> The Red Knight
>  by PhantomBulwark
> --------------------------------------------------------------------------

> Chapter 1: A Knight's Tale
> --------------------------------------------------------------------------

Sunset was pleased. This wasn’t strictly news, however, the reason for her happiness was. A win was in the cards for them today, and that was rare. All Sir Sunburst had to do was stay on the damn horse and they would be able to eat, all of them, not just the knight. 


Cheerfully she sauntered toward her fellow squire, “get his lordship up AJ! He’s due back on the field in two minutes.” 


Applejack, a dark look on her tanned face turned from where she was kneeling next to their master. “Dead,” She groaned.


“What?” Sunset stumbled toward them and shook the lifeless knight roughly, “no, no, no! He has to finish the match!” When she sucked in a breath the smell that greeted her turned her stomach and she turned away retching and cursing. 


The third of their party came trotting up; a grin stretched across her face and called out to them. “Just as you said Sun,” she rasped, her multicolored locks falling into her face. “All he needs to do is stay in the saddle and we’ve won! The judge didn’t buy Lord Magnus’s cheating theory.”


“He’s dead.” AJ snapped. 


Rainbow Dash froze and a bewildered expression crossed her face. “What do you mean dead?”


Turning back to him, Sunset kicked the lifeless body of their former master and spat. “The fire of his soul is helping heat hell.” She gave him another kick, “his spirit is gone but his stink remains. Does that answer the question?” 


“No!” Rainbow cried, “No he’s asleep, wake the bastard up!”


“He is dead!” AJ barked again, “useless rat got drunk last night and now he’s puked himself to death. If you were standing close enough you’d burn your nose on the smell!” 


“But... But I haven’t eaten in three days!” 


Sunset cuffed Rainbow roughly across the back of her head, “none of us have RD!” She turned again and delivered one final, solid kick to the departed knight’s head and cursed loudly in a way that made both her companions cringe. 


There was the telltale sound of an approaching horses and one of the tournament officials called out for Sunburst. He glared down from his high horse at Rainbow, “is his lordship Sir Sunburst forfeiting? He’s late to the final lance.” 


RD flinched, “He’s uh…”


“He’s on his way!” Sunset smiled as charmingly as possible. An idea formed swiftly in her mind and her heart thundered in its cage. Desperation and hunger taking hold of both her thoughts and her mouth. 


Looking distinctly not-charmed the attendant snarled, “He’s due within the next three minutes or he forfeits.” With that he turned and spurred his horse onward tossing dust into their faces. Rainbow spat after him and thumped into a sitting position against a tree, burying her head in her arms. 


Applejack jerked Sunset around and delivered a firm slap to her head. “He can’t report to the damn lists unless you’re a necromancer and ain’t mentioned it. In case you ain’t noticed he’s damn departed!”


“I’ll… I’ll ride in his place.” She turned to Rainbow, “strip his armor, and help me.” Rainbow obeyed without a word, Applejack however gave her another slap.


“What’s your name Sunset?” When she got no response she shoved Sunset in the chest, “I asked you Sunset Shimmer to give me your name! It ain’t Ser Shimmer, it ain’t Duchess or Countess or Lady Shimmer. It sure as hell ain’t Princess Shimmer.”


Already yanking the old, half-rusted armor into place she snarled, “I know that. Now do you want to eat or not? I can joust just as well as that pompous ass did when he still drew breath. Now, we have a chance at a proper meal tonight if I can stay in the saddle. Would you rather try your luck on the road? No money or hope for work?” Applejack did not respond but they all knew the answer. With Sunburst dead Sunset was their only hope. There was no place for three unemployed squires in a village like this, especially if they had not a single bit to their names. If they didn’t win today then they would be stuck, destitute and reduced to begging. 


She did her best to sit tall in the saddle in the ill-fitting armor, waving to the cheering crowd as they approached the field. She could feel the eyes on them and then, as if in slow motion, the flag was dropped before she even fully lined up. With a start, she spurred the old mare forward hard and gripped the lance desperately. 


Everything went from slow motion to moving far faster than she could track. The other knight was speeding toward her and then her helmet slipped and most of her vision was obscured. There was unyielding pain followed by total darkness. Dimly, she came back to awareness at the sound of AJ’s voice calling out for her. “Sunset! Sun can ya hear me?” Dash was nearby, screaming incoherently in elation. Vaguely she realized that she had won the match. Her head throbbed and she groaned softly at the loudness of her friends voices in her ears. 


“For the love of the sun would you two shut up?” She moaned. 


Applejack whooped even louder, “thank the heavens she’s breathing!” Sunset clutched her head and shoved her away. 


“WE’VE WON!” Dash roared again. Sunset tried to push her off and whimpered her pained agreement. 


Eventually they were guided toward the largest of the stands by another attendant. “Sir Sunburst!” Someone barked, “Remove your helmet in the presence of Lord Trottham.”  


She could see shapes through her bent visor and the blood pooling in her eyes. She did her best to look toward the where the Lord sat. “My lord…” She hesitated, desperately trying to lower her voice to something akin to Sunburst’s low Canterlot draw. Her bloodied nose made her voice sound even worse, as though she had gargled gravel. “I’m afraid the final lance blow has… bent the helmet to my head.”


RD chuckled nervously and there was an oppressive moment of silence and then finally the attendant turned to the Lord and his assembly. “I present, your champion my lord: Sir Sunburst Starwatcher of Canterlot.” The crowd roared and Sunset grinned through the pain as AJ placed the golden trinket in her hand.
> Chapter 2: Solaris Incarnate
> --------------------------------------------------------------------------

Sunset could not help the wide grin on her face as AJ traded her prize for a handful of bits. She had won the joust and, with practice, she could do it again… If she could convince the others, they might yet change their fates. 





Applejack gave the merchants hand a firm shake and returned to her friends with a smile of her own. “Fifteen bits for the little trinket,” she laughed, “That’s five for Sunset, five for Dash, and five for me. I’m goin’ straight home to Canterlot.” She tossed Dash and Sunset their cut and beamed at them. 





“We could do better,” Sunset mused, “we could earn a king’s ransom.”





Rainbow Dash snorted and rolled her eyes, “you’ve lost it Shimmer. We’ve got the bits we need to eat a good meal and get home, that’s more than enough for me.”





Sunset shook her head, “and then what? We go home but then what? We’re three squires of a dead country knight; how many knights do you think are running around desperate for a new squire right now? We’ll get home and be right back in the street with nothing! But we could change that, look at what we pulled off today! There’s a tournament in Trottingham in a month. With fifteen bits we could eat decently, get a bit of training, and if we do well in Trottingham we could split a prize three times the size of this one!” 





Applejack shook her head at the fire in Sunset’s eyes. “You’ve always been like this; you aim far higher than your station Sunset. Always you’ve been gunning for glory. I want to go home.”





“And where is home AJ? You’ve grandmother is gone by now, they took your farm for their damned war with the Changeling empire. And Dash? What do you have to go home to? Hell, what do any of us have to go home to?”





“I’ve got a family!” Applejack snapped, “Damn you Sun, I want to find Mac and Apple Bloom! My brother and sister are reason enough to make for home.”





“Then why not come home with some coin?” she argued, “Trottingham and most of the tournament posts are on the way back toward Canterlot. Think of it girls, if we could pull this off, if I could win a tournament of two we’d be set for life!”





Dash groaned, “It’d be a short life if we’re caught Sun. They’d behead us for impersonating a noble.”





“Not us. Me. They’d behead me for impersonating a noble. You two would just be the poor saps who believed my lie.” 





“Yeah, right,” Rainbow ruffled her hair and sighed, “like we’d let you go out alone. We’d have nothing to laugh at if you died, you’d take all the stupidity with you to hell.”





Sunset grinned and flung an arm around her shoulders, “Sure sounds like you’ve decided to join me there Dash. What about you AJ?” 





The third of the trio glared at them both, “may the Goddess love you two. You're both rotten apples… If I don’t come you’d both be dead in a week.” 





And so it began. Rainbow Dash used a deadly sharp dagger, nicked from a drunken merchant, to cut Sunset’s shaggy hair. She cut it short, a bit above her shoulders. It was the style that many of the female knights had taken to in order to keep their hair out of the way in battle. Applejack put part of their winnings into gear and food that would keep on their journey north. 





While Sunset had always had a natural talent for jousting and fighting, tournaments were different. She could ride well enough and could take a hit but she was not used to the relentlessness of fighting match after match without a break. Applejack pushed her, and by extension Dash, day after day. When they were not traveling or sleeping, they were training. Having been with Sunburst the longest, Applejack knew the most about how to compete and what events would make them the most money. 





“The joust will net you tournament champion but only if you do well enough in a least one other event,” AJ explained. They had set camp for the night on the outskirts of Trottingham for the first tournament. 





“Then I should compete with the spear,” Sunset grunted. “Name a nobleman that could compete with me on a level playing field with a spear!”





“A javelin,” Applejack corrected, “the nobility call a spear you throw a javelin. I’ll concede to you competing with the javelin so long as you join the melee too.”





“The melee is vicious,” Dash protested, “all those knights at once with so little training? She’ll be obliterated!”





Sunset gave her a half-hearted shove and took a big bite of the stew AJ had provided. “I can do it. I’m not keen on the melee but most times they let you choose your weapon for it. So long as the horse doesn’t spook I could do well with a spear or sword in the melee.” 





Dash shook her head and rose to her feet, “I’ll go into town and see about getting her highness a javelin.” The sarcasm was not lost on Sunset who made a rude gesture and went back to her dinner.





By the time Rainbow returned with a sturdy spear for Sunset the knight was dozing near the fire. Applejack stared into the distance with a faraway look in her eyes. Rainbow recognized the expression and sat next to an unconscious Sunset without comment. She was patient enough to wait for her friend to voice her concerns. 





“You remember when we first found Sunset, Dashie?”





“How could I forget? She was just a tot, all by herself in the ruins of a little house in Stalliongrad.”





Applejack turned to face her; the ghosts that floated in her eyes were as familiar as an old friend. The day they found Sunset had been a hard one. Sunburst had been dragging them all over the country; the war with the Changelings had just begun and was already far worse that anyone could bear. An order from his lord had led Sunburst to patrol the nearby villages for raiders. They had seen many ugly sights but none so horrible as the slaughter that took place in Stalliongrad.





The little town sat just a few miles from Canterlot palace. The Changelings attacked it in the night and by the time any soldiers came to help, the town was already alight. The fires spread faster than they could be fought and the enemy cut down anyone who made it out of their burning homes. It was in this bloodshed that they had come across Sunset. All but a handful of villagers were dead when AJ, only twelve at the time, had heard the heart wrenching cries of a baby. She and a ten year old Rainbow had been dispatched to look for the source. 





Sunset was found trapped beneath a fallen piece of her family’s home. Still in her crib, the three year-old’s back was burned from the fallen pieces of ceiling and wall but she was alive. The sturdy crib had taken the majority of the impact and shielded her from the collapsing wall. Sunburst, though somewhat self-absorbed, was a generous enough knight. He had allowed the girls to keep Sunset, provided of course, that she did not disturb him or cause any trouble. 





“Do you remember why we named her Sunset?” Applejack asked softly, turning her attention to their sleeping companion.





Rainbow chuckled lowly and brushed Sunset’s hair from her sleeping face, like she used to do when they were young. “I wanted to call her Rain but you said she was a light and she needed a proper, noble name.”





“The house we got her from had a sigil on it, for all we know she could be royalty. Sunset suits her, I don’t like the idea of changing her name just so she can compete in these damned tournaments. I don’t like any of this.”





“C’mon AJ, if she was noble someone would have come looking for her. We stayed in the poor village for weeks and none of those people knew who that family even was. And no one ever claimed her, as far as Sunset’s concerned we’re the only family she’s got.”





“Damn right.” Both girls jumped and Sunset smiled as she cracked open an eye. “Are you two going to keep talking about long gone history or are you gonna sleep?”





“You need a name Sunny,” Applejack sighed. “One that sounds foreign enough that everyone will believe you’re just another traveling knight. But has to be noble enough that they won’t question it.” 





“I like my name,” she whined. 





“Yeah but Sunset is as Canterlot a name as you can get,” Rainbow chuckled. “You need an outsiders name... something that sounds, y'know, regal.” 





“Let’s keep it as close to my real name as we can,” Sunset sat up and thought for a moment. “Sunburst used to talk about a distant uncle of his… Sol something… Sol means sun, right?… what about, Solaris?” 





AJ hummed in thought, “Solaris was the name of an old legend in Trotland I think. We could pass you off as a foreigner from lower Trotland. How about Solaris Incarnate? I knew a Trotish knight with the name Incarnate once. Incarnate means that you embody something, I think. So, it'd mean you embody the sun?”





Sunset smiled, “Solaris Incarnate it is.”
> Chapter 3: The Red Knight
> --------------------------------------------------------------------------

Sunset gripped the spear Rainbow had brought for her and weighed it in her hands. She balanced it in one palm and grinned at her friends. “It’s perfect.”



Rainbow nodded, “cost me the last of our coin, so you had better win with it.”



The morning sun bore down on them as Sunset swung herself into the saddle, preparing for her first joust. The armor she got from Sunburst was still ill fitting but they had padded it enough to be functional. With a brand new javelin in hand she felt as knightly as she looked. 



Her opponent’s herald stepped toward the stands and raised his arms. “My Lords, I present to you: Sir Blueblood, heir to the duchy of Foalsland, fiercest of all, master of his enemies!” There was an approving roar from the crowd that shook the small stadium. 



Rainbow, with her far better grammar, was next. “My Lords, and my ladies, I present to you my Lord: Ser Solaris Incarnate.” There was nothing more to say, no fancy titles to be provided, and Sunset tried not to flinch at the silence. She pulled herself to her full height and rode steadily to her place. 



She kept her gaze on the flag until the attendant holding it let go. Then, and only then, did she ride forward. Her heart was in her throat. 



The abruptness of it all would always be a shock. There was the flag, floating to the ground. There was the rumble of the horse’s hooves kicking up dust. And then there was the impact. She felt her own lance snap and that of her adversary hit her in the shoulder. 



When the world returned to its normal speed her shoulder ached, but her lance was broken and the other knights was intact. She had won the first round. 



Blueblood, while a decent enough knight, was not known for doing well in the joust and it showed. He managed to break the second lance on Sunset’s chest but she broke hers on his helmet, giving her an extra point. The third round was over even more easily. As luck would have it, Blueblood’s somewhat ostentatious armor had a lip near the bottom of his sternum. Her lance caught on the lip of his chest plate, and she had just enough strength to throw him from the saddle, winning both the match and his horse. 



Sunset’s shoulder throbbed as AJ yanked her off the horse and immediately began checking over both her and the armor. “You’ve cracked the damn pauldron,” she growled, “that’s going to cost us out of your winnings. If you take another strike there in the melee you’ll be finished.”



Unable to keep a smile from her face, Sunset replied, “Then I’d better not let them hit me again.”  



The javelin throw was next, a staple of any tournament. With her shoulder mostly numbed with some herbs from Rainbow’s pack Sunset felt ready. Only three other knights were competing with the javelin. They lined up in the open field and each weighed their weapons and awaited the call. A horn was sounded and as one they hefted their spears, and threw them with all their might. Sunset let out a roar like a lioness and let the spear leave her hand, giving it just the slightest horizontal spin. 



