> The Fires of War
>  by Rust phantom
> --------------------------------------------------------------------------

> Prologue
> --------------------------------------------------------------------------

In the throne room, atop the ivory throne, stood Celestia. Her eyes were closed and her head hung, her hall as silent as the dawn. There were no guards accompanying Celestia, she wanted to be alone with her thoughts. She left the door slightly open and instructed the guards to only allow others in should they have specific information. The silence allowed Celestia to recall everything that happened the last few months, and to acknowledge how bad the nation's situation is now.

Equestria is in the middle of a war. Thousands . . . tens of thousands of soldiers have lost their lives for their home and princess. The attackers passed through Black Skull Island and made it to the mainland, advancing through the Bone Dry Desert and the Forbidden Jungle. Informants say they have halfway proceeded through the Badlands and will enter Canterlot in nine days time. Who knows how many ponies will perish should they make it to one of the cities.

Princess Celestia stepped down from her throne to look through a window overlooking Canterlot. Soldiers, supplies and weapons were being loaded onto wagons and blimps, ready to be transported to the deathtrap that is the Badlands. She saw young stallions signing up to join the Equestrian military to protect their families, possibly unaware of the enemy's might. The thought of how their families would react to hearing they were turned to ash made Celestia's heart sink. She was desperate to stop more bloodshed.

"Your highness," said a sudden voice.

Princess Celestia was caught off guard from the sudden voice, she barely even heard him trot. She looked towards the direction of the voice and saw a royal guard, his head bowing respectfully. "Yes?" she asked.

"The prisoner is ready for interrogation."

"Good," Celestia looked at the window once more, seeing what could be future casualties. "This war has gone long enough." Celestia looked back to the stallion. "Take me to his cell."

"Yes, your highness."

As they trotted towards the dungeon, Celestia saw many guards along the halls. Military forces focused their defenses for both inside and outside of Canterlot, which was the home of their princess. Although the enemy broke through legions of soldiers, many still had the courage to continue their efforts, which was highly valued. But as each citizen in Equestria was doing their part to keep the nation strong, the enemy forces continued their attempts to destroy it.

They eventually reached the dungeons, its wooden doors surrounded by cobblestone bricks. The doors made a loud creak as they opened to reveal a dimly lit tunnel below. the guard summoned a ball of fire with his horn and the two of them headed down the steps.

When they reached the cell, three guards stood at each side of the iron bars. Behind the iron was the prisoner, chained, drenched and muzzled. He appeared bald in both head and tail, and his wet, ash grey coat showed scars and recent wounds. Black chains were latched to his hooves and neck, made from Stygian stone so he couldn't melt them. His muzzle was constructed from the same material, with two small tubes facing backwards. Celestia felt pity towards him, but she remembered how many of her subjects had been slaughtered in cold blood.

If he knew she was right in front of him, he did a good job at hiding it. He sat in the middle of his cell, keeping his head down and eyes shut as she approached. Celestia was told he would not utter a word of what he knows in interrogation, only wishing to speak to Celestia herself. She knew he was planning something, but she took the chance to get information regardless. Celestia stared at him through the bars with a stern look, but she saw no movement from him.

She leaned towards the Guard that led her and quietly asked, "Where are the others?"

"There are no others," he answered with no expression. "Only in death, did they surrender."

"I see." She looked back at the prisoner. "Can you hear me?" she asked him in a cold tone that Windigoes would love.

"Yes," the prisoner replied. His voice was deep and muffled through the muzzle, but also humorous which, in his situation, was odd.

"I heard your name is Smoke, and you are a centurion. Is that correct?"

He took a few seconds to answer. "Yes," Smoke finally said. "And you must be the filth that calls herself a princess."

Celestia ignored his insult. "Why would you attack a kingdom that posed no threat?" she questioned. "What reason could you have to sail to another continent and wage war?" Celestia waited, but he didn't answer. "What is the reasoning for your attacks?" she asked again, a little louder. He wouldn't answer her most important question, almost like he DIDN'T know himself, but then why start the war in the first place? She decided she was going to have to first ask a simpler question. Firmly, she asked, "What is your race's name? We have never encountered your kind before."

When he looked at Celestia, he revealed two distinct irises: one bright orange like a tangerine, and one yellow as shining gold. "We are the Ares," he replied, his cheek lifting on one side as if he was smiling through his muzzle. "We were born and bred to fight since our kind's creation. We are not an easy foe to fight, like ants attacking scorpions."

Celestia had no doubts that what he said was true, the death toll backed his statement. She was informed that the Ares were ponies of fire and rage, their anger supposedly fueling their very flames, but Smoke just stayed in almost peaceful silence. "What is there to gain from this war? Could it be for unknown power? Conquering new lands? Treasures and artifacts we do not know of or should not possess?"

"Come closer and i'll tell you," he replied amusingly. He didn't sound like he was lying, which left her vigilant.

The guards all laughed at his offer; It was a sarcastic, insulting laugh. "HA! What do you take us for, idiots?" Said one of them, he must have been new. "Our princess cannot be easily lured by empty promises. You have no hoof to. . ."

Before he could finish, Celestia ruffled her wings and raised her head. "Open It," she ordered.

All the guards stopped giggling and silently stared at her with concern, she couldn't blame them. "But your highness," balked the same guard. "It is dangerous to approach him."

"You have him restrained, do you not?" questioned Celestia.

The guard looked like he forgot they did and looked embarrassed. "Ye-ye-yes, we do," stuttered the new guard.

"Open the gate then," ordered Celestia. He respectfully bowed in apology and did as ordered. Celestia walked through the gate and approached the prisoner, two guards entering after her and standing at either side of him. Smoke blew—well, smoke—from the holes in his muzzle as he looked between the two guards before returning to Celestia, his orange and yellow eyes stared at her as she stared back.

Smoke answered her question before she could ask him again, "We desire the sun and moon. The two most important celestial bodies in our possession is the goal of this war." Celestia was left with confusion at his words, wondering as to why they would wage war for them. No Ares she was informed of had a horn, so controlling the two would be impossible. "The purpose behind it is unclear to me however," he continued, no longer in a witty tone. "Our superiors say this effort will bring great fortune and rewards, but they have failed to explain why."

Celestia pondered this, though she would need to understand their consuls' intentions at a later date. Currently, she needed to determine the Ares' next plan of attack. The main army was approaching from the Badlands, yet Smoke and his squadron were found in the Everfree forest, miles in advance. The soldiers suffered fewer casualties than expected when they engaged, which would be excellent news if not for the fact the Ares' were overwhelmed rather easily. Celestia questioned, "Are there more of you around? And how could you have been discovered in the Everfree forest if the rest of the Ares are navigating through the Badlands?" There were a few ideas going through her head: To attack Canterlot's blind spot should the rest of them arrive; to sneak into Canterlot and weaken its inside defenses; maybe distract our forces from the main army.

Smoke closed his eyes and chuckled. He sounded weak and dry, like he was parched and tired—well, more than previously. "I do not know of the existence of other squadrons," Smoke replied, again opening his eyes. "But even if I did, I would never rat them out to a rat like you." Smoke blew smoke from his muzzle a second time as flames started to appear on his neck and flank, alerting the guards to grab an accompanying bucket of water and drench the birthing fire. As they drowned the growing flames in cool water, Smoke shivered and showed annoyance.

"What I will tell you is very simple." Smoke spoke to Celestia as if their current positions were switched. "Surrender now, give up what you possess, and no more harm shall come to your kingdom. But should you continue to resist, you will all die. And we shall claim our reward from your corpses." Even in his raspy voice, his words made the guards feel great concern. they all stared at Celestia, waiting for her response to his threat.

