone’s focus on to him and as he was concerned ended the debate.

Discord started to walk over towards the three, “I could always tell you how.” Discord started. Asn he passed the crystal he had back and forth between his hands. “It would give you power over all reality.” he pointed out. “But you'd have to ask nicely and spare my friends,” he stated his price. Spike was about to speak in protest, but his mouth was covered by Applejack, as the paladin seemed to have figured out Discord’s plan.

Cozy flew up to Discord and childishly started to ask, “Discord, could you pweeeease—”

However, Chrysalis cut Cozy off, “No! We’re the ones in control here.” she pointed out. “Threats are more fitting and my speed.” She then pooled her magic into her left hand and pointed it at the cell with Fluttershy in it. “Speak, knave or the druid will be pushing daisies!” she ordered.

“Don’t waste your time or magic.” Tirek countered as he pulled the two away from Discord. “He won't tell us and you’re both fools to believe otherwise. With his magic trapped, he poses no threat save to tantalize us to use it. Yet even without it, we are still more powerful than anything Twilight can throw at us if we keep our senses.”

Discord huffed as he crossed his arms as he turned his back to the three, “I certainly won't tell you after the way you lied to me last time we teamed up, you muscle-bound cretin.”

Tirek took three breaths through his nostrils in an attempt to calm himself, but he could only calm down slightly, “This "cretin" could destroy you before you blink, so choose your words carefully.” he clenched his fist as he anger was boiling over.

Discord smirked before he turned to face the three, his focus on Tirek, “You're right. "Cretin" is too polite. How about ‘pathetic child who uses magic to compensate for the fact that deep down he's afraid he'll never be enough to please dear old dad, Vorak’?” he asked as leaned into Tirek’s face and took a step back to be away from Tirek. Tire’s anger boiled over and he blasted Discord. Discord barely blocked the attack with the gem causing it to ricochet over all the place until the magic dissipated.

Cozy looked and saw that she, Chrysalis and Tirek were unscathed. She laughed, “You missed!” she declared.

“Sorry, Senpai.” Came Flash Sentry’s voice as he jumped from his cell, his sword drawn in his right hand and in his left hand was his hand crossbow. “But his aim was true, and now you’re gonna pay! REQUIEM BLASTER!!! He shouted as he pulled the trigger. The bolt fired and flew true. Cozy pulled Chrysalis and Tirek to the ground and the bolt ricochetted just like Tirek’s beam. Once it was done, the trio looked up to see Starlight, Celestia, Luna, Stygian, and the Pillars were freed.

“Get her!” Chrysalis shouted before she went after Starlight. Cozy and Tirek, however, were tackled by Stgyain, the Pillars and the princesses.

Flash smiled as his sword started to glow, “Star Sabre.” he said and before he cut the bars of Applejack et al’s cell, “Get Twilight!” he told the six. “You all are the only one to be able to get through to her now.”

“What do you mean?” Rainbow asked.

Flash pointed his hand crossbow to the six, “Requiem blaster,” he said only for nothing to happen. “I can only use my magic via my boons, but I can’t use my boons if Twilight was either stripped of her magic or loses faith, and since Twilight's magic hasn't been drained...” He turned to face the brawl, “All we can do is buy you the chance to get out of here. Now go!” he then threw his crossbow to the side and took his sword with both hands.

As the six started to leave, Rainbow turned to Discord, “That... was a pretty epic make-up.” she admitted.

“Just save Mystica!” Discord shouted as he joined the fray.

Little over an hour later, Applejack broke through one of the walls of the castle, letting the six out into the open and out of the castle. As they looked around, they saw that the grounds were empty. “Where is everyone?” Rarity asked.

“The Magicborn in the city have gathered in Celestia’s School for the Gifted.” came a voice that sounded much like Twilight’s but it sounded not unlike an echo. The six turned to see what looked like Twilight, but her skin seemed to glitter and in a white gown.

“It’s the Spirit of the Tree of Harmony.” the six said together in disbelieve.

The Spirit shook her head, “Please, as my opposite Discord has a name, perhaps a name would befit me as well.” After she mused for a second, “Call me Amity.” she asked.

“Alright, Amity, why in this town everyone hiding?” Rainbow asked on her and the five other’s behalf.

Amity shook her head, “Not just the residents of the capital.” Amity closed her eyes and brought her hands together only to open her hands and show a series of scenes as her eyes were fields of white. One scene showed Magiville as the Skyborns were flying towards Cloudsdale, the Earthborn themselves on the verge of rioting in front of the mayor, several with signs that read messages along the line of death to Magicborn and Skyborn, many with more … colorful language than others. Another scene showed Cloudsdale as the residents began to board up. Other scenes showed other cities and towns throughout Mystica and its allied nations doing likewise.