AJ held her breath; Sunset had been just a beat behind the others with her throw. It sailed, as if in slow motion and she sucked in a gust of air when it landed, nearly level, with the farthest throw of another knight. The crowd stomped and roared and an attendant ran out to measure the spears. 



There was another round of cheers when the attendant stood and thrust his arm toward Sunset. “Ser Solaris wins the Javelin!” 



There was a break between the javelin and the melee event. Sunset's shoulder was throbbing again and the adrenaline of the earlier competitions was wearing off. She let AJ tend to her sore muscles and rested for a while. When she was finally allowed to get up and about again she wandered the tournament grounds, and that is where she saw her. 



She was the loveliest woman Sunset had ever set eyes upon. She had long, purple hair that framed her face, and purple eyes that reminded her of the richest fabric. She would not have been out of place in a palace and she was dressed in a soft blue gown that told Sunset she was nobility. 



With a bravery she didn’t know she had, she hurried to follow her. Weaving in and out of the crowd she nearly caught up until a rough shove sent her sprawling. She found the tip of a sword inches from her face. “What is your business following the lady Sparkle?” The soldier barked.  



Sunset puffed out her chest and put on her best imitation of a slighted noble. “I am Ser Solaris Incarnate. I was following no one and you will mind your tongue or I will cut it out,” she snapped. The soldier seemed startled enough that she knew she had the upper hand. She smacked the blade away with the back of her hand and leaped to her feet. “Now have you any more accusations or can I be on my way?”



It was not until she turned to go that she realized the girl had stopped to watch the altercation. She nearly ran directly into her. The dark haired woman smirked at her before turning to her guard, “it’s alright Shinning.” Her eyes sparkled when she looked back at Sunset, “tell me the truth, were you following me?”



Sunset readied herself to lie again but found that her mouth would not obey. Instead she said, “I might have been. If only because I was entranced, my lady.”



The woman laughed a soft, beautiful thing that made Sunset’s heart thunder. “And why would you be so entranced, Ser Solaris Incarnate? Do you see something worth your attention?”



“More than that, in fact I would say that you are worth far more than any one person’s attention. Having only spoken to you for a moment I would say you have the wisdom of a scholar and an unmatched wit,” Sunset answered earnestly. “I might have followed you, my lady, but only because I was convinced that a goddess had taken human form. So yes… you are worth my attention and more.”



The girl raised an eyebrow and smirked again “are you always so flattering to ladies or am I special?” 



“I confess, I am from a small duchy to the south of Trotham,” Sunset lied. “I have never before spoken to a lady such as you. And I would never speak to another if you would give me your name.”



The girl hummed and then shook her head. “I think I will keep my name to myself a while longer, you strike more as a hound than a knight.”



It was an insult but Sunset could tell it was not meant to offend by the tone of her voice. “Then I will be Ser Hound until such time as you see fit to give me your name and call me by my own.” She turned her face to the sky and sighed, “I hope you will watch me in the melee, my lady. I will take my leave now.” And with that she hurried back to her company.



Shinning Armor sighed and removed his helmet, “you shouldn’t speak to the knight’s like that Twily. You know dad wants you to marry well and insulting them will not make that easy.”



His sister snorted, “She wasn’t insulted.”



“Clearly this Ser Solaris is perfect then. Will you watch the melee?”



They go to watch the melee. Sunset rides fiercely, or so Shinning armor tells her.  Twilight has never watched many tournaments. She had only agreed to come because Trottingham had an impressive library. Her attention was only partially on the battle going on in the arena… until Ser Solaris was unhorsed. 



Sunset knew she was in trouble; another knight had managed to ride up behind her and yank her out of the saddle. She lost her sword as she was thrown and hit the dirt hard. As she tried to rise a kick to the back sent her sprawling and she was forced to roll out of the way or be trampled. When she finally found her feet she was immediately engaged by a mean looking knight with an axe. 



He was big but when he swung at her, he was slow. She immediately ducked under his arm and snatched up the shaft of a fallen knight’s spear. The tip of her improvised weapon was broken off but the broken end was sharp and when she found an opening she thrust it at him. The jagged end of the spear pierced under his arm and he dropped. And the fight continued. 



Twilight practically tossed her book away when Shinning announced that Ser Solaris had fallen. She watched with wide eyes as the knight, who now looked very small, fought an opponent twice her size. She was unable to tear her gaze away until the event finally ended. 



Sunset felt rough, and if you had asked Twilight, or her friends they would say she looked rought. There was blood seeping from an ugly wound on her shoulder. The left pauldron of her armor was broken completely in two, her chest ached from having the wind knocked out of her, and Sunset... had never been prouder. With a wide smile the host of the tournament, a portly Count with a large mustache, congratulated her on her win. 



“I present to you, our tournament champion, Ser Solaris Incarnate, a red knight of the fiercest kind!”
> Chapter 4: To Roan and to Ruin
> --------------------------------------------------------------------------

With a cracked pauldron Sunset was in dire need of a smith who would take pity on them or else agree to fix her armor on credit. She stalked from tent to tent, speaking with each and being turned away. 



The last in the line shook her head and gave a half-laugh, “you’ll get no work from anyone here without money girl. Didn’t you just win this tournament?”



“Yes but I need every penny if I’m going to make it to the next one! I’ll have enough to pay if I-”



“If you manage to win the next tournament,” the blacksmith cut her off, “there’s no guarantees you’ll win again kid, and I can’t work for free.”



“But I can’t compete with broken armor!”



The blacksmith sighed and jerked her head toward a tent set apart from the others, “there’s a lad over that way that might do it. He’s young but he does a decent enough job, soft hearted boy too so maybe he’ll take pity on ya.” 



Feeling defeated and with her shoulder beginning to ache again she stomped toward the solitary tent. Inside she found a boy, yes; he was definitely a boy and not a man. He had badly cropped blue hair, tan skin, and the round face of youth.  He looked seventeen at most and he gave a boyish smile the moment he saw her. “Hello! How can I help the Red Knight today?”



She raised a brow at the title, “Red Knight?”



“That’s what they’re calling you,” he replied cheerfully, “the Red Knight from Trotland. I reckon it’s the hair. What can I help you with?”



“I don’t have the coin for your work but I need my pauldron repaired or I won’t be able to compete.” She thrust the two pieces of the armor at him, “will you fix it on credit?”



“I can’t work for nothing, Red Knight…” Sunset hung her head… “But I’ll do it for you… if you take me along.”



Her head snapped up, “what? No! I’ve already got enough faces to feed without a kid and his entire forge following me around.”



He smirked and pulled himself up to his full, lanky height, “you aren’t really in any position to bargain Ser Solaris.” He took the armor from her and shook his head, “this is probably beyond help at this point.” He looked her up and down, “your armor must be an heirloom or something, huh? It’s clearly not made for you… If you take me with you, I’ll make you a new set… something better fitted and suited to you.” Sunset opened her mouth to argue but he cut her off again, “you need me.”



“You’ll have to feed yourself,” she snapped, “you aren’t riding our horses and I’m not giving you a cut!”



“I have my own wagon, Master Solaris” he snarked, with the smug smile of someone who knows that they’ve won. “I’ll ready my things, where are we going next?”



She glared as fiercely as she could manage, “Roan.  Make sure you keep up.”Sunest had no way of knowing that this would not be the only stray they picked up on their journey. 



As they road toward Roan Sunset could feel AJ’s eyes boring into her head as the boy, Flash was his name apparently, chattered on and on. Apparently, AJ reminded Flash of his mother and he had latched onto her the moment they set out. Applejack was unimpressed to say the least. 



The fact that Flash had offered to let Rainbow drive the wagon if he could ride next to AJ had not helped anyone’s sanity. Desperate to avoid yet another fight about letting the kid join their company, Sunset stayed several feet ahead. This proved to be a mistake when she was the one who came across a very peculiar sight. It was a woman, a very, very naked woman. She was walking, no, she was skipping and singing as she made her way down the road. 



When you're rife with devastation, there's a simple explanation

You're a toymaker's creation trapped inside a crystal ball

And whichever way he tilts it, know that we must be resilient

We won't let them break our spirits as we sing our silly song!

When I was a little filly, a galloping blaze overtook my city-



Reluctant to interrupt but needing the strange woman to clear the way for the others, Sunset called out, “uh- excuse me… uh, miss?”



The woman stopped and turned with a wide, somewhat off-putting smile, “Hello fellow traveler!”



“Uh, hi? Why… why are you naked?”



Her smiled dimmed, if only a little, and she shrugged, “call it… an involuntary vow of poverty.”



“Could you make way please? My company is behind me with a cart.”



“Sure thing,” she smiled, “if you tell me your name, Ser Knight.”



“Uh- Sun-Solaris. Solaris Incarnate.”



“That’s a lie.” The woman smiled brightly as she said it and there was an unnerving air about her, “I’m Pinkie Pie, the writer and bard! Why are you lying about your name?” 



Sunset opened her mouth to respond but was cut off as Pinkie exclaimed, “oh, I know! You’re not really a knight; you’re faking it so you can compete right? And I bet that he doesn’t know that cause he looks super surprised!” As she spoke she thrust a finger toward Flash, who had just approached in time to hear Pinkie’s scarily accurate guess. “Wow, you’re really shocked huh? You didn’t notice that a supposedly Trotish knight had an Equish accent?” Flash merely gaped at her. 



In an instant Rainbow Dash had leapt from her saddle and her dagger flashed in the noon sun. She pointed the weapon at the bard’s face. “Keep your mouth closed or I’ll sew your jaw shut!”



Pinkie merely smiled at her, “Now that… was the truth.”



Applejack, still perched coolly in her saddle eyed the stranger for a moment before giving Dash a curt nod, “let her be Rainbow.”



Annoyed but obedient, RD sheathed her blade and settled for glaring at Pinkie. “Fine. Move aside, we’ve got a long ride ahead.”



“You’re going to Roan.” It was not a question, and Pinkie’s unnerving, knowing, smile had returned. 



“Yes,” said Sunset.



“Then you won’t get much farther without help,” she replied smugly. “They’re requiring patents of nobility at Roan, and most tournaments north of Hoofshire. Of course… if you do a favor for me… I’d do a favor for you.”



Applejack practically fumed as she glared down at her. “And what favor might you offer to us?”



“I’m a writer. If you were to maybe… give me some clothes? Maybe a meal? And a ride to Canterlot?... I might be persuaded to help you with your 'paperwork problem,'” She said with air quotes. 



The ride to Roan was a long one. Apparently Pinkie was very good at writing and very quick about it, Sunset had patents of nobility within the hour. Pinkie also knew a great number of songs, and as a bard, she liked to sing… a lot… for hours. While Applejack seemed unbothered, Rainbow Dash was alternating between threats of great violence… and incoherent screams of fury. Sunset kept her attention on pleading with a confused Flash to keep him quiet about her nobility, or lack thereof.
> Chapter 5: The Noblest are Rarely Nobles
> --------------------------------------------------------------------------

Shining Armor, in his sister’s humble opinion, could be a very smug bastard. As they had begun their journey home to Canterlot he teased her endlessly about Ser Solaris and seemed to revel in her discomfort.





“Why Twily,” he sang, “if you’d only told me months ago that you wanted a lady knight I’m sure the suitors I choose would have been better suited.”





“Shut it,” she growled.





“I’m just saying… Ser Solaris is the only one so far you’ve even bothered to speak to!”





“She was…” Twilight struggled to find an accurate description, “different, I guess. Earnest.”





Her brother sighed, “I’m afraid father won’t like her near as much as you and I do. She didn’t seem very wealthy, even for a tournament champion.”





It was then that a messenger, dressed in the blue of their father’s crest, came trotting into the hall where they were reading together. He bowed low to Shining and then to Twilight and then extended a letter. 





Rolling her eyes at her brother Twilight accepted the letter and began to read: 





Children,





Thus far you have both failed to choose, or even find, an acceptable husband for Twilight. As such, I have elected to 		select one for you. A certain Count Timber Spruce of Everfree has asked for my permission to court Twilight and I have accepted. He will be competing at Roan and that is where you will meet him. It is of the utmost importance that Twilight makes a good impression. Sir Spruce is very wealthy and considered one of the most eligible bachelors in the country at the moment.





Impress him.





Love,





Lord Night Light, Royal Astronomer: Court of the Night Princess





Twilight’s face paled halfway through the letter and when she had finished Shining had to tug it from her grip. “He-he can’t do that!”





He winced, “he’s our dad, Twily.”





“I will not marry Timber Spruce,” she hissed, “He’s a pompous jerk, he thinks just because his sister is the Countess of Everfree that he can do whatever he wants!”





“Then you had better convince father that Ser Solaris is a better fit.”





“Who- who said I wanted to marry her?” she whined, Shining merely laughed. 





Sunset stood stiff as a board as they watched Pinkie present her faked papers to the officials. A sharp exhale of relief tumbled out when they waved the Pink girl on with hardly more than a glance. 





Upon stepping into the stadium, huge and unlike anything Ser Sunburst had ever competed in, she was approached by a messenger. The girl was small and scruffy but dressed in a light purple smock with a familiar looking pink star on it. “Ser!” the girl wheezed, “Ser Solaris Incarnate? I’ve a message for you, from my lady.”





Startled, Sunset blinked and then nodded. “And er- who would that be?”





“She said to say that she hasn’t yet decided to give you her name… Ser Hound,” the child replied cheekily. She pulled a note from her satchel and cleared her throat, “The lady says, ‘Ser Hound… I will be a Roan to watch you compete. I have convinced my parents to accompany myself and my brother so that they may see you win this tournament.” She looked up at Sunset with serious eyes. “She also said to tell you that if you don’t win her father is going to force her to accept Count Timber Spruce’s request for her hand.”





“Her hand!?” Sunset squawked, “She can’t! We've barely had a chance to court a little.”





The girl grimaced and shrugged, “if you impress Lord Night Light he might reconsider.” With this, she turned and sped away. Almost too far away to be heard she stopped and called, “I’m rooting for you!”





Dejected and feeling as if she would burst from frustration, Sunset stomped off to find Flash. He had set up in a corner, far enough away from the other smiths that they would not be bothered. He grinned and waved her in immediately, “shut the tent flap behind you. I have something for you.”





“I hope you’re hiding a damn miracle in your quarters then,” she huffed, flopping down and using a pile of hay as a seat. “My lady sent a messenger to me earlier. She’s going to be betrothed to some Count or something if I don’t win this tournament and impress her father.”





Flash winced, “A miracle is a little above my pay grade, what I do have, is armor that will actually fit.” He pulled down a large sheet that she hadn’t even noticed in the mess. Behind the improvised curtain was a gleaming set of armor. It was polished to a shine and the gold metal glinted in the pale light of the forge. 





“Why does it look so light?”





He beamed at her and tugged her toward the armor stand. “Before he died my master taught me a special way to heat the metal; it makes it turn the color of gold! I’ve never been able to get anyone to try it as armor.”





Sunset frowned, “It looks so small though, what will I do if I take a lance or spear to the chest?”





“It’s stronger than anything else that’s ever been made,” he protested, “Master Speak Shaker called it ‘Sun Steel’. Are you at least brave enough to try it?”





