Prologue: The Way Things Are

The elite cadre of unicorn magi gathered beneath the Archmagister’s tower preparing the sun raising ritual. Only the wealthiest and most magically gifted ponies were allowed to take part, and it was a near instant leap ahead in status to be selected. The well-kept secret was that it did in fact not require a great deal of spell casting acumen. Really, the Archmagister did all the work; the rest were just there to lend her a little extra mana to make the job easier, and to ensure the ritual circle was prepared to her exact specifications.

Lord Fancy Pants and his new bride, the Lady Rarity were presiding over the preparations. The bemused Lord was content to let his charming wife take the lead on the project. He had certainly lucked out catching her eye. Rarity’s family was not terribly prestigious, and her parents were not worth much note. Her father mended uniforms for various hoofball teams, while her mother worked in some bakery or another. Her younger sister however was a pony worth knowing. The young mare’s music career had taken off like a shooting star, propelling her into the spotlight.

Fancy Pants had wandered into Rarity’s shop on a lark, seeking somepony to mend a frayed collar on his favorite suit coat. He was quite surprised at the stunning proprietress of the charming little boutique. One didn’t find such class and sophistication so far from the elite district he made his own home in. Not only was she a mare of refined taste and manners, but she seemed to have genuinely little interest in his wealth or power. After fending off a veritable herd of gold-digging status-seeking mares, Rarity was truly a diamond in the rough to the weary stallion. After a whirlwind courtship, they were wed only a few months later. The queen herself blessed their union.

His wife was causing a bit of a scandal among his peers to his dismay. His ire wasn’t directed at her of course. If she wished to continue her career, who was he to say no? It irked him how content his fellow nobles were to be as absolutely useless as possible. It seemed every other day they wished to throw a new party for some inane reason. How could anypony think of such things when the earth tribes were struggling just to provide the food required for their monthly tribute? He knew it was the proper way of the world but still… it rankled his sensibilities at times.

“No, no, no! That diagram must be absolutely perfect darling. Step aside, I’ll do it myself.” A soft chuckle escaped his lips at his wife openly rebuking Prince Blueblood. The proud stallion snorted and refused to move. Eyebrow raised, Rarity stepped back. “Very well. I’ll make sure to let the Archmagister know precisely who worked on this section.” The matter settled, she moved along, offering kind words to the ponies who’d perfected their own tasks.

With one last frown at Blueblood’s diagram, she joined her husband just in time for the Archmagister’s doors to swing open. Lady Twilight Sparkle was arguably the most well respected, feared, and powerful unicorn in all of Equestria. As with nearly every public appearance, she ignored the regalia expected of a pony her rank, wearing only a simple cloak around her shoulders; lined with various bits necessary for her craft. The purple coated mare stepped out slowly, saying nothing to any of the assembled ponies and merely moving along the diagrams, staring down at them intently.

Everypony stiffened as she approached, though she paid them no mind. She merely inspected each diagram and moved along to the next. She stopped instantly as she reached the incorrect one. “Who is responsible for this?”

Blueblood was visibly sweating as he stepped forward… but Rarity cleared her throat calmly. “I’m afraid I am, Archmagister. It was my duty to see that each was perfect. I apologize profusely. It’s my first day and I must have overlooked it.”

Frowning severely, Twilight looked from the diagram, to Blueblood, then to Rarity. “See that it doesn’t happen again. If it does, you will be dismissed. Am I understood?”

Rarity bowed her head low. “Of course, Archmagister. My deepest apologies.”

Fancy Pants felt a renewed sense of awe for the amazing mare he’d somehow conned into settling for a drab pony such as himself. Such poise, such grace. Truly no mare compared. When the Archmagister looked away he gave his wife a brief, but affectionate nuzzle.

She lifted her eyes to meet his, promising future rewards for his public display of affection. ‘Ah… Truly, life could get no better than this.’ The delighted stallion thought.

Private Rainbow Dash stood at strict attention as Commander Spitfire glared at her across from her desk. “Can you explain this report to me? I’m reading it clearly but there must be some error.”

Dash swallowed the lump in her throat, fidgeting her wings. “Ma’am, yes ma’am. It’s just as the report says. The Apple family’s tribute was… three barrels short.”

“And their farm is still standing because…?”

Wings flexed open and snapped shut in agitation. “They’ve never been short before ma’am. Not for five years. I felt they deserved a second chance.”

Spitfire nodded slowly. “You thought that, did you?”

“… Yes ma’am.”

“Well here’s what I think Private. I think dirt ponies who don’t pay their tribute don’t get to keep their land. Somepony down there is eyeing that very prime piece of farmland hungrily, waiting for the opportunity to take their place. Explain in detail just what will happen to them if they don’t hand over what they owe. Is that clear?”

“Crystal clear ma’am.”

“Get it done.”

Dash’s discipline faltered. “N— now? But I’m on leave! I scheduled it and everything! my parents are—“

“Did I stutter, Private?”

Rainbow Dash’s protests faded. “No ma’am.”

“Get it done… Get it done quickly and go see your parents.”

A relieved smile split the mare’s muzzle. “Yes ma’am, thank you ma’am.” Slamming her helm back atop her head, Dash was out of the office, leaving only a rainbow hued streak in her wake.

Her commanding officer chuckled, shaking her head. “That pony could be something great if she’d stop being so soft on the dirt ponies.”

Applejack heaved a tremendous sigh as she poured over the accounts for the third time. The simple truth of the matter was, if the pegasi came back for the rest of their tribute, there was a very good chance her family was going to starve. Family... She snorted softly at the word. Granny Smith had moved onto the Fields already, and Big Mac was serving in the military; against his will, of course. She hadn’t heard a word from any of her kin spread out across Equestria. The family farm was just down to her and Applebloom now.

Frowning a little deeper, she looked out the window of her upstairs office at her younger sister. The yellow mare was going on seventeen. She felt a prickle of pride at how strong and big she’d grown under Applejack’s care. Granny’d been gone for nearly three years now, and Mac even longer. Even when the Apple family matron was still alive, she’d been fading in the head for years; always rambling about princesses and elements of something or another.

With a soft sigh, the mare slipped away from her desk, slapped her hat atop her head, and trotted outside to join her sister. “Lookin’ good out there Applebloom!” She forced a smile as she approached the younger mare, admiring her bucking technique. Just as good as her own.

“Thanks sis’.” The younger pony kept shifting her eyes skyward. “Y’think they’ll be back?”

Applejack shook her head. “Don’t got time fer maybes AB, we got trees to buck an seeds t’plant. So less jawin’ an more workin’ y’hear?”

“Y— yeah, sorry Applejack. Ah’m just worried s’all.”

“Ah know sugarcube. Don’t you fret none. Just focus on yer chores, alright?”

Nodding finally, Applebloom went back to her work. The eldest Apple mare in Ponyville was soon bucking alongside her. Each tree dropped maybe five fruit if they were lucky. There just wasn’t enough sunlight for the poor things to grow right. Of course more sun meant more bits and more tribute, but there was no way to get either without getting the sun first. It was a vicious cycle. They’d been doing well until the tree rot hit them one harvest season.

A scowl found its way to the elder mares face at the thought of the monster behind the plague that had ruined her livelihood. S’all well and good for that queen of theirs to sit on her butt up on her big fancy throne, saying that Lord Whiteskull’s experiments were necessary for the ‘advancement and improvement of Equestria’. So far as Applejack could tell, that meant starving earth ponies.

“A— Applejack!”

She whipped around at the alarmed tone in her sister’s voice. Following her line of sight, her heart sunk a little. Private Rainbow Dash was streaking their way, moving like a mare with a purpose. “Go on inside, Applebloom.”

“But Applejack…”

“Inside now. Don’t you make me repeat myself now.”

Not wishing to incur her already riled sister’s anger, she complied without further complaint. Applejack glanced to the tree at her side, feeling some sense of relief at the rope laying there. If things turned violent, earth ponies needed every edge they could get against the brutish pegasi.

Had Rainbow Dash been in less of a rush, she might have noted Applejack’s already aggressive posture as she approached Sweet Apple Acres. Her sharp eyes picked out the elder of the two mares standing still and gazing up at her, while the younger was making a mad dash for the house. Not that she could blame the kid.

“Back a mite early, ain’tcha?”

Trying to maintain some sense of authority, Dash landed, keeping her wings flared. “Commander Spitfire wants the rest of your tribute.”

Applejack snorted fiercely, digging a forehoof into the ground, keeping the leg raised; a very clear sign of a pony prepared to turn aggressive. “An ah toldja we ain’t got it. Y’got them sharp eyes in yer head don’tcha? Whaddya see on these here trees? Not a whole lotta apples, that’s what.”

Rainbow Dash retorted with a snort of her own. “Look, I get that you guys are hard up this season. Just work harder, you’ll be fine. If you don’t pay your full tribute, I have orders to remove you from the premises.”

This was exactly the wrong thing to say. “Oh do ya now? Did yer high an mighty Spitfire give ya that authority? T’ remove me an mah sister from th’ farm that’s been in our family since before yer big fancy featherhead city darkened our skies?”

Dash’s wings bristled at the slur coming from the earth mare. “Listen, you dirt faming yokel! You’ll give me those three barrels or I’ll buck your flank right off this crummy little patch of mud!”

The time for words was over. Applejack wasn’t about to wait for the dangerous pony to make the first move. She lunged to the side, slinging the rope over a forehoof and grasping one end in her mouth, spinning the lasso rapidly.

Rainbow Dash was in the air the second the orange mare made her move. She hated this part of the job. She’d only had to actually attack another pony once, but it left a foul taste in her mouth. Still, it was her duty, and the stubborn mare was keeping her from seeing her parents for the first time in nearly a year. She didn’t want to seriously wound Applejack, she just needed to put the fear of her betters back into the farmer. She kept the retractable blades in her armor sheathed and decided on just a few swats with her hooves would settle the matter.

Applejack was a farmer. Always had been, always would be. She wasn’t a fighter by any means, but she was a quick thinker. Certainly quicker thinking than one would expect of a simple earth pony in a tiny village like Ponyville. Rainbow Dash lived up to her name, streaking down almost faster than her eyes could follow. Almost. Applejack cantered to the side with surprising nimbleness for such a well-muscled pony, and Dash slammed into the ground hard, sending up a spray of dirt and grass. She resisted the instinct to sling her rope… it wasn’t time yet.

Dash cursed as her first dive missed its mark. The farmer was quicker than she looked. Before she could throw her rope, the pegasus pumped her wings, getting altitude once again. ’This should be done already! She was just a dirt pony!’ Scowling at her own imagined ineptitude, she felt her temper flare as she dove again.

One thing you could always count on with the featherbrains, they lost their temper faster than a bull in a strawberry field. And when you get mad, you get stupid. Something her daddy taught her back when she still had one. Dash was flying right at her with breakneck speed. And there it was. Snapping her neck straight, she slung the lasso unerringly at her target. The rope slipped over the Private’s neck, and Applejack hesitated only a moment before snapping it taut.

Rainbow gave a strangled yelp as the rope tightened around her neck and plucked her from the air as easily as the farmer would one of the apples from her trees. The wind was knocked from her lungs as she slammed into the ground, but she was a well-trained soldier. She was already struggling to her hooves, but not in time to avoid the sudden buck from Applejack. Up she went back into the air, though not from any efforts of her own. The rope still held tightly in the mares jaws snapped taut once more, and Dash found herself again slamming into the ground. This time she didn’t move to rise.

“What were ya sayin ‘bout throwin’ me off mah own land?”

Dash’s wings flapped weakly as she gasped around the taut rope around her throat ,preventing her from drawing in air. With a frown, Applejack rushed to her side, flipping the rope off and stepping back while still keeping an eye on the recovering soldier.

Gratitude mingled with humiliation as Rainbow Dash’s eyes met Applejack’s. The two locked stares for several long moments while the Private recovered. She finally found her voice. “You… made a mistake…”

“From where Ah’m standin’ sugarcube, y’all’re the one face down in th’ mud.”

“You think… they’re just gonna ignore this?” She jerked her head at the hovering fortress city in the distance. “You… attacking one of us?”

“Ah…” The farmer scuffed the ground. “What c’n Ah do t’make this right?”

Dash flexed her wings and slowly rose to her hooves. “… Your tribute. The rest of it. You deliver it to Cloudsdale. If it’s there this time tomorrow, the matter’s dropped. If it’s not, my Commander’s going to hear about this in detail. You got me, earth pony?”

“… yes’m, I gitcha.”

Casting one last glance at the sufficiently cowed mare, Dash took to the air once more. She had some bruises to hide before she met with her folks. Applejack stood still for a time, watching as the soldier vanished into the air. “S’pose we’ll git by... mebbe we c’n make do on grass fer a couple’a months. Granny said s’how she did it back then...” Shaking her head sadly, she plodded to the stores, filling three barrels with what few apples they had left.

Dinky Doo frowned gently as she looked over her charges; it was time to make sure the foals were tucked in their beds. The past month, she’d started dreading what used to be a mundane—and at times, fun—job. The young unicorn mare was in charge of the displaced unicorn foals recovered from earth pony families. Most of the time, the foals were given up as soon as they were born. It was simply a better life offered for them in one of the unicorn cities, and by royal decree, no non-unicorn was fit to raise one.

Her newest charge was proving… difficult. Somehow, the little filly had evaded detection in an earth pony village for five years. Shaking her head at the thought, Dinky had to marvel at the lengths the mother must have gone to keep her daughter’s true nature concealed. And what a fight she’d put up! The guards who’d accompanied Dinky in the retrieval were still recovering. If the mare hadn’t had connections with the nobility, she’d have likely been executed on the spot.

Still, the lord who pardoned her was a good sort. One of the few nobles Dinky could stand to be around in all honesty. He’d even expressed tentative interest in taking the filly in, pending his wife’s approval. None of this really mattered much at the moment however.

Dinky approached the last bed in the line with a growing sense of dread. It faded a little when she saw the small lump hunched under the covers. With a soft smile she rested a hoof atop the lump, hoping to give the little filly some comfort. Her frown returned as her hoof sank in and… squeaked? Her horn flared as she ripped the covers aside. A single green balloon floated into the air with a little note attached. Just one word.

Surprise!

Closing her eyes, Dinky had to take several deep, cleansing breaths. She’s just a filly. She missed her mother. It’s not her fault the mare selfishly kept her down in the dirt for so long. She doesn’t know any better. She had to admire the filly’s determination. The walk from Canterlot to Ponyville would take almost the entire night, but somehow she knew exactly where she’d find her.

Fluttershy approached the large home timidly. The pegasus had a thick cloak thrown over her back to conceal her wings. As far as anypony in Ponyville was concerned, she was just the eccentric earth pony mare who lived in the Everfree Forest, and ventured into town now and again to see the equally odd party planner for Canterlot’s elite. Gently, she rapped on the door. “Pinkie? Pinkie, it’s Fluttershy…”

The door swung open slowly, revealing her friend. Poor Pinkie’s mane and tail were straight as can be, but this wasn’t really unusual. They’d been that way for years now. What was odd was the puffiness around her eyes. “Heya Flutters… c’mon in.”

Offering a warm smile to her distraught friend, Fluttershy stepped inside, slinging her cloak off and flexing her wings with a little wince. “Oh I miss getting a proper preening. My bird friends do their best, but it’s… it’s not the same.”

Pinkie Pie offered her only remaining real friend a sad smile. “Nothing really is though, is it?”

Fluttershy did her best to bring some genuine cheer to Pinkie. “We are! We still have each other right?”

The other mare’s smile did indeed brighten a bit at that. “We do. I just wish everypony else was with us.”

“How’s Applejack?” Fluttershy glanced around Pinkie’s rather spacious home; one of the largest in Ponyville, really. She was very well paid for her services by the unicorn elite. Quietly of course. If it was publicly known their soirées were put together by a pony from Ponyville, it would be quite the scandal. Never mind that just about all of them used Pinkie’s services.

“Not so good. She’s close to losing the farm I think. I offer to help, but you know how she is.”

“I do, I’m afraid. Proud and stubborn. Have you tried using Applebloom to um… persuade her more? You know how much she loves her sister.” The house was cluttered. Pinkie used to keep it so clean. The last couple of weeks however, she’d been lax in her work. Both in home and out. The smell of fresh baking cake was working its way from the kitchen. “What’s the occasion?”

Pinkie’s face fell and her movements became sluggish once more. She plodded to the kitchen, turning off the oven and sliding the confectionary treat on the counter to cool. “You don’t remember what tomorrow is?”

Fluttershy’s eyes widened. “Oh. Oh Pinkie Pie I forgot. I’m so sorry!”

Shaking her head, Pinkie just made her way to a plush cushion, collapsing on her side. “D’you mind if we cut our visit short? I’m… not much in the mood for company.”

“O— of course Pinkie. I’ll be back in a couple days, alright? We can… we can play a game, hm? Anything you like.”

Pinkie didn’t respond. Seeing the formerly cheerful mare so… unhappy just seemed so wrong. As bad and twisted as everything had become for the past five years, Pinkie’s cheer had been a comforting constant to the poor pegasus. Pinkie wouldn’t say how she was spared the spell that changed everypony else. She certainly wasn’t in the Everfree with Fluttershy at the time.

