Prologue: The Blackout

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"Help me set the table Twily." Shining Armor said to her sister. This was a special night. Twilight's BBBFF along with her old babysitter, Princess Cadence, and even her parents have decided to spend this day with her. Twilight was delighted to have dinner with her whole family.

"Coming Shining. Mom, when is dad going to arrive?" She asked the white mare serving the food. She had purple stripes running through her cream white mane.

"He should be here by now sweetie."

"Okay." Twilight was placing the utensils down, as Cadence placed the napkins. Twilight smiled at Cadence, and she returned the smile. Twilight was happy to be around her loved ones. Nothing could ruin this night.
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Luna was trying her hardest, but for some strange reason, her magic was quickly dissipating.
"Sister! What's going on? I am unable to lift up the moon toni-" Suddenly, her magical aura completely disappeared, fizzing out. Celestia looked in bewilderment, then realized her magic disappearing as well.

"No..." Celestia whispered, as she and her sister stared in horror, at the sky. The moon, was rising, all by itself.
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"Huh?" Twilight's magic was less stable than usual. She was finding it difficult to raise her fork to the plate. Suddenly, a blue stallion with a darker blue mane barged into the library.

"Oh hey dad! How was you-"

"Not now sweetie, we've got to prepare!" Twilight's mother rushed to his side.

"Honey, what's wrong? Prepare for what?" Twilight's father hastily brought out a small, metal object with what appeared to be Twilight's Cutie Mark on it. Then, he charged up all his magic, and touched the oval object. Instantly, the thing illuminated the Cutie Mark in a white light. Then, it faded. And that's when, it all started. Twilight's fork dropped to the table.

"What the-?" All around, the family's magic just, vanished. It fizzed out, with trickles of sparks falling from the tips of their horns.

"Twilight? What's going on?" Spike asked. Twilight opened the entrance to her library. She gasped at the sight in front of her. All across Ponyville, the lights flickered, until one by one, they began to shut off. What surprised Twilight more, was Luna's moon. It was rising, yet a bit more slowly. Twilight decided to visit the princesses for answers.

"I'll be back everypony!" However, when Twilight tried to charge her teleportation spell, nothing happened. Twilight was confused by this. Her horn was not responding to her commands.

"It's no use Twilight..." She turned to see her father, looking grim while holding her mother close. "It has begun."

"What? What has begun?" Twilight said, moving closer to him.

"The Blackout.... it has begun..." He then held Twilight at his other side. They stood there, as they watched the lights go out. Then, the Royal Castle lights started flickering, signifying their inevitable shutdown.

"Princess Celestia..." Twilight gasped, after noticing the flickering lights at the castle. And throughout the night, the only light that shone, was from the moon.
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"C'mon Evening Star! We've gotta get going!" A silver unicorn with a baby blue mane yells out. Soon, a dark blue-violet unicorn climbs up the hill. His mane was a navy blue color, with one white stripe running through it.

"I'm coming Eclipse, I'm coming. What's this big surprise anyway?"

"You finally get to meet my cousin!" He then turned to Evening Star. "And now, I introduce, the Great, and Powerful, TRIXIE!!!" Eclipse made sure he got his tongue rolled, as his younger cousin made her dramatic entrance. Sparklers were ignited, mini-fireworks bursted, and lights flashed as Trixie began her show.

"Trixie thanks our most favorite uncle of all time, for doing the honors of introducing, the Great, and Powerful Trixie!"

"You're welcome!" Eclipse said, as he took a seat next to a smiling Evening Star.

"And now, for my first trick, I shall make this carrot, VANISH before your very eyes!"

Eclipse smiled at Star. "Well? What do ya think? Nothing like a magic show at night."

"I'm not complaining." The friends shared a laugh, as they watched Trixie's performance.

"C'mon you stupid hat, work!" Trixie tried to perform her trick with her magic, but the spell was dissipating. Then, everything went wrong. Suddenly, all three unicorns began to feel something draining from them. They looked up to see their horns producing sparks. They felt their magic being taken away from them. Eclipse and Star look around in disarray. They saw lights flickering in the far off town of Ponyville. A giant tree house was flickering as well.

"What's going on?" Eclipse spoke.

"I don't know, but this is sort of freaking me out..." Star replied.

"Ha! You two are afraid? Trixie is not afraid, she is as brave as a-" A light loudly buzzes and fizzles, scaring Trixie. She then runs to the side of Eclipse, hugging his leg tightly. The light then shuts off, leaving the stage in total darkness. Eclipse holds Trixie close, as he and Evening Star observe the panic from above the hill.

"I have a bad feeling about this... " Eclipse said.

"You're not alone..." The ponies watched in shock, of the Equestrian Blackout beginning.
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The Pendant Necklace

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10 YEARS LATER

"So, can anypony tell me what THIS note is?" A small schoolhouse filled with fillies and colts was currently occupied. A brown pegasus with glasses and messy black hair pointed to the board. There was a section of lines, with a black oval on the bottom line. "Anypony care to guess?" A young filly raised her hoof. "Yes, Lilac?"

"Mister Equinox, I need to use the potty." Equinox sighed, as he slowly nodded. The little filly quickly got up and ran to the latrines. He then turned back to the young ponies.