Eyes flicking back and forth from Flash’s pleading face to the beautiful armor, Sunset gave a sigh. “Alright,” she groaned, “may the Goddess save me; I’ll try it.”





Applejack took one look at the armor and shook her head, “they’ll crush you.” Rainbow Dash had been unable to say anything over her laughter. Sunset, however, was determined to give the armor a fair chance. 





She let the girls round up three good natured knights who agreed to take a few swings at Sunset. They took turns giving progressively rougher stabs and slashes at her, again and again. In short order, each was exhausted and none of them even managed to so much as scratch the steel. Flash was practically vibrating in place when a fourth knight approached. She was a tall woman, dressed in extravagantly detailed armor. The armor was deep black with silver edging. The chest plate bore a depiction of a crescent moon and there was a purple cape draped over her shoulders. 





She looked down at Sunset through her helmet and seemed to admire the ‘steel’ as Flash had called it, “would you mind terribly if we sparred?” Through the visor, Sunset saw that she had dark skin but what caught her attention were her eyes. The stranger’s eyes were the same bright blue-green that she saw in the mirror every day. 





“Er- Sure?”





The knight drew her blade and took up a stance. Sunset mirrored her. Applejack whistled and from where she was perched on a nearby tree branch, Pinkie called out, “Fight!”





The stranger did not miss a beat, she lunged immediately and Sunset barely had time to react. She didn’t let herself waiver and returned the thrust with a slash. She was still not used to the lightness of her new armor and the movement was far faster than expected. The stranger tried to side step but she still took the tip of Sunset’s spear to the ribs. 





They traded blow for blow. Sunset found she was able to move very swiftly with the lighter armor and when she did take a hit, the sun steel seemed to absorb most of the force. The other knight was fast, and she was impressively strong but her own armor was heavy. It was made of thick iron and it was obvious that her opponent was tiring herself out. Intending to end the sparring session quickly, Sunset darted into her space and gave a thrust of her spear. At the last moment, her opponent managed to jerk her head out of the way and snatched the spear. She trust the tip of the weapon out and away and in doing so, gave herself an opening. Instead of trying to stab at the armor, she drove the hilt up and caught Sunset’s exposed chin. Her head snapped back and she hit the ground. 





It took several long minutes for her to regain her thoughts with the ringing in her ears and she winced when she touched her sore face. The other knight thrust out a hand to help her up. “You fight very well and your armor is impressive,” she complimented. “What is your name? It has been a long time since someone gave me such a challenge. Where did you come by such armor?”





“Give me your own name my friend, and I will give you mine and the name of the smith who made it.”





With a genuine sounding laugh she replied, “I am Ser Nightmare Moon and I would be very pleased to call you my friend. You are a fierce adversary.”





Sunset jerked off her helmet and shook her hand, “Ser Solaris Incarnate, of Trotland. The smithy that travels with us, Flash Sentry, made this for me, he calls it Sun Steel.” 





“I have seen the one you speak of, he’s barely more than a child!”





Feeling very proud of her young friend and of her sparkling new armor Sunset grinned. “I was told once that the noblest are very rarely noble and the youngest son is oft the wisest. He’s young but he’s clever and he’s talented.” 





A flicked of recognition floated through the woman’s eyes but was just as swiftly stifled. “Wise words, I will have to speak to him about something for myself and my house.” She bowed to Sunset before slipping away in much the same way as she appeared.
> Chapter 6: Luna
> --------------------------------------------------------------------------

Sunset received many laughs and insults regarding her armor, until the other knights saw it in action. The more she fought in it the more comfortable she became. She found the melee was much easier when she could be the fastest on the field. In the back of her mind however, was her lady. The desperate need for her to win, to impress this ‘Lord Night’, was always gripping her heart. 





She scored well in the melee and won the javelin event without much difficulty but the joust worried them all. There were many knights in Roan and all of them were accomplished. Both battle hardened soldiers and knights who only fought for sport were in attendance. All of them were after the title of tournament champion. One such knight was Lord Timber Spruce. And Sunset was set to compete against him in the joust. 





The first two days of the tournament went well. Her opponents in the joust were all lower level knights and a few lords. She advanced through the ranks well enough and on the final day, she finally made her way up the lists to compete with the favorites. She had seen her friend, Nightmare Moon already competing and Sir Timber Spruce had been brutal in all of his victories. Both of them were finalists like herself and they were all worried she might be out of her league. 





“I dunno Sun,” AJ tugged at the collar of her linen shirt, “Nightmare took you down in the sword. She’s strong and has experience.”





Rainbow nodded, “and Lord Spruce killed one of his opponents yesterday. He’s a lion on the battlefield.”





“What do we know about him? Nightmare is a decent sort and I know she’ll be fair but him… there’s something in his eyes that unsettles me.”





“Would that be because he’s courting your lady friend?” Pinkie teased. 





“No, it’s more than that.” Sunset turned and watched as Lord Spruce’s company followed on his heels as he rode into the stadium. “He’s about to face Nightmare now, maybe she’ll put him out of commission.” 





They sat near the entrance of the stadium on Nightmare’s side and watched as the knights prepared for the joust. Nightmare looked at ease on her massive red steed and held her lance with the confidence of any King. Lord Spruce, by contrast, seemed to be having a heated exchange with his squires. The argument abruptly ended on the approach of his herald. 





Timber’s face became redder and redder as the other man spoke. When the herald finished speaking, Timber hurled his lance and stormed away with a bellow of rage. There was a painfully quiet moment on the field as Lord Spruce’s herald removed his master’s shield from its stand. 





Lord Spruce had withdrawn, losing his chance at tournament champion. 





“I’m telling you, a withdraw like that means royalty,” AJ snapped, shoving Sunset back. “You can’t endanger a royal, Sunset. If she’s important enough for a man like Spruce to withdraw then competing against her is a mistake.”





Sunset shook her head and turned to Pinkie, “go and find out who Nightmare Moon really is. She’s disguised like me so she can compete. I won’t dishonor her by withdrawing but I do want to know who I’m competing against.” 





Pinkie sped away and AJ glowered, “you’re going to get yourself killed.”





Sunset was already preparing when Pinkie finally returned. She was panting, dirty, and sweating profusely. “You have to withdraw!” she cried, “if you compete against her it’s suicide.”





“What? Why? Who is it?” Dash asked, gripping Sunset’s lance, her eyes wide.





“Her true name is Luna,” Pinkie said breathlessly, “Luna Solaris, the Princess of the Night.”





Sunset was stunned; she turned from her friends to the other end of the field where the Princess was readying herself for their match. Dimly she was aware of AJ ordering Pinkie to forfeit but her mind was already racing past that in favor of other thoughts. As Pinkie hurdled toward the lists, Sunset saw Luna’s head hang in dejection. Clearly the Princess knew exactly what the herald was rushing to do. 





Annoyed on her friend’s behalf and with her blood boiling, Sunset wheeled her horse around and snatched her lance from Rainbow’s grip. With a battle cry she spurred her horse toward the field. When she heard it, Luna’s head jerked up and she immediately turned and barreled onto the field as well. A cheer rose from the crowd and without looking Sunset knew that AJ and Dash both had their head in their hands. 





The first match was a draw, both of them too unsteady to get in a clean hit at top speed. As the second run began, Sunset gripped her lance tightly and despite the danger to her eyes she kept them firmly locked on Luna. At the last second, she saw her opening. Luna’s lance was keen and it would strike her in the chest, however, she was leaving her left breast completely open. Sunset thrust her lance hard and felt the impact radiate up her arm. 





There was a crack like thunder as her lance snapped in almost perfect unison with her opponents. Her chest plate practically vibrated from the blow. Luna did not fair nearly as well. Her friend’s chest plate was badly dented and the blow had also glanced off her shoulder. She had been thrown backward by Sunset’s hit and was nearly flung from her saddle. As Luna struggled upright Sunset could hear the way her breath was wheezy and pained. 





Once she saw that Luna was alright, (Most likely sore and with her shoulder in need of doctoring, but alright). Sunset returned to her side of the field. She waited patiently as Luna was fussed over by her servants. As the Princess finally climbed to her feet, Sunset wondered vaguely if she would be beheaded. When that thought floated away, she wondered whether or not her lady’s father had been impressed with her. 





The flag for the final match was raised and she returned to her place. She took slow deep breaths as she prepared for the retribution that was no doubt coming. But, instead of riding at speed, Luna slowly trotted out and held up a hand. Slowly, Sunset joined her in the center field. 





“Well done, Ser Solaris,” Luna complimented, “I have never had anyone come so close to unhorsing me. You and that armor of yours are as stout as an anvil.”





“You have my compliments as well my Lady,” Sunset laughed, removing her helmet so that Luna could see her. “If I am an anvil then you are the hammer.” 





The Princess nodded and rode slightly closer. “I am finished, Ser Solaris,” she admitted, “That last blow has snapped a few of my ribs; I can hardly breathe to speak to you. But it is not in me to lose, not like this…”





“Then we will declare the match a draw and you can withdraw quietly, with your honor intact… your highness.”





Luna’s eyes widened behind her visor and she fumbled to remove her helmet. “You knew my title! And still you rode against me?” There was a roar of shock from the crowd as the Princess exposed her identity. 





“You said that it is not in you to withdraw… it is not in me either, my lady.” Sunset gave a helpless sort of shrug. "I know my actions and accept their consequences."





“Well…” she smiled, “it happens. I see no reason to blame you my friend.”





“Thank you, Princess.”





The royal waved her hand and shook her head, “please, I find that I am very fond of you already. Call me ‘my lady' if you must, I prefer Luna.”





“Luna… I would be very honored to speak to you so informally. I wish you luck in future tournaments.”





"And you as well, Solaris."
> Chapter 7: A Grave Misstep
> --------------------------------------------------------------------------

Twilight glanced uneasily up at her father, “so… what did you think of Ser Solaris’s victory?”


Lord Night’s face gave away nothing. “She is impressive, if a bit unseasoned,” he hummed noncommittally. “I’ve no doubt she has some connections, to get away with winning over royalty like that. Otherwise she’d be beheaded at the Night Princess’ command.”


Shining Armor cringed at Twilight’s horrified expression, “you must admit father, she did very well for someone so young.”


“There are many young impressive knight’s here,” he replied mildly. “Why is this one of so much interest to you?”


With uncharacteristic boldness Twilight said, “I’d prefer Ser Solaris to court me over Lord Spruce any day of the week.”


Lord Night’s eyebrows bounced in surprise. “I see. I will take your opinion into account of course, but Lord Spruce makes an excellent argument for himself. We shall see what this, Ser Solaris has to offer.”


It took less than fifteen minutes for Sunset to be found. She was disheveled and annoyed as she glared at the Lord who had dragged her from their victory drink. The barkeep at the local tavern had been a fan and plied Sunset with drinks in exchange for stories from the road. 


“What,” asked Sunset somewhat icily, “can I do for such an esteemed Lord of this nation on this glorious evening?” 


Lord Night smiled smugly, “my my, drinking with riff raff after a match… how very provincial." He shot a glance at his daughter.  "You were summoned Ser Solaris to speak with me on the subject of my daughter.” 


Sunset’s eyes nearly bulged from her head when she set eyes on her lady. “Forgive me, my lord,” she bowed low, “I assure you I meant you no insult.” She turned and faced the lady. She was dressed all in purple and with her eyes gleaming she looked the picture of grace. She bowed to the lady as well and kept her head down as she greeted her, “good evening to you, shining star of my sky.”


Twilight’s face flushed at the compliment and she did not miss the way her father’s eyes flickered with something like pride. “G-good evening, S-Ser Solar-ris.”


Sunset’s heart thundered like a thousand horses running across cobblestone. “It is an honor and a privilege to be invited to speak to you, my lord, but I must ask again what you want of me.”


“It seems you have made quite an impression on my children. I would like to ask you Ser if you have interest in courting my beloved Twilight and if so-”


Sunset’s heart galloped even faster and before she could stop herself the name was rolling off her tounge. “Twilight,” she breathed, “Twilight. Twilight.” It tasted like a memory, long forgotten, of fresh bread and she forgot herself for a moment, openly staring at her. At Twilight. Lord Night cleared his throat loudly and she jumped. “F-forgive me again, my lord. Until this moment, the lady would not permit me to know her name…”


He raised a brow at his children and hummed, “and by what name did you call her?”


“She dubbed me ‘Ser Hound’, my lord, I called her only the lady… or when I was most brave, I called her my lady.” 


“And did it ever occur to you, Ser Hound,” he scoffed, “that you aim far higher than your own stature? What do you have to offer my daughter that others cannot? His face grew redder the more he spoke, “what could you possibly give her?” 


Sunset recoiled at the venom in his voice and could see that both Twilight and Shining were also startled. Straightening her back, Sunset met the lord’s eyes and gave what she hoped was a charming shrug. “I have only my affection and respect to give.” She tried not to think about how stupid the words sounded. The lord was clearly hoping for something material… and Sunset had so very little to her name. “I am, as you surely already know, a provincial knight from the south of Trotland. I have only my title and a small amount of gold that permits me to compete.”


The lord frowned at her, “so you can offer nothing.” His tone made Sunset feel very small. “You are hardly more than a peasant. A street rat dressed in gold.” 


Sunset knew what she should do. What she was meant to do. She should bow to Lord Knight and his house and be on her way. She should run back to their camp with her tail tucked and lick her wounds. She should forget about Lady Twilight and try to ignore the sting in the pompous noble’s words. 


She did not do any of those things. “A street rat?” she asked coldly. “Perhaps I am.” Her chest felt like the sun itself had risen behind her ribs. Her heart beat a proud marching beat and her pride roared inside her. “But I will say this and only this in reply, Lord Night. I have seen many ‘peasants’ worth twice any noble.” 


Her tone made clear her contempt and she saw him open his mouth to respond but she cut him off swiftly. “What really makes a person noble? Is it their title or their heart? I say it is better to have a heart of gold than a house made of the same.” She recognized Twilight staring at her with something like awe but she was not yet finished. “No knight of any house is good enough for my lady… not even me. This I already knew, all seeking to humiliate me has done is make you seem foolish, my lord. Judge me now as who I am. I will not try to convince you of my worth with flowery words.”


Apparently stunned the Lord stuttered a little in surprise. “You- you are nothing but an arrogant child! You know nothing of pain! You are-”


Sunset’s eyes blazed, “I know nothing of pain!? You, Lord Night, know nothing of me! You do not know my mind, or my heart. You most certainly do not know my pain.” She turned and bowed once more to Twilight and then turned on her heel. “I can see myself out.”


“W-wait!” Twilight’s voice brought her to an immediate halt. “A test!”


Her father, his face still red with rage huffed, “what are you on about?”


“She can prove her worth with a test! Something you pick, father. Any test you like to prove her worth.” Twilight stared up at him with big, pleading eyes. “Won’t you at least give her a chance?”


He glanced at Sunset, who raised a defiant brow. “Fine,” he muttered, “a test then.” Then he smiled, “to prove your… devotion... to my only daughter: you will lose.”


“Lose?”


“A hundred knights have won tournaments in Twilight’s name; it is nothing special to win. You claim that you know true pain, so you may prove it and win my approval at the same time. The next tournament is in the Crystal Empire. Lose. You cannot withdraw, you must lose each match. If you succeed, I will give my blessing.”