Celestia didn't want to subject to a prisoner's threats, but the chance to end the war without more bloodshed tempted her. her intrigue was quickly diminished though when she remembered how important the sun and moon were. Whatever the Ares' wanted with them, it surely wasn't so they could just change the time of day. She also remembered the mare imprisoned in the moon, Nightmare Moon . . . oh, sweet Luna. Though the sister she knew was gone, replaced by the mare of darkness everypony sees her as now, the thought of just giving her moon and precious night to terrorists made her harden her heart towards his offer.

"Your kind will never be given such a responsibility, especially not by force!" Celestia answered assertively. "your kingdom lives for war, our's for peace. We use the sun and moon to bring light and beauty to the world, to embrace unity between others through the unity of night and day. If death and conquest is all you bring, then you are not worthy of something so important."

Smoke clicked his tongue as he slowly shook his head, "And here I was hoping I didn't have to resort to this. I desperately wanted to see you fall." He stood on all fours as his chest started faintly glowing, like a fire growing in his lungs. "Ever wondered how such magnificent fighters like myself were overpowered so easily? Why only half your team died and I surrendered?"

Smoke talked like it was a riddle Celestia should have found the answer to. Then suddenly, she realized. The guards must've realized as well, for the ones in his cell grabbed more water and attempted to put him out again. The guards soaked Smoke to the point it looked like he just crawled out of a bath, but the glow in his chest grew brighter and started to make his whole body steam. his eyes started glowing too, while his fiery mane started to return.

There were many emotions going through Celestia's mind; Shock, panic, disbelief, but most importantly, realization. it was all planned, and she went in the right direction.

"You are thieves!" Smoke yelled, despite getting brighter and hotter. "You think you deserve the sun and moon when it wasn't your's to be worthy of either! Your entire legacy is built on lies, but we know the truth! You are scum in soul, and you shall die as such!"

Celestia could barely even squint as he became too bright. The heat radiating from him caused her mane to singe. "Get out!" she yelled at her guards. "Get away from him now!"

But it was too late. Smoke exploded in an eruption of fire that incinerated everything in it's vicinity, including the guards. Celestia only had enough time to shield herself from the flames as everything burned . . . and everyone.
> Chapter 1: Council meeting
> --------------------------------------------------------------------------

Twilight had the worst dream last night.

She was flying over Canterlot, only it wasn't the Canterlot she knew. The castle was destroyed, the ground encased in fire and the sky a crimson red. Ponies, changelings, dragons, yaks, griffons, and hippogriffs were screaming and running in all directions. Shadowy figures that resembled ponies ran around breathing fire and destroying houses. They pulled down statues and towers, broke through doors and laid siege inside, and incinerated trees and crops for nothing more than pure malice.

Twilight felt great shock and despair at the sight—Why was this her nightmare? Failing a friendship test, her reformed friends returning to their old ways, even pony-eating monster quesadillas would suffice (yes, she's had that one before). But watching everypony she cared for, all the creatures she brought friendship between, all of them running from the flames that destroy their homes like wildfire shattered her heart.

She tried to fly down and save everyone, but her wings acted like they had a mind of their own. Instead, she flew into her throne room through a destroyed pane glass window. She saw her friends huddled together in terror in the center of the hall; Applejack, Fluttershy, Pinkie Pie, Rainbow Dash, Rarity, and Spike. Surrounding them in a circle were the same silhouettes as the ones from outside, their manes flowing out of them like a black flame.

Twilight TRIED to save her friends—to rush to their aid—but she couldn't move an inch. As the shadows opened their mouths, fire flashed from their throats and burned her friends till they were nothing but ash. The fires quickly died when there was nothing left, and the shadows evaporated into a large black mist as if their purpose was fulfilled.

Twilight's eyes filled with tears as her soul felt like it was being crushed by hammers. Her heart dropped out of her chest like a boulder. Her knees wobbled and gave out under the misery that enveloped her. As Twilight fell to her knees in despair, her tears dripping to the floor, the black mist swirled around until a wall of darkness laid behind her. It instilled in her a sense of dread and intimidation. 

"They are coming, Twilight Sparkle," came a sudden voice. It echoed around the hall and even within her own mind. The voice sounded deep and masculine.

Twilight looked behind herself. What she saw made her heart race and her voice abandon her. Four pure red eyes glowed from the void in the mist, two above and two below. The eyes themselves were not what frightened her most, but rather the aura of discord and terror he seemed to emit. Two small orbs that bore similarity to the sun and moon floated by either side of his face.

"What you possess, they shall take. And what they take, I shall have. Surrender, and no blood shall be spilled. Resist, and it will spell doom for you, your friends, and your family." A glow appeared between his eyes. As it grew, it became a fire lighting the void. "Goodbye, Princess." The flame erupted like a volcano, burning both the black mist and Twilight herself in a white flash.

Twilight woke from her bed in a cold sweat, breathing heavily. She looked around her bedroom for whoever was in her  dreams, when she found no trace she managed to breath easier. She looked to the right and saw Spike sleeping in his bed. His face looked happy and peaceful, free of fear and unease, so she assumed he was having a pleasant dream, unlike her. Twilight laid back down in her bed, resting her head on her pillow and staring at the ceiling.

Who was that? she pondered nervously. Out of ALL the evils she faced, none of them looked like him. Four red eyes, composed of darkness, a connection to fire . . . demon maybe? But they haven't been seen in thousands. And what about the shadowy figures that were setting everything ablaze? More demons? What did they want? Why were the sun and moon beside him? Were those what that demon wanted?

Maybe it was just a bad dream, she tried to convince herself. Ever since Luna retired, nightmares have been going unchecked. Try as she might though, Twilight couldn't shake off what she saw. She worried about the welfare of Equestria and it's residents. Her worries would keep her up all night.

Eventually, it was time for her to raise the sun. She got out of bed, looked out the window, and used the amulet to lower the moon. The moon was slightly red; it's a bad omen most don't see. As the moon slowly went into the horizon, Twilight felt there was something wrong with the sky. Before she could figure out what though, the night was disappearing and the day was breaking.

The sun rose and filled the sky with light, making the land of Equestria glow brightly. The mountains rose to the sky while the clouds formed amazing pictures. Ponyville and Canterlot shined like silver in the warm light. In the garden, the beautiful shrubs and flowers bloomed in the sun's embrace. The frozen statue of Tirek, Cozy Glow, and Chrysalis were the only odd piece in it's beauty, but it also served as a reminder that the unity between all creatures to bring their defeat brought such majesty to the world. 

Twilight worried that it might be the last beautiful day for a long time, as her nightmare and the bad omen were ANYTHING but good luck. She looked through the books in her room, but found nothing. Maybe there's something in the royal Canterlot library, maybe even in the . . .

She heard Spike yawn and turned around to see him; his arms and wings were outstretched as he sat up on his bed. "Good morning," he said in the middle of his yawn. He turned around to see her. "Did you sleep well Twilight?"

Twilight hadn't slept since 3 in the morning, when the nightmare woke her up. Despite this, she smiled at him with a heartfelt glee. "Of course, Spike," she lied. She wanted to tell Spike what she saw, but her friends were coming to the first Council of Friendship meeting; She decided she'd tell it to all of them when they arrived, so they could figure it out together.

A knock came at the door, probably royal guards. "Yes?" Twilight asked.

"Your highness," said a royal guard, definitely not that mysterious voice. "Breakfast has been served."

"Alright, I'm starving," Spike commented. "how about you Twilight?"





Twilight thought a nightmare that foretold doom would remove her appetite. Instead, she started wolfing down four chocolate chip pancakes, three slices of toast, and some cream coffee. Spike was helping himself to strawberry pancakes, apple cider, and a handful of topaz. Twilight assumed her anxiety and nervousness was causing her hunger, meanwhile Spike just ate like normal. The food was delicious, almost able to distract her from what she saw—almost.