At first, Pinkie’s mood was even worse than she was now. All that changed a few months later of course. Shaking her head at the unfairness of it all, Fluttershy secured her cloak and made a swift retreat for the hut she’d inherited from her zebra friend when Zecora departed for her homeland. Times like this, there was always something that never failed to make her feel a little better…

Once she was sure Fluttershy had left, Pinkie rolled back to her hooves. She idly ruffled the ears of the dog lying on the cushion beside her. The lazy animal’s tail wagged twice before she drifted back to sleep. Slowly, the mare made her way back to the kitchen to the cooling cake. After staring at its unadorned surface for a time, she began to apply the frosting. Just as the fifth candle was placed in she felt… a shiver; a little tickle up her spine. A familiar tickle, one that only meant one thing. Rolling her shoulders and cracking her neck she prepared herself.

“SURPRISE!” With a soft pop of multicolored light, a little filly burst into view right before a shocked looking Pinkie Pie. Of course she knew it was coming, she’d developed a pinkie sense specifically for warning herself of her daughters surprise entrances. The precocious little filly lived to surprise any and everypony hapless enough to cross her path when the mood had taken her. “Did I getcha mom? Did I!?”

Laughing, Pinkie scooped the green coated unicorn into her forelegs, hugging her tight to her chest. “You always do, silly-filly.” Giggling in delight, her filly squirmed loose and bounced her way over to the slumbering Isabelle, dark pink mane and tail flailing wildly. Izzy’s yowl heralded the filly’s belly flop onto the larger animals back. Her grin returned to its usual strength, Pinkie lit the five candles on the cake. “C’mon, little filly! You have candles to blow out!”

“But my birthday’s not ‘til tomorrow!”

Pinkie knew Dinky was likely already on her way to take her daughter back to Canterlot. “I know… but just this once, I think it’ll be ok.” Grinning ear to ear, the filly rocketed to the table, hopping on her mother’s back, then onto the table itself. Sucking in a huge breath, she blew all five candles out in one go. “Did’ya make a wish?”

“Yup!”

“Don’t tell anypony, or it won’t come true.”

Still smiling, the filly shook her head. “I won’t! I promise!”

“Good. Now let’s have some cake.” Smiling warmly, the mare cut two large pieces. The happy filly took a moment to gaze down at her cake. Same thing as last year, but that was okay, she knew her mom worked hard to make it look nice. Scrawled in near perfect script was the same message she received every year.

Happy Birthday Jubilant Surprise!

----Special thanks to my new editor Opacare Stellata Check out that correct grammar and the spiffy scene breakers!

Chapter 1: Jubilant Surprise Pie

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Chapter 1: Jubilant Surprise Pie

Pinkamina Pie stood over her sleeping filly with a contented smile. They’d shared a slice of cake and a glass of milk before the mare insisted it was bedtime. She couldn’t help but check out the window constantly for an approaching chariot or carriage. She knew Jubilant Surprise would be missed, and the matron of the home for wayward foals would already be on her way.

Five years ago today her foal had been born. Some ponies called it a miracle birth. They couldn’t recall ever seeing Pinkie with a stallion for more than a few moments, let alone long enough to get pregnant. Some joked that that’s where the ‘Surprise’ part of her name came from. Pinkamina Pie’s little surprise. She didn’t do anything to help or hinder the many rumors surrounding her daughters’ conception.

The trouble began when her filly had been born a unicorn. The little town didn’t have its own doctor, and Fluttershy had performed the delivery herself. She’d had enough experience assisting her animal friends in the act, and out of necessity played midwife to Pinkie. Fortunately, the birth went smoothly, no complications or anything. Both were dismayed to see her horn. That meant the Queen’s seekers would come to take the newborn to the closest unicorn city, most likely Canterlot..

It was the first and only time she’d broken her promise to one of her few remaining friends from the old world. Well, friend may be a bit strong, but she had so few ponies she could have a sane conversation with anymore that each and every one of them was precious to her. That made her smile again. Pinkie Pie wanting sane conversations. Using the gift he left behind, she’d temporarily hidden her foals’ horn. She didn’t dare use it long but it was enough to fool the seekers. Convinced it was an earth filly, they left.

After that, it was a whole song and dance routine of hats, bandanas, and headbands. It was… stressful. Not just having to hide her filly’s true nature from the towns ponies, but dealing with magic surges. And boy oh boy did her little Surprise have some doozies. That phase was short lived, thank Celestia, but still the perpetually cheery mare’s pleasant disposition was sorely taxed during the time.

Her ‘career’ she’d been assigned when the world changed suffered for a time. She felt the magic wash over herself, then her cheerful little home she’d shared with Jennifer was gone, replaced by this… huge monstrosity of a manor. It didn’t take long for her to riddle out where her special talent was applied to in this new unicorn dominated world. Parties among her fellow earth ponies were few and far between, and the pegasi so far as she knew didn’t even know the meaning of the word anymore. High society functions were definitely not her idea of a party, but once she realized she was with foal, she knew she had to buckle down and get back to work.

Once Surprise was born however, it got trickier. At first she’d panicked, knowing she couldn’t bring the magically unpredictable filly with her or they’d be instantly found out. Fluttershy had saved the day yet again. Whenever Pinkie had to leave town for a business trip, her friend would take the filly—her goddaughter by then—into the Everfree to her hut to stay. There was no safer place in Equestria than Fluttershy’s hut in the Everfree Forest. Her rapport with animals slowly extended to the unnatural beasts lurking within to the point where even the ursas showed affection toward their pony neighbor.

Not to mention the forest’s other pony occupant. Pinkie sighed at that thought but shook it away. She’d tried her best to help her and get her involved with Surprise, but the mare had stubbornly refused. Not that she held it against her; it was hard for her sometimes too. Casting one last look at the sleeping filly and giving her a gentle nuzzle, Pinkie stepped from her bedroom making her way back downstairs.

No sooner had she arrived than a sharp rapping of hoof on door sounded. Taking a deep breath and squaring her shoulders, she answered it. Of course it was Dinky Doo. The unicorn had grown into a young mare over the past few years. She had no guards with her, Pinkie noted with interest. Last time it took six seekers to restrain her when they’d come for her filly. Dinky’s tail flicked and she offered a faint smile. “Hello Miss Pie. May I come in?”

Her confusion only grew. Dinky was a unicorn, a common born one, but a unicorn nonetheless. That meant if she wanted to come in, she certainly didn’t need permission, even from such a well-connected earth pony. “Sure. D’you want something to drink? Looks like you had a long hike.” She stepped aside, admitting the other mare.

“No thank you, Miss Pie. I think you know why I’m here.”

Pinkie’s first instinct was to buck her right back out the door, but she resisted. “For Surprise.”

“Yes. I didn’t bring any guards or seekers; I hoped we could resolve this peacefully.”

Again Pinkie had to quell her fight instinct. It’d do nopony any good if she beat the hay out of Dinky. She knew it wasn’t her fault she was acting this way, very few ponies managed to escape Galaxia’s spell that day. “… She’s just going to keep coming back you know.”

Dinky frowned gently now, and made her way to the seat cushions, taking the smaller of the bunch in the sitting room. “I had a feeling that might be the case. To be honest I was hoping you could tell me how she got away in the first place. The home is well protected; wards, guards. One of the most heavily defended buildings in Canterlot in fact. It’s rare, but sometimes we get attacked by berserk parents…” She blinked, realizing the other week Pinkamina was one such parent.

Pinkie simply nodded. “I can imagine. Have you seen her using magic?”

Dinky pursed her lips in a bit of a frown. “I haven’t actually. She does everything by hoof and mouth for the most part. I assumed you trained her to do so.”

The older mare laughed a little, and despite Dinky’s words earlier, set some tea on the stove. “Nope. She wanted to be like everypony else in Ponyville. My only rule was if she went out, her horn had to be covered.”

“So you encouraged her magic then?”

“Of course. She’s my daughter. I want her to be the very best at everything. That includes magic.”

Dinky Doo regarded the earth pony curiously. “That’s… very forward thinking of you, Miss Pie. Most earth ponies are very disdainful of magic.”

“Oh please, call me Pinkie. All my friends do after all.”

Now the younger pony shifted uncomfortably. “That’s not very professional…”

“You came here without your goons this time, Dinky. I beat up six stallions before you guys magic’d me from here to Canterlot and back. Coming all by yourself wasn’t very professional either. So why’d you do it?”

Dinky hadn’t remembered telling Pinkie her name. “… I feel a little… bad… for Jubilant Surprise. She seems very attached to you.”

“You weren’t attached to your mom when they took you from her?”

Now the young mare’s eyes narrowed suspiciously. “How did you know about that?”

“Lucky guess.” The mare happily chirped as she fetched the tea from the kitchen. “Anyway! You wanted to know how she got out, right?”

“More than anything.”

Pinkie smiled, conspiratorially leaning in close. “She can teleport.”

Dinky almost spit out the mouthful of tea she’d been sipping. “D— don’t be absurd! She’s barely five years old!”

“I know how old my filly is. You really don’t believe me?”

“Of course not. Teleportation is only mastered by the most skilled and powerful unicorns. The very idea that a filly her age could do that is… is… insane.”

Nodding slowly, Pinkie rose from her cushion. “Wait here, just one sec.”

“Miss Pie please don’t try to run…”

Pinkie offered her a toothy smile. “Promise. I’m gonna go get Surprise is all.”

Nodding a little, and willing to give the mare who’d shown her a shocking amount of kindness the benefit of the doubt, she settled down to sip her tea. A few moments passed and she began to grow concerned.

“SURPRISE!”

Dinky whinnied hysterically and reared back on her hind legs, flailing and falling flat on her back. Chest rising and falling as she frantically tried to calm herself, she looked incredulously at the wildly giggling filly rolling about the ground, clutching her sides. “Wh— where did you come from!?”

The little pony finally managed to get her giggles under control. Pinkie had come downstairs and was watching with a little smile. “My room, duh. Mom came and woke me up and said I should surprise you! So did I getcha!?”

“… Y— yes Jubilant you… you certainly got me.”

The little green pony wrinkled her nose. “I don’t like being called Jubilant.”

Dinky recalled that her mother referred to her as Surprise. “Oh um… sorry... Surprise?”

She smiled again. “It’s ok! You didn’t know!” Looking at the pair of them, Dinky could see a lot of resemblance. Aside from their coat colors of course. Pinkie’s was appropriately pink while Surprise’s was a deep forest green. Though both had the same baby blue eyes, and Surprise’s mane and tail were a dark pink, curling wildly and out of control. She’d tried to tame both after a particularly hellish bath time experience. Surprise most certainly did not like a brush getting anywhere near her mane.

“How um… did you do that, Surprise?”

She tilted her head. “Do what?”

“Appear down here so fast.”

“Oh!” Her horn lit up with a shimmering green aura and with a flash of swirling multihued lights, she vanished with a pop. Only to reappear with an identical pop, nose-to-nose with Dinky. “Surprise!”

Dinky’s body contorted comically from her on-the-back pose as she flopped over to the side with a little shriek. “Y— you can teleport!” She looked to Pinkie. “She can teleport!”

Pinkie shrugged. “Yup.”

The young house matron rolled to her hooves, looking over the seemingly ordinary filly in astonishment. “This is… this is amazing. Miss Pie, your filly may be the most gifted unicorn of all time!”

“Mmm. I don’t know about that.”

Dinky blinked in astonishment. “What do you mean? That’s a very high level spell!”

“Well true. Surprise packs a wallop, but she’s awful with spells.”

Dinky Doo looked from Surprise, then to her mother. “But she teleports.”

Another shrug from the older mare. “Uh huh. But she won’t learn anything else besides that and levitation, and she could teleport since she was two or so. It just came naturally to her, like levitation does to most unicorns. Believe me, we tried and tried to get her to learn anything else. She’s very stubborn.”

Having grown bored with the conversation, Surprise was busy bouncing on the large stuffed alligator in the room. Dinky nearly fainted again when the huge monster’s eyes snapped open and it rolled on its back, dislodging the filly. She screamed as its jaws snapped down around an unsuspecting surprise… its toothless jaws. “Hi Gummy!”

“M— Miss Pie is that…a pet alligator?”

“Yup! That’s Gummy. Hatched him myself.”

Dinky Doo was watching in morbid fascination as the large reptile gnawed harmlessly on the delightedly squealing filly in its jaws. “Is… that safe?”

“Well sure it is. Gummy loves playing with Surprise.”

The young mare watched the scene silently for several moments. “You… are a very odd family, Miss Pie.”

Pinkie smiled softly. “But we’re a happy family, Dinky.”

The blond mare frowned gently. “I have to take Surprise with me, Miss Pie. If my superiors notice her missing…”

“I understand. Do you mind just… waiting a little bit?”

Dinky sighed softly. “If it’ll keep her from running away again, I can wait until morning. You know a noble lord has taken an interest in her? She could have a very comfortable life.”

Pinkie watched as Izzy joined in, the dog excitedly barking and bouncing circles around the wrestling gator and filly. “Comfortable doesn’t always mean happy.”

“Well Lord Fancy Pants is a very kind stallion, and I haven’t met his wife but I’ve only heard good things. They say the Lady Rarity is one of the most generous mares in Canterlot.”

This drew Pinkie’s attention. “I know all about Rarity and Fancy Pants. So they’re the ones who were looking at Surprise?”

“Well he was. He said he wanted to discuss it with his wife. He seemed very enthusiastic.”

This brought a warm grin to the earth pony. “I can convince her to behave if you can promise me she won’t get stuck with anypony but Fancy and Rarity.”

Dinky frowned. “Why?”

“Because I know them. I planned their wedding, and just about every other party Fancy Pants has thrown. He’s one of my best customers.”

“R— really? Is that how you afford such a nice house?”

“Mmhm. Everypony comes to me for their parties; they just like to pretend they don’t.”

Dinky drew small circles in the carpet with her hoof. “I can’t promise they’ll adopt her, but I’ll do my very best to keep her from being taken by any other parents. To be honest, it’s rare our wards are adopted at all. Most ponies think they uh…” She frowned.

“They’re not as good as a pure blooded unicorn? I know. And I believe you’ll do your best, Dinky. Why don’t you stay the night? It’s pretty late, and you can take the train back in the morning.”

Dinky frowned slightly. “It is pretty late. Thank you for your hospitality, Miss Pie.”

With a happy shrug, her hostess led her from the room to one of the many guest rooms upstairs. “Sleep tight! Lemme know if you need anything.”

Nodding, Dinky shut the door behind herself. Pinkie pondered for a moment. She could probably take Surprise and head west. There were rumors that somepony was standing up to Galaxia’s regime out there. But what kind of life would that be for her filly? Sighing softly, she made her way back down to find Surprise rolling about the carpet, getting Gummy’s saliva out of her fur. “Alright kiddo, you need to go back to bed.”

With a pouty sulk, Surprise glared up the stairs. “I don’t wanna go with her.”

Sighing softly, Pinkie settled next to her daughter. “I know, cupcake. But it’ll just be for a little bit okay? I promise, things are going to get better.”

Eyes narrowed dangerously. “Do you Pinkie Promise?”

“Cross my heart, hope to fly, stick a cupcake in my eye.”

Nodding in satisfaction, Surprise promptly curled up in her mother’s forelegs. “Fine. I’ll go with her tomorrow.”

“That’s my girl. Just remember what I told you…”

“Always keep smiling!”

“That’s my girl.”

“Applejack, Ah don’t care whatcha say, Ah ain’t goin’ nowhere!”

Applejack scowled at her little sister. “This ain’t a democracy, Applebloom. Somepony’s gotta take a stand, an since Ah don’t see none a’ the others doin’ it, well… s’gonna be me.”

Applebloom shook her head violently. “But’ya can’t! Ah already lost everypony else! Ah dunno what Ah’d do if Ah lost you too.”

Taking a deep breath and straightening her Stetson, Applejack rested a hoof on her sister’s shoulder. “Now listen here sugarcube. Th’way things’re goin’, we’re gonna be out on our plots in the street while somepony else moves in an takes over th’ farm. If we’re lucky, we got us a year b’fore they buck us out. Ah got’ya a train ticket fer Appleloosa. Cousin Braeburn’s a good sort; he’ll take ya in.”

Stubbornly, Applebloom refused to back down. “Ah ain’t goin’, an ya can’t make me!”

With another sigh Applejack smiled sadly. “Had a feelin’ that’s what’ya were goin’ t’ say.” She turned away from her sister, eyes settling on the family photos on the mantle. “But Ah promised Ma nothin’d happen t’ ya. An Ah ain’t one t’ break a promise.” A smile formed on Applebloom’s face at the mention of their parents. She was about to say something appropriately heartwarming, when without warning her sister bucked her square in the face. She crumpled like an empty apple sack.