"All right, anypony know yet?" A hoof finally went up. "Yes PJ?"

"The answer is: Nopony cares!" The whole class started giggling at the statement, while Equinox sighed again. He then smirked at the young colt.

"Well, since nopony cares about this note, I think that nopony would care about practicing our scales again, would they?" The young ones groaned and whined, as Equinox lifted his violin, signaling them to lift up their instruments. A few flutes, a lot of xylophones, some trumpets, and one viola. "D Major, one octave. One, two, ready, and!" They then started to play, making a whole lot of noise.
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Equinox was walking down the village streets, his instrument strapped to his side in the case. He dismissed the class just minutes ago, as he made his way back to his cabin. Suddenly, he saw a familiar white stallion walking in front of him. He unfurled his wings and made his way to his side.

"Shining Armor! Good morning!"

"Good morning Equinox." He started to walk with Shining Armor, ready to converse.

"Is everything okay back at the cabin?"

"Yeah, just fine."

"How's your wife?" Equinox asked. "Has she gotten better?"

"Cadence is showing signs of improvement, thankfully. I just hope she gets well soon."

"Me too." There was a short pause, then Equinox continued. "Thank you Shining Armor."

Shining looked at him in confusion. "Thank you? For what?"

"For staying. I remember back ten years ago that the militia tried to get you into their ranks. But you stayed. And since then, you have kept us safe with your security team. Thank you."

Shining Armor smiled. "Why wouldn't I stay? My family needed me. Nopony else but me can keep them safe. The ponies you should thank are the ponies in my defense unit. They help us sleep a little safer. Besides, I want to stay close to the ones I care about, and I would NEVER leave them."

Equinox sighed. "If only that were true for somepony I know... " Equinox sulked. Shining Armor then put a hoof on his back.

"I know you miss your friend. But he made his choice. He's gotten over it, you should too. But you should never forget the friendship you two had." Equinox gave a sad smile, and nodded slowly. Shining reassuringly smiled back.

"Okay. I'll see you later Shining Armor!" Equinox then took flight into the air, as Shining waved. Shining Armor then continued down the path to his family's cabin.
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The cabin was slightly larger than the others. It had Twilight's Cutie Mark engraved on the front doors. Shining Armor knocked on the doors. The doors opened to reveal his father's familiar face.

"Hey Shining! Come on in son!" Shining smiled, and went inside. Twilight was sitting on a bench, reading a Daring Do book. She looked up and grinned at him.

"Hi Shining Armor! I'm so glad your back!" She trotted towards him and nuzzled him.

"I'm happy to see you too Twily." He then headed towards the kitchen and grabbed a muffin. He grabbed it with his hooves and began to munch on it.

"How was today's security watch son?" Shining's father asked.

"Fine. Nothing threatening so far, but I have my comrades on watch..."
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His hooves marched along with the others. His light armor clanked softly. He kept a serious gaze, determined and strict.

"Corporal Quicksilver!" The earth pony turned to see his superior, Lieutenant Blade Run, acknowledging him. Quicksilver headed towards him. He stopped and saluted.

"Sir!"

"Captain Daylight is in need of your services. Go see to him Corporal."

"Yes sir!" The guard saluted once more, then galloped towards the front. There, he saw Captain Daylight. He was a dark orange pony. His mane was cut extremely short. His armor consisted of a black leather jacket with green colors. His shades covering his eyes. His belt dangling from his waist. Quicksilver caught up with the Captain and immediately walked in Daylight's pace.

"Sir! You have been calling for me?" The Captain turned to glance at Quicksilver.

"Ah yes. I have called you because I need you to give me an answer." Quicksilver looked a little confused.

"Sir?"

"Where do YOU think, the princesses have gone?"

"Permission to speak freely sir." Daylight nodded. "Sir, why are you asking me this?"

"You've heard of all the stories of what happened to them, right?" Quicksilver nodded. "Well, which one of those stories do YOU believe in?" Quicksilver paused for a second.

"Well... I believe that they're actually still out there, but they found refuge in the Everfree Forest..." Daylight nodded his head.

"I see. Well, stay near me Corporal." He then turned back and looked at Quicksilver. "We're going to apprehend the pony who might help our forces."
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"...and remember when Cadence caught me in midair, and the Chrystal Ponies turned all `Chrystally' again? Then, once King Sombra was defeated, we turned `chrystally' as well?" Spike said, retelling the adventure.

"Oh yeah, that was quite an experience." Twilight said. "Remember that, Cadence?" The bright pink alicorn smiled weakly. Twilight, Spike, and Shining Armor sat at the bed Cadence was resting in. Her eyes had a tired look and her mane was messed up from her sleeping. Shining Armor placed his hoof on Cadence's forehead.

"Thank goodness. You're temperature is coming back to normal. You should be healthy by tomorrow." Cadence sighed in relief.

"Good. Thank you for everything you three." Cadence replied with a raspy voice. Shining leaned close to her and nuzzled her. She smiled, as she closed her eyes.

"Sleep well Cadence..." Shining Armor kissed her cheek, and spread the blankets over her. "Let's leave her alone guys..." The three of them silently left the room, and closed the door softly. Shining Armor was smiling at Spike, as he walked away. However, he turned to see a dejected Twilight in front him. Shining frowned. "What's wrong Twilight?" She looked at him sadly.