Her pride bellowed and pounded at the cage she’d placed it in but she gave a curt nod, “fine.”
> Chapter 8: Deception
> --------------------------------------------------------------------------

Applejack was grinding her teeth again. Sunset knew the sound as well as she knew her own mind. It was a habit AJ had kicked for a long time, the fact that it had started up again did not bode well.





AJ’s teeth continued to grind as she began pacing, and then, speaking. “Let me see if I’ve got this right. You’ve agreed to lose the tournament that is meant to feed us for the next two moons in order to impress the father of some lady you’ve only spoken to a handful of times?!” 





Sunset cringed, “… I’ve written her a few letters?”





The older squire’s face turned an alarming shade of purple. “Tournaments are dangerous when you’re properly competing! Do you have any idea how dangerous what you are doing is? And what about the rest of us! If you die trying to prove a point to that pompous man what are we left with? The sun and moon help us if we get caught because you kill your fool-fucking-self!”





“I’m not going to die; my armor is more than capable of handling the blows.”





“Your armor has weak points,” AJ shrieked, “Dash and I raised you with more damn brains than that! You know very well all the ways you can wind up dead like this, don’t deny it!”





“Well I can’t lose by withdrawing; Lord Night was very specific about that. I have to be beaten, completely trounced in each match.”





“For Celestia’s sake Sunset, why? Why must it be this girl? You know you can’t marry her.”





Sunset’s head snapped up, “why not?” she growled back, “why can’t I? I’m as proud and strong as any other knight!” 





“You’re not even a real knight!” Applejack dropped her head into her hands. “I love you like you’re my flesh and blood Sunset but please just this once can’t you see reason? You’re not a noble. You and I, and Dash, we’re nobodies. We’re the children of peasants Sugar cube and that’s all we’ll ever be.”





Sunset swallowed thickly, “with enough faith a person can change their fate, AJ. Can’t you just believe in me?”





“I wish I could. But there’ll be nothing left of you to believe in if you die trying to throw this tournament.” And with that, Applejack turned and retreated into her tent.





Sunset stomped away from their camp, fuming. With gritted teeth she held in a scream and instead jabbed her spear at a nearby oak tree. There was a satisfying thud as the metal sank into bark. 





“May I ask what the tree did to offend you?” Sunset gave a startled yelp as she spun to face Luna.





“Y-your highness!” She got halfway to a bow before the Princess waved a hand.





“Do not bow, my friend. What troubles you?”





Sunset shifted uneasily, “I will be losing the match tomorrow,” she answered bluntly. “I want to court Lord Night’s daughter, he’s ordered me to lose to prove myself.”





Luna cringed and nodded, “I have known Night for a long while. He is stubborn and often full of himself. I am sorry to say you will not find him to be a man who changes his mind.” She reached and pulled the spear from the tree and raised a brow at the effort it took. “You are impressively strong.” 





Sunset smirked at the compliment, “let’s hope my strength will be enough to keep me in one piece tomorrow.”





They talked for a while longer about nothing and everything. Sunset found that Luna was easy to speak to. The princess waxed poetic about beautiful women and about battle. She was far more relatable than Sunset expected. Sunset found herself returning Luna's trust with some of her own. She could not remember the last time she had spoken so easily to another person. She hardly even thought about what she might give away with her stories of her youth with Dash and AJ.





When the sun began to sink, Luna bid her goodbye and good luck. Sunset returned to camp still burdened by the weight of her deal with the lord and anxious. Her sleep was fitful and when morning dawned both she and all of her company were in a foul mood.





Dash had been uncharacteristically silent since Sunset had told them of her plan. She wouldn’t even look at her and Pinkie, who seemed to take all her cues from Dash, was following suit. Applejack was alternating between grinding her teeth and glaring daggers at Sunset. 





She loses.





She loses and no one in her company can bring themselves to watch the carnage. The crack of lances breaking and the shouts of horror and glee from the crowd keep them all informed. They don’t need to look to know what is happening. After three matches the tournament officials question her but Lord Night intervenes and she’s permitted to continue. There are more than forty knights in town to compete. Unlike at Roan, here in Marechester there were many knights who were far more seasoned than her. Every last one seemed to hit like a battering ram. 





Twilight was practically shaking as she watched Ser Solaris take yet another blow from her opponent. Sunset had taken more punishment that anyone would deem fair and Twilight found that she hated her father and his arrogance in this moment. The lord was staring placidly down at the scene. Even Shining Amor had taken to looking away as Sunset took blow after blow. 





The final match was upon her. If she lost this one, she would be out of the tournament and she could rest. The thunder of hooves and the cheer of onlookers shook her. Her armor felt hot and overly heavy. She felt as if she was suffocating. 





There was an almighty crack as her opponent broke his lance on her shoulder. For the first time today, Sunset was unable to keep silent her howl of pain. The cry erupted from her chest like the roar of a wounded lioness. Her armor had not caved but the lance had broken in such a way that a shard split off. The splintered metal and wood was lodged in the exposed skin just beneath her arm. It had struck her between two ribs, lodged deep and sending a spray of blood across her side. 





With a snarl she yanked it from her skin, “Dash! I need some help here!” Her companions crowded around her, pulling her from her saddle. 





A tournament official approached them with a grimace. “Ser Solaris has been granted a fifteen minute recess to tend to her wound. If she does not return to the saddle in that time, she forfeits.” He hesitated for a long moment, “my lady, if I may be so bold, why do you subject yourself to this?”





With a pained groan Sunset flopped into the chair AJ had brought her, “I am an idiot.”





Twilight could stand it no longer. “Father please,” she pleaded, “she has endured this all without complaint. She has lost, just as you requested! Please end this; there is no need to torture her further.”





Lord Night raised a brow, “you feel that she has proven herself? You feel that you know her heart? Tell me Twilight, how well do you even know the girl? Do you have any idea who she is? What she is?”





“It doesn’t matter.”





“She is a peasant. I have asked after her lineage, it is false. Her love for you is false. And I will end this façade.” 





Incensed by his callousness she shrieked, "It doesn't matter!" 





The door to their private section in the stands banged opened, interrupting her tirade. Princess Luna entered, her face unreadable. “Summoning me in such a way is highly irregular Night,” she growled. “What is it you want?” 





The noble smiled in a way that made his children’s hearts sink. “I’m afraid I have found a deceiver in our midst, my lady.”
> Chapter 9: The Capture of Sunset Shimmer
> --------------------------------------------------------------------------

Sunset hissed through her teeth as Dash prodded at her wound. Her armor had been stripped off by Pinkie’s gentle hands. She could not lift her right arm, Dash had needed to cut her tunic from her chest. Her shoulders were raw from the rubbing of her armor and the blows she had taken had done more damage than expected. Purple, black and red pulsing bruises littered her torso and blood was still steadily oozing from her side.





Dash’s expression was dark and focused. She was slowly pulling fragments of wood from Sunset’s ribs, her analytical eyes occasionally flickering to AJ who had not moved since they got to their tent. “You’ve done a lot of stupid things Sunset but this might be the worst,” she growled. “A half inch deeper and you’d be dead, suffocating on your own blood.”





Sunset gave a pained grunt as another long splinter was yanked from her skin, “I know.”





“You nearly gave your life to prove a point to a noble who was never going to care how brave you are.”





“I know.”





“You’ve lost and have nothing to show for it except pain.”





“I KNOW,” her pained gasping finally drew Dash’s attention to her face. 





The last time that Sunset had cried, she’d been little more than a child. She had been helping Rainbow brush Ser Sunburst’s horse and had taken a nasty kick to the chest. She still had the scar in the center of her chest. Sunburst had heard her cries and had whipped her for waking him (and he’d gotten Dash and AJ for good measure). 





Sunset had never cried after that. Not matter the beating, no matter the pain. Crying had never done her any good, it had only brought more pain. 





She was crying now. 





Dash swallowed, “you’re gonna be okay Sun.”





“I know I will,” she wheezed back, hastily rubbing at her eyes. “I have you guys.” 





As Rainbow began the slow process of cleaning and stitching Sunset’s skin, Pinkie slipped away to forfeit the match officially. AJ, however, remained staring down at Sunset as if deep in thought. 





“I knew a girl once…” Applejack said slowly, pulling up a loose barrel to sit next to them. “She was the personal tailor of lady Polomare up in Clydesdale. I loved her something fierce, still do love her really. Her father wanted to marry her to some Duke or other… Sunburst made us leave before I got the chance to tell her.”





“Wh-why’re you telling me this?” Sunset gasped, wincing at the tug of her stitches. “I should have listened to you AJ… I’m sorry.”





“I was wrong,” Applejack said firmly, reaching out and grasping Sunset’s shoulder gently. “I don’t want you to feel the way I do when I think of her. I want you to love and be loved in return, you deserve it. I’m sorry that I made this harder. Maybe she’s your one and maybe she ain’t but if you’re gonna get hurt either way… then I may as well be helpful instead of a stubborn brute about it.”





Sunset was opening her mouth to respond when the tent flap was swept open. Pinkie Pie came flying in, already tossing stuff into her bag. “We have to go!”





“Little busy here Pinks,” Dash snapped when she bumped past her.





“Lord Night has Sunset’s papers!” Sunset blinked as the words registered, time itself slowed to a crawl. 





Pinkie was still packing. AJ was speaking but the words were muddled. Dash’s usually steady hands were shaking as she continued stitching just a hair faster than before. She heard only bits and pieces of what was said.





“Saddle… horses…”





“Arrested… hanging or… can’t let them…”





“run…”





“Run…”





“RUN!”





Flash came tumbling into the tent, the bridle of Sunset’s horse in hand. And time returned to normal. “No.” she said softly. 





They all turned, their faces exposing their thoughts. It was Flash that was the first to find his tongue, “Sunset! We have to run. They’ll kill you!”





“You should go,” her eyes flickered from one of her friends to the next. This had been her plan, her dream, all of it was her. “All of you. Go. They aren’t after you, you’re negligible to them. This has Lord Night Light written all over it. Their- he’s after me.” Her eyes fixed on each of their devastated faces in turn. “I’m so-”





“Don’t you dare say you’re sorry Sunset Shimmer,” AJ snapped, “and don’t you dare try to send us away. I pulled you from that fire! I made you my kin! Dash and I gave you that name and we knew you’d do incredible things, and you have! Run or fight, I’m with you.”





Dash tied off the last stitch and stood, one hand resting on her dagger. “We’ve always been fighters Sunny. I see no reason to change that now.”





Sunset smiled but shook her head, “not today Dashie.”





“But then…” Pinkie hesitated, “what are we gonna do?”





“He wants to humiliate me,” she glanced at her company and drew in a breath. “He thinks by doing this he’s taking everything away from me. He wants me to act like a caged animal; like the peasants he so despises when he knows nothing about us… I will give him no such satisfaction.” 





Sunset smiled sadly as they slowly strapped on her armor over a borrowed tunic. She smiled at Pinkie as the writer turned herald adjusted her pauldrons. She smiled at Rainbow as she snapped on her greaves. She smiled AJ who had combed her hair, and at Flash who was polishing her spear. And when she was dressed, she took her spear in hand to lean on, and together they strode into the fray. 





They were set upon almost immediately by guards and true to form it did not go well. 





Sunset had told them all to go quietly but it was not in their nature to retreat. The first wave was met swiftly by Rainbow’s dagger and Pinkie holding her walking stick like a staff. The second found Applejack to be far stronger than expected and Flash to be as quick as his name. It turned into a full-fledged skirmish from the moment one of them set his hands on Dash. 





But they were outnumbered. For every one guard they escaped another three replaced him. When she saw them closing ranks to encircle her company, Sunset whistled loudly. “Stand down!”





The guard captain snarled beneath his helmet, “who are you to give orders here!?” He was right in her face, his sword unsheathed and pressed to her throat. 





“No one,” she replied coolly, “I was speaking only to my company. I will go with you, quietly, if you release them. They know nothing of my deception and they are blameless. It is me your master is after.”





The man’s eyes widened ever so slightly and she thought she saw the faintest glimmer of respect in his eyes as he stepped back. “Release the squires, the herald… hell, release the boy. We’ve got what we came for.”





Sunset managed to give them a small, not at all reassuring smile, before a bag was thrust over her head and she was dragged away.
> Chapter 10: Sunset Shimmer
> --------------------------------------------------------------------------

It was hard to tell how long it had been, at least three days based on the sliver of light she could see through a crack in the wall. The cell was dark, and damp, and they had not fed her since her capture. Dressed in rags and her hands bound to a post, Sunset Shimmer had never looked less like herself. It had to be nearly noon based on the light shining on the wall when the door to her cell was flung open. 





A guard entered, a hooded figure by his side. “Leave us,” the hooded man said coolly. The guard bowed and started for the door when the man spoke again. “How long has it been since she’s eaten?” 





“Uh- three… no, nearly four days, my lord,” he answered. “She was knocked unconscious for the first day and his Lordship has commanded she be given nothing on the days following.”





“His lordship is a fine example of unnecessary cruelty. Bring me a bowl of water, a slab of whatever meat you can find and some bread, the fresher the better.”





“But his lordsh-” a sword pointed at his chest cut off his argument. 





“Lord Night has shamed himself and his family with his malice and lack of honor. Bring the girl something to fucking eat or I’ll see to it that you take her place!” 





Sunset watched their interactions, her expression carefully placid. When the man turned back to speak she greeted him, “Shining Armor, to what do I owe this visit?”





He threw off his hood looking startled, “I will not ask how you knew. I’ve come on my sister’s behalf… and my own. I am sorry, for several things my father has done, you’re imprisonment not the least among them.”





Sunset rolled her eyes, “I’m not a noble and you don’t need to speak to me like one. Your father’s actions are his, this isn’t your fault. Tell Twilight it isn't hers either.” She turned away from him and resolved not to say anymore.





“They mean to put you in the stocks, Solaris. And then they will hang you. I have pleaded your case the best I can but my father is without compassion and he despises you.”





When the guard eventually returned, she accepted the meal without a word and then turned away again. Shining Armor’s attempts at apologies were ignored and eventually he left with one last muttered apology. “I’m sorry Solaris, truly.”





“Sunset.”





“What?”





“My name, my real name, it’s Sunset Shimmer. Someone should know it, might as well be you.” Shining left her in peace after that, and if nothing else she was glad to see a friendly face and have a last meal.





When she was dragged from her cell an hour later, she expected to be led to the stocks for her humiliation. Instead she found herself guided by a phalanx of guards toward a massive mansion near the edge of the city. She caught only glimpses of the people and her other surroundings through the crush of bodies around her. Servants and other soldiers rushed back and forth. Everyone was dressed in black, purple, and deep blue with the image of a crescent moon depicted on their chests. The ceilings were high and arched, beautifully made and grand. 





In time they came to a stop before a massive wooden door. A guard in intricate armor was positioned on either side, gleaming swords at their sides. The one to the right spoke, “state your business and identify yourself.”





The guard standing in front of her was familiar. She recognized him as the captain who had apprehended her. “Captain Bulwark of squadron fourteen. We are escorting the prisoner to Princess Luna, at her behest.” 