“No this can’t be!” Rainbow shouted as she turned and punched the wall.

“One lie here, a rumor there, it’s a death by a thousand cuts,” Amity answered as the screens vanished and her eyes returned to normal. “I wish I can restore things, but

“That ain't right,” Applejack added as kicked the ground. “We have to get to Magi…”

“She’s not there,” Amity informed. “Applejack, you are the wisest of you all, why would you think she’s there?” she asked confused at Applejack’s conclusion before she shook her head. “She’s in Krystalpolies.”

“Then that’s where we’re heading.” Spike declared with a massive grin on his face, but his confidence faded. “But it will days to get there on foot.”

Amity shook her head again, “You forget, the roots of my body spread the whole of this continent, I can send you anywhere in a matter of minutes. However, Tirek, Chrysalis and Cozy aren’t the only concerns you should have.” Amity then pointed to the sky. The sky was full of winter storm clouds and the wind started to blow, hallowing like ravenous wolves. “Clover’s Fire might have lasted over two thousand years, but all fires eventually burn out, and the Wendigos have waited with bated breath for this.”

“We have to do something about them,” Fluttershy said as she looked at the sky, not unlike a mother grizzly ready to defend her cubs.

Amity spoke up, “One thing at a time. Let me help you to Twilight first. There you can help her. I think I can find a way to deal with the Wendigos.” The spirit offered.

“Take us to Twilight,” Applejack asked.

About thirty minutes later, the doors to the throne room of the castle of Krystalopolies were opened to let Applejack et al enter. Cadance sat on her throne with Flurry in her arms and Shining standing on her right. “Oh, thank Celestia you're all alright,” Cadance said as she greeted the six. Before any of them could speak, “She's upstairs. It's... not good.” she informed them, knowing for the most part who they were there for.

A couple of minutes later, Applejack opened the door to the room Twilight was using as a study. She had notes on how Sombra, Chrysalis, Cozy and Tirek were defeated in the past. She was looking at them as well as copies of Stygian’s research for the Pillars. Twilight then turned to see her friend, “You're here?!” she asked in bewilderment. She then started to cry tears of joy, “I was so worried!” She said as the seven pulled into a group hug. “Where are the princesses?” she asked.

Applejack was the one to answer, “They, Discord, Starlight, Flash, Stygian, and the Pillars got into a trestle with Tirek, Cozy and Chrysalis so that we could find you and save Mystica,” the paladin answer as the hug ended. She saw Twilight dipped her head. “I get you thing that all that this a series of mistakes,” she said as she looked to all the open books and scattered papers. “Given your… limited success in finding something someone theorized.” the paladin conceded. “But name one time these things actually gave you an answer that was actually useful?” Twilight opened her mouth but then fell silent.

“Besides, you’ve always come up with something, you’ll come up with something again,” Spike added. “We need you to save Mystica.” Spike continued.

Twilight turned away and sulked at a desk, “You all escaped without my help. You didn't need me then. So why would anybody need me now?” she asked the six. Before anyone could counter her points, “And it’s not like anything we’ ver done has!” she shouted. She picked up a picture of Sombra, “Sombra? Returned, destroyed the Tree of Harmony, the Elements of Harmony and dissipated the Rainbow of Light.” Twilight then tossed the photo away before she grabbed photos of Tirek, Cozy, and Chrysalis, “Chrysalis, Tirek, Cozy Glow?” she asked as she listed off. “Returned and more powerful than ever!” she stated before casting those photos to the side before she picked up a picture of her, her friends, Starlight and the first set of students at her school, “The School of Friendship?” she asked rhetorically. She then crumbled the photo and threw it away, “Shut down!” she shouted. “Everybody in Mystica is so blinded by fear, they can't remember what friendship is! Nothing we do makes any difference!” she continued to shout as threw things off of her desk before she buried her face in it and started to cry.

Applejack took a breath and stepped forward as the rest were left speechless, “Ah know yah might not want to hear this, Twi, but bad things happen, yah hit bumps in the road, things backfire and there’s never gonna be a time when everything's perfect.” the paladin said as she placed a hand on Twilight’s shoulder and turned the demigod to face everyone. “But that don't mean you quit tryin'!” the paladin finished.