The day went like normal, or as normal as the life of a princess can be. There were many letters regarding the shift in power and it changing certain controls; a moon later and these letters haven't decreased. Other than that were letters about collecting taxes, scheduling meetings with public officials, and improving society with the union and harmony between the different races. Twilight told one of the aides that nightmares have been running rampant and requests for a "Council of Dreams" that can take on Luna's former duties. The minister looked at her with interest as Twilight was creating a new council just a moon after already making one, but she carried her orders nonetheless.

When Twilight had time before the meeting, She went to the royal library. There were over a million books inside, there MUST be something about those shadows. There were books about poetry, magic, ancient relics, taxes, geographic history, Equestrian history, even cooking (do the cooks come here regularly). Her best hopes were a restricted section reserved for dangerous creatures, real and rumored. She found one that had information on magical beings; Even with her magic, the book felt heavy, like it had creatures from BEYOND Equestria and even the continent. She blew off the dust to read the title.

"Encyclopedia of Mysterious Beasts and Creatures." Twilight read. She opened the book and scrolled through the pages. Grootslang? No. Amphisbaena? No. Nuckalevee? Not likely. She stumbled upon a section for beings associated with fire, surely THAT had Information. She found pages for phoenixes, dragons, chimeras, kirin, fire salamanders, even things called fire elementals (have to look at that later).

She found a page labeled "Ares", only, half the page was burned. There were burn marks on the surrounding pages, but it was like someone tried to destroy this certain page. Why would they do this? Twilight thought to herself. Who could be so cruel and secretive to want to burn such an efficient book? She could only make out a bit of text and half the picture that showed their general appearance.

Ares are equine creatures created by the god kno . . .
manes that turn into fire when agitated and thei . . .
extraordinary magic mainly that of the fire variety. . . .
stronger with every generation, fire breathing, fire m . . .
resistance to mortal magic, fortified skeletons, an . . .
largely dependent upon their own wrath and the . . .
them with respect and, more importantly, to NEVER . . .

What Twilight was able to read did not improve her situation. These must be what I saw, She yelled in her mind. And that unknown monster is probably their god. But what's his name? And why does he want the sun and moon? As Twilight stared around the room in thought, she glimpsed at the clock and saw that more time had passed than she thought. Hastily, she grabbed the encyclopedia and trotted to the throne room.

It was past noon when Twilight and Spike went to the throne room to wait for their friends. The damage Cozy Glow, Tirek, and Chrysalis inflicted was barely visible now; just a few cracks and holes. Her throne was gold and with red cushion, followed by a red carpet that unfolded towards the doors her friends would enter at any minute. A recently placed round table stood in front of Twilight's throne with some appetizers, its dark red wood gleaming like a crimson silver. The stained glass windows shined in the sunlight, faintly portraying color on the white floors. The newest one showed the cutie marks of Twilight and her friends, connected by a lightning bolt that strikes the Legion of Doom. Symbols of the different races resided between the two with zigzagging rainbow in the background.

"I can't wait to see them again," said Spike. "They probably did so much in the last moon." Twilight nodded as she waited on the throne, The heavy book beside her left, as she pondered the nightmare again. The demonic voice echoed in her head "They are coming, Twilight Sparkle." Twilight didn't want to encounter these ares, but she knew it was certain. She could only hope to have her friends safe when they do.

The doors suddenly opened to reveal her friends. Pinkie was jumping forward with utter joy, her mane looking like she just dipped in a pile of candy (which actually wasn't surprising). Rarity was wearing a fancy new dress that looked like she just left an exquisite funeral. Rainbow Dash was still wearing one of those Wonderbolt glasses on her forehead as she flew in. Fluttershy was also flying and talking to Applejack about some topic. Everyone of them were smiling like today would be the best day in a while; why did SHE have to be the one to tell them otherwise?

"Hi girls," Twilight said aloud. "You excited?"

"Oh, of course!" Pinkie yelped before anyone else could start. "I mean, this is our very first council meeting, how could I not be excited."

"I'm with pinkie," Rainbow replied. "I couldn't stop thinking about it all day."

"We haven't seen you for a full moon, darling," Rarity added. "We all missed you."

Fluttershy joined the conversation, "I'm quite happy were all together again." 

"I agree Fluttershy," said Applejack. "We all got so much to talk about. Who's first?"

The appetizers were a wonderful treat as they all conversed about what has happened in the last month. Rarity explained that her dark dress was because black was becoming the newest style. (black is the new black?) Pinkie had found a way to extract sugar from watermelons, mangoes, grapes, and bananas, and used it to add a fruity sweetness to her cupcakes. Applejack and her family were repainting the house and barn, which she said would take another three days to finish. Rainbow Dash's team had accepted a new member named Overcast, who she said is almost as fast her. Fluttershy even opened a few nests for some phoenixes and thunderbirds a while ago. 

Everyone was ecstatic about what has happened to their lives, but not Twilight. She's had to deal with political meetings, hear petitions, discuss various new laws, attend important ceremonies, find ways to keep the leaders of other races from fighting each other, ALL in one moon. Being princess of Equestria is one of the most challenging things she has ever faced, and now some god wants to bring war for no reason.

She worried about her kingdom and everyone in it. Shining Armor, Cadence, and Flurry Heart might end up being targets should war break out. Starlight and the School of Friendship might be their first attack if they want to hurt her into submission. Ponyville, the place where it all started, might be turned into ash before the next moon. Twilight didn't want that to happen, but she knew that she needed her friends' help.

"Girls, I need to tell you something." She said with a docile tone.

Her friends looked back at her with concern. "What's the problem, sugarcube?" Applejack asked.

"Is something bothering you?" Spike added.

She told her friends what she saw in her nightmare; from the land in arson, to the shadowy figures breathing fire, to the mysterious figure that threatened war upon her. She left out them being burned by the shadows, as well as when she went to the library and discovered what they were. She dared not remember seeing them killed, it haunt her to her core, but her voice refused to call them Ares like her throat wouldn't let her. (quite odd, isn't it)

Her friends were all uneased by her story, making the round table feel gloomy. "Maybe it was just a nightmare," Pinkie said, trying to lighten the mood. "Nightmares aren't dangerous, just scary." But through her expression, Twilight knew she was just making assumptions. If what she saw was true, then this dream is as dangerous as it is terrifying. Maybe more.

"But If he knows who we are," Rainbow said. "Then why would he attack us out of the blue? Surely he knows what we've accomplished together. We defeated Nightmare Moon, Chrysalis, Sombra, Tirek, the Storm King, Cozy Glow, And we even reformed a couple others."

"Indeed," Rarity added "And most of them even hid in the shadows to gain the element of surprise. Why would some dreadful deity outright say he was going to attack us before he did it? Shouldn't he know that will make us prepared and on guard?"

"If you ask me," Spike said. "That sounds like a great mistake on his part. I mean, why even start a fight in the first place if he knows how tough we are? Shouldn't he realize he's gonna lose?"

Twilight contemplated it. "Maybe he has such faith in his warriors that he doesn't believe he can't win. If he wants us to be on our hooves when his followers invade, he either wants us to be defeated at our strongest to show his superiority in power, or to intimidate us with the promise that his forces will overpower us as a way to persuade us into giving him the sun and moon." Her words made the table seem even more gloomy. "But what I really want to know is why he wants them so badly? What is his main goal?"

Pinkie joined in. "The Storm King wanted the power of all four princesses so no one could stop him from taking over the world, right? Maybe that's what he wants."

"But Celestia and Luna are retired. And he's not even after my magic, just the two celestial bodies."