The guard nodded once and turned to knock twice on the door. Moments later it swung slowly open and an announcement rang out. “Presenting the prisoner known as Solaris Incarnate. She is to stand before her majesty, Princess Luna Selene of house Solaris. Princess of the Night and Moon,” a herald called out. 





Sunset was shoved to her knees before a towering silver throne and her heart felt as if it was being crushed in a vice. The Luna who stared down at her was not the friend she knew. She looked at Sunset as if she were the greatest traitor in history. Sunset dropped her head low and said nothing as the charges against her were read.





“The accused stands to be placed in the stocks,” the herald announced in a bored tone. “She is then sentenced to hang by the neck until she is dead, as is the penalty for impersonating a member of the nobility. The charges laid against her are as follows: impersonation of a noble, illegal entrance to a tournament, theft from the crown, the deceit of-”





“I’ve heard enough,” Luna interrupted emotionlessly. “Leave us.”





“Your majesty,” one of the guards hesitated, “surely you cannot trust this street rat to-”





“Leave us.” 





Sunset did not move as the room cleared. She did not move as Luna descended from her throne. She dared not even breathe when the Princess approached her. 





Faster than Sunset could ever hope to counter with her chained hands, Luna’s booted foot made contact with her stomach. Reeling, she toppled over with a muffled grunt of pain. “Look at me!” the princess snarled. “You called yourself my friend and lied to me in the very same breath… you didn’t even give me your true name. If you can lie to my face then I demand that you look me in the eye now.”





Chest aching worse than her stomach, Sunest slowly raised her eyes. “I would swear to you princess, on the only family I have, that the only lie I told you was my name.” 





Luna sneered in a way that put Sunset in mind of Lord Night, “How could I trust anything you say? How would I know what was truth and what was a lie? You have lied about your name, you have lied about your origin, you are a liar and I have no sympathy for liars.”





“I have nothing left to lie about,” Sunset sighed, and lowered her gaze again. “All that I feared has already come to pass, your highness. You have, and have always had my respect and my friendship should you still want it. On all that I hold precious in this world, I swear to tell you only the truth. And I will tell you all you want to know, if only you would agree to listen. Please,” she pleaded, “let me at least attempt to right this wrong.”





“What is your true name? Surely you have one. Solaris Incarnate was a lie. I will not speak to a lie.”





“Sunset. My friends named me Sunset Shimmer.”





Luna’s eyes narrowed, “what do you mean when you say that your friends named you?”





And so, Sunset told her. She told her everything she knew about the village she was from, about her life with Lord Sunburst Starwatcher. She told her about Dash and Pinkie, about AJ, about Flash. She even told her about Twilight, about all the love she had for her, and about her fear. She told the Princess everything, every fear and every triumph, no matter how small. And when she was finished, she fell silent as Luna took in this information. 





“You are a foolish and brave soul indeed, Sol-Sunset,” she said finally.
> Chapter 11: The High Commander
> --------------------------------------------------------------------------

Luna was silent for a long time, evidently contemplating what she had been told. Sunset’s tale, like many others, was long. It was also filled with far more pain than most would deem fair, and yet here she was, standing before Luna. Luna, who would have to punish her, all because Sunset was a commoner who dared to want more; who dared to try for more. It stung the Princess’s soul a bit to think of what awaited her erstwhile friend. 





“Why did you want to be a knight?”





Sunset glanced up from her own reverie in surprise, “what?”





“You told me that you’ve wanted to be a knight since you were small… why?”





“I… I suppose I like the idea of a brave and honorable servant of the crown… someone who fights for what is right and is still kind and brave after all that. Ser Sunburst was sent to rescue the village where they found me… he failed and all that was left was ash and bone… and me. I wanted to do better, I wanted to be better. So that the next time a village was invaded, I would be strong enough to stop them. So there would be no more nameless orphans raised by squires too young to be mothers.”





“That is a very noble reason indeed, Sunset Shimmer.” Luna sighed softly, and looked as if she might say more when with a great cacophony of shouting and banging, the doors to her hall burst open. 





“I demand to know the meaning of this!” 





Luna groaned under her breath, “Lord Night,” she gritted, “to what do I owe this impropriety?”





“You would speak to me about impropriety? You have released a prisoner that I demand to see punished!” Lord Night’s face took on an impressively red hue. “I want the girl confined to the stocks at once! My own son has had his mind poisoned by this wretch.”





For a half a moment, Sunset saw the rage and indignation in Luna’s eyes but it was swiftly dimmed. “You are fortunate that I have finished my interrogation, Sir. I will have her transported at once, if it will truly please your ego to see her suffer further.”





“It certainly would,” he snapped, apparently unaware of what Sunset was certain Luna meant as an insult. 





She did not resist as she was led away, and she did not resist as her neck was clamped into the roughhewn boards of the stocks. They positioned her near the tournament grounds, smack in the middle of the market, and a crowed formed swiftly. She lowered her eyes and braced for the start of what was sure to be an ugly scene. 





The resounding jeers of onlookers seemed to climb with every moment. A boy, no older than eleven or twelve ran up and gave her a sound thump on the head. This was followed up by several half-rotted vegetables splattering across the boards near her face, missing her by inches. She was quietly contemplating her fate when the crowd roared in anger and she glanced up to see what had drawn their attention.





She started, to her right was Rainbow Dash, Sunset’s shield in one hand and her dagger in the other. She was waving it threateningly at anyone in range. To her right and found AJ, Sunset’s sword gripped tight in her hand pointed toward the dirt; the expression on Applejack’s face said she was unafraid to use it. 





AJ glanced down at her with a grimace that was clearly meant to be a smile, “you’ve really fudged it this time, kid.”





Sunset let her head dip further in shame, “go away girls, let them have their pound of flesh.”





“Like hell!” Rainbow snarled, “They want you they’ll have to go through us.”





Sunset sighed and refused to raise her head, “you’ll be arrested for protecting me.”





A familiar laugh rung out, even above the din of the crowd, “silly Sunset,” Pinkie snorted as she pushed her way to their sides. “You aren’t going anywhere we can’t follow.” A resolved Flash Sentry trailed behind her pink friend, nodding his agreement. 





Pinkie, in a surprising show of grace, leapt atop the stocks and called out. “Listen to me! Listen!” Another volley of fruits and veggies followed but Pinkie was undeterred. In a voice none of them had ever heard before, she barked, “Hear me and heed my words!” The roar dulled considerably. “Look here at my friend. What do you see?” Murmuring swept through the court yard. “Is she any different than you or me? She is being punished for wanting better! Wanting better for herself, yes, but also for you and for me. And this is a crime? Wanting to eat? To sleep in comfort?” Pinkie shook her head sadly and the crowd seemed to shrink a little at her reprimand.





Applejack cleared her throat, “How did the nobles… how did they become noble in the first place? None of the ones I’ve ever seen have earned it. And Sunset… she’s got more courage than ten knights… hell, she’s got more courage than a hundred of ‘em.”





“Yeah!” chorused Dash, “Sunset’s been a better knight than all of them! She’s brave and smart and kind and loyal. She deserves better!”





Sunset watched the scene from behind her hair, hiding and saying nothing. Her heart seized when the crowd began to part and she caught a glimpse of coal black armor. “Guards,” she hissed desperately, “run, they’ll arrest you!”





“That’s the idea,” muttered Dash. None of them resisted as they were detained by a phalanx of Luna’s guards, nor as they were led away. Watching the only family she had ever known dragged away in chains, Sunset wept.





Princess Luna sat on her throne for the second time that day, glaring down at a prisoner; or more accurately, glaring down at four prisoners. None of them had said a word, nor had they fought back according to her Captain of the Guard. 





Curious at their silence, Luna spoke. “She’s not of noble birth, and yet you all follow this Sunset Shimmer the way knights used to follow Kings and Queens of old. I have never seen such loyalty, not even in the purest of our noble houses.”





They did not answer her. Even the ever talkative Pinkie said nothing. 





Luna narrowed her eyes, a begrudging respect for the commoners growing in her heart. Sunset’s tale had been a sad one, and it had made her burn with something akin to shame when she bent to Lord Night’s will. She wondered at these commoners, so fiercely devoted to someone who could have very well gotten them killed with her foolish dream. Finally, she snapped, “will none of you speak?!”





“Sunset,” said Flash quietly, “is a knight worth following.”





“She is NOT A KNIGHT!” the princess roared, “A knight is granted their title through birthright or the blessing of me and my sister. Sunset Shimmer is a coward and a liar. She is unworthy to the highest degree.” Certain in her judgment, and even more certain that her rule abiding sister would agree, Luna nodded triumphantly. “Sunset Shimmer shall tomorrow be executed for crimes against the dual crown.”





AJ’s head snapped up and Luna was momentarily startled by the darkness in her eyes. “Respectfully, your Highness, you’re wrong.”





“And who are you to speak in such a way to a princess?”





“Someone old enough to remember when you were more than just a princess,” AJ stumbled to her feet and met Luna’s eyes. “I remember stories my granny told me about the fierce, unrelenting, High Commander Luna. The Nightmare they called you, the Princess of Darkness.” Luna took a startled step back, her sister had hated that title, had hated the awe and respect it commanded. Applejack was not finished, “Sunset Shimmer is more like you than any knight, in any house, in all of the country! She may not be a knight on paper, highness, but she is a knight in all the ways that count.”





Luna, still reeling from the verbal assault, glanced at the company with new eyes. “You all feel this way?” Their expressions told her all she needed to know. She called for her guards and the doors swung open.





“Where shall the prisoners be led, my princess?”





Luna blinked at the captain, “release them.”





“I… I beg your pardon, your highness?”





Luna’s shoulders slumped, her flowing dress suddenly feeling as if it weighed a ton. “Release them,” she repeated, “and Captain Bulwark? It’s High Commander Luna to you.”





The commander’s eyes widened and he grinned, “By your orders, High Commander Luna.”
> Chapter 12: A Fighting Chance
> --------------------------------------------------------------------------

Captain Bulwark did not question his princess, he never had. He was her Captain and her orders were absolute, even Celestia could not force his hand against Luna’s will. And it had been a very long time indeed since he had seen her so fierce. 



With a clatter of chains, Sunset’s company found themselves freed. Luna stepped down from the raised dais. “By the laws of our land, Sunset Shimmer must be punished for her crimes. Even I in all my power would not dare oppose a law supported by so many nobles openly,” she said regretfully. The company looked away, downcast. “But, I can stay her execution. There is another punishment I may inflict though I fear you may not see it as better.”



Applejack’s heart stuttered, “will she live?” 



“If she has as much steel inside as you seem to believe, she will…” Luna’s expression did not inspire confidence. “We are at war with the Changeling Empire, this you know. What you may not know is that we are losing. My sister’s plans thus far have fallen through and we lose more ground every day. We need more soldiers, soldiers like Sunset preferably. I can frame it as a punishment; she will be sent to the front with a small cadre of prisoners and other such soldiers in her command. If she survives, she will be free.”



Rainbow Dash fumed, “that’s hardly a stay of execution! The only difference is she’ll die on the battlefield instead!”



Luna sighed, “Not if she is as good as you say. She already commands respect and awe in the city. Perhaps she may do the same on the field. I’m sorry but she has broken the law and I must follow the law. This is the best I can do.”



The company all looked as if they had swallowed something sour but Flash quietly asked, “can we go with her?”



Luna blinked, “I beg your pardon?”



“You said you would send her with a cadre of others, why not make us part of their number?”



“You… you wish to follow her to the front?” She stared at their faces, each one resigned but resolute. “You would go to war for Equestria?”



Applejack shook her head, “we would go to war for Sunset.”



Luna gave a small laugh, “the courage of your company never ceases to amaze me. Very well, Sunset Shimmer and her company are hereby sentenced to serve the Equestrian military in our war against the Changeling Empire until we achieve victory... or until they perish upon the battlefield.” She turned to Captain Bulwark, “send for Sunset Shimmer, and make ready to escort her and her company to the front.” 



“Yes, High Commander.” 



Sunset watched as the crowd dwindled and then dispersed. None had the heart to punish her further once her friends had been led away. A few even look on with something akin to pity. And then, as if the heavens themself had an opinion, it began to rain. A massive deluge came down, soaking everything in its path. Her clothes clung to her and the cold crept into her skin, straight down to her bones. 



She was near freezing when a guard arrived, the same Captain that arrested her. “Hullo,” he greeted, “you look a sight indeed.” He carefully popped open the lock and lifted the top of the stocks off her. “I’m Captain Phantom Bulwark of the Lunar guard. You’ve won many hearts here in Canterlot it seems, Sunset Shimmer.”



Teeth chattering to the point of pain she sputtered a bit, “w-w-what?”



“High Commander Luna has summoned you to her throne room at once, come along.” And he set off with a smile and a spring to his step.



They made haste through streets cleared by the rain and upon approaching the walls of Luna’s abode they were let through without question. Sunset was led into a small room where, to her shock, her belongings were returned to her. Her armor had been repainted to a deep blue, akin to the Captain’s own. Her tunic also was replaced by a lighter one of better quality that shimmered silver in the light. 



“Forgive me for asking but what is happening?” She blurted when Captain Bulwark handed over her things without a word.



“Dress yourself and make ready to meet the High Commander Luna,” he smirked. “She has… revised your sentence. You will restore the Dark Regiment.”



Sunset paused, her chest plate half-on. “The Dark Regiment? I’ve never heard of that? What is it? Why has my execution been stayed?”



Bulwark snorted, “your people make a compelling case for you. Come, the High Commander is waiting.”



Sunset followed, still tightening her armor as she went. “You keep calling her that… the ‘High Commander’ but she hasn’t used that title since my mentor was young.”



As they approached the throne room doors the Captain stepped aside and smiled at her again. “I hope you survive Sunset Shimmer. I think you’re a good influence on my mistress. I will see you when you are finished here, there are preparations I must make.”



“Preparations for wha-” Sunset cut off as the doors swung open. Gone were the white and gold banners of Celestia that had decorated the hall only hours ago; replaced by curtains and tapestries of blue and black. And upon a throne, not silver like before, but carved of the blackest gem she had ever seen, was Luna.  



The princess certainly looked the part of a commander, her flowing dress discarded in favor of her armor. She shined with a new light, like a beacon. “Sunset Shimmer,” she boomed, “your sentence has been changed to better suit Equestria’s needs. I have commanded the return of the Dark Regiment. Are you familiar?” 



Startled and puzzled, Sunset shook her head, “No, your highness.”



“Captain Bulwark will give you a full explanation on your journey. A summary now shall suffice; you are being given command of a cadre of other criminals. Under the watchful eye of the Captain you will command these criminals and shape them into soldiers. You will fight for Equestria in our battle against the Changeling’s, your sentence is to last until we achieve victory… or you die.”



Sunset’s heart thundered, on the surface it was a punishment but she could see the slightest glimmer of pride in Luna’s eyes. Her friend had given her a fighting chance. “Then I will be proud to serve and to die in my service to you, High Commander Luna.” She bowed low, “Every victory I see will be in your honor and every Changeling who falls to my sword will be another diamond in your crown.”



A tiny smile graced Luna’s face, “then go, and leave victory in your wake. I will be glad to greet you as a friend should you return.”
> Chapter13: Shield of the Night
> --------------------------------------------------------------------------

The shock of having her sentence changed was nothing compared to finding out that her friends would be with her. When Luna had finished with her, Sunset was led to the stables. She was pounced on before she even made it through the door. 