“What if I make things worse?!” Twilight shouted in protest towards the paladin and anger, but the anger dropped in less than a second as tears started to form in her eyes again. “Ever since Celestia told me I was taking over, I've been gaining confidence.” she started as she dipped her head, “Then I find out it's all a lie. Mystica's been falling apart around us, and I didn't even notice!” she shouted as she raised her head, but it was clear she was on the verge of shattering into eight million pieces. “What kind of princess does that make me?” she asked her friends, she gave up any attempt to suppress her tears as she covered her face, “I'm scared.” she whimpered in fright.

Applejack turned to face the others, Fluttershy nodded her head. Applejack nodded in turn and stepped aside as the druid walked to Twilight. The druid pulled Twilight into a hug, “I probably know more about being scared than anyone.” she said as she rubbed Twilight’s back like a comforting parent. She then pulled back and stepped to the side as she began to point Twilight’s gaze to the rest. “But thanks to you, I've learned I'm always less scared when I'm with my friends,” she said.

Rainbow then flew up to Twilight and placed a hand on Twilight’s other shoulder, “If we're facing impossible odds, we're facing them together!” the elementalist declared. “We’ve done it before, we’ll do it again. We might not have an idea of what to do, and sure we don’t have the Elements or the Rainbow.” she started everyone turned to Rainbow, “Okay, maybe a bit too forward.” she admitted. “But you know what, Twilight, we got something more powerful, Faith.” the elemenalist declared. Twilight looked up to Rainbow. “We believe in us. And more importantly, in you.” Rainbow declared as the rest nodded with welcoming smiles.

Applejack was the next to speak up, “The truth is, all our lives wouldn't be the same if we hadn't met. We're better off because of our friendship with you.” the paladin pointed out. “So when you say you haven't made a difference, that's just not true.” she pointed out and then pulled everyone into another group hug, “You've made a big difference to us.” the paladin finished.

After a solid minute, they ended the hug as Rarity gave Twilight a handkerchief. Twilight used it to dry her tears and then blow her nose. “Thank you,” she said as she started to see in herself what her friends saw in her. She smiled, “Sometimes even the Princess of Friendship needs a reminder that there's more to the Magic of Friendship than rainbow lasers,” she acknowledged. She then had a little laugh, “Cool as they may be.” She then turned to the window, “Now, we need a plan.” she said as she started to pace.

“That sounds like the girl I used to babysit,” Cadance said as she came into the room carrying Flurry with Shining on her side.

“How can we help, sis?” Shining asked. “And don’t give us the whole, ‘you have to stay here to protect Flurry’ bit because if we don’t beat Tirek, Cozy and Chrysalis now, there’s no hope for Flurry.” her brother pointed out.

Twilight sighed as she reluctantly nodded. She then took a breath and turn her focus back to the matter at hand, “Okay. Three of our worst modern villains have taken over, powered up by ancient magic long considered non-existence.” she started to summarize the situation. “Everybody in Mystica is so scared and divided, that the windigos are circling.” Pinkie raised her hand to ask how Twilight knew that. Twilight pointed out the window, “What else would cause this rapid change in weather.” she pointed out. Twilight paused for a second as she turned to look at her friends and family, “And it's up to us to fix it all.” she declared.

“What are we gonna do, Twilight?!” Pinkie asked in a slight panic.

Twilight looked out the window again, “The same thing we do every time, Pinkie.” she stated and then turned back to face her friends, “Try to save the world!” she declared.

The Battle of The Bell

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About the same time as Twilight’s and her friends were planing what next to do, Cozy and Chrysalis were looking out the opening in the back of the throne room to the gathering storm clouds. Cozy, having wrapped herself in a blanket. Tirek then entered the throne room with a few cuts on his arms, but nothing that seemed to stop him, “Every prisoner is safely in their cells, no thanks to present company.” he groaned bemoaning that his cohorts left him to put the prisoners back into their cells. “Although Starlight’s and Sentry’s magic were nice and tender.” He smiled as he thought back on his latest meal. He then shook his head as he taught back to the absence of Twilight and her friends, “Now we can hunt down the rest of the—” he stopped as he looked at the clouds and heard the wolf-like howling of the winds. He then spotted that sometime in the clouds, the vague outline of humanoid bipedal wolves with antlers. “Windigos?” Tirek asked in shock.

Cozy pulled the blanket around her tighter, “I'm not hunting anybody d-d-d-down in this weather!” she said as she shivered. She then pointed to slowly manifesting windigos. “Can't we magically get rid of them and w-w-w-warm things up?” she asked hoping there was a way to bring back the warmth.

Chrysalis smirked as she rubbed her hands menacingly, “I don't think we should. This could work out quite well for me.” she almost whispered the last part.