"Let's not forget his soldiers," Fluttershy added. "They obviously follow his command like ants to a queen; there must be a reward for all of this. The changelings tried taking over equestria for land and food. Tirek wanted power. Cozy Glow abused friendship to gain control. What about these fire ponies?"

Rainbow Dash grabbed an appetizer. "Well, it's not like they're gonna just tell us outright. But we've placed plenty of enemies and have always had friends around to help us. I'm pretty sure Discord would be like a straight flush in this game."

"Umm . . . actually," Fluttershy complained, gaining everypony's attention. "I haven't seen or heard from him lately. He even missed our teatime yesterday. It's like he left without warning."

Dash ceased to eat the appetizer and showed visible worry on her face. She wasn't the only one. "You don't think he's actually scared, do you?" Rarity asked while Dash rested the appetizer on the table. "Because if the lord of chaos ran off in fear, how dangerous is this god."

Pinkie was about to speak when the doors suddenly burst open. Out came several guards, two of which closed the doors and used their magic to create an ethereal lock and chains. "Your highness, you must take shelter!" yelled one of the guards. "We have intruders we've never seen before heading to your position!"

Twilight and her friends were all shocked and panicking. The Ares were here NOW. "How many?" Twilight ordered.

"We've seen only four," the guard replied. "They've caused several injuries to our soldiers and have been advancing for the last five minutes. No casualties or fatal injuries so far."

Just as he said that, the door suddenly banged against the chains. It banged again, this time destroying the chains and swinging the doors open so hard they broke off their hinges and made a cloud of dust as they fell to the floor. As the dust cleared, four Ares walked through the destroyed doorway. The royal guards pointed their spears at the Ares, while Twilight and her friends stayed in place. The Ares in front stopped in his tracks and raised a hoof to halt the other three.

"Ah, Princess Twilight," the front one said. "We've come for a negotiation."
> Chapter 2: Negotiations
> --------------------------------------------------------------------------

The royal guards charged at the ares with all their might and courage, a valiant effort to no avail. The one up front dodged the first spear and grabbed the weapon with his teeth. As the other guards trotted towards the other three, the first ares launched both spear and guard into the air as though he weighed less than a feather. The guard crashed to the floor as the spearhead stuck into the ground a mere inch away from his skull, followed by a slightly sadistic smile from his near killer.

The other guards faced no better luck. The female ares on the left and the male on the right grabbed the guards by their helmets and threw them against the walls, leaving four royal guards unconscious. The ares behind the rest did one better by actually BITING the spearhead and chomping down on the steel piece. The guard backed away in shock and panic as the ares started to chew the metal, smoke leaving his mouth with every crunch. The guard turned around and ran back to Twilight's position as the ares then spat out molten metal onto the floor.

Dozens more royal guards came from the door and surrounded the four of them, all of them injured and weakened. "I have not arrived to enact homicide on the princess," The front ares said with a calm voice, his smile still plastered on his face. "Yet."

Twilight had her horn ready for a fight. The book said they were resistant to mortal magic, but she was ready to defend her friends. Her friends were in a battle stance as well, trying to look intimidating. "Stop right where you are!"

The front ares, who must have been the leader, seemed surprise. "Interesting. Usually, our demonstration of might would be accompanied by an expeditious capitulation of our competitors. Your continuance to repel our advancements is somewhat surprising."

"Who are you?" Twilight demanded.

The leader of the four chuckled. "I am Arson, praetor of the Striking Dagger legion. And these," he waved his hoof at his fellow soldiers, "Are my centurions, Flamma, Ash, and Inferno. We've arrived at your fortified abode to commence a . . . political meeting."

Political wasn't the word Twilight would choose, but this gave her an idea and opportunity. If she could use diplomacy to persuade them from unleashing war, no side would have to suffer casualties. It seemed like a long shot, but it was better than going straight to a fight.

"I know why you're here," Twilight said.

"Then you are aware we shall not be easily rejected in our operation."

Twilight hoped he was wrong. "And I believe you know of my friends?"

"Applejack of honesty, Fluttershy of kindness, Pinkie Pie of laughter, Rainbow Dash of loyalty, Rarity of generosity," he smirked, "and Spike the extra."

"Extra?" Spike yelled. "I'm Twilight's faithful assistant. I saved the Crystal Empire, I saved the Equestria games, I became the dragon lord . . ."

"A position you relinquished to Ember not an hour sooner," Arson remarked. "Couldn't withstand the difficulty of authority?" Spike was left open-mouthed by his insult. Before Spike could add a comeback for Arson, he returned attention to Twilight. "What we request in this negotiation is not a complicated ultimatum."

"We will never hand you the sun and moon." As soon as she said those words, the guards all gasped in disbelief. Arson meanwhile, laughed in amusement.

"My dear, surely you've registered how outperformed you are. If just quattuor soldiers can cleave through your incompetent castle guards like weeds, you nestle with unquestionable impossibility against the entire legion."

Twilight hated to agree, but he was right. It would probably take the combined efforts of ponies, dragons, changelings, and many others to outmatch them, and that's if she's not underestimating their numbers. If Discord really ran because they were approaching, then they must have a frightening reputation.

Twilight took a closer look at Arson's appearance. He seemed big and sturdy, but not too huge; his physique looked similar to her brother's, Shining Armor. His coat was a bright orange-yellow, with scars around his left cheek and chest. His coffee brown eyes seemed to stare into her like he was trying to pry into her mind. His mane, like all of theirs, flew in the air like waves with the colors of orange and yellow.

Her eyes turned to the mare ares, who looked different from most mares. She was tall and well-built, more like Tempest than anypony else. The color of her coat was a slightly darker orange than Arson's, but her eyes were as gray as polished gravel. One scar seemed to display itself on her front left shoulder, leaving the question of whether she was a new or gifted soldier. Her mane was a dark red and orange, like a hellflame was implanted to her head.

The ares on her right seemed to be the biggest one among them, as large as Big Mac. His coat was as dark as obsidian, with scars so grey they were hard to see. different shades of oranges painted his flowing mane, which shined the most in the sunlight. The most notable detail about him however, were his eyes; Emerald green which shined in the light to resemble actual jewels.

Only the ares behind the rest seemed to be only slightly larger than the average stallion. His coat was just like his mare companion, but with many more scars visible along his body. His mane was almost pure white, with a few slightly blue streaks in it. His eyes seemed to have Heterochromia, one eye like gold, and one eye like a tangerine.

"Why do you even want them?" Pinkie questioned. "What do you get out of this?"

"Our reasoning is not yours to know," the mare said. "Thieves."

"Thieves?!" Shouted Rarity.

"Simmer down Flamma," Arson requested. "Whether we purloin or are bestowed is entirely dependent upon her highness's judgement. I sincerely hope she considers the correct outcome." He didn't sound very sincere.

Twilight noticed that as he spoke, The green eyed ares was communicating with the tail end ares with their hooves. Arson caught what she was noticing. "Ah, yes. Apologies for not clarifying. Inferno's naturally stone deaf, but he can decipher lips. Because my own are blocked from his peripheral vision, Ash signs for him." Inferno looked at twilight with those mismatched eyes, like she was the villain.

"What has Equestria ever done to you?" Twilight questioned. "There isn't even any record of you in Equestria's history." 

"Appears your past aspired to obscure your atrocities. Our ancestors combated with Equestria before, reason being the reality you are thieves and heathens."

"What are y'all even talking about?" asked Applejack. "We've never stolen anything from you."

"Are you that forgetful of your past?" Ash questioned with a hint of concern. "We knew you forgot about Nightmare Moon after a thousand years, but an entire war?"

Pinkie shrugged. "Well, it is a possibility," She answered embarrassingly.

"Your ignorance of your own history is sad," Flamma replied. "But all I care for is your defeat. Though, I will also settle for your surrender." 