"Is mom ever coming back?"

Shining Armor exhaled softly. "Twily, we've been over this. She'll come back once she has found sup-"

"Supplies! I know!" She sobbed loudly. "But what if she's dead?! What if the militia found her, and killed her?!"

"Now Twily, don't think like tha-"

"I miss her so much Shining Armor! I don't know where she went." Twilight sniffed, as tears dropped from her face. "I don't know where my friends are, I don't know where Princess Celestia is... they're all just...gone!" Twilight cried out in anguish. Shining Armor wrapped her in a hug, as she cried into his fur.

"It's alright Twily, it's alright. I'm here. Dad is still here. You're not alone." Twilight sniffed, as she hugged her BBBFF even tighter.

"Please don't leave me BBBFF... "

"I promise, I won't." Suddenly, knocks were heard on the door. Twilight's father opened the door. There stood a golden-furred security team pony, panting.

"Sir!" He called to Shining Armor. Shining released Twilight and headed to the pony.

"What is it private?"

"The Eclipse Militia! They have been spotted." Shining Armor gave a sharp exhale, then gave a serious look.

"Tell the team to get into position, just like we planned."

"Yes sir!" The pony saluted, then ran off. Shining Armor looked back at a surprised Twilight.

"What's going on?" She asked worriedly.

"The Eclipse Militia... is here..." Shining Armor looked at his father and nodded. His dad nodded back, and tightened the necklace on his neck; the necklace holding the pendant.

"Twilight, you stay here with Spike and keep Cadence company. We've got some business to deal with." Twilight's father told her. Then, he and Shining Armor put their combat attire on. They headed for the door, until Twilight stopped Shining.

"WAIT!!" Twilight held on to Shining's hoof. "Don't leave me..."

Shining Armor smiled. "Don't worry Twily, we'll be right back." And with that, Twilight's brother and father left the cabin. Twilight sniffed.

"Please, be safe..."
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The villagers all gathered round the entrance, with Shining Armor and his security team in front of them. They were mumbling to each other, until they heard the familiar sound of marching militia ponies.

"Prepare yourselves." Shining Armor called to his team. They immediately concealed their swords and daggers in their armor. The militia kept marching closer. The big white flag with a bold "E" on it was now visible. Finally, the militia stopped at the entrance to the village. The dark orange pony with shades came out, surrounded by his soldiers. He took off his shades to reveal his hazel colored eyes.

"Are you Mister Nightlight?" The pony asked Shining's dad.

"Yes. What seems to be the problem, Mister..."

"Daylight. Captain Daylight." The pony responded.

"Yes, well, what is the problem Captain Daylight?"

"By the Eclipse Militia Law, we have found you, Mister Nightlight, under suspicion of treason," Nightlight breathed out slowly. "Therefore, you are to be arrested, and delivered back to Eclipse HQ for questioning." The crowd gasped in shock. Shining Armor immediately stepped in front of his dad.

"No! You won't take my father away from me!"

Daylight looked unimpressed. "Do you know who you're dealing with boy?"

Shining smirked. "Yes I do." He then stamped his foot, signaling for the team's attack. At once, they revealed their weapons and began to fight the soldiers surrounding Daylight. Daylight, however, just stood there, observing. The soldiers tried to fend them off, but the defense team was starting to overwhelm them. A defense team pony charged at Daylight.

"Alright." Daylight said, as he rolled his sleeve over, revealing a small contraption on his forehoof. He aimed it at the charging pony, then pressed on it, causing it to make a noise like thunder...
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Equinox had just put away his case. He went to go check on his roommate. He opened the door to find a grey earth pony with a long black mane, peacefully sleeping in her bed. He slowly closed the door, careful not to wake her up. He had to admit, having a mare as a roommate was actually not that bad. Equinox was just glad she played a string instrument, like him. Suddenly, he heard a loud, cracking noise.

"What the hay was that?" Equinox was surprised by the sound. He opened the door to find his roommate rudely awakened by the sound. "Stay here Octavia. I've gotta check this out." She nodded in understanding, as Equinox grabbed his leather jacket and left the house. He was now headed towards the source of the sound. Then, he heard it again, and again, and again...
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One by one, Daylight shot down each of the team ponies with his gadget. Soon, all of Shining Armor's security team was neutralized. Shining Armor stared angrily at Daylight. The crowd was silenced by the deaths of the team. Daylight then smirked at Shining Armor.

"Wasn't expecting that, were you?" Daylight chuckled, as he toyed with his new weapon. "This baby takes in metal balls we call bullets. And what do these bullets do?" Daylight rolled his sleeve over the weapon. "It can decimate a weak response team. Unfortunately for me I'm out of bullets." Shining Armor growled, as he charged at Daylight. "Now Corporal!" Daylight shouted. Suddenly, a white stallion with a short, orange mane pushed Shining to the ground. Shining Armor looked at the stallion. He was a bit shorter than him, and his armor was long, dark coat, with a small, black breastplate underneath the coat. By his attire, Shining knew he was from Luna's guards once.