Gaze shifting to the prone form of her younger sister, Applejack calmly meandered to the kitchen, solidly hog-tying and gagging her little sister. With a grunt, she tossed her over her own back, and carried her out to the barn. Finding an empty barrel, she gently dumped her in, sealing the lid. “Land sakes, Ma’d tan my hide fer this.” Shaking her head at what the state of the world had forced her to do, she nudged the barrel onto the cart and left for the train station. The pegasi would be coming soon for their tribute, but it wasn’t apples she intended to pay them in.

Jubilant Surprise had always been an early riser. Much earlier than her mom, that was for sure. She took a few moments to bask in the warmth of her mother’s body. Some of the other ponies in school made fun of her for how much affection she shared with her mom in public, but what’d they know? She had the best mom in the world.

With barely a thought she blinked away from her mother’s hold, to the stairs leading to the second floor. She knew it wasn’t called blinking, but teleportation… but that word was big and sounded goofy. She called it blinking. Glancing back at the mostly untouched cake, she levitated it—box and all—onto her back and resealed the top. With a baleful glare upstairs at Miss Doo’s door, she trotted outside. She had promised to return to Canterlot and she intended to keep her word. She just didn’t say when she was going to go. She loved Ponyville. The tiny farming town had been her home her whole life, and she wasn’t inclined to leave without saying goodbye to it.

For a moment, she considered visiting Aunt Fluttershy, but there was no guarantee she was even home. Plus mom always gave her a swat when she found out she’d gone into the Everfree alone. Which was so unfair! She was a big filly; she could handle a few manticores or whatever. Plus she knew her other friend in the forest watched out for her.

She didn’t have many friends in town. Miss Cheerilee was nice, but she’d be getting ready for the days lessons right now. Plus, no doubt she’d run into Diamond Tiara, the filly who’d sold her out to the seekers in the first place to make a few bits.

Instead, she set out for the farm where she’d earned bits on now and again, helping with the apple harvests. Miss Applejack was nice after a fashion. She usually never smiled, didn’t talk much either for that matter. But she did appreciate a hard worker, and Surprise was certainly one of those. She never used her magic like her mom asked, but she’d gotten pretty good at apple bucking. Nothing like either of the Apple sisters, but she earned her bits. Plus Miss Applejack always had a little something for her on her birthday.

This thought in her mind, the suddenly cheery Surprise practically pranced the long distance out to the farm. Her pleasant mood fled as the sky darkened overhead, seemingly from nowhere. Thick black clouds rapidly descended over Sweet Apple Acres as a small squad of pegasi began to descend. She didn’t recognize most of them, but she knew the one with the rainbow mane and tail was Private Rainbow Dash, Ponyville’s official pegasus liaison.

Curiously, she picked her way closer, keeping behind trees and moving from bush to bush. Miss Applejack was standing tall and proud in the middle of the orchard, not backing down an inch as Rainbow Dash landed in front of her while her fellow flyers circled overhead. Surprise couldn’t pick out the exact words but… they both looked really angry and were shouting. She gasped as Private Rainbow Dash’s blades slipped out of her foreleg guards. Miss Applejack reacted in a flash, her hind hooves connecting with the colorful pegasus and sending her flying into some bushes.

The other pegasi descended instantly. Miss Applejack put up a good fight, but there were just too many. The cheaters would swoop down and kick or cut at her. She managed to clip one or two with her hooves, but it wasn’t enough, and she was soon forced face down into the dirt. Surprise scooted close enough to hear Private Rainbow Dash as she stood over Miss Applejack.

“…he authority vested in me by Queen Galaxia, I declare you a traitor to the nation, Applejack. The penalty is… is death.” Surprise had a feeling the private wasn’t very happy about this, but she knew a little bit about pegasus ponies. Namely that duty to their queen and country came before personal feelings.

Rainbow Dash was torn as she stood above the earth pony, blade raised for the strike. Applejack glared up at her, her one visible eye blazing with defiance. Rainbow Dash had to admire that. It was rare for these dirt ponies to show real spirit. If only she’d been born with wings… how different would things have been? Steeling herself for what had to be done, she brought her blade swinging down…

…and was knocked on her snout as a piece of chocolate cake—magically propelled at high velocity—smashed into the back of her helm, knocking her forward and spinning the helmet the wrong way.

“Who wants cake!?” Five shocked pegasi turned to the high pitched voice. It was a little unicorn filly. A large chocolate cake held in her magical aura. “I’ll even cut!” Suddenly alarm turned to amusement at the sight of the little filly trying to look brave. One even chuckled looking down at his commanding officer as she straightened her helmet.

“Wh— what the heck do you think you’re doing kid?! You’re interfering with official business!”

Surprise licked her lips and took a moment to line her sights up properly. Six targets meant she’d have to fire six pieces at once. It was more objects than she’d ever tried manipulating at once, but Miss Applejack needed her help! “Well you already got one, but if you want seconds…”

Rainbows eyes widened at the filly’s implications. Before she could react, another piece smashed right into her muzzle, sending her flat on her back. Her soldiers began to snicker before they too got a helping of the filly’s birthday cake square in their faces. While they flailed about, Surprise darted forward and magically snapped the rope around Miss Applejack’s hind legs. “Time to go?”

Scrambling to her hooves with a nod of thanks, Applejack scooped the filly in her mouth and tossed her onto her back. “Reckon it is sugarcube.” She kicked into a gallop without delay, having no real destination in mind other than ‘away’. “Happy birthday by the by. Thought y’all were in Canterlot?”

“I didn’t like it. Don’t go this way! Turn right!”

“Right!? Darlin’ that’s the Everfree!”

Already the pegasi had recovered from the delicious bombardment; one was even licking his face clean. Rainbow Dash… was fuming. She’d been taken down twice by a filly with a birthday cake! “Get those ponies! I don’t care about Applejack, I want that filly!” Their CO was famous for two things; her speed and her temper. It was best not to be on the receiving end of the latter, and they wasted no time beating their wings and giving chase… only to screech to a halt as the mare and filly ran into the forest. Dash was still fuming. “Did I say stop?! Get in there and get them!”

“M— ma’am, that’s the Everfree Forest...”

“I don’t care if it’s Queen Galaxia’s outhouse! Move it! That’s an order!”

No pegasus could ignore a direct order without incurring grave repercussions from their higher ups, usually involving the loss of their wings. Steeling their courage, they blazed into the forest after Applejack and Surprise.

Applejack was running as hard as she could, while the Everfree almost promised certain death, the furious pegasi warriors behind her promised it with a lot more certainty. “Ah hope y’all have more of a plan then ‘run around ‘til we get eaten’!”

Clinging to Applejack’s mane, Surprise nodded, not that her bearer could see it. “Just keep running! I’ll tell you when to turn!” Normally not one to rely on a foal to save her life, but seeing few other options, Applejack complied. Surprise had her twisting and turning seemingly at random, but she sounded pretty sure of herself. Risking a glance over her shoulder, she saw the pegasi were closing fast. Lowering her head, she plowed on, pushing herself as hard as her hooves would carry her.

“Stop!”

Applejack reared and almost flung the filly off her back at her sudden shout. “Sugarcube there’s nothin’ here an they’re closin’ quick!”

Surprise hopped off her back and pranced in place, smiling wide the whole time. “Just wait.” Swallowing, Applejack looked back to find the pegasi were nearly on them. She could see the fury blazing in Private Rainbow Dash’s magenta orbs. About to scoop Surprise up and take off again, she paused. The filly was curled up on the ground, hooves clamped firmly over her ears. “Cover your ears!”

Once again against her better judgment, Applejack complied, hunkering down and doing as instructed. No sooner had she complied than an ear splitting wail split the air. Applejack could feel it rattling her bones, and she scrunched her eyes tight against the terrible noise. No doubt some horrid creature had found them and they were about to be eaten at any second.

When the sound finally stopped, she kept her eyes shut and ears covered for several moments more. Finally she peeked one emerald orb open. She just barely caught a glimpse of some… thing disappearing into the brush, only seeing a purple haired tail flick before it vanished from sight entirely. Surprise was just waving cheerfully at the departing creature. Looking back at the pegasi, she found each and every one sprawled out across the floor of the forest, blood leaking from ears and noses one and all.

“S— sugarcube… What in the hay was that!?”

Her smile never wavered as she began to merrily trot back the way they’d come. “My friend! She lives out in the forest. I see her sometimes when I visit Aunt Fluttershy. She never talks, but she saved me from a manticore once.”

Again Applejack looked to the unconscious pony’s. “Are they… dead?”

“Nah! But they’ll be out for like… ever.”

More than likely they’d wind up in some critter’s belly if she just left them out here. Surely they’d intended to kill her but… it just didn’t feel right. Sighing softly, she tossed a couple over her back. “Surprise honey, would’ya mind getting’ th’ rest?”

“Sure thing, Miss Applejack!” Her smile never faltered as she hefted them into the air with her magic, trotting ahead happy as can be. Applejack shook her head silently as she followed the surprisingly capable filly. She didn’t know what to think when it was revealed her part time helper was a unicorn. She’d seen the little ankle biter grow up over the last few years. The little scamp reminded her of Applebloom when she was a filly; always getting into trouble, but not a mean bone in her body. Unlike most of the folk in town, she didn’t harbor any real resentment toward the unicorns. Heck, a couple of ‘em were her best customers.

Once they exited the dangerous woods, she unceremoniously dumped her burdens on the ground. Giggling delightedly, Surprise did the same. They groaned softly, but none woke. “Right. Let’s gitcha back t’yer ma. Reckon she’s wonderin’ where y’all are by now. Then Ah think Ah gotta train t’ catch.”

“Yes, Miss Applejack.” She huffed, but knew better to argue.

No doubt the seekers would come to take her away, if they weren’t there already. Applejack wished there was more she could do for the family. That Pinkie Pie was a strange one, but she was always happy t’ throw her bits around trying to make life a little easier for folk. More than a few times she’d offered to buy extra sunlight for the farm. Applejack was starting to wish she’d taken her up on the offer. With a grunt, she dispelled such thoughts. No sense dwelling on what-ifs. She’d made her stand, even if her life was spared by the actions of the filly at her side.

She hesitated at Pinkie’s door. Ponyville’s wealthiest resident always looked at her with such sad eyes. She had no idea why. Pity maybe? Applejack had lost most of her family, and it was common knowledge her farm wasn’t going to be hers much longer. Still, she had to see Surprise back in her mother’s hooves before she left the only home she’d known her whole life. The decision was taken out of her hooves as Surprise barged in. “I’m home!”

Wincing a little, Applejack followed. Pinkie Pie bounded up, a scowl on her face. “Surprise! Do you know how worried I was!?” Her expression shifted to the usual sadness as she spied Applejack. “O— oh. Hey there Applejack… she wasn’t causing trouble, was she?”

Taking her hat from her head in respect, Applejack fiddled with the brim in her hooves. “No ma’am. Just th’ opposite. Yer little filly here saved mah life from a buncha hopped up featherheads. Just wanted t’ see her home before Ah caught the train out.”

Pinkie’s expression—if possible—turned sadder. “So… you’re leaving too.” It wasn’t a question… just a statement laced with resignation.

“‘Fraid th’ farm ain’t quite th’ home it used t’ be. Applebloom’s already on her way an Ah’m fixin’ t’ meet her. Y’all take care now, Miss Pinkie. Yer a good sort.”

Tugging her daughter close, Pinkie sighed. “You too, Applejack. Say hi to Braeburn and Applebloom for me.”

Nodding politely, Applejack took her leave. Pausing only for one more errant thought. ‘How in the hay did Miss Pinkie Pie know mah cousin’s name?’

Rubbing at her sore backside, Surprise sulked up at her mother. “Well I couldn’t just do nothing! They were gonna kill Miss Applejack!”

Pinkie had a hard time poking holes in her logic. “W— well… you’re still a filly and you went into the Everfree! Again!”

“Hmph! And I’d do it again in a heartbeat!”

Pinkie Pie bristled, about to scold her filly further, when all the anger drained from her. This was probably the last time they’d see each other in a while. She didn’t want to part angry. Instead, she gently ruffled Surprise’s mane. “I know. You did the right thing… just… it’s so dangerous out there.”

“Ah mom… I was fine! Miss Applejack was with me! And my friend was in the forest!”

“I know she was. She always looks out for you, doesn’t she? Let’s get some breakfast in you, then you have a train to catch with Miss Doo.”

Pout returning three fold, Surprise planted her butt at the table. Dinky Doo was making her way down cautiously. She’d clearly been awake sometime and overheard the whole exchange. “… Everything alright down here?”

Pinkie smiled winningly. “Just fine! I was gonna whip up some pancakes, then see you girls on your way!”

“That’s very kind of you, Miss Pie. Thank you.” Dinky took a seat at the table, offering a smile to the little filly. She received a glare that could freeze a phoenix in return. She couldn’t keep staring into those blazing blue orbs for long, and she backed down first.

After one of Pinkie’s amazing breakfasts, the three ponies found themselves at the train station. Dinky procured two tickets while Pinkie fussed over her daughter. “Now you listen to Miss Doo. No more running away, alright?”

“Yes mom.”

“Promise?”

“I promise.”

“Pinkie promise?” Curses. The one vow she could never break. Squirming uncomfortably, but seeing her mom had that… mom look, she relented and went through the sacred vow and motions. The train could be heard chugging toward town. Mother and daughter met in a tight embrace, tears in both their eyes. “I’ll see you soon, alright cupcake? Just behave. Miss Doo’s a nice pony.”

“I promise mama… I’ll be good.”

Dinky shifted uncomfortably. “It’s time to go, Surprise.”

Reluctantly, the two parted. “I’ll… I’ll send letters, mom!”

Now Dinky frowned gently. “Oh, I’m afraid that’s not allowed.”

Pinkie and Surprise shared a smile. Pinkie Pie might have omitted one or two of Surprise’s magic tricks. “Well, we’ll work something out.”

No more words were said. Surprise followed Dinky Doo into the train, and settled in the car. The filly kept her face stony as the train pulled away… separating her from her mother for a second time. Cautiously, Dinky rested a hoof on her shoulder. “Things aren’t so bad. And now you get to be with your own kind, Surprise. Doesn’t that sound nice? I hope you and I can become good friends.”

Surprise’s mask cracked and twisted to one of anger. She slapped the older pony’s hoof off. “We’re not friends. We’ll never be friends. And I’ll never forgive you for what you’ve done. Never.” She turned away from Dinky and faced the wall, lying down with a grunt.

Dinky Doo sighed softly. Sometimes she hated her job.

Pinkie Pie remained at the train station until well after the train had vanished from view. Slowly, she turned back, trotting to her far too silent home once more. She slowly moved about, cleaning the kitchen and picking up the small mess her filly had left in the living room. With nothing else to do, she settled for collapsing on her well-worn cushion, prepared for a spectacular mope.

“Why Pinkamina Diane Pie. I have never seen you look so miserable.” Pinkie jerked upright in a second at the voice. She turned to find a brown coated unicorn stallion, standing on his hind legs leaning against the front doorframe. Dressed in his ridiculous purple pinstripe suit, and wearing a smile that would rival one of her own back in the day, he casually twirled an ornate cane over one hoof. “I think it’s time we had a talk about our filly.”

Chapter 2: Tons of Fun and a Beautiful Heart

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Chapter 2: Tons of Fun and a Beautiful Heart

Surprise maintained her silence throughout the train ride. Dinky tried to engage her once or twice, but she stoically refused to look away from the window. She barely moved—save the occasional twitch of her tail—until the train rolled into the station. Wordlessly, she rose to her hooves and followed Dinky out of the train and into the Canterlot streets.

Her frown deepened as she looked about the city once more. Everything was so… clean and shiny. Everything. Even the street under her hooves was pristine and free of dirt and grime. It all smelled wrong. No trees, no grass, just stone and dead wood. And everypony was a unicorn. Nopony stopped to say hello to one another or chat amicably with their neighbors.

She had to fight down the urge to just blink away and make a beeline for home. But she made a promise. She’d made two promises really, but she wasn’t much feeling like smiling. As the pair made their way along the streets, she was attracting a few looks. Nopony went about without wearing at least some clothing, and she was completely bare. The gazes ranged from scandalized to amused, but she just ignored them all. She sighed softly as the home came into view.

“Ah, Miss Doo! Just the mare I was coming to see, in fact!”

Surprise looked at the street to see a very handsome stallion climbing out of a carriage, helping an equally gorgeous mare down at his side. They both had white coats, but he had a short styled blue mane and moustache while the mare had a beautifully curled purple mane of her own. Despite herself, Surprise couldn’t help but feel… a little smile. They seemed nice. Normally when meeting new ponies, she’d give them a good scare like she always did, but... her spirits were understandably dampened.

The mare was staring at her, and leaned up to the stallion, whispering in his ear. He glanced at Surprise as well and nodded. Dinky Doo looked a bit flustered. “O— oh! Lord Fancy Pants, this is an unexpected honor. And you must be Lady Rarity.” She bowed politely. Surprise opted not to.

So this was Rarity? She remembered her mom’s stories of the mare. She certainly lived up to the image of beauty and grace. “A pleasure, Miss Doo. I believe my husband has some business to discuss?”

Dinky looked from the couple down to Surprise at her side. “Of course. Would you like to follow me to my office, sir?”