Ash and Inferno exchanged signals. "Inferno hopes you resist too. He wants revenge against your old teacher for what she did to his ancestor during the previous war."

"This coterie possesses logical reasoning to incinerate this accursed empire to the ground," Arson said, "We merely bid our time until a further intelligent change of management was enacted."

"For us or for you?" Rainbow questioned humorously.

At the moment he processed what she said, his mane started to rise and burn. His face showed visible irritation while guards' showed worry. "If you have something to say about this matter, say it or be silent." He didn't have to say anything for that request, his stare did it for him.

"I have something to say," Twilight replied. Arson's flames simmered as he raised an eyebrow in curiosity. "You say your ancestors fought ours and lost. You may have gotten stronger, but so have we. I know you are being ordered by someone who believes he can control your lives, I have seen it before. But he is wrong. We will not hand you the sun and moon, but I will offer you my hoof in friendship." She flew down to Arson's level. Despite the concern of both her guards and friends, she landed a foot away from his face and raised out her hoof. Arson seemed to be confused by her actions, as if peace was a foreign language to him. "We do not have to be enemies Arson. Together, we can free your people from this monster."

Arson found her pacifistic plea amusing. He started to chuckle, then laugh. It reached a point where he closed his eyes and held his head back. His centurions were just as uneasy as Twilight. Why would he laugh at her offer like it was the best joke he ever heard? "What's so funny?" She questioned.

Arson sighed and wiped a tear from his cheek. "'We do not have to be enemies'? My dear, assaulting your heretic nation isn't demanded upon thine wills. After our forefathers' defeat at the hooves of your erstwhile educator, our supreme being abrogated all honor from them and forsaken them in your nation's shadow. Through your defeat, or demise, our ancestors' honor is rehabilitated and our deity is profoundly satisfied. Enacting warfare upon Equestria is hardly a requirement. It is merely a question, and the answer is yes."

Twilight tried to stand her ground despite his resistance to her request. "We won't be easily overwhelmed by a new threat. My friends and I have defeated the mare in the moon, the spirit of chaos, and even Grogar's power. You and your god are the same kind of enemy we've faced before, and we will succeed the same way we always have."

Arson's smile widened more. "Oh Twilight, still incorrect," his smile went away in a serious stare, "You haven't seen anything like us before."

"If you want your subjects to live," Flamma threatened, "you will give us what your mentor has stolen. Failure will result in us finishing what our ancestors started."

"Pilfered the words straight from my larynx, Flamma." Arson then turned away as if this summit was over, showing a bare flank where a cutie mark should be. He walked over to his centurions while leaving Twilight with the certitude that she failed to stop their intentions. He stopped between Flamma and Ash to give one last message. "Our besiege shall be initiated at the next peak of the Sol."

"The what?" Applejack questioned in complete confusion.

Arson looked at her with eyes that showed pity. "High noon tomorrow." He over-exaggerated his explanation, like he was speaking to a child. "Summon every colleague, reinforce thy militia, It'll only verify our dominance in hostilities. No changeling, dragon, or unicorn can exceed our might. You possess no advantage."

"We have Discord!" Rainbow Dash blurted out. "I doubt even you can overwhelm the spirit of chaos!"

"And we still have the princesses," Rarity added "Celestia and Luna would never allow your grim threats to come to fruition."

Arson chuckled with a prideful smile. "Your princesses are significantly powerful. Nevertheless, the magical capabilities of you and your predecessors will provide miniscule advantage against us. Your subordinates are a mere interference beside our grand objective, and shall be handled with accordingly. As for your Fidus Achates, Discord . . . well . . . I recommend not relying on an appearance."

Arson's statement broke Fluttershy out of her silence. "How do you know about that!" she ended up yelling, "What have you done with him?" 

Arson's smile widened into a sadistic grin. "Prepare yourselves." He turned back to the door and walked away. "Tomorrow, the earth shall gorge upon blood."

Flamma and Inferno both walked out with him, both seemingly cutie mark-less as they turned around. As Twilight watched them leave through the broken gate however, she saw that Ash stayed behind. His emerald eyes seemed to shine a glimmer of empathy. "I wish you had surrendered. I don't want to shed innocent blood."

"Then don't." Spike pleaded.

"Yeah." Pinkie said. "You could always stop this, you know."

Ash shook his head in visible remorse. "I'm afraid it's not that easy. Arson is a fanatic and a sedulous. He will not stop until he gets what he wants. And what he wants, is our god's affection. So get all the allies you can." He turned and left as well. "You're gonna need them."

The guards watched as he left before slowly turning their attention to Twilight. One day to prepare against unknown forces? It seemed like too difficult a task. But she had to do something for everyone in Equestria. Her friends, the princesses, the whole nation was counting on her now.

"Twilight," Rarity uttered. She looked back to her friends at the table, all with worry practically painted on their faces. "They defeated the castle guards."

"They knew about Discord's disappearance," Fluttershy spoke softly. "Do you think they're responsible?"

"Sugarcube," Applejack asked. "What are we gonna do now?"

Twilight took a long and hard examination of the situation they were now in. "I think," she answered, "We prepare now."
> Chapter 3: Preparations
> --------------------------------------------------------------------------

Twilight's army wasn't enough.

Even with all the soldiers she could get from Canterlot, at least those who could still fight, they were still only a few hundred strong. Royal guards from other areas had to be called just to reach a near thousand; her brother Shining even gave her half the army of the Crystal empire. He could've sent more and even himself, but Twilight convinced him to stay in their city to prepare for the possibility that they will be attacked. 

Rows and rows of guards and soldiers were visible among the entire outer perimeter. Rookies and cadets were to take position around safe houses that would be used to hide and secure the civilians. Veterans took position in the battlements and gate tower, armed with ballistas and catapults that were primed for tomorrow's siege. Scorpions and cannons were placed at almost every corner of the city, even accessorizing the zeppelins that kept an eye from above. The night guard were to sleep the night off so they could join the Wonderbolts in the morning, while the crystal guard occupied the gate from inside Canterlot.

Twilight was working herself to the bone, gathering every soldier and warning every civilian. She sent letters to Celestia and Luna about the situation, but she has received no sign of notification. The school of friendship had to be cancelled tomorrow so the students could be safe, staying in the safety of their homeland or preparing to hide in safehouses. She sent letters to the leaders of the other creatures regarding her situation, but insisted that they stay away from the coming battle. This conflict was towards herself and Canterlot, and she did not want to drag others into this. 

She spent so much time preparing forces and arranging defenses that she skipped dinner and missed the time she was supposed to lower the sun. Her eyes grew heavy and her stomach growled, but she continued on with hope within her. She was so focused on her work of a battle strategy that she didn't hear Spike enter her chambers with a daffodil sandwich.

He laid the sandwich at her desk and told her to get some sleep. She didn't want to sleep, but her mind was starting to lose itself. Her eyes kept closing and her yawns kept appearing. She looked at the time and realized she was two hours late to raise the moon. 

Eventually, she cracked. She left her quill in the ink well and went for the amulet. The sun still blazed in the sky as she went to her porch, shining on the preparing defenses. With the amulet's change from sun to moon, the solar body finally fell from the sky, allowing the people of Equestria to finally get a peaceful sleep, something Twilight hoped she herself would get tonight.

Once the night rose, Twilight still felt as though there was something off in the sky. disregarding her suspicions, she went to her bed, laying straight into the covers, her head resting on a cool, soft pillow. Her tiredness overcame her worries and she drifted into a much needed slumber. Unfortunately, the dream realm itself was apparently unavailable, so her mind took a different approach.