“You mean us.” Tirek countered, with not so many words reminding Chrysalis of the trio’s pack.

Chrysalis rolled her eyes as she turned away, “The harsh weather is the final blow to break the Mysticans’ spirits.” She started to walk towards the thrones. She then sat in Celestia’s throne and giggled to herself. “Once Mystica is a frozen wasteland, we'll use our magic to destroy those windy beasts,” she said as she looked to a couple of the stained glass windows which had no image in. She had another laugh as she pictured one of them showing her leading the three to destroy the windigos and another with her seated as the undisputed queen of not just Mystica, but the whole of the continent as members of every race kowtowed before her. “These fools will be so grateful, they'll do whatever I want!” she declared as she turned from the windows only to look right into Tirek’s ugly maw.

“The windigos are beings of ancient magic, far older than even Grogar,” Tirek said as Chryalsi dove out of the throne before he threw the throne aside. “It would be unwise to leave them unchecked. Best we deal with them now.” finished while Chrysalis got to her feet and the two started to stare each other down.

As the other two were about to tear each other’s throat out, Cozy squinted when she thought she spotted something on one of the hills not far from the capital. “We probably should deal with Twilight and her friends before anything else,” Cozy said as she turned to face the two.

Tirek and Chrysalis both turned to face Cozy, “I thought it was too cold for you to hunt anyone down.” Tirek retorted as he called attention back to Cozy’s earlier statement.

Cozy pointed to the hill she spied the faintest outline of Twilight et al on, “We don't need to.” she started before Chrysalis and Tirek followed her finger to the hill, “They're right there!”

On the hill, the seven stopped and looked ahead to the capitol. Spike huffed out his fiery breath about six times into the air around him to warm up the air. He turned to Twilight, “You think they know we're here?” he asked. Just then a spiral of yellow and black colored magic appeared and it was revealed to be a portal which opened to have Chrysalis and Tirek walk as Cozy hovered between the two. “I’ll take that as a ‘yes’.” the dragon concluded, then behind the three floated Grogar’s Bewitching Bell.

Twilight turned to her band, “That bell has Discord, Celestia, and Luna's magic inside. If they use it against us—” Twilight started as she pointed out away the three could empower themselves.

Fluttershy, however, cut Twilight off, “Discord's magic is so chaotic, he's the only one who can use it.”

Pinkie gave a wicked smirk that everyone seemed to have missed as their focus was on the approaching trio. One the three stopped after they were about three meters from the seven, Chrysalis was the one to speak, “You couldn’t live your own failure.” Chrysalis started.

“And where did that bring you?” Tirek asked rhetorically as he gave a laugh.

Cozy cast off her blanket and chuckled, “Back to us,” she answered.

Twilight narrowed her eyes as she stepped forward, “You can't beat us if we never give up!” the demigod declared. “As long as I have my friends by my side,” she looked to each of her friends for a second before she turned back to the three, “I'll put my faith in friendship—” she started.

“Ugh,” Cozy groaned cutting Twilight off. “Can we get on with this, please?” she asked the other two. The three began to pool their magics into their hand and then blasted the seven. Leaving a massive crater.

However before the beam of the three could make contact, Twilight had teleported the seven into the nearby woods, just deep enough in where the three couldn’t see them. Twilight turned back to her friends, “We need to get that bell and get Discord and the princesses their magic back.” she stated the objective. She then looked to Rainbow and then Pinkie, “Rainbow Dash, Pinkie Pie, you're with me.” She spotted Rainbow clutching her right fist as it faced away from her and was about to pull it down, “We’re gonna distract them.” Twilight stopped the elementalist. She then turned to Rarity, Applejack, Fluttershy and Spike.

Applejack nodded with a slight frown, but full of understanding, “Give us as much time as you can get.”

Outside of the woods, Chrysalis, Tirek and Cozy blasted and searched for the seven, “Come out, come out, wherever you are!” Chrysalis ordered.

“There!” Cozy shouted as she spotted Pinkie, Rainbow, and Twilight charging the three as they yelled. Cozy was tackled by Rainbow as Pinkie seemed to vanish and Chrysalis tried to follow the jester.

Tirek and Twilight stared each other down, “This time, you don’t have the other demigod’s power.” Tirek mocked.

“And you don’t have Discord’s.” Twilight countered and the two blasted each other. Even with about a third of Grogar’s power, Tirek still had his hands full as Twilight seemed to match his blast for blast and seemed to the dominator in this back and forth.