“Sunny!” Pinkie cheered, “We’ve been waiting for ages.”





“I- wh- what are you all doing here?”





Applejack snorted, she finished pulling on the chest plate she’d been securing as Sunset entered. “Didn’t they tell ya, we’re goin with ya. We’re part of yer company.”









“That’s right,” piped Flash, “if you’re off to fight then so are we.”









“I’m happy to know how much I mean to you, all of you- but this- this is madness. This isn’t just jousts or tournaments like before. This is war!”





Rainbow Dash pushed past the others. She was draped in the same blue-ish black armor as the rest, and beneath a midnight colored hood her eyes had a terrifying intensity. “You think we aren’t aware of the risk? We were prepared to die fighting today, what difference does it make if it’s today or tomorrow?”





Cowed, Sunset nodded. “Sorry, and um… thank you.”





Dash nodded, turning and shoving aside some other tunics and picking up a bow, intricately carved and dyed the same blue as everything else. “I suggest everyone grab a few weapons each, we’re headed for hell.”





The process of picking and choosing what items to bring was long but eased by a promise from Captain Bulwark that a wagon would be provided. When they were finished, the Captain pulled Sunset aside. 





“I’ll give you a rundown of how this will go.” Bulwark said, slumping onto an old barrel. “There is a prison in Stalliongrad that we will visit. Any prisoner whose crimes are less than capital will be permitted to volunteer to fight in exchange for their freedom. We will train for three weeks in Stalliongrad, there I will teach you how to command a legion. You, in turn, will train your volunteers to fight. And when the last week is out, we will depart to the front line.”





“You’ll be with us there too?”





The Captain smiled, “the High Commander has a great deal of faith in you. I will be there for the first week, after that… you’re on your own. You will assign a messenger and they will keep us updated.”





“She doesn’t think we’ll run?”





“You didn’t before, you won’t now…” He smiled and got to his feet, “besides, there will be legions of Celestial guards behind you and hordes of Changelings in front. Where would you run to?”





The morning dawned on them all in a guest room of Luna’s mansion. It was the best sleep Sunset could ever remember. Luna came to see them off, and as they prepared to ride with Bulwark and Sunset at the head, she smiled. “I wish you all the luck in the world.”





Sunset chanced a smile back, “I have faith that I will see you again my lady,” she bowed as best she could before wheeling her horse around. She spurred the great black stallion forward, “Yah!” And they darted off, the others falling in behind her. 





They kept up a fierce pace. Captain Bulwark, for all his kindness, was a stern leader and did not allow them more than one stop per day and the ride to Stalliongrad was long. Three days they rode with haste before the small city was within their sight and Sunset was back in the place of her birth. 





They rested in a green grove, just outside the city and many people watched them from a distance. Some passersby whispered, others wondered aloud at their arrival. The apparent presence of soldiers wearing Luna’s colors drew attention, especially since Celestia’s banners were far more common these days. 





When the fourth day of their journey began, Sunset left the others to train and plan as she followed Bulwark into the city proper. She had no memory of her home town, save for the scars she carried from the fire. The market bustled with people but fell oddly silent as they passed through. Many people she saw were looking at her as if they had seen a ghost. Doing her best to ignore the attention, she kept her gaze ahead at the towering stone that made up the prison of Stalliongrad.





Bulwark approached the guard at the great wooden door of the fortress and thrust out a letter with Luna’s seal. The guard eyed them both before opening it. “Guardsmen of Stalliongrad,” he read aloud. “By order of High Commander Luna, Commander of the armies of Equestria, and Princess of the Night the bearer of this letter shall be presented with all prisoners…” he fell silent as he read further. His head snapped up, “The High Commander would reinstate the Dark Regiment? She would fill her army with criminals and beggars?”





“The High Commander’s word is law,” Sunset snapped, “Who are you to question the Princess of Darkness?”





The guard took a startled step back, “and who might you be, my lady?” 





Captain Bulwark stepped forward, a dark look in his eye. “Take care how you speak to this one, guardsmen. I may be the Princess of Darkness’s red right hand… but this, this is her shield. I present Sunset Shimmer, General of the Dark Regiment, and Shield of the Night.”





The guard stepped back and after a moment, bowed. “I will fetch you those prisoners who fit your requirements.”
> Chapter 14: The Dark Regiment
> --------------------------------------------------------------------------

The men and women the guards brought her were not what Sunset had hoped for. As the largest prison in Equestria, the fortress held over a thousand prisoners. The ones brought before her numbered less than four hundred. 


“This is all?” Captain Bulwark grunted, “how many are there here?”


The guard they had met at the gate shifted uncomfortably; “Three hundred and seventy-six, Sir. That was all that volunteered. The rest are either far too old, or young, or outright refused.” 


Sunset sighed, and glanced at AJ, “Still think it was a good idea to follow me?”


The squire grimaced back. 


Sunset nodded, the expressions her company wore told her more than enough. She turned and faced the crowd, and drew in a breath. “Here!” she bellowed, and again, “HERE!” Heads turned and the roar died down. 


Captain Bulwark waved her down and stepped forward. “Hear now the order of Luna: High Commander of Equestria’s legions, Princess of the Night. ‘Those of able body and having committed no capital crime shall be permitted to volunteer to serve under the command of Sunset Shimmer, Shield of the Night. Those who volunteer shall earn their freedom at this war’s end and return in peace with honor.’” Bulwark then stepped down and waved to Sunset. “This is your leader! This is your commander. This. Is. Your Captain! Obey her and she will lead you home, defy her and death will surely follow.” He stepped away then and Sunset was left to speak to them alone. 


“How many of you have military training?” None answered and Sunset felt unease take hold. “Very well, can you at least form ranks? I imagine you know what those are.” There was shuffling as they formed into crooked columns. “I will train you all as I was trained. We are few and we march directly to the front. Look to your left, look to your right, look forward and behind, these are your shield brothers and sisters. This is now your family. On my word you will break rank and find a friend amongst those around you. Each of you will have one, that will be your partner, that person is your responsibility in training and in battle. Go now and welcome to the Dark Regiment.”


The next few weeks were more grueling for all of them than they cared to admit. The others, having trained Sunset but never participated themselves had to learn more combat and help keep the new recruits in line. 


It was not easy, even for seasoned squires. 


Dash had always been good with a bow but found the immense draw weight of one built to penetrate armor a challenge. 


Applejack took to a sword well and carried her armor far better than most but became frustrated with the balance and awkwardness of her shield. 


Flash, similarly, was keen on carrying a lance but found out the hard way that it takes a great deal of arm strength to wield and even more to throw. 


Pinkie was surprisingly deadly with a pair of dual daggers and had picked up a short sword. But she firmly refused to wear any more than a light leather tunic and a chain mail collar to protect her throat. 


Between training grumbling prisoners and learning what battle strategies Bulwark could teach in such limited time, Sunset had her hands full. And the people of Stalliongrad seemed to look upon her like she was a ghost. 


Starting at sunrise she trained with her soldiers. She walked amongst them and came to know many quite well, teaching and placing them based on where they seemed to thrive. And after the sun set each day she met with Bulwark for instruction and planning. 


She knew that the time of their departure did not care if they were ready or not and it drew ever closer. The progress of her new regiment was slow but, only a few of the unruly recruits found themselves returned to their cells. 


Three days before they were set to leave, a cart with a lone driver arrived and Sunset was awoken by shouts and threats of bodily harm. 


Stumbling from her tent, her tunic inside-out and one of Pinkie’s daggers as her only weapon she shoved her way forward. “Where’s the fire?” She barked; cowing the soldiers around her, “make a hole!” The crush of bodies around her retreated and she strode forward, dagger pointed. “What business have you here?” she demanded as she caught sight of the interloper. Her friends had him well surrounded and he did not seem a threat. 


“Forgive me, Commander.” The man said, his voice low but somehow familiar. “I came looking for you, in the hope that you might accept one more to your company. Her Highness, Princess Luna told me where to find you.”


At the mention of Luna, Sunset stiffened. “And what proof do you have of that?”


He smiled and lifted his head so that their eyes met and removed his hood. “None, except my word.”


“Shining Armor?” Sunset stepped back in surprise. “What in hells name are you doing here? How is Twilight? Has she married that leech-brained Count?”


Shining drew his sword and dropped to one knee before Sunset’s feet. “I have come to offer you my services, Sunset Shimmer, Shield of the Night. I am no longer Shining Armor son of Night Light. My father has banished me. He has stripped my titles and sent me away.” Here he looked up, “I hope with your help, I might return that humiliation one day.”


“None of my men kneel to me Shining Armor, especially not my friends,” Sunset said with a smile. “I am sorry to hear that your father has failed to see reason once again… Welcome to the Dark Regiment.” She turned and started back to her tent calling over her shoulder, “have Flash Sentry outfit you and see AJ and Pinkie for breakfast. When you’re done, come and see me in my tent.” 


Sunset dressed slowly, her mind and heart racing. She was glad to see Shining Armor again but thoughts of what could have become of Twilight made her waver. She found the new armor Flash produced for her even more comfortable than her old set and yet today it felt too tight. It was as if her chest was bound in chains and she could not even appreciate the black gleam of her breast plate and the lightness of her chain mail. 


Finally she resolved to just sit behind the roughhewn desk she’d been provided, reviewing her maps of the battlefield until Shining showed himself. 


She did not wait long. 


He poked his head through only a few minutes after she began and waited for her to notice him.


She knew there were more important questions but the only one that found its way out of her throat was, “Where’s Twilight?” And once that question had hung in the air a moment, the rest spewed forth in a stream. “Is she alright? Has your father forced her to marry Timber Spruce? Why did he disown you? Why did you come here?”


“Are you done?” he asked. “I want to be sure before I answer all that.” When her only answer was a scowl he nodded. “The truth is that I don’t know where she’s gone. Father intended to marry her off to Spruce but I knew what such a marriage would do to her so I gave her all the money I had and sent her away. I made her promise not to tell anyone where she was going, not even me. She took her lady in waiting, Fluttershy, with her and disappeared. As for my father, he has become more paranoid with every day. He’s accused me of treason and shut himself away. When Twi did not return the night before last he banished me. I went to Luna and she advised me to find you. I’ve known her all my life and I’d wager she has her 
reasons.”


Sunset nodded slowly, “If Twilight is free of your father then that is all I could hope for. I will have to put her out of my mind for now; I have to focus on the battles to come.” With this, she turned and called out to her company and began relaying the daily schedule.
> Chapter 15: The March
> --------------------------------------------------------------------------

Having Shining Armor around was a great benefit to Sunset. He was a born leader and became well liked among the newly minted soldiers. The men and women chose sergeants from amongst their own ranks to represent them, and preparation began. 





The summer heat of Stalliongrad made training intense and Shining Armor was a merciless foe to face. He and Sunset often trained together once Captain Bulwark took his leave. They stayed in the ring from dawn until the sun was directly overhead. Sweat beaded in her eyes, and still they fought on, trading blows like circling tigers. 





“Come now Sunset,” He jeered, “Surely the Red Right hand of High Commander Luna isn’t so weak as to falter at the likes of me?” He thrust forward, his sword coming within inches of her stomach and Sunset smiled.





With a great heave of effort she snapped the shaft of her spear up and forward, shoving his sword away and knocking him off balance. He stumbled. She smashed the butt of her spear into his chest, sending him sprawling. 





“Awe, come now Shinning,” she taunted, pointing her weapon in his face. “Surely it must sting to lose to a common criminal.” She extended a hand and pulled him to his feet. 





“HA!” he smiled, “you might be a criminal Sunset Shimmer but you most definitely aren’t common.”





The days passed quickly, though each seemed long in the thick of it. Criminals became soldiers, each with a story. When she wasn’t practicing with her daggers, Pinkie spoke to them, writing down many stories and often relaying them to Sunset at night. She began to think of these brave souls as not just soldiers but her soldiers. All of them longed for their freedom and to that, she thought she could relate most. Common men and women, some barely older than teenagers and some older than even Sir Sunburst had been. And they all had turned to crime to live, not at all different from her.





When the sun rose over the mountains the morning of their departure all but a few stragglers were already up and moving. 





To their surprise, quite a few townsfolk had come out to see them off. Sunset ordered them into long rows and columns, each convoy accompanied by a Sargent on either side. Three companies: two of archers, two of swordsmen, and two of spearman fell into semi-neat lines. And each Sargent carried a banner, whipping in the wind, Luna’s silver crescent moon on a deep blue background. 





Sunset swung into the saddle of her horse. She was an unusually tall mare, her coat gleaming like obsidian. She had never faltered with Sunset on her back, not even at fire-arrows or the slashing of swords. 





She glanced at AJ and Shining, “We march in a line through town, once we make it to the road we’ll spread out. AJ you can take your company to my left and Shining to the right.” They wheeled their own steeds around and cantered to their places. Ahead of her, Flash, Rainbow, and Pinkie were already waiting with Flash’s wagon. She stood up in her stirrups and turned “Forward! March!” 





Flash flicked the reins and the wagon jolted and slowly picked up speed. Sunset followed close behind with Shinning and AJ on either side. Her sergeants repeated her call and the men fell in line. The sound of hundreds of boots followed them like the rolling thunder of an oncoming storm. 





Crowds of townspeople waved and wished them well on either side, and when they reached the outskirts, her army spread out. Three convoys, one behind her, and one to either side following Shinning and AJ. Not nearly enough soldiers for a proper legion, and still they were brave… or stupid enough to follow her into hell. Sunset’s helm, newly altered by Flash with its high and easily visible red plume, felt very heavy.





Their orders from Luna, delivered early that morning, were to proceed North-East to their border with the Changeling empire. The front line was being pushed back and they were to relieve the tired souls there. Luna hoped that they might be able to push back the enemy. 





On their march it became clear why they had not yet been able to repel the changelings. The rocky cliffs that bordered their lands were tall and jagged. Changelings were born in those hills, and most had long fingers with tough nails. They wore light armor that moved freely to let them climb and were used to the daunting terrain. Any attempt made to climb by the Solar Guard was quickly killed by underhanded tactics: ambushes and traps. 





As they marched further toward the battle at hand, Sunset formulated a plan. It would let them push back their enemies and win the day for a war weary Equestrian army… or it would result in all their deaths. 





They were on their third day of marching, drawing closer by the hour to the encampment, when AJ rode up beside her. “What’s our odds of actually making it through this do ya think?”





“Hm, I’d say eighty-twenty… in their favor.”





Applejack hummed and was silent for a long moment. “… honestly that’s better than I expected… though I do think I might should write a letter to that pretty seamstress in Ponyville. I'd like to let her know I’m sweet on her. Ya know, just case I die a foolhardy death at the end of some Changeling’s blade.”





Sunset nodded, “have Pinkie help you, she’s very eloquent for someone so enamored with Rainbow Dash of all people.” They shared a laugh, and to Sunset’s amusement AJ spurred her horse forward to catch up with the cart and speak to Pinkie.
> Chapter 16: A Meeting of Minds
> --------------------------------------------------------------------------

The Solar guard commander who strode out to meet them was obviously unimpressed. “A pitiful handful of elderly thieves and peasant swine,” he spit. “This is what the great ‘High Commander Luna’ sends to aid us?”