"Get out of my way!" Shining said, trying to push him away. Instead Quicksilver grabbed his hoof and twisted it. Shining yelped in pain, then went in for a headbutt. However, Quicksilver dodged the attack, and swung his hoof to hit Shining on the back of the neck. Shining Armor was on the ground again.

"Nice fighting skills," Quicksilver teased. "It's great to see a Royal Guard legend in action..." Shining Armor charged at Quicksilver, this time throwing a punch. Quicksilver blocked it, and attempted to counter punch. Shining Armor blocked his punch as well. "You're quite good," Quicksilver then launched his back leg up to kick Shining in the crotch. Shining Armor bent down in pain, groaning. "But we're not Royal Guards anymore Shiny... " He then punted Shining Armor in the face, knocking him out. Quicksilver spat at the ground, as he walked back to the Captain.

"Excellent job, Corporal..."

"Thank-you Captain."

Daylight then turned to Nightlight. "Let's take away the suspicion and just leave treason on your list of offenses." The Captain then looked at Quicksilver. "Take the rebel away."

"Yes sir! All right soldiers, take the rebel into custody!"

"No! NO! DON'T" Nightlight then picked up a dagger from the ground and tried to get the soldiers away from his son. The soldiers underestimated his skills and quickly began to lose the fight. Nightlight stabbed one soldier, then kicked another. Suddenly, he was grabbed by a pair of hooves. He turned around to see Daylight, before he punched him to the ground. Daylight then rolled his sleeve up again.

"You killed one of my men. That's a crime punishable by execution..." Daylight fiddled with his weapon, until he heard a click. "Oh look, I have one...bullet... left..." Nightlight's eyes widened, as Daylight aimed his hoof, and fired...
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"TWILIGHT!!!" Equinox was yelling at the front door of Twilight's Cabin. He was knocking as fast as he could. Finally, Twilight opened the door.

"What is it Equinox?"

"It's your father!" Equinox panted. Twilight gasped. "Follow me!" Equinox flew out towards the entrance.

"Spike, stay with Cadence!"

"Yes Twilight." Twilight ran after Equinox, until they eventually reached the entrance. There, she saw her father lying next to a big rock.

"Dad?! DAD!!!" Twilight shrieked at him, as she panicked about his condition. "Please stay with me dad! Please! Oh, where is Shining Armor?!" Suddenly, the injured father began to speak.

"They.... the militia.... took Shining Armor..... away...."

"No....no......" Twilight was tearing up.

"Twilight," Nightlight coughed. He then grabbed his necklace and yanked it off of him. With all of his remaining strength, he handed the pendant to her. He weakly grabbed her hoof and placed it in her hoof. "You must.... find Star....your uncle....
he will help you get back......your brother......"

"Uncle Star. Right. Okay, just hang on. Everything's gonna.....everything's gonna-" Twilight was unable to stop herself from crying. "Please, just stay with me..."

Nightlight weakly smiled, and wiped off her tears. "You have grown so much.......you're now....a beautiful young mare.......but you'll always be...... my sweet, little girl...... " Nightlight smiled, then slowly closed his eyes.

"Daddy? Daddy?!" Twilight began to lose herself. "DADDY!!! NO!!!" Twilight lost all control, and sobbed uncontrollably. She was now all by herself. Equinox attempted to comfort her, and tried to wrap his wings around her. But she shrugged them off, and ran crying back to her cabin. Equinox stared at the ground for the longest time. Then, something peculiar caught his eye. The pendant on the ground was illuminating. He grabbed the pendant and stared in wonder. Then, it flickered and went dead. Equinox was stunned at what just transpired. He had no idea why or how that happened. He then looked over to Nightlight's resting body. Then to the pendant. He then remembered Nightlight saying something about finding an uncle. He looked back at the pendant, seeing the shape of Twilight's Cutie Mark.

"Twilight needs a friend," Equinox stated. "To bring back the magic... " He then put on the necklace, paid his respects for Nightlight, then headed towards Twilight's Cabin, wearing the pendant necklace.
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Revolution: Equestrian Blackout

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We lived in a magical world. We relied on it's magic for most everything. And then the magic disappeared. Everything stopped working. We weren't prepared. Fear and confusion led to panic. The lucky ones made it out of the towns. The princesses vanished. Militias took over, controlling the food supply and stockpiling weapons. We still don't know why the magic went out. But we're hopeful someone will come and light the way...

Not Alone

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Equinox stopped in front of the cabin. He knocked softly on the doors.

"Twilight? Are you there?" The doors slowly opened to show a young dragon opening it. "Hey Spike."

"Hi Equinox." He responded quietly.

"Where's Twilight?"

"She's out in the back." Spike sighed. "She's really upset."

"I can't imagine what she's going through. But I really need to see her."

"Go on ahead Equinox." Spike lead him to the backyard. It was noon by now. The sky was cloudy, no sign of sunlight. It was slightly breezy, the cold air nipping at his hooves. It was like nature was slowed down, and it had an eery calm. Twilight was there, her mane waving from the wind. Equinox slowly approached her, careful not to disturb her.

"H-Hey Twilight." Equinox nervously asked. "Are you okay?"