All the while, Chrysalis was looking for Pinkie when suddenly the jester appeared right in front of her. Pinkie was dressed in the striped red and white vest, a red bowtie and straw hat and fake mustache. “Step right up, evil ladies and gentlevillains!” she shouted like someone at a carny trying to get someone to play a carnival game, “Try your luck!” she said as she pulled out of nowhere a prize wheel with pictures of her self and five closest friends and spun it. Chrysalis blasted at Pinkie, but the jester dodged the blast as she hopped on to the wheel and rolled away. Chrysalis growled before she continued to blast at Pinkie, but the jester kept popping up and vanishing all over the place. “Missed me!” Pinkie continued to mock. After one last blast, “Close, but no cherrychimichanga!” she said Chrysalis zapped again, missing. Pinkie then appeared with a small plushie of Chrysalis, “Thanks for playing!” she said before Chrysalis destroyed the plushie. Pinkie then bolted away.

Cozy then flew up to Chrysalis, “Do they have to be so annoying?!” the former Skyborn bemoaned before she zapped at Rainbow.

Chrysalis paused in thought for a second and then her eyes widened as she had a sudden realization. “They’re the diversion!” She then turned around to see Fluttershy, Spike, Rarity and Applejack attempting to take the bell.” The elf queen then blasted the four, which got Tirek’s attention. “Forget those fools, they are the threat!” she shouted as she went to get the bell only for Rarity and Spike try to fend her off with Rarity’s magic and Spike’s fire. But Chrysalis overpowered both.

As Rarity and Spike were dealing with Chrysalis, Applejack attempted to grab the bell with her rope, only for Tirek to shoved the bell to the side with one hand and then the lasso with the other. “Please.” he then pulled the rope so that he could throw the paladin.

With Applejack down as well, Fluttershy tried to fly to the bell, only for Cozy to fly right in front of her, “Now, now, professor. We all know you're not the fast one.” she the zapped Fluttershy causing her to fall.

Fluttershy was caught by Rainbow just as Rarity and Applejack were thrown into Twilight and Pinkie respectively. As the six recovered and prepared to fight, each drawing their weapons, “Enough!” Chrysalis shouted as she levitated Spike in front of her, her magic around the wings, “Or the dragon's wings get plucked!” she then started to pull on the wings. Spike began got cry in pain.

Twilight’s magic died down in her hands, “Please! Don't hurt him!” she pleaded.

“Don't worry about me! Spike shouted in protest. “Just save—!” the dragon started only to made to scream as Chrysalis pulled on the wings again.

Recently everyone lowered their weapons. “Turns out that the Magic of Friendship is your biggest weakness,” Tirek commented as Chrysalis sent Spike into the group. “A fitting end to your pathetic story,” he added as they all started to pool their magic into their hands preparing to blast the seven.

The seven huddled together, “No matter what, we face it together!” Rainbow declared before the three blasted them.
Yet nothing happened. Slowly the seven opened their eyes to see the at they were on a hilltop farther from the three villains. They then saw standing just behind them was Amity with her eyes and hands glowing white. The seven then looked up to see the storm clouds dispersing. Before any could ask. “I said I’d take care of the windigo.” She said as she conjured screens, not unlike those that she summoned to show how bad the situation was to all sans Twilight.

On one of the scenes, Sandbar was standing on a soapbox giving a speech reminding the people of Magiville of what the Hearths Warming Traditions meant, on another Neighsay was giving a similar lecture to the gathered Magicborn in Celestia’s School for the Gifted, another was of Spitfire reprimanding the cowardice of the Skyborn of Cloudsdale along the same lines, another showed Yona giving her own speech to the Orks about the strength that the two races have and how strong they can be together. Two were of Smolder and Gallus while both acknowledged the differences between their respective cultures’ point of view and Mystican’s, but there are some ways they can better themselves by following Mystica’s example. Another screen showed Silverstream questioning her aunt if they were truly happy under the waves like they were after the Storm King’s raid and another had Ocellus remind the Alfs of their change to the better thanks to their friendship with Twilight et al.

Applejack nudged Twilight’s shoulder, “How 'bout that?” she asked rhetorically.

“Too bad, they ain’t here to help.” Rainbow groaned.

Amity smirked as she vanished the screens before she conjured several white portals appeared and opened. From one Rutherford, riding a yak and wielding an Ork double-ax followed by all abled bodies Orks armed and armored to the teeth, among them was Yoan, armed with a long-handled ax. From another came Queen Novo, in battle armor with aasimar also armed for battle, among them was Silverstream. From another, Gilda lead flocks of Harpies ready to fight, with Gallus among them. From one flew Ember with a flight of dragon behind her, counting Smolder amongst them. From another Thorax and Pharynx both in their battle forms lead a swarm of Alfs, with Ocellus in her peaceful form.