Nodding graciously, Fancy Pants followed Dinky Doo past the silently watching filly, and into the home. Surprise cast one last glance at Rarity before turning to head inside herself. “Ah… could we speak a moment dear?”
She blinked and turned back to the gorgeous mare. Even her clothes were beautiful. A lovely purple velvet gown with a few shiny gemstones here and there. Surprise scuffed her hoof lightly on the pavement. “I uh… I guess. If you want.”

Rarity allowed the ghost of a frown to form. “Is something troubling you?”

Surprise snorted indelicately, causing the mare’s eyes to widen. “Of course not! I get foalnapped from my mom and dragged away from home all the time. I’m just peachy.”

Now Rarity was looking uncomfortable. “A— ah… of course, that must be a very unpleasant experience. Still, aren’t you excited? You get to live in Canterlot with other unicorns now.”

The mare took an involuntary step back at the sudden anger in the tiny pony’s eyes. “This isn’t my home. I love Ponyville! I love working on the orchard with Miss Applejack and visiting Aunt Fluttershy in the Everfree! A— and… I hate unicorns! They’re all mean and snooty and rude!”

A hurt expression formed in Rarity’s eyes now. “Do you think that of me?”

Some of Surprise’s anger cooled and she focused on her forehooves, scuffing again. “…I guess not. You seem nice… and mom said you and Mister Fancy were good ponies.”

This caused Rarity to tilt her head. “Oh? Who’s your mother, dear?”

“Her name’s Pinkie Pie.”

A soft gasp escaped the mare now. “P— Pinkamena is your mother? Oh I had no idea! The poor dear she must be heartbroken. She planned our wedding and spoke of you all the time. I never imagined her filly was a unicorn…”

Surprise wrinkled her nose at the use of her mom’s full name. It always sounded so stuffy. “Well I am. I should probably go inside now. I’m sure Miss Doo wants to try something else to make me stop hating her.”

Rarity studied the small pony before her more intently now. She certainly had a bit more muscle than one saw in a unicorn filly her age, much more like a pegasus or earth pony. That made sense; if she’d spent her whole life in an earth village she likely lived and worked as one. Her coat was a lovely green color, though a trifle shaggy and unkempt. Her mane and tail were a dark pink, very nearly red, but not quite… and both were a veritable rat’s nest of bouncy curls. She could see the filly’s familial resemblance to Pinkamena in the eyes. They had the exact same sky blue.

Her heart truly went out to the miserable looking foal, and the Lady Rarity delicately settled on the ground, unmindful of her gown perhaps picking up a few errant bits of dirt. “You shouldn’t ever say you hate somepony, young lady. That’s a very ugly word, and you can hurt somepony’s feelings.”

“Hmph. Did somepony take you away from your family?”

Rarity had to admit this wasn’t an experience she could relate to. She had a very loving family, even if her parents embarrassed her from time to time. “No. But I know Miss Doo is a lovely young mare, who only cares about the foals in her care. It’s her job to look after the unicorns with no families.”

“But I have a family!”

Tentatively, Rarity rested a hoof under the filly’s chin, tilting her head up. “I know this must all seem very unfair and very confusing to you. I wish I had something to say to make you feel better. Pinkamena is a delightful mare, I consider her a friend in fact, and I’m not ashamed to admit that.”

Surprise didn’t pay much attention to the political stuff adults seemed to get all worked up over all the time, but she at least knew that earth ponies were the bottom of the barrel, and unicorns were the top. No unicorn had an earth pony friend. “… Really?”

“Yes, of course. A lady never tells a lie, dear. That’s a good first lesson for you.”

Wrinkling her nose again, Surprise sat on her haunches, staring at the mare curiously. “Lesson?”

“Why yes of course, dear. In etiquette. How to be a proper lady.”

Surprise huffed. “I don’t care about that stuff. What do I need fancy manners for living in a home for kidnapped foals?”

Rarity winced at the last part. “Well… how would you feel about coming to live with Fancy and myself?”

The little filly frowned now, settling on her belly. She remembered lots of stories about Miss Rarity from her mom… but she was also told in no uncertain terms was she to ever repeat any of them to anypony. And that Mister Fancy Pants seemed nice, and her mom liked him too. Even still, they were asking her to basically accept her situation and live in a new house. With a new family. “I… I dunno.”

Eyebrow raised, the elder unicorn regarded Surprise. “Dear, I don’t wish to seem… forceful, but you can’t honestly wish to remain here, could you?”

“N— no, of course not. But… but it’s my mom…”

Understanding filled Rarity’s eyes. “Of course. Well… Fancy and I are certainly not asking you to forget about your mother. And you don’t have to call us mother and father, that might be a trifle awkward for all involved. Maybe someday, but… not at first. We’d just like to give you a pleasant home. A nice wholesome environment now that you’re in Canterlot.”

They were definitely nicer than any other adult unicorn she’d met, (save Dinky of course, but her opinion was understandably colored). “I guess it’s okay…”

Rarity smiled warmly. “Wonderful. And here comes Fancy now!”

Surprise looked back to see the stallion emerging with Dinky. She recognized the little saddlebags over his back as her own. “I see you’re getting acquainted! Is everything going well, dear?”

His wife nodded with a gentle smile. “The young filly has agreed to accompany us home.”

“Excellent! Well, all the paperwork is signed and filed away, so it’s official. Welcome to the family, Jubilant.” Fancy was smiling. But even still, Surprise frowned.

Dinky cleared her throat softly. “She prefers Surprise sir.” The matron looked down at her former ward. “Now… you behave, Surprise. I’ll be checking in now and then to make sure everything’s going well. Alright?”

Surprise turned and scuffed the pavement with a hind hoof in Dinky’s direction, hopping into the carriage without waiting for an invitation. With a soft sigh, Dinky Doo shook her head. “She really is the sweetest little filly… she’s just upset with me.”

Neither noble seemed at all put off by the display. “Certainly understandable, I suppose. I almost wonder if she hadn’t been better off being left in Ponyville. Miss Pie is an upstanding mare and a very devoted mother. I could tell from how she spoke of her daughter. I suppose it makes sense that she never brought her to Canterlot on her trips.”

The youngest of the unicorns blinked at that. “H— how can you say that sir? Of course she’s better off with her own tribe. It’s… it’s just how things are!”

Rarity was making her way into the carriage to sit with the now-angry Surprise while Fancy hm’d softly. “She was in a home full of love, with a mother who cared for her deeply, Miss Doo. Obviously she enjoyed the life and family she had in Ponyville. At times I question the wisdom of ripping apart families as we do.”

Now his words were bordering on treasonous, and Dinky looked uncomfortable. “W— well… please take good care of Jubilant Surprise.”

Fancy Pants inclined his head slightly. “Of course. You’ve nothing to worry about. Good day, Miss Doo.” Nodding goodbye to Dinky, Fancy joined his wife and newly adopted filly in the carriage. “Home, Sterling, if you please.”

The well-dressed earth pony servant set out at a brisk trot back toward his employer’s manor. Surprise peered out the window at him curiously. “I thought earth ponies didn’t live in Canterlot...”

“Ah! Well they don’t live here, per se, but down the mountain a little ways there’s a small colony for our servants to live.” Fancy offered the young pony a smile.

She wrinkled her nose. “That seems silly. Why don’t they just live up in the city?”

He exchanged a concerned look with his wife. “Well… it’s a bit difficult for you to understand I think, given that you grew up with earth ponies. However, the widely accepted opinion is that unicorns are better than they, and so we live apart.”

Surprise quietly digested this new information, watching the city streets rush by from the window. “I see.”

Rarity cleared her throat gently. “So, Jubilant…”

Immediately the filly looked up. “I prefer Surprise.”

The mare arched a brow. “Oh? Why in the world would you prefer that to Jubilant? It’s such a lovely name, dear. It’s another word for happy, you know?”

Surprise shrugged. “I don’t care. It’s a stupid sounding fancy word that nopony liked back home. Surprise is nicer.”

Fancy Pants opted to remain quiet, allowing his wife to handle this. “Well that’s not entirely fair to you though, is it? Not using one part of your name because some ponies don’t like it. Your mother must have liked it if she gave it to you, yes?”

Now Surprise was scuffing the seat a bit. Her mom used to call her Jubilant a lot until some of the ponies in Ponyville said it sounded like a snooty unicorn name. She’d always called her her happy little surprise too… guess that made some sense now. “Well… I guess…”

Now Rarity was smiling. “If you’d really prefer Surprise, we can call you that. But I for one would love a beautiful name like Jubilant. Perhaps we could try it out?”

Slowly, the filly nodded her assent. Rarity’s smile widened. “So… Jubilant. Fancy and I have a room set up for you already. If there’s anything at all you’d like to change, you just let us know, alright? This is your home now, and we want you to feel comfortable.”

Her husband chimed in now. “Indeed. Is there anything you’d like to do today, or would you rather just settle in? Perhaps we could visit the art district tomorrow? It’s one of my favorites.”

Still digging her hoof into the cushion Jubilant Surprise shrugged once more. “No. I had my cake with mom last night, and Miss Applejack was too busy for presents.”

“Cake? Presents? Is it somepony’s birthday?”

Now she nodded. “Mmhm. I turned five today.”

Rarity gasped softly. “Jubilant, your birthday is today? Well we cannot simply… go home and settle in! We need to celebrate!” She swiftly stuck her head out the window. “Oh Sterling, darling! We need to make a detour! The lower district please, my mother’s bakery.”

The carriage made a sharp turn and they were off to their next destination. Fancy Pants was frowning gently. “Well don’t I feel like a proper donkey now? I should have been more mindful of the information, I suppose. We could have had a proper party ready.”

Jubilant rapidly shook her head. “O— oh no, you don’t have to do anything. I had a little party with mom last night.”

“Nonsense. We’re not about to start this new relationship off by ignoring your birthday. We’re to be your parents, Jubilant, and we would be doing a pretty poor job of it if we forgot a day as important as that.” Rarity moved from her seat to sit next to the little filly.

“Quite right.” Fancy Pants stood and opened the door, helping both mare and filly to the ground. “Say hello to your mother for me love, I’ve got a quick errand to run myself.” He pecked his wife on the cheek gently before trotting off toward one of the other shops.

Turning a smile to the filly at her side, Rarity held the door to a cheerful little bakery. “This is where my mother works. She’s been saving for years to purchase it from the owner. Soon it will be her bakery.”

Jubilant entered looking around curiously. It smelled nice inside… with a little twinge in her chest she realized it smelled like her mom usually did. A wonderful sugary sweet aroma. She closed her eyes, breathing deep… for just a moment she could imagine her mom was there with her. But only for a moment, as Rarity dispelled the illusion soon enough.

“Mother~!”

An older mare trotted out. She had a pink coat, but the same purple mane her daughter. “Rarity! What brings you by? Off the diet again?”

The younger unicorn blushed gently. “No, mother. This is Jubilant Surprise, the filly Fancy and I adopted. It turns out today is her birthday.”

“Well! We can’t have a filly’s birthday go by without a cake, can we?” Rarity’s mother smiled kindly down at a suddenly timid Jubilant. “So what’s your favorite flavor?”

“O— oh um… chocolate, ma’am.”

“My, so polite too. Well let’s see what we have, hm?” Her horn glimmered with a warm pearly aura, lifting the filly from her hooves and settling her on her back. She gave her daughter a wink as Jubilant giggled a little.

It was later afternoon, so the flow of customers would be light from now until closing. Rarity watched quietly as her mother—a pony she’d always found somewhat embarrassing at times—chatted animatedly with Jubilant Surprise… in seconds it seemed the filly had gone from withdrawn and morose to cheerful and happy to talk a mile a minute. Perhaps Jubilant needed a more… relaxed approach?

Idly, the fashion-conscious noblepony browsed some of her mother’s wares. She really did have a fantastic talent at baking lovely sugary treats. Fond memories of waking to fluffy pancakes every morning and delicious desserts after supper filled her head. They may be embarrassing, but her parents had showered her and Sweetie Belle with love and affection. They weren’t wealthy, but did all they could to give their daughters everything they wanted, which was admittedly little. She frowned slightly as she realized her parents’ love was more than enough to give her a happy childhood.

Her gaze shifted to Jubilant still on her mother’s back. She wasn’t exactly close friends with Pinkamena Pie, but she knew the mare had a huge and beautiful heart. Surely she loved her own filly as much as Rarity’s mother had loved her. And now Jubilant had been forcefully separated from that love. That seemed… so terribly sad all of the sudden. She couldn’t return her to Ponyville. Now that Jubilant Surprise was in the system, she’d never be free to live there, and she could be tried for treason for doing such a thing. But what Rarity could do was make sure to give the poor filly all the loving care she could muster.

“Mother. Do you perhaps instead have some… cake mix?”

Her mother looked over clearly confused. “W— well of course dear. Why?”

A hesitant smile formed on Rarity’s muzzle. “Well, I Was thinking perhaps it would be fun if Jubilant and I er… baked her cake. Together.”

Now she was getting a deadpan look. “You? Bake? Rarity dear, are you feeling alright?”

Her smile became more solid seeing the hopeful look in Jubilant’s eyes. “Yes, I’m feeling just fine. We’ll take the cake mix and some frosting I think. In fact… why don’t you and father come to the estate this evening? I’ll see if Sweetie Belle can make it too. We’ll have a proper little party.”

“Are you sure Fancy Pants won’t mind?”

Rarity laughed lightly, levitating Jubilant from her mother’s back to her own. She shifted a little under the weight of the filly, but found it to be very little burden. “Of course not. He’ll likely insist on purchasing streamers and the like.”

Soon she was given a bag with the mix and frosting. “Alright then. We’ll be there, say, eight tonight?”

“Eight o’clock it is. I look forward to seeing everypony tonight. Come along Jubilant, we have a cake to bake!”

With a delighted little laugh, Jubilant waved goodbye to Rarity’s mom. Maybe not everypony in Canterlot was going to be mean? Miss Rarity and Mister Fancy Pants seemed really nice. So did her mom for that matter.

They waited in the carriage for Fancy Pants, fortunately it wasn’t a long wait and he soon returned bearing a small package. He eyed the bag from the bakery curiously. “I say, I hate to sound rude dear but it seems your mother might be losing her touch.”

Rarity tsk’d and gave her husband a good natured bump with her hoof. “Jubilant and I are going to bake a cake this evening. I’ve invited my family over to have a little birthday party.”

“You’re going to bake?” At his wife’s nod, he raised a brow. “Well this should certainly be an interesting evening then! I suppose Jubilant will have to wait to get her present until tonight.”

Now Jubilant’s eyes were wide. “Present? For me!?”

“Oh yes. It is your birthday, young lady. You can’t have one of those without presents. But you’ll just have to wait until this evening.”

The young filly was bouncing on her seat in excitement now. “So Jubilant, what do you normally do for your birthday?” Rarity inquired gently.

The subject of discussion paused a moment and thought. “Well I get to stay home from school that day! Mom would make a big breakfast and she takes the day off work. We usually go to the park or visit Aunt Fluttershy in the forest. Then we all have dinner and play some games and stuff.”

“Hm. Well, I don’t think we can make a trip into the ah… Everfree, but the park is certainly doable I should think?” Fancy smiled warmly and called out to their driver. “The municipal park please, Sterling!”

Rarity was frowning only a touch. “Fancy, don’t you think we should stop by my shop? Jubilant is a bit… indecent.”

Now the filly was frowning too. “Whuzzat mean?”

Fancy chuckled. “It means you’re naked, dear. Not many ponies in Canterlot go about au naturale.” His horn glowed warmly as he began to unbutton his suit coat and remove the cufflinks at his forehooves.

Rarity watched it all with a growing sense of dread. “Fancy Pants, don’t you dare…”

Studiously ignoring his wife, the stallion carefully removed his coat and folded it on the seat beside himself. His fine silk shirt was next to join it, leaving him clad in only his trademark monocle. “A bit refreshing, I must admit.”

Jubilant was giggling a little at Rarity’s mounting distress. “Fancy, you can’t go out like that! What if somepony sees you!? What will they say!?”

Gently, he rested a forehoof over Rarity’s own, very subtly shifting his eyes toward the filly. Rarity did so as well, and saw the cheerful jubilance she was named for dancing in her wide blue orbs, rather than the dark morose look they’d carried earlier. Heaving a deflated sigh, she unlaced her fine gown. “The things I do for you...”

When the carriage rolled to a stop in the beautiful art district, three very much unclothed unicorns trotted out, already drawing more than a few stares. Though a few laughed and shrugged off the uncommon sight when they saw Fancy Pants. The eccentric business tycoon was well known for marching to the beat of his own drum.

Jubilant was blissfully unaware of it all. The park was almost like being back home. Lush green grass and big beautiful trees. There were even ponies outside talking to each other! Just like in Ponyville! The ponies in this district seemed almost… nice. Rarity was walking slowly, tail tucked firmly between her legs, and doing her best not to meet anypony’s gaze, but seeing how happy the filly was made the embarrassment easier to bear.