Twilight stumbled into another vision, which felt as real as the last. Her vision was still dark as the void, but she felt lighter than the feather of a phoenix. Her mind rose out of her tower as the strings that grappled her soul to her body unraveled. She wanted to swim back down but she felt no limbs to move. She was a leaf that detached from her branch, and now she was guided by the winds that carried her conscious. Her soul traveled for what felt like miles in a few seconds, entering somewhere she most likely wouldn't recognize.

Her astral journey came to a sudden stop as her vision went from black to misty. As her sight cleared, Twilight could see what was obviously a study. Two circular columns of bookshelves stood at both sides of the room, encompassed by walls of brick and stone with windowless porches. Paintings of mysterious figures and events displayed themselves around the building, with what seemed to be gold and quartz replicas of mysterious objects upon marble plinths. Multiple candles were lit to illuminate the room, but the heads of every flame all leaned to one direction, the front wall. There, standing in front of a window wall, were three figures Twilight recognized.

Arson was accompanied by Ash, both of whom were bowing before a ginormous wall of darkness. Its bodily form was that of a large black flame, seemingly glowing with a black aura and drawing in all other light. Within the fiery void resided the same figure as her previous nightmare, his four red eyes shining like fresh blood on a battlefield. His presence drew in the fire the candles emitted like a magnet, but also excreted a sense of warmth like the pride from a victory.

"I hope my spies have proven themselves useful for both of you." The demonic deity uttered in a formal tone.

"More than useful my lord." asserted Ash. He sounded deeper and more mature than before."We have just received a detailed structure of Canterlot's forces, along with their precautions for the coming battle."

"Catapults and ballistas at the front wall surrounded by royal guards, with crystal guards preparing from inside," stated Arson, completely accurate in his briefing. "The zeppelins are equipped with scorpion turrets and cannons, same for the walls of the city. The Wonderbolts and night guard are keeping to the sky for aerial support. A cockamamie resistance against our endeavors. Their strength in quantity, we surpass in quality. We are quintessential troopers made in your perfect image, and they'll soon recognize that indefinitely." 

Their lord raised a curious eyebrow at Arson before going back to the matter. "And what of the other creatures?" He questioned. "I imagine they wouldn't leave her highness to survive without their help."

"Apparently not," Ash answered. "The yak and dragon leaders have already chosen to assist her, despite her letters to stay away. The other creatures are debating if they should heed her wishes, which I am certain they will not."

"More lambs to the slaughter," Arson remarked with a sadistic hiss. "Their demise shall exist as an unequivocal demonstration of our capability for decimation."

The dark figure seemed curious in Arson's statement. "And how is the armory, Arson?"

"Through the rich profusion of Stygian stone you benevolently contributed upon us, our armaments shall endow us inevitable victory. The Stygian artillery, partnered behind millennium of evolution and seething violence, Guarantees imminent victory. By midday tomorrow, Terra's epidermis shall be cleansed of Equestria and her monarch."

Their god raised an eyebrow . . . or at least one of his upper eyes. "I have heard many things about you, my loyal subject, that you became praetor through your fiery rage and remarkable battle strategy. Is that true?"

Arson somehow smiled more. "Indeed, my liege. I exist solely to resurrect our society from the malicious umbra."

"To feed his own pride more likely," Ash said in a judgmental whisper. Arson heard his murmur and gazed at him with a smoking mane and a look that could kill. 

"I feed the glory of the Shield-Piercer," Arson argued in defense. "The superiority of our militia is the superiority of our god."

"Yes," Their god agreed, "And you show superiority among others through your wide vocabulary."

Arson lowered his head to him again. "An indirect showcase of my brilliance in strategy among the feeble creatures residing in this land."

"And the very speech you are speaking to me in now.

Arson's cheeky smile changed to a fearful shock so fast it actually made Twilight flinch. He looked up at the god with a face of pure fear and regret. "I-I-I did n-not mean to . . ."

"Do you believe yourself more superior than me?"

Arson's pride and cockiness was completely replaced with fear. His mane no longer flowed and fell dead at his neck. He bowed so low and hard that his forehead broke the floor, all while crying out, "Please, please forgive me my lord! It was a force of habit, nothing behind it! It will not happen again, I swear!" 

The god made a quiet shush as the dark fire sprouted what seemed to be an open hand. "Sshhhh, no need to yell for forgiveness. Just make sure to remember those that stand on equal ground with you, like Ash here." Ash couldn't help but crack a smile at Arson, most likely reveling in Arson's broken ego. "Don't forget your limits either, Arson. We cannot get our objective from a corpse. As long as Twilight lives, we have the opportunity to break her will and surrender the celestial bodies."

"And her friends?" Arson questioned, bringing his head back up.

"Her friends and subjects will be kept hostage, only slaughtered if necessary. More hostages means more leverage. More desire to surrender for her people's safety."

"And are you sure you trust Arson with that limitation?" Ash needed answered. "I don't mean to insult your zealot but he is not the most sparing of conquerors."

Arson seemed like he was about to defend himself before the god left his remark. "Actually, I was hoping that you would lead this attack."

"What?" Arson yelled before flinching at his own tone, causing his deity to face his upper eyes to him. "Um, my sincerest apologies, but why is he leading this attack? I may not be the most merciful soldier on the field, but I would gladly take rope and chain over sword and spear should you command it."

"And that unquestionable commitment is precisely the reason why. I know how much you seek victory to restore honor. I want to see how determined Ash is."

Ash gave a quick bow while Arson kept processing his removal from the oncoming war. "Th-this is still such short notice, your grace. My army is already battle hardened, but . . ."

"Then let them stay hardened. Remove any who will not listen to him or this order. The rest will join Ash's legion as they assault Canterlot. Besides, you cannot leave your hidden city undefended."

"There is still the matter of the aerial enemies," Ash complained. "Our aim is precise and our range is far, but faster flyers will start to pick us off while we are distracted by the enemies on the ground. Should we have to face the other creatures, our mission will be much more difficult."

"I have already called in some favors from my fellow gods just for this war. Rest assured, the air will no longer be a safe space for them."

About a second later came a screech from outside, gaining the attention of Twilight and the praetors. soaring from the windowless porch, a figure zoomed past the praetors and turned back around, resting on the rails of the second story. It looked like a mare pegasus, but her large wings weren't on her back, instead replacing her front legs. her back legs weren't normal either, resembling that of an eagle's. An orange and yellow feather fell to the floor from her bird tail while her mane of the same colors seemed to still be horse hair. Her light blue mane and feathers ruffled as her purple irises stared at them through black corneas, cooing like a curious dove.

Arson looked at them with wonderment while Ash looked at them with caution. "Remarkable," Arson praised. "I have heard of harpies before, but seeing one in person is a majestic beauty upon the eyes."

Ash seemed confused by Arson's statement. "Aren't harpies malicious wind spirits that symbolize storms?" Ash questioned Arson before changing attention to the deity. "They are also creatures that belong to your father and uncle, how did you manage to recruit them?"

"Like I said, I have called in some favors," he answered. One at a time, his eyes turned to the harpy's direction, "Meet Celaeno, one of the leaders."

Celaeno then leaned forwards and glided towards the two ares, landing mere feet away. Her feathers folded and she seemed to puff out her chest. "It is a pleasure to work with you," she pronounced in a seemingly italian accent, "Monsters of the skies paired with the most dangerous war horses, a deliciously terrifying combination."

"How about you two ready your armies? You can discuss your strategy plan on the way."

Ash and Celaeno walked to the door, past Twilight's projection like she was never there. Strange thing she noticed was Ash's eyes, yellow instead of green. They walked out of the room and closed the wooden doors behind them, leaving Twilight's spirit with a god and a cultist.

Arson walked over to the porch, gazing at what must have been their army down below. His mane started to flicker as he whispered through bared teeth, "Ash gets to fight alongside harpies and i'm stuck listening to normal birds."