Sunset’s blood boiled and even as Shining reached to stop her, she drew her short sword. “You think yourself better than any other soldier who would defend our great nation? Perhaps you also think yourself above the wrath of the Night Princess?”





The commander smirked, “I don’t see Luna bringing her skinny rump down here to fight.”





In one swift motion, Sunset dismounted and stuck the man in the face. The blow sent him stumbling backward and he gave a shout of indignant rage. 





“You can’t-”





“I can! By order of High Commander Luna, Princess of the Moon and Night, I hereby place myself in command of you and yours.” As if to punctuate her words, Pinkie Pie presented a scroll with Luna’s seal upon it. “This scroll gives orders directly from her highness that you are to obey my commands. I am Sunset Shimmer, Commander of the Dark Regiment, Red Right Hand of the High Commander. Any man who does not wish to fall in line, is welcome to take his chances with the Changelings.”





Giving her a dark look, he snatched the scroll. His eyes flickered with rage and it grew with every word. “… so be it. If it be the Princess’s orders… You will kill us all.” 





Sunset and her soldiers set up their tents away from the others, keeping to themselves. The solar army made no effort to hide their distrust and she had no desire to further it. The next day in the early hours, she called together the commanding officers from the solar guard and relayed her tentative plan. 





“You’re a mad little bich.” The Commander’s snarled, when Sunset announced her plan to spring a trap. “You’ll kill us all.”





“You’re input was not requested, Commander Blueblood. I am presenting my plan to the officers who actually do battle, not noblemen with unearned titles. I know very well that you’re here because your father wanted you to earn a bit of respect. From what I’ve heard you do little more than drink and throw tantrums. I want warriors, not people who hide while their soldiers are slaughtered.” The enraged commander stormed from the tent, red faced. A few of the other officers smiled. 





“It not a half bad plan,” said one, a slim man with a pronounced scar above his eye. “A little light on the details, and it is a bit mad, trying to trap the Queen herself but at least it’s better than waiting for another raid to kill half our men.”





Sunset smiled, “and what is your name? Do I detect an Eastern accent?”





The man stepped forward, “Lieutenant Soarin, ma’am from Smokey Mountain.”





“You’re awfully young for a lieutenant.” Sunset surveyed him as he cringed at her comment. His boyish looks were clearly visible even beneath layers of grime. 





“I inherited the rank from my sister; she died last week in an ambush.”





Sunset frowned, “then I extend my sympathy. What do you and your unit say to making those responsible pay?”





“Hell yes!”





Another officer cleared her throat, “Captain Spitfire, Cloudsdale. How do you plan to coax the changeling’s forces into your trap?”





Sunset smiled, “we’re going to set up an ambush.”





The room erupted with cries of outrage. Sunset simply raised her hands in a gesture of peace and with only a few harsh looks from AJ, the room fell silent. 





“I know many of you see dishonor in these tactics but the facts are as they are. We have gained no ground, but neither have our enemy. They have the advantage of the cliffs, but the narrow gorge in which we sit has never been breached. Everyone here knows that Queen Chrysalis is after the falls because the access to water there is a perfect way to cut off our allies in the North. If she manages to make it past us, the falls, Princess Cadence's Empire in the North, and eventually Canterlot will become vulnerable. We must hold the line with everything we have, we must push them back. Ideally we would have more men, enough to trounce Chrysalis and her blights right here but she is clever.”





Pinkie stepped forward and spread a massive map out, having AJ and Flash hold it for her. Shining Armor indicated their location, the great fissure in the earth, Ghastly Gorge. 





"They’re attacking all along our border to keep us spread thin. Their underhanded tactics have killed so many that we can’t hope to hold out indefinitely. Our best chance is to attack from within the gorge,” his face was grim, “you may have kept from your men the reality of our situation thus far. Continuing to do so would be a mistake. Sunset’s plan, if it works, will grant us some sorely needed breathing room.”





The same captain as earlier, Spitfire, stepped close and surveyed the map, “aren’t you Lord Night Light’s boy?”





Shining swallowed, “Not anymore. All I am now, is Sunset’s friend, advisor, and lieutenant.”





Spitfire smirked and glanced at Sunset, “I like this lot… and I like your plan. The enemy doesn’t know you’re here, so we have surprise on our side. Tell us everything you have so far.”





Sunset drew a deep breath, “who here has made the biggest dent in Chrysalis’s numbers? We need someone who will really torque her off.”





Captain Spifire grinned evilly, “I have that distinct honor… why?”





Sunset glanced up with a smirk of her own, “you’re bait.”





“…”





Most of the other commanders suddenly seemed to be looking everywhere but at Sunset. Spitfire was gaping at her.





“Uh,” Soarin said uneasily, “What-”





“What the fresh fuck does that mean?” Spitfire growled.





“We send you out with a small cadre of soldiers, some of yours and some of mine. From all I’ve heard and read about her, Chrysalis is vain and arrogant. She is someone who thinks she’s smarter than everyone around her. If she sees you out there, practically defenseless except for a few scouts… there’s no way she doesn’t make a move.”





“So what? She comes after me and then you idiots jump out of the bushes? All you said was that we were going to spring a trap in the gorge!”





Sunset shook her head, “she comes after you, and you fight just long enough to look good and then you sound a retreat.”





“I have never had to retreat in my life! I don’t want to start now!”





“I understand," said Rainbow Dash, speaking for the first time. “I’m not one to back down from a fight either, but this isn’t a true retreat… This is you faking a retreat to trick the enemy into the gorge.”





Spitfire glared at Dash. Dash glared right back. “… fine.”





A broad shouldered lieutenant raised a hand, “Lieutenant Rockhoof, Whitetail Woods. What happens when Captain Spitfire sounds her retreat?”





“If all goes to plan?” Sunset indicated the map, “the rest of the solar guard will have circled around unseen and close off their retreat. My men will be at this end, preventing them from breaking through. We’ll have them trapped between a rock,” she pointed at Rockhoof, “and a hard place,” she motioned to herself. 





He studied the map closely for a moment, nodding along. “We should go through Froggy Bottom Bog to trap them then,” he commented. “But, it will take at least three days to trudge through the bog, even at it's narrowest point.





Sunset nodded, “for the plan to work, we need to hold this portion of Ghastly Gorge for at least three days. And then, we must keep the enemy engaged so that you have time to cut them off.” 





Spitfire looked troubled, “if we fail… if you falter… the Changelings will take the gorge and overrun the Falls.”





Sunset swallowed but nodded resolutely, “then I had better hold fast.”
> Chapter 17: Battle Dawn
> --------------------------------------------------------------------------

It was the fourth day after Sunset relayed her plan and slowly it was coming together. Every day a portion of the Solar guard slipped away and disappeared into the bog, their numbers dwindling. Today, the last of the guardsmen would make the journey into Froggy Bottom and they would begin the march to flank the enemy. Her own men were prepared and Spitfire had selected her scouts.   



The two women stood over their map when Rainbow Dash approached, “we’ve seen a scouting party,” she announced, “they’re a long way out from the gorge yet but Spitfire should go out soon.”



Sunset nodded, and turned to the Captain. “Are you ready for this? You’ll need to look like your scouting and be just careless enough to be seen.”



Spitfire grinned, “The timing is perfect. Our last company just left and it’s nearing dark. My men and I can look as if we’re making a small camp out there, even the changelings won’t be dumb enough to miss us if we’re sitting ducks.”



Sunset nodded, “How many men do you have?”



“My own team numbers five, plus your seven. That makes us number thirteen, counting me.”



“Perfect size for an advanced scouting party, will you leave soon?”



“At once… Commander.” And with that, Spitfire took her leave. In only moments, the low rumble of hooves sounded as her company rode toward the open land that lay between them and the enemy. 



Sunset sighed softly and stretched her neck, “rally the others. We need to finish the preparations for tomorrow.” 



Dash hesitated for a moment. “Can I get you anything?” 



She gave a pained smile, “Just, hope.”



“You inspire hope in us all, Sunset.” When Dash left her, she slumped onto her little cot and dreamed. She dreamed of Twilight and bloodshed and of the darkness of Luna’s night sky. 



The next morning woke them with rain. It poured from the sky like the ocean itself was being emptied over their heads. But it did not stop them. Sunset assembled her men around the mouth of Ghastly Gorge and prepared for war. 



“Spearmen at the front!” she barked, “swordsmen behind… Rainbow take your archers up the ridge on the right, Pinkie take yours to the left!” Soldiers sprang to and fro, scrambling to follow orders even as the dark sky continued its attempts to drown them. 



“Sunset,” Shining jogged over, “we’re ready.”



She nodded absently, “where’s Flash?”



“I sent him to the western road to find a messenger for the letters we collected. I thought it might keep him busy.” 



“If he returns before this is over he’ll want to fight.” She scrubbed her face with her palm. “Can I deny him the right to do so?”



“I’ll put him on the ridge with the spotter. Blaze is about his age, he can keep him clear of the fighting and he won’t feel as… left out.”



She nodded again but said nothing.



“Are you alright?”



“A few months ago I was a squire with a dead master and delusions of grandeur… and now I have a whole regiment depending on me.” She looked up, “I shouldn’t even be here Shining. Would you feel okay?”



He had no response, and so he said nothing. 



All night Sunset and her closest friends and advisors patrolled the Gorge, watching and waiting. The rain poured ever down and down, even as darkness overtook them. The moon made no appearance that night, hidden behind the clouds and the only light was from lighting flashing above them.



No fire could be lit, else their foe might see and so they donned cloaks. Many held shields over one another’s heads to stave off the lethal chill. Sunset wondered at the faces around her… how many would she fail? How many letters would she be obligated to write? How many apologies would she have to issue? 



Few slept, none of them peacefully. Sunset dozed only in turns, dread and cold clinging to the inside of her ribs. She was in one of her slumbers when it began. 



The sound of a horn split the muffled damp of night, the blast shaking loose the cold in their bones.



“To the line!” Sunset roared, leaping to her feet and taking her place at the head of their number. A half-dozen voices echoed her orders and soldiers sprang as if from the ground on either side. 



Out of the stillness of the dark a light shone, far sooner than they expected. Spitfire’s company bore down on them with haste. She was at the forefront, reins in one hand and a glowing torch held aloft in the other. 



As they approached Sunset steeled herself and at the last second, “OPEN RANKS.” Like a wave their line spit in two and their friends barreled through. Spitfire wheeled around and dismounted, snatching a sword from a nearby soldier and taking a place at Sunset’s back. 



“CLOSE RANKS.” 



Just as the last of the gap sealed, Chrysalis’s first wave appeared on the horizon line, black as death against the light of the rising sun. 



Spitfire spat in disgust, “the whore put an arrow through my favorite horse.”



As if in answer, an arrow fell just before Sunset’s feet. She grimaced, “I’ll do my best to help you return the insult my friend.” 



Spitfire snorted. Another dozen arrows buried themselves in the dirt. 



The morning of battle was dawning.
> Chapter 18: Greet Death When He Comes
> --------------------------------------------------------------------------

Sunset could see the glint of hundreds of arrowheads in the rising sun. “Shields!”



“Shields!”



“Shields!” 



“Shields!” The order reverberated. 



At once, a barrier was raised between the falling arrows and her soldiers. Each fighter with a broad, round shield raised it in defense. The interlocking pattern must have looked like a massive pile of blackened coins, stacked one over another but it did the job. The arrows bounced off or buried themselves into metal, but not a single one met flesh.  



As their enemy grew closer, the sound of booted feet began to ring in Sunset’s ears. As despair threatened to wrap around her throat a familiar hand clamped down on her shoulder. 



“Steady now,” said Applejack, her green eyes gleaming beneath their makeshift ceiling. “Steady.”



Another volley of arrows overtook them and the air again filled with the thunk, thunk, thunk, of arrowheads being driven into bronze. Her courage re-engaged Sunset raised her voice, “Hold!” 



Another volley followed.  



And then another. 



With her own shield guarding her front, Sunset could barely see through a tiny gap. Their enemy was fast approaching. No more arrows would come. The Changelings had stowed their bows and drawn sword. 



“Shields down, Spears out!” The first two lines of her men raised spears to chest height and the gleaming tips poked through the gaps in their shield line. A roaring battle cry from the enemy washed over them. And then it began. 



The first wave crashed upon them and the line was forced backward by the weight of hundreds of bodies. For every changeling that fell from their spears, another met their shields with all their strength. 



She could feel her feet digging into the sandy ground as a particularly massive changeling lieutenant attempted to bludgeon her. She ducked the first blow and bellowed, “push!”



As one, they began to shove back. With a great heave, they sent the attackers stumbling. With the pressure relieved, she used the extra room to run her assailant through with her spear. His dark leather armor and blue green cloak was no match for her lovingly sharpened weapon.  



The line closed again as another wave came down. It seemed that for every changeling they brought down three more would appear. To her right, AJ had lost her spear and had switched to her sword. At her back, Spitefire was snarling profanities and cutting down anything she could reach.



Sunset lost count of how many she had sent to Tartarus. Changeling swordsmen with wickedly curved swords and leather armor and what must be spearmen with strange weapons. Their spears were unlike any she’d ever seen at tournaments. They were bladed on one side and blunt on the other, and at least a foot longer than their own. 



When she thought her arms might fall off and her spear had gone dull from use, she gave a new order. 



“Archers, ignite!” 



From far above Dash and Pinkie’s men began lighting large pits. Even from a hundred yards below them, Sunset could feel the heat of the fires. 



The Changelings kept coming and she had to wait for an opening. For another hour they battled, her spear eventually snapped and she was forced to draw sword and slash at incoming enemies from over her shield.  Finally, their enemy let up and Sunset could set her next plan in motion. She breathed deep to be heard over the din of the clashing armies, “Shields!!!”



Again their shields were raised above them, and then, “Fire!” Arrows rained from the ridges on either side, falling upon their enemy and lighting everything ablaze. The panic set in immediately and the Changeling forces were badly staggered. 



They were so used to ambushing others, none of the Changeling seemed to know how to handle the tables being turned. “Advance!” Sunset ordered, she broke the line and darted out to meet her foe. 



She dispatched three changelings who had not fallen to their arrows swiftly in the panic. To her left AJ and Spitfire were back to back, batting away swipes from more of those strange spearmen. Half of her men were engaged with the remaining enemy and the rest were putting those who were wounded out of their misery. 



A changeling with a broken spear in one hand and a dagger in the other appeared in front of her. He danced just outside her reach and they circled one another. He lunged and rolled under her swing, popping up behind her. What he could not have counted on was Sunset being just as fast as him. She spun on her heel and he just escaped losing his head. As he darted right and left, lashing out where he could, she observed him. He seemed to follow a pattern. Right, left, left again, two steps right, left, pause, attack. She bided her time, and when the current pattern started to end, she darted in on the pause. With one smooth motion, she slipped inside his hasty block and drove her sword upward. The blade slid in, right below his armpit and through his chest. He was dead before he hit the ground.



She could see more combatants approaching from the east, line after line of changeling fighters and steeled herself. As the last of the current unit of invaders was slain, she ordered her own forces back to the gorge. The spearmen at the front were rotated out and she took the opportunity to rest, leaving Shining to combat the next attack. (Spitfire had to be ordered to stand down twice before she would rest.) 