Fancy cantered to one of the vendors in the district, tossing a few bits on his stall counter and carrying a frisbee over to Jubilant. The filly’s eyes lit up and she began to hop excitedly as he tossed it with his magic. To his surprise, she jumped and caught it in her teeth like an earth pony would. And like the same tribe’s ponies, she flicked her neck, tossing it back the same way. With a loud guffaw at the absurdity of it all, he abandoned his magic, doing likewise. His mortified wife only watched as the stallion she loved ran about getting all… dirty and sweaty. Carrying on like an earth pony!

It was hard to stay upset however, listening to the peals of delighted laughter coming from Jubilant Surprise. The mare gingerly lowered herself to the cool grass. She hadn’t felt grass on her bare stomach since she was just a filly herself. It actually felt rather pleasant. Smiling at the warm nostalgia, she watched stallion and foal at play, and found she couldn’t really be upset at either of them.

Pinkie stared at Discord for a time after his last sentence. “Don’t call her that.”

The brown coated stallion dropped to all fours, affecting a hurt look. “Well it’s basically true.”

“Maybe. But your claim is only in mixing a little magic about. I carried her, I raised her. I— I lost her. So… don’t come in here acting like you did anything more than the bare minimum. If you had stayed, they might have let us keep her!”

He snorted softly and took an intense interest in one of his forehooves suddenly. “I suppose that’s true. But you know it’s not safe for me to be around any of you for long. She has spies everywhere, and you six are of particular importance to her. Even short visits like this are dangerous.”

Pinkie found her anger dissipating. She hated being angry at anypony… and she certainly had a lot to be thankful for toward Discord. “I guess so. If it’s so dangerous, why are you here?”

His smile returned. “Well it’s Surprise’s birthday! I visit every year after all. Though I didn’t expect her to be snatched up by the gestapo. Ah well, I can give her a present in Canterlot as easily as I can here.”

Now the mare was suspicious. “If it’s dangerous to come here, isn’t it more dangerous going to Canterlot?”

“Well m’dear, it’s a very special birthday for our little Jubilant Surprise. Her magic’s been getting stronger, ripening if you will. And it’s ready for harvest.” His horn shimmered with the same chaotic swirl of color Surprise’s did when she teleported. A large jeweled case took shape. One Pinkie recognized immediately. The clasp holding it closed opened gently revealing the six empty indentations. “If you would be so kind… I have several of these to find, and not all are going to be as easy as yours.”

Pinkie’s brow furrowed, but she complied. Moving to her own room and gently nosing a loose floorboard aside, she withdrew a small velvet bag. Carrying it downstairs, she upended it, letting the golden element of laughter spill out. “What are you going to do with them?”

Discord’s smile grew. “Why Pinkamena, I’m going to save Equestria.”

To his credit, Fancy Pants managed to keep a straight face as his wife had brought out Jubilant’s birthday cake. The poor thing was heavily lopsided, and just a trifle under done… but everypony tucked into it with relish as if it were made by the Queen’s own pastry chef. Sweetie Belle had been a bit less tactful, loudly declaring it to be something more akin to her own attempts at cooking than their culinary minded mother’s, but in the end everypony had a wonderful time.

Even Jubilant, at first a touch timid around the unicorns that were supposed to be her new family, soon warmed to Rarity’s very down to earth family. They really did remind her of everypony back in Ponyville. For a moment she wished they could all be back there. Or that her mom and aunt could be here. She had a feeling they’d all get along really well.

The servants had gone home for the evening, leaving the adults to tend the clean-up, but not a word of complaint was to be heard. Saying their goodbyes and ushering Jubilant to her new room for bed, the couple wearily made their way to their own room.

“Well… an eventful first day, I think.” Fancy’s tail twined with his wife’s as they walked.

“She certainly has a lot of energy once she gets comfortable, doesn’t she?” Rarity looked particularly worn out, certainly not used to the amount of effort she’d exerted today.

Nodding but smiling, Fancy paused at the filly’s door. Ear perked curiously, he leaned in. “She’s talking to somepony.” He spoke in a hushed whisper.

Brow furrowed, Rarity joined him. “… But who?”

“And then after the park we came home and I baked a cake with Miss Rarity! It wasn’t as good as mom’s, but it was still really yummy! And I got to meet her mom and dad and little sister and they’re all really really nice ponies! I miss mom… and Aunt Fluttershy and Miss Applejack a lot but… but it’s not all bad. So don’t be sad, okay? I’m going to try and not be so sad either!”

Smiling warmly to one another, but unable to stifle their curiosity, they entered Jubilant’s room as one. It had been decorated in shades of pastel pink, much to the filly’s delight. A bed bigger than her and her mom’s combined back home dominated most of one wall, with pillows and blankets softer than anything she’d felt before. She had a whole closet full of pretty clothes, not that she was too eager about that. She was currently sitting on the patio, her large doors standing open and gazing up at the moon.

“Jubilant dear… who on earth are you talking to?”

The filly simply lifted a hoof, pointing up. “The mare in the moon! Mom says she’s lonely a lot so I like to tell her all about my day. I know she’s really far away but maybe she hears and doesn’t feel as lonely!”

Rarity’s hoof flew to her chest and her eyes moistened. That was perhaps the sweetest thing she had ever heard. All her previous reservations at taking in this filly had been more or less dispelled over the course of their day, but this banished whatever remained.

Fancy Pants chuckled warmly, lifting the filly with his magic and settling her in bed. “Well I’m quite certain she hears you and very much appreciates the time you take to keep her company. But it’s late and time for good little fillies to be in bed, hm?”

Jubilant didn’t complain as she was settled in the huge bed and tucked under the covers. Both of her adopted parents paused a moment, looking from one another to the filly. Rarity took the lead this time, leaning up and kissing her on the forehead. “Good night Jubilant. And happy birthday.”

She blinked. “Hey I didn’t get my present!” She was standing on the covers in a flash, looking expectantly at Fancy Pants.

Blinking in surprise, the dapper stallion laughed. “Well in all the excitement I suppose I forgot!” He slipped the box from his breast pocket, showing he had in fact likely not forgotten at all. He levitated it to the eager young filly, who wasted no time flinging the wrapping off and admiring the pretty box. Gingerly, she took lid in her teeth and edged it open.

Inside was a simple silver chain with a small heart shaped stone inlaid at the center. It was a very dark purple, almost black. Eyes shining excitedly, she picked it up in her hooves and the small stone instantly brightened a little. With a soft gasp, she held it tighter as it grew to a beautiful amethyst hue. “Wow…”

Rarity watched it all a bit confused. “My word Fancy, what in the world is that? I’ve never seen a gem do that before.”

Her husband seemed equally perplexed. “Well I had no idea it was enchanted. I saw it and just felt it… would suit her. Do you like it, Jubilant?”

Nodding happily, she slipped it over her head without delay. “I love it!”

Somewhere deep in the Everfree forest, the pendant’s twin sat hanging off a small outcropping of rock within a dark cave. Yellow eyes widened as the stone began to shine with an identical light.

“What’s this, Miss Rarity?”

Rarity had grown very used to the endless barrage of questions from Jubilant Surprise over the past week. There was very little about Canterlotian life she understood, and she was constantly asking about anything that caught her eye. Rarity had at least managed to get her to wear clothing out in public, but only if she allowed her to go without at home.

“What’s what, dear?” They were sitting in her work room at home. She’d been working out of the manor for the last few days in an effort to give Jubilant some stability. It wouldn’t do to snatch her from her real mother and insist she think of Fancy and herself as her new parents if she dumped her on the maid all the time like some ponies did.

Jubilant had her nose pressed against a display case Rarity kept some of her favorite trinkets and knick knacks she’d collected. “This necklace! It looks like an Elements of Harmony!”

Eyebrow raised curiously now, Rarity left her sketchpad and came to stand beside the filly. “Oh that? It’s…” She trailed off a moment and her eyes lost focus. “…it’s just an old family heirloom. My mother gave it to me. What did you call it?”

Jubilant stared intently at it. It looked just like the necklaces mom and her aunt had, just with a purple diamond instead of the blue balloon or pink butterfly. “An Elements of Harmony! Mom and Aunt Fluttershy have ones just like it!”

That was a little hard for Rarity to believe. What would a pair of earth ponies be doing with such fine jewelry? “Are you certain?”

“Mmhm. Mom used to tell me stories all the time! Hers was laughter and Aunt Fluttershy’s was kindness! I wonder which one this is?”

This was the first Rarity had heard of any of this. “My, I wonder if it’s part of a set? That would certainly be interesting. Perhaps we can make a little trip to Ponyville and find out, hm?”

“Really!?” Jubilant was grinning ear to ear. Rarity and Fancy had discussed making trips to the earth pony village now and again to let Jubilant see her mother. While it was important the filly began looking at them as parental authorities, it would certainly do no harm to visit Pinkamena. She was a good mare after all.
“Yes, really. In fact, why don’t we plan to go this Saturday, hm? We can take a carriage and make a proper little outing. Hm... if Sterling agrees. That is a long way to go.”

Laughing as the filly began bounding about, squealing in excitement, her attention was drawn by a gentle clearing of the throat at her door. She turned to find Mirror Polish, the family maid watching quietly. “Yes Mirror?”

“Madame, there is a… gentlecolt here to see you. He claims to be a relation to Miss Jubilant.”

Rarity’s smile faded. “An earth pony?”

“Oh no madame, a unicorn stallion.”

A unicorn? This was news. “Jubilant, is your father a unicorn?”

She shook her head. “No Miss Rarity.” She gasped. “It must be Uncle D!” Jubilant rocketed from the room right between Mirror Polish’s legs.

The maid laughed softly, shaking her head. “He did say he was her uncle. He’s in the foyer, madame.”

Rarity thanked the maid and set out at a brisk trot to the entrance. There was Jubilant Surprise hopping around a bemused looking brown coated stallion who was wearing perhaps the ugliest suit Rarity had ever had the misfortune to lay eyes on. Softly, she cleared her throat, drawing their attention. “Good afternoon.”

The stallion ruffled Jubilant’s mane with a hoof, causing Rarity to wince, (she’d finally gotten the filly to allow her to run a brush through it and had tamed it… Somewhat). “And a good afternoon to you as well, madame! I do apologize for arriving unannounced, but I had a very urgent bit of business with my niece.”

Despite his unorthodox appearance, Rarity found herself almost instantly liking this odd stallion. He wasn’t entirely unlike her husband, who was known to be eccentric himself. “I see. Nothing… too pressing?”

“Why the most pressing matter an uncle could have with his niece!” A small box locked in a swirling aura of chaotic magical color drifted in, settling before a nearly squealing Jubilant. “What sort of uncle would I be if I forgot her birthday? I had a bit of trouble finding her after the ah… relocation, you see.”

Looking somewhat relieved, Rarity crossed the distance to Jubilant and her uncle. Jubilant was tearing the wrapping and throwing it aside in a flurry of ribbon and paper. Excitedly, she nosed open the flaps… then her face fell. She knew mom said to always be grateful for a present no matter what, but...

Rarity watched curiously as a very clearly used and beat up knapsack was lifted from the box in Jubilant’s green aura. “…you got her a used saddlebag?”
“Th— thanks Uncle D… it’s uh…. nice?” Gingerly, she turned it over and started unzipping some of the many pockets. There was a canteen and all sorts of camping stuff.

“Well it’s the thought that counts! And you never know, that could come in handy. Maybe even soon.”

Rarity was frowning gently at that. “Jubilant, would you excuse us a moment? I’d like a word with your uncle please. In private.”

Blinking from her uncle to her foster mom, the filly nodded. “Yes ma’am. I’ll go play with my uh… new… beat up bag…” What the heck!? Normally Uncle D brought the best presents. Still, Miss Rarity seemed unusually insistent, so she scampered to her room.

Now the mare was scowling as she rounded on the stallion. “I don’t know what you think you were implying, but you’re not just going to drag Jubilant off on some camping trip out of the blue.”

“Whatever gave you that idea? I just feel it’s best to always be prepared! You never know when your carriage would break down on the side of the road or something.” His smile was genuine, but did little to ease Rarity’s nerves.

“Are you planning on taking her? Because Fancy and I have legal custody. She’s happy with us, and we’re happy with her. We won’t let her go without a fight.”

Now his smile had faded a little. “No. No I’m not here to take her away…” Yet. “And I’m glad she wound up in the hooves of ponies who genuinely care for her. I suppose I wanted to make sure of that fact. Pinkie Pie is a wonderful mother, and you can hardly blame me for being concerned about my niece. Besides, I’m not parent material. Something of a vagabond.” His grin returned.

Rarity’s eyes softened. “Oh. Oh yes of course, I do understand. Forgive me, this is all very… new. And Jubilant is certainly a hoof full, not that I’m complaining of course! She’s an absolute delight.”

“She’s something special, alright. Do you mind if I speak to her? Just few a few minutes before I’m on my way?”

Rarity would likely feel better if Fancy were home, but he was at one of his business meetings. Still he seemed an affable fellow, and they did have a small army of servants about. “Of course. Her room is the third on the left upstairs. I’ll prepare us some tea.”

Thanking her, Discord made his way upstairs, finding the filly huffily poking at her present. Shaking his head in amusement, he shut the door behind himself. “Not the usual caliber of present from me?”

“N— no… not really. Sorry Uncle D, but uh… usually it’s new toys and stuff. What’m I gonna do with this?”

Looking back and forth as if ensuring they were alone, he inched closer. “Well… how about an adventure?”

Jubilant’s eyes widened a little. “Wh— what? Adventure? Me?”

“Well not just you of course, m’dear. I’d be along… and we’d have to collect your friends of course.” Discord was strolling around her room, taking it all in quietly. They’d certainly spared no expense; of course he expected no less of the two big hearted unicorn nobles.

“Where’re we going? What would we be doing? Does Miss Rarity know?”

“Well… I’m not entirely sure where we’d be going, but we’ll be starting in Ponyville I think. As to the what…” The case appeared again and Jubilant peered in curiously.

“That’s mom’s!”

He nodded. “Indeed. She gave it to me for safekeeping. See how there are some missing?”

“Mmhm. Aunt Fluttershy and Miss Rarity both have one!”

“They do. Our mission, if you choose to accept it…” He waited a moment, only getting a blank stare. “…is to find the Elements of Harmony.”

“Then what?”

“Well then we’ll just see. For now, let’s focus on one thing at a time, hm? Do you think you can get me Miss Rarity’s?”

Jubilant was frowning a little now. “Maybe. I can go ask.”

“No, no! She can’t know about this. It has to be a secret.”

Her frown deepened. “But that’s stealing. Plus, won’t she notice it’s gone?”

Discord however was smiling. “We’re just borrowing it, Surprise. We’d bring it back once we’re done. And she won’t notice because…” An identical copy popped into view before Jubilant’s nose.

She still seemed reluctant however. “I dunno…”

Closing the case, Discord settled on the floor before Jubilant. “Do you remember your mother telling you about happier times? Times when everypony was friends and didn’t care about unicorns or pegasus or earth tribes?”

She nodded. “Mmhm.”

“Well. You and I, and some other ponies are going to bring those happy times back. But to do that…”

Jubilant’s eyes widened a little. “…you need the elements?”

He beeped her nose with a hoof. “Got it in one, little filly. But we have to be sneaky. The mean old Queen doesn’t want things to go back, so we have to do this without her knowing.”

Grinning eagerly, Jubilant wasted no more time taking the copy in her magic. “Wait right here!” With a soft pop and a swirl of color, she vanished.

Discord chuckled at her excited antics. Slowly, he moved to the balcony, looking up where the moon would be. “Soon, Princess. Soon.”

Chapter 3: Plucking Her Heartstrings

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Chapter 3: Plucking Her Heartstrings

Jubilant blinked back into her room with the element of generosity in tow, presenting it proudly. “Easy peasy!”

With a smile, Discord held the case out for her to place it in, careful not to touch it himself. “Anywhere you like, Surprise.”

The filly slowly lowered the second necklace in, across from the first. “So where are the rest?”

“Well! Your Aunt Fluttershy has one, of course. Then Miss Applejack another, though I believe she must have taken it with her when she left Ponyville. Private Rainbow Dash, whom I believe you’ve met, holds the fifth.”

Jubilant wrinkled her nose at the mention of the pegasus soldier. “I know her.”

“She does leave a lingering impression. The last is a bit trickier. But I think you’re just the filly to get it.”

Lyra bowed, smiling gently as quiet applause rose from the crowd of nobles. She had just finished her encore for the… she actually hadn’t bothered to figure out what the party she was playing at was for. For some stupid party. Still, these performances made her the big bits, and she enjoyed a rather comfortable lifestyle. Certainly not enough wealth to be considered an equal by those she played for, but enough she didn’t need an extra job.

She had already been paid, so she was free to move about the crowd and enjoy the end of the party. Of course, ‘enjoy’ was a bit of a stretch, but she still helped herself to plenty of the hors d'oeuvres. All this money and these ponies can’t even manage to make a decent cupcake... Smiling politely to the host of the evening, she quietly excused herself.

It was time for her real work to begin.