Twilight turned to give him a scornful glare. "What do YOU think? My brother has been kidnapped, my mother is gone,my father was killed! Just WHAT do YOU think?!" She turned away from him, and started to cry. She sniffed softly, as she began tearing up.

Equinox awkwardly traced his hoof along the ground. He then remembered what he came to her for. "Twilight-"

"He promised me he would never leave me." Twilight interrupted, her voice breaking. "He promised me that he'll stay. And now..." Twilight turned back to Equinox. "Now he's.. .gone... my BBBFF.... is GONE!" Twilight sobbed. She cried loudly, as she hugged a surprised Equinox. Her tears were hitting his fur, as he stood there, confused. He gingerly placed his wings around her and stroked her mane. "I'm alone now.... I've got nopony..."

"No Twilight, you're not." Equinox lifted her head up and wiped her tears away. "I'm here for you."

Twilight smiled sadly. "Thank you Equinox. But it's just not the same without my brother..."

"I know. Which is why I'm going to help you."

Twilight broke the hug, curiosity on her face. "Help me? But how?"

Equinox then brought out the pendant from the necklace. "Your father said something about finding your uncle. I think his name was Star. You shouldn't go on your own though. I'm going with you."

Twilight was about to respond, until she heard a familiar voice. "As will I..." The two ponies turned to see Princess Cadence, more vibrant and healthy than before. "Spike informed me of the events that have occurred during my sleep." Cadence walked towards Twilight and Equinox. "So I have decided to join the quest to bring back Shining Armor. He is my husband after all," Cadence turned to Twilight. "And he is your brother. Don't worry Twilight, we'll get him back."

"Are you sure about this Cadence? Are you sure you're at 100%? I don't want you to relapse." Twilight asked.

"I am fine Twilight. I just want to get my husband back."

"We should probably bring Spike, just in case Princess." Equinox chimed in.

"Alright."

Equinox turned back to Twilight. He then took off the necklace and offered it to Twilight. "Here. I think your father would've wanted you to have this."

Twilight grabbed the necklace and put it around her neck. The pendant dangled from the string. "Thanks." Twilight hugged Equinox again. She then looked at Spike, who was preparing for the trip. "Okay. Let's get going."
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Shining Armor's head was aching. He slowly and painfully opened his eyes. He found himself in some kind of carriage. The loading area was flat, with two benches parallel from each other. One pony was sitting on a bench near him. It was the same one who had beaten him back at the village. The stallion was leaning back on the bench, chewing what appeared to be gum. Then, he noticed that Shining Armor was awake.

"Good morning, Sleeping Beauty. Did you sleep well?" Quicksilver taunted.

Shining Armor tried to move, but his legs were caught. He looked to see hoofcuffs keeping his legs in place. He looked around again. Now that he was fully awake, he could see that the cart was moving. The sun was starting to go down. Shining Armor groaned from his enormous headache, then angrily looked at Quicksilver. "How long was I out?"

"About 6 hours. But really Shiny, you of all ponies know that you're supposed to get 8 hours of sleep." Quicksilver shook his head. "I've gotta say, ever since your honeymoon with the wifey, you've gotten more...lazier." Quicksilver smirked.

Shining Armor growled at Quicksilver. "Where are you taking me?"

"Well, since you've rebelled militia law and led a group of individuals that `attacked' our squadron, I'd say we're headed to Eclipse HQ. Those are some pretty hefty charges my friend."

"I am NOT your friend."

Quicksilver smiled, as he got closer to him. "Would you rather I be, your enemy?" Shining Armor snorted. Quicksilver then nodded. "I see." He then moved back to his spot on the bench.

"I swear, if you hurt my father I will-"

"Hurt him? Oh no, perish the thought! We would never hurt your father..." Quicksilver then smugly turned to Shining Armor. "Unless necessary..."

"You son of a-" Shining Armor struggled in his restraints. Quicksilver just shrugged, and continued to chew the gum. Suddenly, he stopped chewing, as he heard a familiar voice in his head.

"C'mon Quicksilver. You don't have to do this..."
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"Well, here we are. Ponyville." The way Equinox declared the name made the sight surreal. What used to be a thriving town was now mostly taken away by nature. The building, covered in vines, dark and cold. The schoolhouse was falling apart, the bell rusting to demise. Twilight, however, was more shocked by one structure. Her old tree house was now a dead, limping tree. The branches lost all their leaves and were paled. The once sturdy trunk was now bent, and thin. The house that was a part of this sorry-looking plant was now destroyed. Nothing but the ground-level was left. Twilight was saddened to see her old residence, now being uninhabitable.

"There's a bar right ahead," Spike said, pointing at a run-down settlement in front of them. Lanterns were glowing at the entrance. The windows glowed, indicating a light source. "Let's see if he's in there."

The group headed towards the bar. "How are we gonna know if we found your uncle?" Equinox asked Twilight.