The battle was nowhere near over but they had faced their first real battle as the Dark Regiment and lived, that at least, was something. 



As Sunset rested in the sparse shade of a pine sapling, studying the blade of the Changeling’s broken spear, Rainbow Dash climbed down from the ridge to sit with her. 



The archer slumped down next to her, “Good to see you’ve still got all your limbs, kid.” 



Sunset smiled a little, “and I’m pleased to see you haven’t set yourself on fire.”



“It looked pretty brutal out there from the cliff side. Still happy with your choice?” 



Sunset’s face darkened, “I worry for the men and women who’ve volunteered to fight under my command. I chose to die out here with dignity instead of on a hangman’s noose; they could have earned freedom in prison.”



“How many of them do you think would’ve died in those cells? They aren’t children Sunset, they make their own choices. Do you resent us for coming with you? AJ, Pinkie, Me, Flash? Shining Armor?”



“Yes and no. None of you are children… not even Flash… but I’m responsible for every life on this field now. And that weighs on my mind. I don’t want to lose anyone, least of all one of my friends. But I also know it’s inevitable.”



“Death is inevitable for everyone Sunny. All we can do is greet him when he comes for us.”
> Chapter 19: Day Six
> --------------------------------------------------------------------------

Six days. Six damn days they had been fighting. And Sunset had never been so tired. She’d lived just on the edge of starvation for half her life; and she had never been this hungry. Her armor was dented and rent in places. Food was becoming scarce; no one could hunt or gather supplies for the Changelings attacking.

The battle raged, night and day. Chrysalis, it seemed, had no shortage of men to sacrifice. Their relief was a full three days overdue and it seemed unlikely that they were even still alive. Given the chance Sunset would have fallen back to a better position, kept her people safe until a new plan could be hatched. Now, with nothing to protect their exposed backs in a retreat, that was not an option. They were stuck.

The flap of her hastily made tent swung open and AJ’s head poked in. “Another two have fallen,” she said gravely, “Iron Hoof of Canterlot, and Cherry Chase of Cloudsdale.”

Sunset scribbled down the names and placed her quill back into the ink pot a bit more forcefully than strictly necessary. “Any sign of the others? We can’t keep this up for much longer. Our people are weary and the more we lose the lower morale gets.”

AJ stepped fully inside, her left arm was obscured by a bandage, “I don’t think they’re coming, commander,” she admitted. The use of her title made Sunset feel the gravity of the words two fold. “I think we’re on our own.”

“Then there’s nothing for it.” Sunset clambered to her feet, “if no help comes by sundown… then tomorrow we ride out to meet our death.” Her face was set in a grim line, this decision was not lightly made but they all knew that the Changeling’s could not be allowed to take the gorge. When their comrades had not shown themselves on day three, Sunset had devised a backup plan. (It was a horrible plan, really, an absolute last resort.) “If we see no reinforcements by sundown, tomorrow we ride out to meet their charge. And Flash will see to it that the walls of Ghastly Gorge come down on their heads.”

Morning had just begun to wane when hope finally reappeared. Sunset could not see them, the changeling's ranks were too thick, but she heard them. A host of horns, the signal of their trap being sprung. She wanted to find Blueblood and box him around the ears for taking so long, but that would have to wait, she had a war to wage and a friendship with the Night to repair.

She hastily snatched a newly minted spear from Flash and began bellowing orders, “Archers back to the ridge as quick as you're able! Swordsmen to the front, relieve our fellows! Lancers and spears to the horses.” Sunset mounted her horse, a beautiful red mare with soft white dappling on her rump. She had managed to pull her from the jaws of a nasty changeling trap and had grown quite fond of the fearless beast.

She led the spear users to the front line, just behind the waiting rows of swordsmen. Dash was perched far above on the ridge, she would give the signal when it was time. Sunset let the din of the fighting fade and watched Dash's hand, in it was a long length of red cloth.

Another horn sounded, louder and closer, the enemy began to turn this way and that, searching for the source of the signal. And then Dash thrust the flag into the air. 

Chaos reigned.

Sunset let loose a roar like a raging bull and drove her heels into her steed. The line of swordsmen parted before the cavalry and they burst forth like a wave, breaking the changeling's line. As the fighting began in earnest, she finally saw their backup. There were half as many as there should be and she could not see Blueblood's high blond plume anywhere among them. In his stead was the man Sunset remembered as Rockhoof. He was making quick work of the enemy around him but she did not know if he and his men would be enough. There seemed to be leagues of changelings between them. And though the plan was working, there were still at least four changeling warriors to every one of her people. The trap had snapped closed, and the enemy was pressed from both sides. Would it be enough?

She swallowed her concerns and began barking orders between attacks, throwing herself full force into the fight ahead.

The organized battle quickly became an all out brawl as the lines on both sides splintered. Sunset fought on horseback until the poor mare could run no more and then she sent her back to the gorge and fought on her feet. Slowly, the distance between her men and Rockhoof began to close. As the two converged, the changeling's faltered. The enemy fought like snakes in a pit and with the pincer of the Dark Regiment ever closing, the end was upon them.

Sweat rolled and stung her eyes. Her arms were sore. The light of day was waning swiftly, but she fought on. Rainbow was somewhere above them, the blue fletchings of her arrows whiping past to land in the bodies beyond. AJ had made her way to the south with Pinkie, taking on swordsmen and forcing the remaining enemy closer together. Spitfire was nearby, struggling against a particularly ugly swordsman. Sunset dispatched him for her before returning to her own opponents. 

When she and Rockhoof met on the battlefield, it was over the body of an enemy general.

“Well met, Commander!” He greeted her, “my apologies for our delay.”

Sunset could not help her exhausted smile, “and what delayed you my friend? We were nearly at our end when I finally heard your horn-call.”

The mountain of a man clapped her on the back, “first, you must declare this battle won and send our soldiers to rest and then... I will tell you a tale.”

She shook her head but took the horn he extended to her and drew breath. Three great blasts rent the air and the world went still. When she had the attention of everyone around, she gave the command. “We are finished here! Return to your tents, and eat hearty, you will need your strength. We've just pissed on Chrysalis’s parade!” A great cheer went up around them and they moved toward their base en masse.

Just as she was crossing the final feet between battlefield and rest, a dull thunk drew her attention. It was followed, as the sound of an arrow on armor often is, by pain. Before she had even turned to face her attacker, he was dead. His chest was pierced with three blue fletched arrows. 

He fell. 

And Sunset Shimmer's world went dark...
> Chapter 20: Ponyville to Appleloosa
> --------------------------------------------------------------------------

The world was a blur that faded in and out. Whispers, shouts, blinding light and permeating darkness. She slipped in and out of consciousness, never awake long enough to recognize anything and never truly resting. For three days, Sunset wavered. And on the fourth, she woke to unfamiliar surroundings. 

“Whe-” her parched throat protested words, “...where am... I?”

The woman in the door hummed, “you are lucky to be living still. But you must lay still.”

Sunset groaned, “not so loud, please. And answer my question. Where am I? Who are you? Where are my men?”

“This town is known as Ponyville, far from your home on Canterlor hill. My name is Zecora and I am a healer by trade, it was I who saw to your death being delayed. And as for your men, they are not far. They're camped just by the river... the Pink one, she's quite bizzare.”

“You healed me?” Sunset asked, “I thank you for your help but I need to speak to my friends at once.”

“You must rest, you've had quite the ordeal. I will fetch Rockhoof and for you I think, a meal.”

Without waiting for a response, the healer turned away and Sunset huffed. As she waited, she took in her surroundings. The room was small, only the cot she lay on and a small table inside. Out the far window she could see tiny homes and farmland just beyond. Zecora had said she was in Ponyville and it looked to be true. The tiny community was just a short days ride from Ghastly Gorge, dangerously close even.

She pushed her thoughts aside when Rockhoof entered, significantly filling the remaining space in the room. “Good to see you awake, Commander.”

“How much have I missed?”

The lieutenant grimaced, “I'll just start with the days we were apart shall I?” And he handed her a bowl of stew. “Eat up.”

At Sunset's nod, the man began. “Blueblood, the slimy bastard. He tried to command us all to march into the Changeling territory and try to overtake them by surprise while you fought off the majority at the gorge. He didn't get very far of course.” Here he smiled. “My men and yours fought against them, and I told him directly that disregarding your orders was treason and I wouldn't stand for it. The little weasel and his men tried to sneak off. They mucked up and got caught in some quicksand. We managed to get a few of them back out but most of them sank.”

Sunset frowned, “I've been keeping track of all that we lose, I-”

Rockhoof interrupted, “Not to worry Commander, I took care of that for you. Just eat and listen. Anyway, we were severely delayed with quicksand in the way and Blueblood's little insurrection but we made it out and hauled ass to your position. Honestly, I'm impressed. I thought that we'd find the gorge crawling with the enemy and you dead or long gone.”

“Never.”

He nodded, his eyes glinting, “Impressive indeed. An archer was what got you, right through some vital bits if Ms. Zecora is to be believed. Rainbow got the fella what shot you. You would likely have died had Captain Bulwark not showed up. He came to check on progress and when he saw the state of you he sent word straight to the Princess and had us bring you here.”

“He sent word to Luna?” She blinked, startled.

A low laugh by the door made them both jump. Rookhoof immediately bent into a bow, and Sunset made to rise but could not muster the strength.

“Lay still Sunset,” Luna said kindly, “you've earned a rest.”

“Princess,” Sunset grunted painfully, “you honor me with your presence... How may I serve you?”

Luna's face reddened and she looked away, “You needn't speak to me so formally Commander... Rockhoof, leave us a moment please?” He nodded and bounded away.

“High Commander Luna, I would thank Captain Bulwark for his help. And you as well. I am very glad to see you.”

“And I am glad to see you awake, my friend. I admit, I am still somewhat irritated with you but when I heard that you'd been injured I was very worried. I came straight here to see you myself.”

“Thank you, your highness. Someday I truly will make up for my past mistakes.”

Luna nodded, “I know you will. For now though, I'm afraid I must leave you. Now that I'm certain you're alright; I must return to Canterlot. There are snakes in the grass there that I need to hunt. I fear there are too many who benefit from this war who are making decisions on how we proceed. Captain Bulwark and Rookhoof will remain in command until you are fit to travel. I've also given Flash Sentry a copy of my stamp to use on letters, they'll come straight to me from now on. I hope you'll use it to write to me, even about more than just your battles.”

Sunset's eyes widened, “of... of course, your highness. It would lighten my heart to speak to you.”

Luna nodded once, and then slipped away. Sunset found herself feeling very light for several days after their talk. And was even more determined to end this blasted war.

When she finally healed, with much help from Zecora, and none at all from Rainbow or Pinkie (who mostly made jokes), there was much to do. In her absence, Shining and Rockhoof had wrangled several volunteers from Ponyville into the Dark Regiment. The celestial guard had taken over the base at Ghastly Gorge and thanks to Sunset, they were now gaining ground.

While Rockhoof and Shining trained the new volunteers in Ponyville, Bulwark sent new recruits as he traveled about the region. (Zecora had even pointed them in the direction of a few especially patriotic healers who might join.)

Sunset's other friends, and the soldiers who weren't working for one of the other commanders, spent time taking a well deserved break. From what she'd been told they had made quite merry when told that she would live (and apparently felt the need to re-celebrate every day since). Pinkie had fun telling raunchy poems in the local pub, Rainbow had taken a young soldier under her wing to train, and AJ had run into a certain seamstress from her past (and had spent three whole days... “catching up”).

But now it was time to go back to work. Luna's instructions were simple, upon Sunset's recovery they were to head south of Ponyville. Their next mission was to help re-take the land of their allies in Appleloosa, Dodge City, and the Forest Kingdom of Thicket.

They reached Appleloosa first and found it under siege. The local farmers had taken up arms when Changeling's attacked. When the Celestial guard had been forced to retreat they had failed to evacuate the city. Forcing the Appleloosians to fend for themselves. Most of the town had been surrounded by a hastily constructed barrier of wood and mud. It was here that the remaining denizens of Appleloosa were making their stand. A horde of Changeling's were poking at the weak points in the wall with their spears while the townspeople fired arrows out of trees.

As she watched the beginning of a scuffle from the hillside, Sunset came up with a plan. With their inflated numbers, they could take them head on. She saw Pinkie scrambling up the hill toward her and smiled in greeting. Pinkie led her back down, chattering all the way about what she'd seen while scouting on the other side of town.

Of the men that had been at the gorge, there were now just over one thousand left. Luna had authorized Rockhoof's men to merge with the Dark Regiment and bolstered their numbers. She had lost seventeen of the three hundred that had started with her, but she'd gained many more and she would make sure that as many as possible made it home. Rockhoof was a good lieutenant, and she was glad to have him. Even Shining armor seemed quite glad to share the load with their expanded numbers.

She returned to her companions and relayed the plan, allowing them to slip away and give out orders. And when the time came, they rode out onto the open plain, letting Changeling's and Appleloosians alike see them coming. Flash had altered Sunset's armor once more as she had recouped from her injuries. On Luna's orders, no less. And as she barreled down the hill side, her red armor shown like a flame out in front of the black and blue of her regiment. All of them would now see her as clearly as daylight on the field and they would follow her, without fail.

The small contingent of Changeling spearmen were clearly not expecting an attack. And when they saw the massive army bearing down on them they attempted to flee. With their small numbers, they were caught within the storm of soldiers and were swiftly brought down.

The majority of the fighting was over quickly, and Sunset and her company departed for the city. They were greeted with cheers and the mayor of the small village bowed to them as they dismounted. “Your help could not have come at a better time, although I must admit that... none of us actually know who you are.”

Pinkie stepped forward, “Good evening sir, I present to you, Ser Sunset Shimmer, Commander of the Dark Regiment. We are her companions, Rainbow Dash, the world's fastest archer.” Rainbow smirked and raised a hand in greeting.

“Applejack, the honest swordswoman.” Applejack’s brow crinkled in surprise.

“Shining Armor, the banished heir of house Light.” Shining coughed but smiled behind his hand.

“And myself, a humble bard and herald.”

“Well I'll be...” the mayor said in awe, “That ain't my cousin Applejack Apple hiding back there now is it?!”

Applejack perked up immediately, brow furrowed in thought, “... Aw hell... is that little Braeburn!? Why I haven't seen you since you were a tiny thing!”

The man laughed heartily, scooping AJ into a side hug. “Lookit you! My big cousin, a farmer turned soldier.”

AJ's smiled, “It's good to see you Brae.”

“It's good to see you too cousin. Our town's been overrun for nigh on seven months now, what you see here in the square are all that's left. Less than forty of us. I'm practically the mayor of a ghost town. But you have our thanks, and you're welcome to all that we can give in return.”

Here Sunset interjected, “we've been sent to free you, as well as Dodge City and the Forest Kingdom of Thicket. Could you give us any information about how the enemy is set up here?”

The man nodded, “Dodge City will be as easy as here I expect but Thicket... I heard tell a month or so ago that Chrysalis has their King under her spell. He's not been seen in nearly a year now and she and her scum move about freely in his lands. You should rest here awhile so you can send out scouts and get a better look. Any friend of AJ's is a friend to me."