A simple charm to mute the sound of her hoofsteps first. Followed right away by slipping the amulet enchanted with invisibility around her neck. She allowed a little smirk as she winked out of sight. Neither was perfect, but a pony would have to actively be looking for these specific spells to see through them. As long as she kept to her target and didn’t stray—and the thought of straying into the treasury did cross her mind—she’d be fine.

The musician and sometimes spy slipped through the castle halls not making a sound. Her target was soon in sight, and she fell into step behind General Graymane. She almost whistled at the impressively muscled stallion’s physique. He was powerfully built with an immaculate black coat and a close cropped stormy gray mane. She didn’t have to wait long before he dispelled the wards on his private office and slipped inside behind him.

She had quite a bit longer a wait for him to finish doing whatever boring nonsense Generals got up to. Most likely finding new ways to attack the griffon empire or brutally crush the mounting earth pony rebellion in the west. After several agonizing hours, the general finally departed. Still, Lyra waited before moving from her spot in the corner of the room. Glancing at the clock, she felt it was safe and crept to his desk. Her magical aura came into view; the invisibility couldn’t conceal that unfortunately, as she lifted a small set of picks from a fold in her gown. Moving with meticulous slowness, she worked the lock on the top drawer, soon rewarded with a satisfying click.

The door slid open and she quickly scanned the papers within. If she just took the papers, the general would know he was robbed, and no doubt change his troop movements and attack plans. This required finesse; fortunately she was well versed in such matters. A slim folder of her own slipped from her gown while the picks were replaced. Several sheets of blank paper were soon magically filled with the various words and diagrams found in the general’s attack plans. The real ones were replaced, and the drawer locked again.

Lyra settled down to wait. She didn’t dare let herself sleep, so she filled the time running through potential new songs in her head. It was what she always did when she had free time, and now was certainly one of those times. The general didn’t return until late morning, and she wasted no time galloping from the office, slowing only once she was in the castle hallways. Moving with sure and practiced steps, the unicorn made her way from imposing Castle Canterlot and out into the city streets. With a happy little giggle, she reappeared and trotted calmly toward her home. She needed to change out of that gown… then she had a train to catch.

Rarity stood beside Jubilant, bidding her unusual Uncle D farewell. “If you’re in town again, do feel free to come by. Perhaps for supper?”

Placing the hideous purple hat that matched his suit atop his head, he smiled widely. “I just may take you up on that offer, my good mare. And I’ll see you again, Jubilant. Behave for Miss Rarity now.”

“I will, Uncle D! Have fun on your trip!”

Rarity waited until he was out of sight before closing the door. She glanced at Jubilant as the filly moved to go to her room. “Jubilant? Would you like to help me in the workroom?”

Her ears perked up at that. “Really? Not just sit and watch?”

Smiling now, Rarity nodded. “Really. After all, maybe you’ll take over my shop someday, hm? Who knows, maybe you’ll get your cutie mark in dressmaking!”

Jubilant was not a filly who often cared what others thought of her, but like all young ponies, she was desperate to receive her mark. “Really!? Let’s go!”

Laughing gently, mare and filly made their way back into Rarity’s at-home workspace. Rarity gently hefted Jubilant onto the work table to see it all clearly. “Now I know you like to draw, Jubilant, perhaps you’d sketch me an idea for a dress, hm?”

Jubilant nodded slightly. Fancy Pants had noticed her staring at the sketch artists in the park, and returned the next day bearing a small wagonload of art supplies for the filly. She had an undeniable talent at it, and Rarity secretly suspected she’d earn her mark in that field. Gingerly, Jubilant selected a pencil and stared down at the blank paper before her. “…I dunno what to draw.”

“Well. When I’m designing, I like to think of a pony I know. Anypony at all. Then try and imagine something they would enjoy wearing.”

Closing her eyes, the young pony took a deep breath, doing as Rarity suggested. When she opened them again, the pencil—still gently gripped in her magic—went to work across the page. Rarity watched with interest as lines began to take shape. Casting an eye back at the mare gazing over her shoulder, Jubilant shuffled a little to block her view of the page. With an understanding nod, Rarity went to her own work. She didn’t like others watching her work either.

Jubilant glanced up after nearly a solid hour of work. Rarity perked her ears, expecting to be called over. Instead, the filly spied some colored pencils and levitated them over to her little workspace and set about shading in her design. Now the mare’s interest was genuinely piqued. At first she’d just wanted to make Jubilant feel included, but it was clear the filly was working hard.

Finally, she sat back on her haunches, gazing at the sketch for a short time before nodding once. “I’m done!”

Rarity gasped softly as her eyes fell on the drawing. It was absolutely immaculate. A perfect vision of an earth pony in a large ball gown. The back flared around her hind quarters and shaded in a spectacular pink. Frills at the shoulders, and an adorable pillbox hat sat atop the head of who Rarity recognized as Pinkamena.

“Jubilant, how on earth did you do this?”

She smiled brightly. “I dunno! Just popped in there!” Of course her mom had told her all about the beautiful dresses they’d worn to the gala. She just rightly assumed Miss Rarity hadn’t made them in this version of the world.

“You have remarkable talent, Jubilant! This is professional quality artwork. Who in the world taught you?”

Jubilant shrugged. “Nopony, I think?”

Jennifer was scowling over the sketchpad she’d formed from the mass of limbo stuff floating about her. Most of the past Order of Harmony sat before her patiently as she kept trying and failing to form a proper sketch.

Bleeding Heart flicked her tail. “Perhaps when the filly received thy horn…”

The hornless spirit of Jennifer’s eyes widened. “Why that little thief! She stole my drawing too!?”

Jubilant perked her ear at the sound of a pebble plinking off her window. Curious, she wriggled out of bed, trotting to the balcony and peering down. “Uncle D!” Her uncle was standing in the moonlit garden below.

He made a shushing sound and held his forelegs out. Gleefully, his niece fearlessly leapt from the balcony into his waiting hooves. “Shh now, we have to be super sneaky tonight. Secret mission and all.”

Teeth shining bright white in the darkness, Jubilant nodded excitedly. “Gotcha! What’s the mission?”

Her uncle was already trotting toward the high fence around Fancy’s estate grounds. “We’re going to sneak past a dragon.”

Now she was bouncing from hoof to hoof, squirming just a bit as her uncle lifted them both over the fence. “Wow! Um… should I tell Miss Rarity?”

“Oh not to worry. You’ll be home well before she and Fancy Pants wake up! This is a special family trip.” He winked down, bringing a happy giggle from the cheery filly. “But we do have to be quiet for a little bit at least, so follow me quick and quiet as a mouse!”

Nodding and doing her best to look serious, Jubilant fell into step with her uncle, creeping from shadow to shadow and alley to alley. He halted her more than a few times when a passing patrol wandered through the streets, but they eventually stopped before a large sewer grate in the lower districts. She waited patiently while her uncle’s magic moved the grate aside, and slipped in after him. “How much further?”

“Not much m’dear, we’re very near the entrance to his lair. We’re going to recover the Element of Magic this evening. It’s the last one in the city before we have to hit the road.” They were conversing in low whispers, but he seemed more relaxed, so Jubilant was as well.

“Hm. A dragon has it?”

“Well, a dragon guards it. The Archmagister of the city actually owns it. But she can’t figure it out, so she dumped it where she dumps every other magical bit and bob she comes across.” He stopped before a seemingly blank wall, running a hoof along it. Tapping on a few stones, it slid open smoothly.

“How’d you do that!?”

Her uncle just winked. “When you’ve been around as long as I have, there aren’t many secrets left in the world.”

She tilted her head at that. “Don’t things get boring?”

Now his smile returned full force. “Oh no. Because there are always little ponies like you about to keep the world exciting.”

Jubilant beamed toothily back up at him, peering ahead into the new tunnel. “So I have to go in there? Are you coming?”

Her uncle shook his head gently. “I think it’d be best if he woke up and I wasn’t there. He’s… not a bad dragon, so don’t be afraid. Just try to be sneaky and find the Element of Magic.” With a little pop, he conjured a duplicate of the tiara. “Just like with Miss Rarity, swap this one out for the real one.”

Jubilant snapped off a smart salute as she took the tiara in her mouth. “Yff fir!” She wasted no time turning down the tunnel and moving quickly along. When her uncle was no longer in sight, she willed her horn to light up, bathing the way in a warm green glow.

It wasn’t a very long walk before the tunnel opened up into a large underground chamber. Beautiful crystals bathed the room in colorful radiance, so she young unicorn let her magic flicker and fade. She peered about cautiously for any sign of the dragon. Seeing none, she slipped down the short incline toward the mound of treasures. Gold, gems, and all manner of fancy looking treasures filled the hoard room.

Jubilant ignored it all though. She was a filly on a mission! With the fake gripped firmly in her jaws, she looked about for the real tiara. Smiling at a faint glint of purple, she raced toward what she hoped was the jewel from the tiara. She slowed as she approached. It clearly was not the gem she sought… then she gasped softly as it moved!

Stumbling back, she craned her neck upward as a huge head raised itself from the pile of coin it had been submerged in. It was so big! The head itself was twice as big as she was, and it was attached to a long neck covered in sharp green spines running along a now visible back as it heaved itself onto its claws. Huge wings opened and flexed as it gave a tremendous yawn. A rather grumpy looking set of green eyes zeroed in right on the cowering Jubilant. “… D’you have any idea what time it is!?”

She squeaked and curled up as his bellow shook the chamber. In a flash, he had lowered and turned his head to look her square in the eye. “I said… d’you know what time it is?”

Letting the tiara drop with a clatter, she opened her mouth. “N— no sir!”

“… Late! Too late for little thieves to be sneaking around my lair.” Eyes narrowing, he plucked the false tiara up in his claws. “… Where did you find this? You’re trying to steal the element of magic!?”

Eyes wide she shook her head vigorously. “No! No, w— we’re borrowing it!”

Snorting, he whirled around, lifting a heavy looking boulder. Jubilant could just barely see the real Element of Magic within. He turned back to her, replacing the boulder. “… Right. You’re going to see the Archmagister.”

Before she could even think to run she was plucked up in his other claw. She was too scared to even try and focus to blink. Uncle D said this dragon wasn’t mean, but… it was so big… and had so many sharp bits.

‘Say okie dokie lokie.’

Jubilant’s ears perked. “… O—okie dokie… lokie?”

The dragon halted in its steps and lifted her to eye level. “… What did you just say?”

She flailed her little legs a bit in the air. “Um… Okie dokie lokie?”

His eye narrowed as he examined her closer. “… D’you know Pinkie Pie?”

Jubilant brightened immediately. “She’s my mom!”

The dragon actually gasped and dropped her. She shrieked in fear until he hastily caught her again. “S— sorry kid, I wasn’t expecting that. You’re… wow, Pinkie’s filly, huh?” He thoomed down onto his belly, holding Jubilant carefully in his claws now.

Relaxing a little, Jubilant plopped down in his hand. “Yup! She’s my mom! Though I’m living with Miss Rarity and Mister Fancy Pants now.”

“Right, ‘cause you’re a unicorn and Pinkie’s not. Wow, small world. So what’s your name, kid?”

“I’m Jubilant Surprise! You can call me Jubilant… or Surprise. Either one!”

“Heh. Makes sense she’d name you after her. I’m Spike, by the way. Nice t’meetcha.”

Jubilant looked at the huge hand she rested in curiously before gripping one claw in her forehooves and shaking. “Nice to meet you, Spike!”

The dragon chuckled and lowered her to the ground. “So uh, why’re you trying to steal the Element of Magic?”

Jubilant bit her lip, frowning a little. “Promise not to tell?”

Spike shrugged, he could humor her. “Sure.”

“Pinkie promise?”

He hesitated, memories of a better time coming to him. Dragons could be pretty resistant to magic, and he had managed to shrug off Galaxia’s spell. After fruitlessly trying to convince Twilight she wasn’t some crazy Archmagister, he had relented and stayed her number one assistant. Slowly, he drew a claw across his chest and covered his eye. “Pinkie promise.”

Properly mollified, Jubilant looked to the false element. “Me and Uncle D are collecting them to save the world!”

Spike may have looked like an adult now, but it was only thanks to a spell by Twilight that he was full grown. Inside, he was the same excitable little guy he’d always been. “Really!? So your uncle has a plan to fix everything?”

Smile back in full force, Jubilant nodded. “Yep! We just need to get the elements, he says!”

“Well alright then!” Again he moved the huge boulder and swapped the false element for the real one, handing it over to the waiting filly. “Just uh… be careful with it, ok? Twilight’s gonna want it back when she’s back to normal.” He laughed suddenly. “Funny, if you hadn’t said what you did just then, I’d have taken you right to Twilight.”

Jubilant hm’d. “Well it’s just what she said to say.”

Spike raised a brow. “She?”

“The voice in my head! She tells me to do stuff sometimes!”

“… Wow. You are definitely Pinkie Pie’s kid.”

This just made her smile harder than ever. “Thanks!”

Spike carried her over to the entrance she’d emerged from. “Hey uh, Jubilant? Did you meet Rarity’s sister?”

“Mmhm! She’s really nice.”

“Oh cool, cool. Did she uh… have a coltfriend?”

Looking confused now, Jubilant shook her head. “No, I don’t think so. Why?”

“No reason… good luck! We’ll hang out some when I’m not enormous, maybe!”

Waving cheerily to the nice dragon, Jubilant scooped the Element of Magic up in her mouth and galloped back to her waiting uncle. He was right where she’d left him of course. Sighting the tiara, he summoned the case back and had her place it inside. “Excellent! I just knew you could do it!”

“It was easy! And Spike was really nice. A little scary at first, but nice.”

“Yes, he’s a good fellow. Now let’s get you home, hm? You have a big trip this weekend to Ponyville if I’m not mistaken?”

Jubilant nodded. “Uh huh! Miss Rarity’s taking me to see mom!”

“Well then I’ll see you then too, I think. We’ll meet up in Ponyville and get the next element. Now time to be sneaky, we’re almost done!”

Nodding emphatically, Jubilant went back to quietly following her uncle, casting one brief glance back at the home of her new friend and giving a silent thank you to her unseen guardian.

Lyra cantered toward the Appleloosa saloon casually. She was a unicorn in an earth pony town; all the hostile looks served as a constant reminder of that. Still hostile looks wouldn’t be enough to spur the oppressed tribe to attack a unicorn. Even the lowest of the spell casting tribe was worth a thousand earth ponies in the government’s eye, and that meant attacking one was a sure way to go the way of Dodge Junction and be completely wiped out by their Queen’s wrath.

Despite the hostility in the air, Lyra was enjoying herself. She much preferred to be on the road, playing for the public or just taking in the fresh air. The further one got from Canterlot, the less unicorn magic there was to be found, and she preferred the untainted freshness of earth pony towns. Strolling across the crowded bar’s floor, and keenly aware all eyes were on her, she suddenly settled into a stool at the bar.

It took the stallion tending a few minutes to make his way toward her. “… What’ll you have, ma’am?”

She smiled pleasantly. “I’m looking for something strong enough to make me feel like my teeth got bucked in.”

Lyra had to admit, he was well trained. His expression didn’t alter at all when she uttered the phrase her contact had given her. Just nodded politely and poured a drink, sliding it over on a napkin. Casually, the young mare lifted the drink with her hoof, taking a sip while she unfolded the napkin with her magic.

Apple Orchard, midnight.

Finishing her drink, she tossed a few bits on the counter and cantered out. It was nearly eleven already, so at least she didn’t have to wait all day to meet her contact. Tugging the hood of her cloak back up, she made for the Apple family orchard. She liked to get a quick lay of the land whenever she got involved in the hand offs. Now and again she’d needed to make a quick escape in the past.

The orchard was on the far side of the town; a bit of a trot, but not too bad. She made it there with nearly a half hour to spare. Slipping the invisibility charm around her neck again, she wandered the orchard from one end to the other. It was pretty impressive really; she was surprised they’d managed one so large. Sure, they probably had constant sunshine, but where did they get the water? They must pay their pegasi overtime for rain.

Her musings were interrupted at the sound of cautious hoofsteps. Glancing at the sound, she saw an approaching pony wearing a heavy black cloak, hood concealing her face. Lyra could tell it was a mare by the body shape, but that was all. This was probably the contact, but she wasn’t going to risk being found out.

“Lyra! I know you’re spying on me, just come out.”

Now there was a voice she not only recognized, but was longing to hear. Still, the chance to prank her longtime on again off again romantic partner was too much to pass up, and she snuck up behind the earth pony mare, giving her a light slap on the flanks.

Bon-bon reared up on her hind legs, throwing her hood back and revealing her identity. With an angry snort, she hastily tugged it back over her face, shooting a glare at Lyra as she faded into view. “Sorry, Bonny. I couldn’t resist.”

With an angry snort, Bon-bon tapped a hoof impatiently. “Do you have what we need?”

‘Right to business. Ah well.’ The bard mused as she slipped an envelope from the folds of her own well-worn cloak. “Of course. Do you have what I need?”

The other mare didn’t bother to open the envelope and confirm its contents. Despite Lyra’s oft frivolous nature, she trusted her. Without hesitation, she tossed the unicorn a bag of bits, who likewise didn’t check inside, simply tucking it away. “So do you have anything else for me?” Lyra smiled suggestively.