"Problem?"

Arson's mane stopped flowing as he cautiously turned to the black flame. "Of course not sir. I shall remove all problematic soldiers and listen to your Agents' information."

"Very well. You are dismissed Arson."

Arson gave one last bow before he left. "Yes, lord Mars. This will be a war no one will forget." Arson then walked over to the door himself, only opening one door to leave.

"Yes, it will. Won't it, Princess Twilight?"

Twilight then woke from her slumber, her head on her pillow and her heart drowning in dread. Did he see her there? was he talking to himself? Twilight had to focus her mind. what she did know was that the Ares had aerial support, the other creatures were disregarding her warnings, and there were spies within her own kingdom. Twilight looked outside at the night sky, "I have to do something," she told herself.

"Yes. Everything that happens depends on you." Twilight looked behind her in horror at the sudden voice of Mars and saw . . . nothing.
> Chapter 4: Battle Stations
> --------------------------------------------------------------------------

Twilight was about to fly to the wonderbolts to give news of the harpies, before being informed of the arrival of some unwanted allies. Ember and Rutherford had arrived and waited at the kingdom gate, accompanied by their own soldiers. Twilight was quick to arrive and disappoint them. "Why are you both here!" She demanded worryingly. "Their malice is towards me, not any of you! You'll put yourselves in the crossfire!"

"Me remember princess help when yaks not ask," Rutherford answered, "Now yaks help when princess not ask."

Ember gave her reasoning as well. "We've helped you against those three other threats, what's one more."

"But the ares something different entirely," Twilight complained. "They're soldiers who have had a full millennium to get stronger. They are prepared for the other tribes and know both of you will help."

"All the more reason to tag along," Ember Commented."

"Yes," Rutherford replied. "Princess in danger alone if ares ready for yak. Princess need yak and dragon help."

"Don't y'all forget us," came a familiar voice Twilight knew. She looked behind and saw Applejack walking towards her, paired with Pinkie Pie who rode her party cannon and wore her honorary yak helmet. "We're doing our part in this too. Rarity's been getting ponies on all the available trains to leave more room in the safehouses."

"Applejack and I are ready to defend Canterlot beside you," Pinkie said with a confident smile. "I've loaded this baby with cherry-changas for when they get here and some adhesive cake batter in case they're hungry for more."

"Me know princess not leave pink pony and hat pony out of fight," Rutherford argued, "Why leave yaks and wing lizards out?"

"Well, that's rude," Ember complained. "But he's right. You stand a better chance with assistance, and I did not fly here with my best dragons to be turned away."

Twilight wanted to further her attempts to keep them out of harm's way, but she knew she needed the extra assistance and they were determined to change her mind of neutrality. Remembering their stubbornness, Twilight sighed at gazed at their annoyed faces. "I'm not going to convince you am I?"

"No," they both answered.

Accepting defeat, she quickly thought of where to put them. "Ember, you and your dragons will guard the safehouses, protecting the civilians as the last line of defense."

"Why not on the front lines? Dragons are tough and fireproof."

"So are the Ares. We will have many others fighting the enemy, and the other tribes will most likely come and help as well. But the citizens will be their main target for a bargaining tool. I need fighters at the bunkers to defend them, can I count on you?"

Ember visually showed irritation to being put in the back, but she understood Twilight's reason and accepted. "We will make sure they won't even reach the doors."

Twilight gave a nod before turning to the yak king. "Rutherford, the ares are using some material called stygian stone for their weapons and armor. Think you and your yaks can smash it?"

Rutherford gave a glistening grin of joy. "That challenge? Course yaks will! Yaks will smash sticks n stone!"

"Stygian stone," Ember corrected.

"What me said."

"You and your yaks will join the crystal guards behind the front gate should the ares break the doors. The archers and aerial artillery will weaken them and give you a better chance."

"Yaks no need help weaken enemy. Yaks strong and brave!"

"I saw one eat a spearhead and spit out melted iron."

". . . However, yaks embrace comrades."

"And what about us?" Pinkie questioned.

Twilight turned to her two friends. "Pinkie, I need you to head with the yaks and prime that cannon. I suggest using some fireworks as flashbangs." 

Pinkie pulled some fireworks out of her mane, "Never leave home without them."

"And Applejack, I need you to assist the dragons in guiding everypony to the safehouses. Afterwards, grab something long range and find some high cover."

"You got it, sugar cube." She ran to the dragons and prepared to head to the streets. Before running though, she looked at Twilight and said, "And Twi, have hope. You know you can count on us."

"Exactly," Pinkie commented, as the yaks walked ahead of her. "Friendship hasn't failed before, and it's not gonna let us down now."

Twilight felt reassured from their optimism. "Thanks you two."

With that, both groups headed to their positions, while Twilight flew to find Rainbow Dash. As she soared into the air, she could see Rarity getting the townsfolk in the last train, positive she would then help those who didn't make it. Applejack was guiding ponies to the bunkers while the dragons took defensive positions around them. Pinkie rolled on her party cannon as she conversed with Rutherford on their way to the front lines. As she looked down upon the capital of Equestria, a bird flew past her and soared to her next destination.

She flew to the biggest airship in the sky, where the wonderbolts and the night guard were grouped together. She landed down to the front deck where the night guard were sharpening their spears and the wonderbolts were bragging about their advantages of flight and speed. One of the wonderbolts seemed to distance himself from the others, instead staring into the horizon as though he was lost in thought. When Twilight became curious of his view, she saw that the changelings were flying to them, led by Thorax and his brother Pharynx. She would have to engage in conversation with them soon, but for now her focus was unchanged.

Looking to the bow, Twilight saw Rainbow Dash and captain Spitfire having a conversation with Fluttershy. Rainbow had her hoof on Fluttershy's shoulder while Spitfire flew with a mirror and binoculars in hers. Twilight realized she missed a discussion on her way to them as Spitfire then put the binoculars around Fluttershy's neck and the mirror in her hoof. She then flew into the air and headed far ahead of Canterlot's gates as Twilight approached the two wonderbolts.

"Where is Fluttershy going?" Twilight questioned, catching them off guard.

"Ah Princess," Spitfire said, "Fluttershy wanted to have some use in our preparations, so we assigned her to keep a lookout for the enemy."

"Discord's disappearance has really gotten to her," Rainbow remarked. "She can't stop worrying about what might have happened to him."

"To be honest," Twilight replied, "I'm worried too. This isn't the first time Discord's been a no show, but now we have a reason why and there's no telling what they did to him."

"Don't forget though, this is Discord we're talking about. Whatever's his condition, be it capture or hiding, it won't be permanent. And if we can not only succeed in our defenses, but capture whoever's leading the ares, we might get them to tell us where he is."

"Whether he's been taken captive or being a coward," Spitfire spoke, "I've heard a draconeques is not an easy challenge. Would almost surprise me if they had their own air support to take care of us."

"Ah, that's right." Twilight put her hoof to her face in quickly forgetting the information she needed to share. "Some new intelligence has been discovered."

Dash and Spitfire's curiosity was quick to show, followed by Spitfire's annoyance. "You do know I was joking, right?"

"And this is a cruel joke. The ares are being supported with flying monsters called harpies."

What are those?" Dash canvassed.

"I looked them up in the encyclopedia. They're wind spirits associated with violent storms."

"Like the windigos?" 

Twilight shook her head, "Not exactly. Harpies don't feed off negativity and look more bird than horse. They cause ponies to suddenly disappear and are reportedly faster than the eye can see."

"That's gonna be a problem," Spitfire pondered. "The fastest flyers we have are Rainbow and the new recruit, Overcast."

"Excuse my interruption," came a small voice from behind. Twilight looked behind herself to see the same stallion previously staring at the oncoming changelings. 