Twilight pulled out a picture frame from her satchel. It showed her father and mother holding her as a foal. Her brother, a young Shining Armor, was beside Twilight's mother. But there was another pony in the picture. A dark blue-violet stallion was standing next to Twilight's father. His mane was a navy blue. His eyes were the same color as Twilight's. His Cutie Mark was a large, white, hexagonal star that resembled Twilight's. "You see that stallion by my dad? That's my uncle, Evening Star." Twilight showed the picture to Equinox. He nodded in understanding. Twilight then put the picture back in her satchel. "We'll know him when we see him." The group were now at the entrance of the bar. Cadence entered first, followed by Twilight. The stallions inside the place drunkenly whistled at the mares. They laughed, as Equinox and Spike entered.

"I'll stay with the princess. Spike will help you." Equinox told Twilight.

"Alright. Just watch out."

"I will protect the princess." They then split up, looking for any pony who fit the picture. Twilight sent Spike to the other corner of the bar table. Twilight sat next to a hooded pony. The bartender then appeared. Twilight was at a loss for words, since the bartender was none other than Berry Punch.

"What'll it be?" She asked the stallion next to Twilight.

"Shot of Whiskey."

"Coming right up." Berry Punch grabbed a bottle of liquor and poured it into a small glass. She then put the bottle away, as she left to attend the other customers. Twilight looked at him. The stallion sensed that he was being stared at. He turned to Twilight.

"Can I help you?"

Twilight couldn't see his face clearly. It was shaded by the hood. She saw a horn and some stubble for facial hair. His hair was short and navy blue. His fur was a type of violet color. What really caught Twilight's attention were his eyes. They were the exact same color as hers. Twilight cleared her throat. "Umm, nope! Just staring at that wall." Twilight sheepishly grinned. The stallion shook his head and grabbed his drink. Twilight decided now was the time to make sure. She slowly started to look down and there it was. A large, white, hexagonal star that Twilight recognized from the picture.

"You know, it's usually me staring at mares' plots, not vice versa..."

Twilight jolted from the voice. The stallion swallowed his liquor then stared at Twilight. Twilight blushed, then stammered. "I-Is your name...Evening Star?"

The stallion looked away as he put down his shot glass. "The one and only. What do you want kid?"

Twilight gulped, as she got ready to reveal the news. "Star...it's me. Your cousin, Twilight."

The stallion paused, then turned to face her. "Twily? Is that you?"

"Yes. It's me, Uncle Star."

Evening Star turned back to the table. "What are you doing here? Family Reunion?"

"No. We need your help."

"For what?"

"To get my brother back."

Evening Star breathed out softly. "He's an adult now. I'm sure he can fend for himself."

"What?! No! He was kidnapped by the militia! They killed my father!"

"Whoop de doo."

Twilight was now getting angry. "My mother is gone! Does any of this mean ANYTHING to you?!"

"Not really."

Twilight began to tear up. "Please! You've gotta help me!"

Star turned to her. "And why should I?"

"Because we're family..." Twilight choked out. Star paused and kept staring. Twilight wiped away her tears. Soon, Equinox appeared along with Cadence.

"Twilight. Any luck?" Cadence asked.

Twilight looked back at Star, who was now turned away and focused on his refilled glass. "No. Let's go." Twilight called for Spike, as they left the bar. Star took one last look, as the group left the establishment.
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The moon shined over the town. The dark of night has taken over.

"I really thought he would help us..." The group were in the alley, talking of Twilight's encounter. "But he just... rejected me....his own cousin!" Twilight snapped.

Cadence shook her head. "The Blackout has changed many ponies. Unfortunately, your uncle has changed too."

Twilight sighed in dejection. "I guess we'll never get my brother back."

"Yes we will!" Equinox told her. "I promise you Twilight. Me, Spike, and Princess Cadence will help you! Whatever it takes!"

Twilight smiled. "Thanks Equinox. You're a good friend."

"It is no trouble at all. Now, let's get outta here."

They turned to leave the alley, when five Earth ponies blocked their path. The one in the middle spoke. "Where do you think all of you are goin'?" Equinox and Spike stepped in front of Twilight and Cadence. One of the ruffians spoke. "That's a very nice bag you got there girl. Mind if we take a peek?" The ruffians laughed, as Equinox and Spike took defensive positions.

"W-We don't want any t-trouble... just, let us go!" Equinox replied.

"Trouble? What trouble? We're just..." the Earth ponies got closer. "Curious..." Suddenly, they lunged for the mares. Equinox bucked one in the face, as Spike punched another. However, the ruffians soon overwhelmed them, keeping Equinox and Spike pinned. The remaining three slowly started to stalk Twilight and Cadence. The "leader" of the pack spoke. "Now, hand over the bag, and nopony gets hurt." The ponies pinning Equinox and Spike grabbed their limbs. One grabbed Equinox's wing, while the other grabbed Spike's arm. "Now, you wouldn't want to hurt your friends, would you pretty lady?"

"Twilight! Don't give in! We need those items!" Equinox grunted. Twilight started sweating. The ruffians were getting close, as her friends were being pinned. She kept the satchel close, grabbing on tightly.

"Suit yourself... " The leader signaled his crony standing over Equinox. He then grabbed his wing and snapped it, the bones making a loud cracking noise. Equinox howled in agony, as Twilight began to tear up.

"No! Stop hurting him!" Twilight yelled. With one wing bent unnaturally, the ruffian grabbed the other.