There were other portals, each seemed to have lead from tall the cities of Mystica with the citizens of Mystica and the members of the ESM, with Sandbar among those from Magiville, all of who there for this one moment. In the sky, another portal opened to so show the SS Rainbow Parrot with its two new crew members all ready to fire the first volley.

Stepping in front of them all was Shining armor in his purple-colored armor, “Citizens of Mystica, Orcs of Yakyakistan, Aasimar of Mt. Aris, Harpies of Gryphonstone, Dragons of Drákos gis, Alfs of Alfhelm, allies all, today we each have a choice to fight and maybe die or to run and live.” he started. He paused for a second, “Legends tell us that when Gusty and her band confronted Grogar, only she stood standing against the necromancer. And all the records of Gusty’s band say that they wished that they stayed. And like them we now have this choice, I don’t know about you, but I will not die on my bed years from now wishing to trade all those days from this do that for one chance, if just one chance, to come back and stand with Princess Twilight in this her hour of need!” he paused as he took a second to look at to as many of those gathered as he could, “But it would be a lie to say that like you, I am not afraid. I see in your eyes that same fear. A day may come when our courage fails when we forsake our friends and family and break all our bonds. But it is not this day, this day, those who will stand with me, we fight!” he shouted and earned a cheer from the mass. “Spears shall be shaken, shields shall be splintered, a sword day, a red day, an hour of wolves, ere the sun rises!” Shining held his spear aloft and earned what could best be described as war cheers from all there. “Friends…” he trailed off as he turned to face Twilight and her friends before he smiled. “Assemble!” he shouted and charged down the hill with everyone else following him.

“And you thought nothing we did matter.” Spike chimed in. “Looks like the more people who embrace friendship, the safer we all are.”

Twilight smiled but turned to see everyone ready to fight for this. She squinted slightly before she teleported to be in between her army of friends and the three villains. “ENOUGH!” the princess shouted as she conjured a clear barrier behind her stopping the army in its tracks. Twilight turned to look at the three. She pointed at them, “Because of you, I almost lost my way!” she then looked over her shoulder to all those that came here for this moment. She smiled and then looked back to the trio, “But everyone here has reminded me of the true power of friendship!” Twilight’s body started to glow and her hair started to float like Celestia and Luna. “There will always be darkness in the world, but there will also always be those who find the light!” as she spoke she managed to teleport the Pillars, Celestia, Luna, Discord, Stygian, Flash, and Starlight from their cells. Celestia, Luna, Discord, Stygian, Flash, and Starlight were placed behind the barrier that Twilight conjured as the Pillars were just to Twilight’s right.

Twilight then teleported her closest friends and the Student Six to her with her friends just behind her and the students to her left. Twilight nodded to the Pillars, “The Pillars knew this! That's why they created the Elements of Harmony!” Soon the eighteen started to glow as they flowed while Twilight floated higher and higher. “The Elements showed me and my friends how strong our friendship could be!” Around the Pillars, a rainbow developed to form a ball right in front of them.

Twilight gave a slight bow that indicated her friends, “Together we worked to bring harmony to Mystica! But there will always be more to do!” Around the six a similar rainbow formed around them.

Twilight then turned and nodded to the Student Six, “Which is why we teach others about the Magic of Friendship! Others who will continue our mission after we are gone!” Much like with the Pillars and Twilight’s closest friends, a rainbow started to form around the student. Twilight then looked forward as she smiled, “Now I truly understand! The Elements were just symbols! The real magic has always been right here!” she said as she placed her hand on her heart. “And the more who understand how powerful friendship is, the stronger we will all be! Together!” she shouted as she threw her arms out and the rainbows shot towards her.

As the rainbows form the Pillars, Spike and the rest of Twilight’s key friends, and the Student Six shot into Twilight, Tirek and Chrysalis were left agape in horror of what was to come. “This is bad, isn't it?” Cozy asked as she was gripped with terror. The silence of her allies answered her question just as a fourth rainbow was shot out of Twilight right into the three encompassing them and the bell. As they were struck by the rainbow, all three were depowered, Chrysalis and Cozy back to what they were before they used Grogar’s Bell on themselves while Tirek was reduced to how he was when he was pulled out of Tartarus. The power Tirek took was sent from him into the people he took it from, returning to their normal state and the power of Grogar, which the three shared was dissipated. The three fell to the ground beaten. They all groaned as they slowly got back to their feet.