"Speak of the Grogar," Dash said.

"Hope it's something important rookie," Spitfire demanded.

"King Thorax and his soldiers have arrived." As he said it, the changelings landed on top of the airship, waiting for my addressment. "The hippogriffs and griffons are slowly approaching themselves." He pointed past the mountain side to show the two groups flying towards them, specks in the horizon.

Twilight gave one last look to Spitfire before changing her attention to them. "Spitfire, please spread the info," Ordered Twilight. "Wonderbolts and night guard."

"Yes, your majesty." Spitfire flew towards the group to yell out the existence of the new threats, while Rainbow stayed in her position seemingly deep in thought and question. What was on her mind was anypony's guess, but Twilight didn't want to keep the changelings waiting.

Twilight trotted towards Thorax, who gave a somewhat awkward smile. "I know you said you wanted us to leave you to this," Thorax differed, "But it wouldn't be right to just leave you all alone against some new threat, especially when they have an army."

"Though, you don't seem to be alone anyway," Pharynx argued. "We saw the dragons and yaks below. Care to explain to us why they were recruited and not us?"

"They weren't," Twilight answered. "They were asked for neutrality, same as you. But I'm actually glad you all came anyway, we didn't have enough strength by ourselves."

"We figured, that's why we came."

"Pharynx," Thorax whispered to him. "So, what positions will you have us take?"

Twilight took a deep thought and looked out towards the front of canterlot. Looking past the front gate and seeing the plains, she found a strategy changelings would be substantial at. "A deception and flanking maneuver."

"I don't fully understand. Could you please give us more detail?"

"See those scattered trees and rocks ahead? If you and your soldiers disguise yourselves as random obstacles and foliage, you can deceive them and have them march right past you on their way to the gate. Once our defenses are unleashed, your group will uncloak and assault them from behind, where they'll be least defended."

Thorax and Pharynx discussed the effectiveness of their position. "Hmm, i'm not sure," Pharynx argued cautiously, "Even if we catch them completely off guard, they will no doubt retaliate."

"Yes, but if you use your magic from long range after they pass by, you can cast some spells to immobile them while also keeping your distance."

Thorax seemed more allayed in their position. Pharynx however, still showed skepticism. "I still feel like there's something wrong. If they know our existence, then surely they know of our abilities, and will be prepared."

"That's my worry. They knew you'd help regardless too, so they're not ignorant. But if we're going to have any chance of winning, we'll need to do the best we can."

"Well, it's almost noon," Thorax remarked. "We better get in position before they catch us doing it or we'll lose the element of surprise." Thorax turned to his brother, still uneased but ready to join and fight. With that, the two brothers signaled their forces to follow them as they flew from the airship, the buzzing of their insect wings slowly losing audibility.

"Twilight," Dash spoke behind her with a questioning tone, "The harpies, how did you get that information?"

Twilight didn't want to speak it out loud, for the soldiers might believe she's going crazy. She walked to Rainbow Dash and whispered, "Same way I discovered the Ares, in a dream. Last time was like a visit to a possible future, but this time..."

"It's what happened last night, was it?"

Twilight nodded. "Something or someone is giving me visions when I sleep. It's probably a result of that god, and I've learned his name is Mars."

"'Mars'? Who is he?"

"I don't know. Gods aren't in the book, but I don't have the time to search the library." Twilight took quick looks around herself to see if anyone was listening before sharing the most important detail. "And I heard from his meeting with the praetors that we have spies."

Rainbow almost stopped whispering out of shock. "What? Is that how they knew the other creatures would assist us?"

"Yes, but they didn't leave us any clues on who. I need you to keep this secret Dash. We can't let his spies know we're aware. I'll tell the rest of us soon, but for now just keep an eye open for anything suspicious."

Rainbow Dash sternly examined the ponies behind them, angry at whoever would betray them, but unsure who it was. "Nothing we can do about it now, but they're not getting away with this. Right now, we'll just focus on surviving the first wave."

Twilight looked to the sun, then to the hippogriffs and griffons, still a distance away. "I'll have to move the sun. Can you and Overcast fly to them and inform their positions?"

Dash gave a smile. "You bet I can." Her smile quickly ceased when she realized a new problem. "But what about Fluttershy? She out in the open right now and those harpies might pick her off."

"I realized that too." Twilight gave a quick side eye to the night guard. "I'll send two guards to assist her, now hurry."

Dash gave a nod before flying to her group, while Twilight headed to the other. The captain of the night guard sat and played a game of checkers with a deckhand and had her hooves to her face in indignation. Somepony of her rank was losing a simple strategy game and she was not taking it well, much to the sailor's pride. Neither had noticed Twilight's presence until she spoke.

"Captain Artemis." Her sudden voice took Artemis by surprise and knocked the checkers board off its barrel. The sailor looked at the mess with disappointment, maybe two moves from winning. The captain quickly stood on all fours and brought her bat wing to her forehead.

"Your highness!" She spoke quite loudly. She put on as serious a face as she could through her reddening cheeks. "You request my services?!"

"Not exactly," Twilight answered more casually. "I assume you have been informed of the new enemy."

"Yes ma'am, the harpies."

"Fluttershy is scouting for the enemy, but she hasn't been informed yet. I don't want her to be taken by surprise."

Artemis folded her wing and probably misunderstood Twilight's reasoning. "Ah, they'll stop her from exposing their arrival. I read you loud and clear princess Sparkle, I'll send two of my best to ensure her safety." Artemis trotted past Twilight to assign her fellow guards, "Ebony, stand up straight. Nocturne, attention. I got a job for you two."

As she assigned her soldiers, Twilight saw Rainbow fly from the ship to the griffons, with Overcast cracking his neck and shrugging his shoulders before heading to the hippogriffs himself. Twilight herself, spread her wings and soared to the air. She gave one last look to the majesty of the capital of Equestria, uncertain it would stay that way. She glided down to the front gate before landing on the wall walk, the royal guards around her bowing to her arrival. 

As she looked around, she saw the ballistas and cannons being loaded with nets and ready to fire. The catapults were being pulled and loaded with giant rubber balls filled with sticky tar, carefully moved with unicorn magic. She could hear the sound of the drawbridge as it was being raised, locked with a boom by a long log.

No more holding it off, she thought to herself. Using her magic, she summoned the amulet from her dimensional storage. With a turn of the dial, the picture of the sun moved to the top, the setting for noon. The true sun silently moved across the sky, resting itself in the center of the endless blue. The time was now, and there was no holding back.

"Are you nervous as well, dear?" came Rarity's voice from the left. Twilight turned to see her standing mere feet away, worried curiosity plastered on her head.

"I don't think any of us aren't," Twilight answered. "Wait, why are you on the gate with me?"

"Truth be told, I am not a lady who riles herself to violence. But after all those threats we've faced, one can't help but learn an offensive spell or two. Besides, everypony else is pitching in, I see no reason to be left out."

Twilight merely rolled her eyes and gave a humorous smile. They looked out towards the vast grassland, waiting for the ares to show their fire sporting heads. After half a minute however, not one cloud of smoke showed itself. Other than the aerial support, not a single object flew through the sky, not even birds. The only bird they did see, was what must have been the same one she saw earlier, a black woodpecker standing on a brick and looking at the duo with curiosity.

Something was wrong, and Twilight felt more disturbed by their absence instead. She was about to speak her thoughts to Rarity, when a flaming roar suddenly engulfed their ears. There, just ahead of the forest came a giant wall of fire. Its pure black blaze spread wider than a sports field, its tail reaching high enough to downsize Canterlot's gate. It filled Twilight a sense of shock and dread, unsure of the purpose behind its sudden appearance, until the ares crawled out of it.