"He's next!" The leader said, pointing at Spike. "Now, you seem like a smart lady. Do the wise thing." Twilight looked at Equinox, as he was writhing in pain from the broken wing. His glasses were on the ground, shattered to pieces. She then looked at Spike, who was crying out of fear. Finally, she glanced at Cadence, who gave a sad nod. Twilight then handed the satchel to him. "There. Now, was that so hard? Let's go boys." But when the leader turned around, he saw his cronies were on the ground. A stallion standing over them. "Get him!" The leader shouted. The two Earth ponies charged at him. The stallion jumped over one, as he grabbed the other and shoved his head into the wall. The Earth pony who missed threw a punch. He grabbed the hoof and twisted it, making the Earth pony crumble in pain. The leader took the chance to run away. The stallion then hit the Earth pony with his elbow, knocking him out. The Leader ran as fast as he could out of the alley. Luckily, he dropped the satchel he carried. The stallion then took off his hood revealing his identity.

Twilight gasped. "Uncle Star?! But-but I thought you left me alone!"

"We're family kid. I can't leave you alone." He then headed towards Equinox. Equinox was unconscious, his wing bent. Star hoisted him on his back. Spike slowly got back up. Star turned to Twilight. "C'mon. Let's go get your brother..."
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

Journey To A Rainbow

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"So tell me. What's the situation?" Evening Star set up a camp on the far edge of Ponyville. They had a campfire going. He and Twilight were seated next to each other, as Cadence and Spike treated Equinox's broken wing.

"Well, you know the Eclipse Militia?" Twilight asked. "They killed my father...then kidnapped my brother."

"Then what do you need me for?"

Twilight pulled out the pendent. "My father, your brother, gave me this before he died. He told me to find you to get back Shining Armor."

Star observed the necklace. Then looked back at Twilight. "What about your mother? Where is she?"

Twilight lowered her head. "She went in search of supplies ten years ago. We never heard from her again though. I fear she might be dead."

"So basically you're an orphan?"

Twilight sadly nodded.

"We'll get your brother back. But first, we need to find Dashie."

Twilight perked up, instantly recognizing the name. "Rainbow Dash?"

Star turned back to her. "How'd you know her name?"

"She's my... friend..."
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The cart slowed down, as they entered a shed. The storm clouds thundering above them.

"We lay camp here for the night." Captain Daylight informed the ponies. The cart finally came to a stop. Quicksilver spat his gum out to the ground. He then looked at Shining Armor, smiling.

"Well, I guess we might as well get comfy." He chuckled. Shining Armor glared at him. "So, what's it like having a magical horn that might as well be a vestigial organ?" Shining Armor kept silent. "Oh I see. Giving me the silent treatment. I'm guessing you don't wanna talk to me." Shining Armor still kept his silent resistance. "Okay fine! I'm sorry for kicking you in the crotch! There! Is that what you wanna hear?!" Quicksilver's sarcasm caught the attention of Captain Daylight.

"Corporal. Leave the prisoner alone. I doubt he will ever talk to you."

"Yes sir." Quicksilver replied. He turned back to face Shining Armor. He smiled and patted Shining's face, infuriating him. Quicksilver then went out to take place as a guard outside the shed.
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Twilight and the rest walked down a dirt road. The trees seemed to be endless, as the moon shined over them. Equinox was walking with them, his wing now bandaged. Evening Star was conversing with Twilight along the way.

"Uncle Star, how do you know about Rainbow?"

"It was a while back. She provided me a place to stay after the Blackout, so we've been good acquaintances since then."

"`Acquaintances'? Is she not your friend?" Twilight asked.

"Friendship is dead Twilight. Nowadays, it's every pony for his or her self."

"Uncle Star, friendship is NEVER dead..."

Evening Star looked at her silently. Then he spoke. "Alright. Dashie's house is just past that shed. We should make it there in no time." They kept on walking near the shed. Suddenly, Star stopped. He quickly ushered the group into the shrubbery.

"What's wrong?" Cadence asked.

"Normally, sheds like these are abandoned. This one has torch lights glowing. If I were to guess, the militia are in there..."

"Well what are we waiting for?" Twilight spoke. "Let's go in!"

"Hold on little cousin. We don't know whether or not that's the same regiment that kidnapped your brother. Besides, if we barge into there right now, they would surely kill us."

"What if that IS the right regiment? This is our only chance!"

"Look, maybe if we'd still have our magic, we would stand a chance. But right now, we need to find Dash."

Twilight nodded slowly. "Okay..."

"Alright. Let's move slowly..." Evening Star started guiding them as lightly as he could, careful not to bring any attention.
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The two guards were outside the shed, keeping watch. Quicksilver was one of the guards, keeping an eye out for intruders.

"Sure is a quiet night huh?" The guard next to him said.

"Quite..." Quicksilver replied.

"Kinda makes you wonder if anything's alive out the-"

"Private, what is the point of your statement?"

"Oh nothing, just that it's really quiet out there."

"We know it's quiet, however there is no purpose in discussing about it."

Private stayed silent... for a while. "Do you think there are any birds out there?"

Quicksilver started to get annoyed. "I don't know Private."

"Because I remember that owls are nocturnal."

"Sure. There are owls out there."

"No, there can't be owls out there..."

"Why not?"