Tirek was horrified as he looked at his weakened state and Cozy was left agape at ther returned state. Chrysalis looked from her current form but snarled before she pointed at Twilight, “You think friendship will save you?!” she asked rhetorically. “We will always return! Nothing will ever stop—!” she was cut short as gigantic cupcake fell on her, Cozy and Tirek.

As everyone was just left dumbfounded at the sudden appearance of the cupcake, followed by a sudden rainfall. Spike caught some of the rain in his talon and liked it. “Chocolate rain?” he asked,

Everyone turned to Discord. He snapped his fingers to prove that he still had no access to his power. Twilight then turned around and spotted Pinkie holding Grogar’s Bewitching Bell. Pinkie’s body then started to grow until she was twenty feet tall, “I think I’ll transform the cosmos so everything is made of icing!” The gigantic jester declared, dropping the spell in the process. Discord picked it up and rang it facing Pinkie, turning Pinkie back to normal and was caught by Twilight. “Waiter! There's some chaos in my soup!” she said as her eyes spun and her tone clearly dizzy.

Discord turned the bell to face him and rang it. Once his power was returned his body returned to his serpentine chimeric-like form. He snapped his talon and conjured snarling pineapples. He vanished them and pointed the bell at Celestia and Luna and rang it again. This transformed the two back to their normal form. The two pooled some of their magic into their hands and each smiled as their magic was restored.

Chrysalis, Cozy and Tirek emerged from under the giant cupcake that Pinkie dropped on them. Once they then saw Celestia and Luna both fully restored with both of them acquiring the state that they had when they confronted Cozy. Celestia’s eyes became fields of dark orange like black with golden irises. “There isn't a punishment worthy of all you've done!” Celestia declared.

Discord then popped to beside Celestia and duplicated himself to also be right next to Luna. “You know what I would do if I were…” the Discord next to Celestia said before he leaned into Celestia’s ear to whisper as the other one leaned into Luna’s ear.

After the two Discords finished, Luna smiled. “Oh. That does seem fitting.” the night princess said as she turned to Celestia and the elder sister nodded.

Both Discords looked at the two with their hands closed pleadingly, “May I help?Please?” he asked. The two nodded before they started to pool their magic in their hands. The Discord that was next to Celestia vanished as Discord pooled his own magic into his hands. The three then sent their magic in the forms of beams at the trio. Once their spell struck Cozy, Chrysalis and Tirek the three then slowly started to turn to stone. Cozy and Tirek both panicked, horrified of their fate. Chrysalis snarled as she tried to fly at the three casters only for all the to be part fo the same statue. Discord smirked as he walked up to the new statue. “Together forever. I can't think of anything that they would want less!” he finished as he flicked the statue at Chrysalis’ nose.

Princess Celestia and Princess Luna both reverted to their normal state as everyone cheered. Celestia turned to Twilight and her main group and stepped to Twilight and gave her a hug. Once the hug was done, “When I sent you to Magiville, I had high hopes.” Celestia started, “When you became Princess of Friendship, I knew I made the right choice.” she added as she then smiled, “But nothing could prepare me for how proud I am right now.” she confessed. “Mystica is definitely in the right hands.” She said as she stepped back and was joined by Luna and Discord, “You are ready.” Celestia and Luna bowed regally towards Twilight. Discord simply lowered his head with closed eyes.

Twilight smiled, “You know what? I think I am.” she stated.

“Thank goodness.” Applejack said as nudged Twilight’s shoulder. She then pointed Twilight towards the massive gathering of Mysticans and Mystica’s allies, “First question, your Highness. What do we do with all of them?” she asked.

Twilight smiled, “Given everything that has happened and the increased guest list of the coronation,” she said as she turned to Pinkie, “And give our party planner to arrange all the chairs we’ll need,” she added, “My first decreed as de facto ruling princess of The Everfree Prinicplaity of Mystica in Dream Vally is to postpone the coronation until next Spring Equinox.” She ordered. She then pulled her friends into a huddle, “Besides, there's something we need to do first.”

About two hours later, inside Donut Joe’s parlor, Twilight and her closest friends were seated at one of the tables. Rarity lifted up one fo the donuts on her plates, “Post-apocalyptic donuts. Interesting choice.” the enchantress said somewhat confused at Twilight’s choice but she smiled in acceptance.