“I do…” They shared a brief kiss before the earth pony stepped back. “… I’ve also been asked to invite you to join us. Properly.”

Lyra chuckled. “Well where’s the fun in that? If I settle down with you guys, it wouldn’t be fair to everypony else I work for.”

“This is serious, Lyra. Our leaders don’t invite just anypony to meet with them. And we’re not asking you to stop doing what you’re doing. Helping the griffons out helps us out too; anything to make life harder on the other tribes makes it easier on us. But you’d be paid better, and have access to all our resources.”

Lyra frowned thoughtfully. She didn’t really need the pay she made now; it was more of a game to her than anything. But expanding her information network, now that was certainly worth meeting a couple stuff rebellious earth ponies. “Alright. I’ll talk to your bosses.”

Now Bon-bon hugged her tightly. “I knew you’d come around. C’mon, I’ll show you the way to the headquarters.”

Lyra returned the embrace eagerly. She’d forget how strong Bonny was, but she could never forget the mare’s scent. If they hadn’t been born separate tribes, she was sure she’d have married her by now. But doing so would result in both being ostracized by their respective tribes, and she couldn’t do that to Bon-bon. She followed the mare quietly as they slipped from the orchard and into the desert. Neither spoke for a time until a large rock formation came into view a mile or two west of town.

Head tilted curiously, Lyra watched as Bon-bon just… walked through a particularly large boulder. Now she was genuinely intrigued, and followed hot on her hooves, ignoring the illusory wall. “You have other unicorns working with the rebellion?”

Bon-bon grinned. “Oh yeah. And not just unicorns.”

Lyra idly wondered how they managed to get one of the almost zealously loyal pegasi to abandon their duties and join an earth pony rebel group, but she supposed everypony had his or her breaking point. For Lyra, it had been Dodge of course. Until then, she’d been content to perform her music, blissfully ignorant or uncaring of the plight of the earth tribe. Hearing of every stallion, mare, and foal in the town being wiped out struck her as profoundly wrong, no matter the crime committed. After that, she lent her talents to the highest paying clients she could find.

She was surprised at the size of their operation. Dozens of ponies coming and going through a seemingly endless maze of crisscrossing tunnels. Bon-bon trotted forward unerringly, making several twists and turns, leaving Lyra hopelessly lost. “Just be polite, alright Lyra?”

Lyra was about to ask who she was supposed to be polite to, when her guide came to an abrupt stop and the unicorn gasped softly. Standing nearly twice the size of a normal pony was a pink mare with both wings and a horn. Her long mane and tail a beautiful pastel pink, purple, and yellow mix. She looked to the two newcomers and smiled. “Welcome Miss Heartstrings. I’m Mi Amore Cadenza. We’ve heard good things.”

Lyra could only blink at seeing a mythical alicorn. “… Thanks?”

Chapter 4: Reunions

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Chapter 4: Reunions

Fancy Pants approached his front door cautiously. Jubilant had been living with them for a week now, and he and Rarity had begun to prepare themselves for her unusual greeting. Today he had a surprise in store for the filly however. Stepping to the side of the front door, he instead opened it with his magic. There came the expected pop and shrill ‘SURPRISE!’ which swiftly trailed off into a confused ‘huh’. With a playful smile, the stallion leapt into the doorway. “SURPRISE!”

Jubilant shrieked and reared up on her hind legs, flipping all the way onto her back, soon giggling wildly. “You got me!”

Fancy chuckled warmly as he closed the door. “It would seem so, wouldn’t it?”

Rolling back to her hooves, Jubilant proceeded to bounce circles around Fancy Pants. “Know what today is!?”

“Hmm.” He looked down at her thoughtfully. “Well it’s Friday…”

“What else!?”

“I suppose it’s the first day of May. Nearly summer.”

“Uuuuugh! What else!?”

“Well I cannot possibly think of anything else today is.” He looked to the top of the stairs to see his wife smiling down at him.

“We’re going to Ponyville today to see mom!”

“Oh! Well that’s right, isn’t it? I can’t believe it slipped my mind.” Jubilant had a little bag packed already and Rarity was levitating her own suitcase along. “How long are we planning to stay, dear?”

His wife made her way down the stairs. “I thought the weekend. If Pinkamena can’t put us up, you and I could stay at an inn. It’s such a charming little village after all. It might be nice to get away from the city for a time.”

“Right then! Let me pack a bag and we’ll head to the train station, hm? You already have the tickets I assume?”

Rarity smiled and floated a trio from the pocket of her blouse. “First class, ready to go.”

Jubilant was still bounding about happily, until Rarity cleared her throat gently. “Jubilant, we’re going out. You have to get dressed.”

The filly huffed softly. “Do I gotta? We’re going to Ponyville!”

“Gotta is not a word. And yes, you have to. That’s the agreement, isn’t it? You don’t have to dress up inside, but when we go out…”

Trapped, Jubilant could only nod. “Yes, Miss Rarity.” Her horn glowed and she vanished with a pop, leaving a bemused Rarity alone shaking her head.

Pinkie made her way from the mailbox back to her house with heavy hoof steps. Fluttershy hadn’t been by in a few days, and with Applejack gone she didn’t have any of her old friends about to talk to. Not for the first time she contemplated moving back to the family farm, but that would leave Fluttershy all alone, and she could never do that to her.

Tossing her mail on the table, she ruffled through it curiously. It was time to get back to work. This house didn’t pay for itself after all, and if she got kicked out, well… Surprise needed to know where she was if she tried to run away again. That brought a little smile to Pinkie’s face, imagining the trouble her filly was giving Rarity.

Her ears perked at a sudden knock on the door. Curiously she opened it… and got a face full of filly. “SURPRISE! I bet I really gotcha this time, cause I didn’t blink!”

Pinkie shrieked gleefully, and soon mother and daughter were bouncing circles around the foyer. “You did get me! I never thought you’d knock, and I heard the knock and wondered who it was, but it was you!” She noticed the two adult ponies in the doorway and straightened her hair properly, clearing her throat. “O— oh… Sorry about that.”

Rarity smiled warmly. “Not at all. She’s been bouncing all about the train the entire trip.”

Pinkie eyed her daughter for a minute with a proud smile. She looked so pretty in her little pastel blue dress. Becoming nobility seemed to have toned Rarity’s use of dozens of gems down a bit, and only a pair of small glittering sapphires were inlaid at the neck. “That’s a beautiful dress, Surprise! Did Miss Rarity make it?”

“Uh huh. Um… Can I take it off now, Miss Rarity?” She was fussing with the collar a bit.

The mare laughed gently. “Yes you may, Jubilant. Just do so gently! Fold it nice!” She smiled wider as Jubilant went to work carefully unlacing it. “I apologize for our unannounced arrival, Miss Pie. Fancy and I thought it would be nice for you two to visit now and again.”

Pinkie Pie had to fight down the urge to rush over and hug Rarity, so much so her body fairly quivered with the effort. “Oh… Thank you so much, Miss Rarity. But please, my friends all call me Pinkie.”

“Well Pinkie, my friends just call me Rarity. So no more of this ‘miss’ nonsense, hm?” She looked over her shoulder as her husband brought the luggage. “Can you recommend a good establishment for us to stay? We thought we’d visit for the weekend.”

Pinkie scoffed now. “No friends of mine are staying in some crummy old inn! You can stay here of course. I insist!” She giggled cheerily. “It’ll be like a slumber party!”

“I think the last time I had any sort of a sleepover was at the academy in my colt days.” Fancy had set the luggage down. “Some of the fellows all wanted to have a big camp out on the school grounds outside, ‘roughing it’ we said.” He laughed. “Thank you for inviting us into your home, Pinkie.”

Jubilant was at his side in a flash. “Come see my old room, Mister Fancy!” She was tugging the smiling stallion along.

Rarity couldn’t help but notice the twitch of Pinkie’s ear when Jubilant had said ‘old room’. “…she’s settling in very well. She doesn’t like school, I’m afraid. Some of the foals pick on her, you see? Being earth born. But she’s been helping me in the shop a little! She has such a talent with art, did you know?”

Pinkie’s smile was soft as she nodded. “Oh I’ve always known. If she’s sitting still, it’s usually to draw something. Though she doesn’t sit still often.”

“Oh you don’t have to tell me that, darling. She’s had Fancy and I running about at all hours. Though it’s done wonders for my flank, I was getting a bit chubby I think.”

Jerking her head toward the stairs, Pinkie took Rarity’s bag. “C’mon, I’ll show you the room you guys can have. Then I’ll get a nice dinner started.”

“Oh you don’t have to do that! I’m sure there are many wonderful eateries in Ponyville.”

Pinkie’s ears splayed as she led Rarity to the guest room. “There… used to be. Not really any around anymore. Besides, I insist. You guys are my guests! And Surprise goes crazy for my cooking.”

Rarity’s magical aura lit the room as she unpacked the luggage. “She certainly prefers home cooked. I’m not much of a chef I’m afraid, but I’ve been learning some recipes for her sake. It’s… been a lot of work, but surprisingly pleasant. I was hesitant when Fancy suggested we adopt, but... Well, I don’t wish to seem indelicate, but I have a hard time imagining my home without Jubilant Surprise.”

“No. No, it’s nice she’s found someone who loves her. And you’re willing to bring her for visits. I really can’t tell you what that means to me, Rarity. I know she can’t stay, but… this is nice.”

Rarity wasn’t entirely sure what to say. Pinkie was Jubilant’s mother, and here she was practically throwing the fact that Rarity was to be her new mother figure in the mare’s face. “Well. Shall I help in the kitchen, then? I’d be very grateful for any little lessons you’d be willing to impart.”

“Sure! Let’s get cookin’! We’ll do Surprise’s favorite tonight.” Pinkie was bounding downstairs merrily, only sparing a quick glance into her filly’s room. She had Fancy looking through her small library of sketchbooks.

“What’s her favorite dish then?”

“Oh that’s easy! She looooves pizza!”

Rarity raised an eyebrow. “I’ve never heard of… pizza.”

“Nopony has! We made it ourselves. C’mon, it’s easy.”

While at first a bit nervous at trying to cook something she’d never even heard of, Rarity was finding it was indeed quite easy. Really the only tricky part was spreading the dough into the proper shape, and then it was simply a matter of applying toppings. After the tomato sauce and cheese, a veritable salad bar’s worth of vegetables found their way atop it, then the whole mess was stuck in the oven.

“And that’s that! Easy peasy, right?” Both mares had a fine coating of flour, but after looking after the less-than-tidy Jubilant Surprise, she’d gotten a little used to a dirtied coat. A little.

“Indeed, it was rather fun. I ah… don’t suppose I could use your washroom?”

Pinkie giggled softly. “Upstairs! Third door on the right.” She watched Rarity go, smiling the whole time. It almost felt like old times for a minute. Her ear flicked at the soft knock on the door. Practically bursting with excitement, she threw it open.

“Fluttershy! And… Oh… Hi.” It was Fluttershy, with Discord standing at her side, smiling grandly.

“Hello Pinkie! I Ran into Fluttershy on her way here and thought, the more the merrier, right!? So I tagged along.” The timid pegasi could only offer a helpless shrug to her friend.

“Well of course. You’ll never guess who’s visiting already!”

Discord showed himself in without waiting for Pinkie to move aside, casually tossing his hat and cane on his preferred cushion and moving right to the kitchen, working on a second pizza.

“I’m so sorry Pinkie Pie, but you know how he is… He saw me leaving the forest and—”

Pinkie tsk’d, cutting her friend off. “It’s ok Flutters. And really I don’t mind him coming by, he’s fun! …most of the time. And Surprise loves him.”

Now Fluttershy smiled. “She’s here? Did she run away again? Oh she’s such a handful sometimes…”

Pinkie shook her head. “Nope! She came with her foster parents.”

Fluttershy’s brow furrowed. “Oh but… But isn’t Rarity…” Her eyes widened. “Is she here?”

“Mmhm! With her husband, Fancy Pants. Just remember, she’s not our Rarity, okay? I mean, she is… But she doesn’t know us. Oh, but she’s still so nice and she really loves Surprise. It’s so nice to see she’s being looked after right.”

“Uncle D! Aunt Fluttershy!” Poor Jubilant looked torn as to which pony to run to first, but she hadn’t seen her aunt in a lot longer, so she flung herself into Fluttershy’s waiting hooves. “What’re you guys doing here!?”

Fancy Pants was coming downstairs at a slower pace, gazing at the new ponies in the room coolly, but smiling slightly all the same. Discord approached him first and the two shook hooves firmly. “You must be Jubilant’s mysterious Uncle ‘D’. Rarity had good things to say about you; a pleasure, sir.”

Discord smiled grandly. “Oh not at all! The pleasure’s all mine! And I do like that monocle, might have to look into one for myself.”

Fancy chuckled. “Well I’m fond of it. Family heirloom and all that.” Nodding to the other stallion, he approached Fluttershy. “And you must be Jubilant’s Aunt Fluttershy. Charmed, my dear.” He lifted her hoof and kissed it gently.

Blushing furiously, Fluttershy reclaimed her hoof slowly. “Th— thank you…” She shrank back slightly, hiding inside her mane.

Jubilant giggled. “Aunt Fluttershy is super shy around new ponies.”

“Aha! Say no more. I think I’ll help your uncle in the kitchen and let you ladies talk.” The wealthy stallion rested his suit coat over one of the seats and rolled up his sleeves, throwing himself into the food preparation with gusto.

Rarity was making her way downstairs by now. “Thank you again Pinkie dear, I just don’t feel myself when I’ve a dirty…” She blinked, seeing the two extra guests. “Oh my, it certainly filled up in here. A pleasure to see you again, D.” She received a distracted wave from the brown coated unicorn stallion, and turned her smile toward Fluttershy. “Let me guess… Aunt Fluttershy?”

Fluttershy was momentarily speechless, staring at the friend she hadn’t seen in nearly half a decade. Finally after a slightly awkward moment of silence she squeaked out. “Y— yes… hello…”

“I am Rarity, Jubilant’s foster mother. It’s so lovely to meet you at last. She loves telling me all about her little walks into the forest. Is it true you live in the Everfree of all places?”

Shuffling and swallowing to get over her surprise, Fluttershy could only nod. “Um… Yes.”

“Well isn’t it dreadfully dangerous?”

Pinkie had taken Jubilant to the sitting room, watching the filly reunite with Gummy and Izzy. “W— well no. I mean yes! But not for me. The um… creatures there are very sweet.”

Rarity’s eyebrow shot up. “Sweet? Manticores, timberwolves, and ursas?”

“Oh yes. I um, have a way with animals. It’s my special talent.”

“Well you may just be the bravest mare I have ever met, I don’t mind telling you. I could never set one hoof in that forest.”

Fluttershy made her way to the sitting room as well, settling on one of the cushions. “Oh it’s not so bad, really.” She smiled over at Jubilant wrestling with Gummy. “It’s so nice to see her again.”

Rarity felt a now familiar pang in her chest. Pinkie was bad enough, but now here was the rest of Jubilant’s obviously very loving family. It was one thing to hear about them, but to put faces to the ponIEs made it so much harder. “Well we’ll be in town all weekend. Pinkie has graciously offered to allow Fancy and myself to use her guest room.”

Fluttershy smiled warmly, watching the filly at play, before looking back to Rarity. “Well I hope you have a lovely stay in town. I’ll probably be at my hut for most of the time; I don’t leave the forest very often.”

“We can come visit you, Aunt Fluttershy! I can show Miss Rarity my favorite spots in the forest!”

Rarity—if possible—paled beneath her snowy coat. “Eheh… I don’t know about that, dear. We’ll have to see.”

Fancy perked up from the kitchen. “I think a hike in the forest sounds thrilling! I’m game.”

His wife gasped. “Fancy Pants, absolutely not! It’s dangerous!”

He made his way from the kitchen, toweling off his hooves. “Jubilant made the trek frequently; on her own, if her stories are to be believed.”

Pinkie shrugged. “I tried to keep her out, or at least make her go in with me, but when she wants to go somewhere…” She poked her filly’s horn. “She goes. It’s hard to stop a filly from running around when she can teleport.”

Rarity didn’t quite seem convinced. “… Well we’ll see. I’ll have to talk it over with Fancy, alright Jubilant? Promise you won’t run in there alone.”

Jubilant looked to her mom for support, but she unhelpfully looked away. “… Yes, Miss Rarity, I promise.”

“Good! Now why don’t you help your uncle set the table, hm?”

With a nod, the filly rushed into the kitchen and joined her uncle in levitating the dishes onto the table. Of course the pair had turned it into a game almost immediately, each working to toss the dishes to the table with more flair than the other.

Rarity and Fancy Pants watched a little alarmed at seeing the glassware flung about so casually, but Pinkie and Fluttershy barely paid the two any mind at all. Within moments the table was set and everypony was seated, tucking into the meal with relish. The two newcomers were a bit tentative at first, but once they’d tried the unique dish they were enjoying it as much as the others.