"I don't hear any hooting."

Quicksilver groaned. "Fine! There's no owls out there..."

"Then what IS out there?"

"I don't know, I don't care, so just shut up and keep watch!"

The next few moments were silent...then Private spoke again. "How about lizards? I'm pretty sure there could be some iguanas or maybe some chamele-"

"NO! THERE'S NOTHING OUT THERE! NO OWLS, NO IGUANAS, NOTHING! EVERYTHING'S DEAD!!!" Private was taken aback by Quicksilver's outburst.

"I-...I'm sorr-"

"Shut up!" It was at that moment that Quicksilver saw something. "Private, do you see that?"

Private turned to where he was pointing at. "Yeah. It looks like a couple of ponies and a dragon passing by."

"Oh yeah? Well look at that one!" He said, pointing at the taller one of the group.

"What about her?"

"Can't you see? Horn AND wings. That means she's an alicorn!"

Private had a confused look on his face. "Sooooo that's good?"

"Of course! If we can capture her, she could tell us where the princesses are!"

"But how can SHE know where the princesses are?"

"Duh! How many alicorns ever existed in the history of ponykind? Surely she must be related to the princesses..."

"I wonder if that Changeling Queen counted as an alicorn." Quicksilver ignored him and began to pack his satchel. He put cuffs, a net, and some other resources. Private noticed his movement. "Sir, what are you doing?"

"If I can capture her and bring her back, I'm guaranteed to a higher rank!" He wrapped the satchel around his shoulder. Then he sheathed his knife. "If anypony asks, tell them I've gone for `supplies'."

"Yes sir." Private saluted, as Quicksilver left, following the unsuspecting ponies...
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

2 MONTHS AFTER THE BLACKOUT

The town of Ponyville seemed less cheerful than it usually was. The population was lessening at a constant rate, due to the total unpreparedness of the ponies. Two stallions were talking alongside the empty sidewalks. One was a brown pegasus with a black mane. The other was a white Earth pony with an orange mane.

The brown pegasus seemed upset. "Quicksilver, think about this! You can't just leave! In times like these, nopony is safe! We need to keep our friends close, and that means you!"

Quicksilver sighed. "I'm sorry Equinox. But if these two unicorns have an idea that might bring peace to Equestria, I've got to be part of it."

"But what about Lyra? And my little foal Amber?"

"I'm sure you'll be able to protect them."

Equinox exhaled. "C'mon Quicksilver. You don't have to do this..."

The town hall was in sight, a large crowd of Royal Guards were gathered there. Quicksilver gave Equinox a smile. "It'll be alright. I'll always be there whenever you need me."

Equinox smiled back. "Thank you..."

"I've gotta go." Quicksilver waved goodbye to Equinox, as he sped off to the town hall.

"Good luck!"

Quicksilver made it to the meeting on time, as one of the unicorns stood and began to speak.

"Good afternoon! I, Eclipse, and my associate Evening Star are here to present a revolutionary plan..." The guards from both Luna and Celestia's roster started murmuring. Then, the unicorn spoke again. "It is time to face the cold, hard truth! The princesses that we have protected with our lives, have abandoned us! They disappeared when we needed them most!" Ponies began to get disturbed by the harsh news. "So what shall we do? We are left with two choices: Assimilate or Die!"
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
Evening Star knocked on the hut's door. A voice answered.

"Who's there?"

"It's me Dashie! I've brought some friends for a sleepover!" The door opened to reveal a cyan pegasus with a multicolored mane.

"Oh how I love sleepove-" she stopped speaking, as she gazed at Twilight with surprise. "Twilight? Is that you?"

"Hey Rainbow Das-!" Twilight couldn't finish her sentence, as she was tackled down to the ground by Rainbow.

"Dude! I thought you were dead! This is awesome! Come in guys!"

Twilight and the rest started to walk in, leaving Evening Star and Dash outside.

"I'm so glad she's alive! I was beginning to think I'd be the only Element still breathin'. And trust me, that would be totally not cool." Dash exclaimed.

"Oh I believe you. So glad you're excited about your little `playdate'."

Rainbow smiled at him. Suddenly, her smile disappeared. "BEHIND YOU!"

Star quickly rolled to the side before he got struck by the pipe. A white, orange-maned stallion dropped the pipe. "I never thought I would see THE Evening Star again. Once I capture you and the alicorn, I'm certain to be ranked up!"

Evening Star snorted. "Dream on kid..." Both ponies got into a fighting stance. The stallion charged at Star, but he sidestepped his attack. Soon, punches were being thrown. The stallion threw a punch, but Star grabbed his hoof and flipped him to the ground. The stallion started getting up. Suddenly, a pipe hit the stranger's head. The stallion was out cold. Evening Star looked at Rainbow Dash, feigning disappointment. "Oh come on. The fight just started getting good."

Rainbow dropped the pipe to the ground. "A fights not a fight without me in it."

"We're gonna need to tie him up. An interrogation sounds good." Rainbow nodded. They then tied him up with ropes and brought him inside. "Looks like we've got a stalker!" Star places the stallion on a chair, and ties him to it.

Equinox walks in, then freezes in shock. He instantly recognized the stallion.

"Quicksilver..."