Twilight had a smile, “I know.” she admitted before she took a bit out of her donut. “But there's gonna be plenty of time for all the challenges and struggles and adventures to come.: she said as she looked from Rarity to each of her friends there with the acknowledgment of the trials they were bond to face. She then took another bite of her donut, “For now, I just want to spend a quiet moment with the six best friends I've ever had.” she said as she reached out her arms for the group to hug. No one left her hanging. After the hug, “There are a few things I know absolutely, first as one era ends, another begins, second, that whatever comes next is going to be perfect. And finally that with you guys by my side, how could it not?” she stated as a rhetorical question. The seven then all laughed.

Epilogue

Late that night, the seven arrived back in Magiville and part ways for their homes. Rarity was the first to arrive at her home and primary place of business. “Well this won’t be a day I’ll forget anytime soon,” she said before she opened the door, failing to notice that the lights were on. As she stepped inside she spotted her mother, her father and Sweetie Belle sitting on the couch in the main lobby. “Mother, Father, Sweetie Bella?” Rarity asked. “Why are you he…” she trailed off as she turned to see that they weren’t the only ones there. Kneeling on his right knee was Ragamuffin. “Ragamuffin?” She asked in confusion.

Ragamuffin cleared his throat, “Rari-ty, I’m not great with words, but…” he trailed as he pulled out a small box, “Will you be my…” he trailed off. “This is so corny…” he laughed to himself at how stupid what he felt he was about to say would sound. “Dancing Queen?” he finally asked as he opened the box to reveal an engagement ring, his face beat red in embarrassment.

Rarity giggled, “Is it because I’m young and sweet?” she joked. She saw Ragamuffin’s head start to dip. However, she placed her hand under his chin and lifted it so that Ragamuffin would face him. “I will marry you,” she said and kissed Ragamuffin before she took the ring from the box and slide it on her left ring finger. Sweetie and her parents cheered.

As Rarity was sliding the ring on her finger, Pinkie sighed as she reached Sugar Cube Corner. She then yawned, “I’m so pooped.” she said before she let herself in. There she saw Mr. and Mrs. Cake with little Pound and Pumpkin in their arms as they sat down in a couple of the cafe’s chairs. “What are you do up?” Pinkie asked.

“That would be my fault.” Pinkie heard coming from the kitchen. From the kitchen emerged Cheese Sandwich his face blacked and hair forced backward like he had his face in a small explosion. He then wiped his face. “Let’s just say, I’m not a baker.”

Pinkie giggled, “yeah, but you sure throw a great party.” she commented.

Cheese smiled before he took a breath, “True, but I never would have if weren’t for you.” He then took a knee, “And more recently, you returned my laugh. I wouldn’t be the man I am without you.” He then pulled out a small box.

Pinkie took the box from Cheese and she made him stand up, “I might have inspired you, but you were the one to actually make your own way.” She opened the box and smiled at the ring, “But the best party I ever have thrown was when we worked together.” she then slid the ring on her left ring finger, “So partner, let’s get down to business.” she said with a kiss.

As Pinkie slide the ring on her finger, Applejack arrived at the porch of living quarters of Sweet Apple Temples. She stretched and yawed, “Well, Ah’m looking forward to a good night’s sleep.” she opened the door to see Apple Bloom, Granny Smith, Big Mac, and Sugar Belle seated on and in the couches and chairs of the ‘living room’ of the living quarters. “Why are yall still up?” the paladin asked.

Big Mac pointed to a kneeling Dirk in the center of the room, “Him.” the giant of a cleric answered.

Applejack turned to her boyfriend, “Dirk, what has gotten inta…” she trailed off as Dirk pulled a small box out of his right pants pocket.

“Applejack, you are one of the strongest women I know.” Dirk then opened the box to show an engagement ring “And while I know you can stand on your own, I want to be there if you need someone to lean on. To call on me when you need a hand.” Dirk sang slightly.

Applejack had a small chuckle at first before she reached for the ring. She looked over the gem in the center, “And you got my birthstone.” she said as she slid the ring on her left ring finger, “It hasn’t been a year, but you clearly like it.” she joked as she patted her thigh. She then helped Dirk to his feet and kissed him, sealing the deal.

While all these joyous events unfolded, deep in the vaults of Chantalot, Grogar’s Bewitching Bell had been added to the collection. Suddenly a shadow formed. The shadow then shifted to reveal itself to be Sombra, the Alicorn Amulet around his neck. “Well, that was an interesting turn of events and quite the development.” the shadow king said to himself before he picked up the Bell. He smiled and chuckled before he pointed it towards the other items in the vault. “Long live the king,” he said and rang the bell.

My Little Mages: Denouement of Resolution

by Foxhelm

The Bell Strikes Three

Twilight, and all's not well

A Twilight Campaign

The Battle of The Bell