Rarity remained quiet throughout the meal, allowing Jubilant and Pinkie time to catch up. Though in all honesty, she’d have likely had trouble contributing to the conversation as mother and daughter were speaking at such a rapid pace she idly wondered if they were speaking equestrian or some language the pair had made up themselves. Her husband was talking with D about some safari he’d taken to Zebrica in his youth, and Jubilant’s mysterious aunt was more interested in her plate than conversing.

“Well, dinner was wonderful as always, Pinkie! I think I’ll turn in.” Smiling all the while, Discord trotted upstairs; likely to Pinkie’s own room, the mare thought with a sigh.

Jubilant giggled as she began levitating dishes to the sink. “Uncle D always runs off when it’s time to do dishes.”

“W— well, thank you for dinner Pinkie. And it was nice seeing you again Surprise, and um… meeting you and Fancy Pants, Rarity. I should be going.” Fluttershy had a hug for her niece and friend before she too departed.

Jubilant waved until her aunt was out of sight, standing on the porch and watching her go thoughtfully. She didn’t have to look up to know her mom had come out to join her, flopping behind her heavily and resting her head on the filly’s back. “Hi mom.”

“Whatcha thinkin’ about?”

Casting a quick glance at the kitchen window and seeing Rarity and Fancy tending the dishes together, she looked back toward the not-too-distance Everfree. “Aunt Fluttershy’s element. Does Uncle D have it yet?”

“Nope. He’s gonna get it tomorrow. And he said you have been a big help in getting the others.”

Jubilant squirmed a little, tucking herself closer against her mother. “Uh huh. The magic one was a little scary, but I made friends with a big dragon!”

Pinkie’s eyes shined. She had a good feeling just who the dragon might be. “Tell me all about it.”

So Jubilant did.

Rarity slowly settled into the guest bed next to her husband. “… Do you think we made a mistake?”

Fancy raised a brow, looking at her from the corner of his eye. “In bringing Jubilant to see her mother? Of course not. In fact I think making the trip out here routine would be a good idea. Pinkie Pie is a good loving mother, and Jubilant is a delightful filly. They deserve to spend as much time together as they can.”

His wife was fidgeting with her hooves a bit. “But… she’s supposed to be ours now, right? Our daughter? Won’t this… undermine that?”

“Oh I don’t think so. She took to us rather quickly after all. And I believe this will only make us closer, to be honest. She’s a bright little filly. She knows we didn’t have to bring her here, and yet we did. You’ll see.” He chuckled suddenly and rolled to face her. “If I didn’t know any better, I’d say looking after Jubilant has brought out your maternal side, my dear.”

Rarity looked up at him through half lidded eyes. “Come over here and I’ll show you my maternal side.”

Jubilant peeked an eye open. Her mom was definitely asleep by now. Carefully, she wiggled out from under Izzy and Gummy, both of whom had taken their usual places on her bed. With a fond smile for both critters, she looked outside, focusing for a moment and blinking from her room down to the back yard.

The night was well illuminated by the bright moonlight and Jubilant had a mission. She was going to get Aunt Fluttershy’s element and surprise Uncle D. She was skipping her way to the Everfree, she was so proud of her own cleverness. Unlike so many others in Equestria, the forest held no fear for her. Oh she knew there were dangerous things within, but she’d made the walk alone often enough. Sure it was usually during the daytime, but it was still pretty bright out.

Fearlessly, she bounced her way to the forest’s edge, and crossed into it without hesitation. She wasn’t sure why she loved coming in here when everypony else seemed so afraid… but the promise of danger, the unknown… it always made her excited and eager. Jubilant had to resist the urge to stick her nose into every interesting hole, log, or knot in a tree. This wasn’t an exploration mission, it was recovery!

Giggling a little to herself, she ceased her bouncing and moved along at a steady trot. A trot that ended abruptly when the light of the moon seemed to just vanish. With a curious frown, she looked up. The moon was still there, big as ever, only… it wasn’t shining on the path. A dawning sense of wonder overtook the filly as silvery luminescence spread off the path in a silvery sparkling trail into the brush.

Scuffing a hoof on the familiar path Jubilant looked up at the moon. “There’s something you wanna show me over there, huh?” Of course the mare in the moon couldn’t talk back, but Jubilant knew her most distant friend must have something important to show her. With a happy shrug, she ducked off the path and wandered into the wilds of the Everfree.

There was no actual trail to follow, only the silvery twinkling pathway the moon seemed intent on lighting for Jubilant as she walked further and further into the unfamiliar parts of the forest. A nervous little flutter rose in her chest as she heard a twig snap nearby. She halted instantly, ears raised and flicking now and again trying to catch the sound. Just faintly she could make out heavy breathing. She jolted forward again as the moonlit path streaked out faster, almost urgently.

Galloping hard, she focused on her magic, blinking ahead several times in rapid succession to get more distance from her swifter pursuer. She risked a glance over her shoulder and let out a wail of fright. Three huge timberwolves were pounding through the brush bearing down on her, jaws wide and slavering sap-like saliva.

“Don’t stop running, Jubilant! Don’t panic, and keep running! She’ll come!”

Jubilant didn’t know who ‘she’ was, but the voice had never led her astray before. Swallowing her fear, she galloped harder, head lowered. She tried to blink again, but only received a little fizzle from her horn. Feeling her heart sinking again, she nevertheless forced herself to keep galloping. She knew what would happen if she were caught.

She tripped and stumbled as a dark form flashed overhead. Grinning excitedly, Jubilant clapped her hooves over her ears as the expected wailing began. All three wolves blundered right into the path of the powerful sonic waves, shattering to splinters that would take days to pull back together. Daring to peek up, the filly was shocked to see her savior hadn’t just disappeared into the woods as usual.

Instead she stared up at an imposing mare. Vivid yellow eyes were glaring down at her harshly, weird yellow eyes… like a cat or a dragon’s. Her wings didn’t have feathers, but looked more like those you’d find on a bat. Her glossy coat was a dark grey, nearly black, and her dark purple mane was long and tangled. “What are you doing in here, kid!?”

Jubilant’s ears splayed and she shrank back. “Th— the moon…” She pointed over the pony’s shoulder hesitantly.

The mare looked back, scowling deeply at the silvery path of moonlight. She shifted her angry gaze up at the lunar orb. “You think that’s funny? You almost got her killed!”

Feeling herself calming in the strong pony’s presence, Jubilant looked about her surroundings. She was outside of a big cave, the entrance more of a slightly raised hole in the ground than anything. Curiously, she poked her head inside. It was perfectly dark, save a small speck of purple luminescence coming from somewhere inside.

She yelped suddenly as she was hoisted into the air by the bat-winged pony. “Lemme go!”

The mare just snorted. “I’m getting you to the edge of the forest, and then you’re going home! And I don’t want to… to…” Her voice trailed off as her eyes fixated on the pendant dangling off Jubilant’s neck. The small warmly glimmering heart stone pendant. “… Where did you get that?”

Jubilant’s hooves shot up to cover it. “From Mister Fancy Pants! It’s mine!”

Now her angry glare turned to a harsh scowl and she dropped Jubilant roughly to the ground. “It’s not yours! Give it to me!”

The filly yelped and flailed now, catching the mare in the jaw with a flailing hoof and dropping to the ground. “It is so mine!” She squeaked again as the mare lunged for her, but Jubilant was a quick filly and ducked under the furious mare’s attack.

The scary pony hit the ground and just laid there. Jubilant was about to run when she heard… crying? Ears perked, she turned back to the mare cautiously. She was just lying on the ground sobbing softly. Against her better judgment, Jubilant approached and laid a hoof on the pony’s flank. “S— sorry you… bumped your head?”

The mare flicked her away with a flap of her wing. “J— just go home, kid… okay? Just go.”

Jubilant considered doing just that, but… she didn’t. “Mom says when a pony is sad, I should try to make them smile. And step one is to become friends! So I’m Jubilant. Or Surprise. Or Jubilant Surprise! Though most ponies only call me one or the other.”

Eyes narrowed, the older pony leveled a gaze at her. “… Jubilant Surprise?”

“Mmhm! Who’re you?”

“O— oh um, I’m Echo.”

“Hi Echo! Why’re your eyes yellow? How come you got bat wings? How can you scream so loud!?”

Echo stared at her quietly now. “… Why are you in the Everfree alone at night, Jubilant?”

The filly pursed her lips at her questions going ignored. “I’m on a mission!”

Slowly, the mare settled on the ground. “… Oh yeah? So you got that pendant from uh, Fancy Pants?” She wiped her eyes with the back of her foreleg.

“Mmhm! It was my birthday present last week!”

Echo’s face softened as she watched Jubilant. “Well happy belated birthday then. Would you like to come inside? It’s not always safe out here, even for me.”

Keenly remembering the terrifying monsters a moment ago, Jubilant nodded eagerly, following the mysterious mare into her cave. Focusing a moment, she lit her horn in its warm green glow, bringing another smile from Echo. “Just like hers.”

Jubilant tilted her head. “Just like who?”

Not saying anything but still smiling softly, Echo trotted ahead, fetching the little purple glowing something Jubilant had seen earlier. As she brought it closer, the filly saw it was identical to the pendant around her neck. “It’s just like mine!”

Echo looped it around her neck. “It is. It’s called a heart stone. Night ponies—that’s my tribe by the way—give them to our very special somepony. It lets us know they’re healthy and happy.”

“Wow! I thought it was just a pretty little gem! So is that why it glows? You know your special somepony is happy?”

“It is.”

Jubilant looked down at her own gently glowing stone. “But I don’t have a special somepony. And you’re the only night pony I’ve ever met! How come mine’s glowing too?”

Echo’s smile shifted to a faint frown as she tried to figure out how to explain things. How could she though? Even she had little to no idea what was going on. What was the filly’s connection to Jennifer? Was it just her reborn, or something else? “I don’t know, Jubilant. It’s a mystery all right. You’d have to ask somepony better with magic.” She knew she certainly had questions for somepony when she saw him next.

“Hm.” Just as quickly as the contemplative expression formed on Jubilant’s face, it was gone. “Well it was nice meeting you! I need to get to Aunt Fluttershy’s.”

“Right, you said you were on a mission. What’s the mission?”

Jubilant frowned now. Echo seemed nice but she didn’t know her. Of course, she must be the pony that saved her more than once when she got into trouble in the Everfree, but still…

“Tell her.”

The filly had never disagreed with the voice before, but she wasn’t sure now. “I don’t wanna.”

Echo blinked. “You don’t want to what?”

“Don’t you start arguing now, tell her!”

“I wasn’t talking to you.” Then Jubilant looked away again. “You’re not my boss!”

Again the mare blinked in confusion. “Then who were you talking to? Who’s not your boss?”

Jubilant scowled a little. “… I dunno who she is. She talks to me sometimes, tells me what to do and stuff. She’s usually nice and helps me. Miss Cheerilee said it was an imaginary friend, but I think she’s real… just… invisible? Or somewhere else.”

Echo leaned in close now. “What’s she sound like?”

Jubilant shrugged. “I dunno. Like a mare, or an older filly I guess.”

“What’s her name?”

Again, Jubilant shrugged. “She won’t tell me.”

The mare was on her belly now, edging closer to Jubilant. “Can… she hear me?”

“Yes.”

“She says yes.”

Now Echo was looking at Jubilant, but the filly got the distinct impression she wasn’t looking at her, not that that made any sense. “Is it really you?”

Jubilant tilted her head, flicking an ear. “She’s not talking now.”

Echo snorted and stood up. “W— well… make her talk!”

Eyes wide, the filly looked up at the mare like she was crazy. “How am I supposed to make her do anything? She talks when she wants to.”

“Please, Jubilant; tell her about what you’re doing here.”

Scuffing her hoof and fighting back a pout, Jubilant sighed. “I’m collecting the Elements of Harmony for my Uncle. We’ve already got three! I need Aunt Fluttershy’s, Miss Applejack’s, and that mean Private Rainbow Dash’s and we’ll have ‘em all.”

Echo leaned in again. “The Elements? What’s your uncle want with them?”

“I dunno. But he said it was to make mom happy again, so I’m gonna find em!”

With a nod, the night pony lifted Jubilant onto her back. “Well then we better get to your aunt’s. Hold on tight.”

Jubilant squeezed her neck like a vice. “A— are we gonna fly!?”

“Yup. Don’t be scared, I won’t let you fall.”

Her eyes were shut as tightly as she could manage when Echo began to gallop. Jubilant felt a lurch as the mare leapt into the air, then the sound of her wings flapping furiously. She was keenly aware of the wind rushing through her mane and over her muzzle, and it felt… awesome. Cautiously peeking an eye open, she almost slammed them shut again at the sight of the trees and ground rushing by in a blur… but something kept them open. Slowly, she loosened her grip on Echo’s neck and raised herself up a little bit, a smile forming.

Flying was awesome.

Several monsters of the Everfree would scatter away from the unknown wailing creature rushing by in a blur, its cry of ‘Woooo!’ striking fear into all their hearts.

Fluttershy’s ear flicked gently. She’d heard something coming from the main room of her hut. Panic was her first reaction. Had Galaxia’s soldiers found her? Or was it some hostile critter looking for a late night snack? She winced as she heard a crash and one of the jars on Zecora’s shelves shatter… but her rapid breathing eased at the very familiar pair of voices.

“Knock it off, kid! You’re gonna wake her up!”

“I didn’t mean to! It’s dark, lemme light the hut up!”

Bemusement and irritation warred within the pegasus’ heart at the sound of her goddaughter arguing with Echo. She’d run into the night pony soldier now and again, but they only exchanged brief greetings. They were whispering rather loudly, the sort of whispering young ponies thought their elders could never hear. With a soft sigh, she stepped into the main room. “Can I help you girls?”

Both froze up instantly and looked at Fluttershy like fillies with their hooves caught in the cookie jar. Which is precisely what she’d expected from Surprise, but seeing the same look mirrored on Echo—who was certainly not a filly anymore—brought a little giggle from Fluttershy.

“H— hi Aunt Fluttershy! Shouldn’t you be sleeping?”

Carefully picking her way across the entry room, Fluttershy began to tidy the mess Jubilant made. “Shouldn’t you be sleeping?”

“Well I uh... I’m here on important business!”

Echo opted to remain silent, watching Jubilant quietly. “Is that so? And what business is that?”

“Uncle D and I are collecting the Elements of Harmony! We only need three more, and yours is one of them!”

“Oh. Oh yes of course, just one moment girls. Just sit still and um… try not to break anything.” She gave them both a faint smile before slipping to the back of the hut.

Echo planted her behind on the floor immediately, but frowned as Jubilant began to wander into one of the side rooms. “Fluttershy said to stay put.”

A little snort was the filly’s only response. She rummaged around in the other room a minute before walking back out with a jar held in her magic. Curiously, Echo peeked in and blinked. It looked like a tiny gold star was zipping about the jar, constantly bouncing off the glass as if it were trying to get to Jubilant. “This is Aunt Fluttershy’s secret treasure.”

The night pony leaned in, nose almost touching the glass. “What is it?” Her voice was a hushed whisper.

“I dunno. But she says whenever she’s scared or sad, this makes her feel better. It’s really pretty, huh?”

“I think it wants out.”

Tilting her head, Jubilant began to move back and forth… the little golden speck following her movements. “I think it does too! … Aunt Fluttershy might get upset…”

Before Jubilant could stop her, Echo reached out and flipped the lid off. The speck rushed out into the open air in a flash, streaking around and around overhead fast enough to look like a whirling ring of gold. The filly shrieked in alarm as it stopped whirling and rocketed right into her horn. A warm golden glow spread from her horn to suffuse the rest of her body in gentle light.

Slowly, she uncurled from the tight little ball of shivering filly she had become. Echo sucked in her breath as Jubilant opened her eyes. The vivid blue had been replaced by an equally vivid golden color. “Wow…”

The big golden orbs blinked. “Wow what? Where’d it go!? Did we lose it!? Aunt Fluttershy is going to be so angry… Sh—she might give us… ‘the stare’….”

“Why would I need to do that, Jubilant Surprise?”

Jubilant gulped. Nopony used her full name unless she was in trouble. “N— no reason…”

With a gentle frown that belied the furious storm the usually timid pegasus could unleash, Fluttershy bore down on Jubilant. Looking from the filly’s new eye color to the empty jar lying on the floor. “You opened the jar?”

Echo finally spoke up. “I did, ma’am. I’m sorry, but it really seemed to want to get to Jubilant.”

Gently, Fluttershy lifted Jubilant’s chin, staring deeply into her eyes and holding the pose long enough for her goddaughter to get uncomfortable. Then she smiled. “I see. Well here’s the Element of Kindness, Surprise. You have to take very good care of it, alright?”

Clutching the fourth Element to her chest, Jubilant could only nod. “I promise, Aunt Fluttershy.”

With a last gaze at the filly’s eyes, Fluttershy shoo’d the pair toward the door. “Alright, you two go home. straight home, Jubilant Surprise.”

“I’ll make sure she gets there safely, ma’am.”

“Good. You girls be safe. And I’ll see you again soon Surprise, alright?”

“Alright, Aunt Fluttershy! And thanks!” The happy filly didn’t wait for an invitation and just bounded onto Echo’s back, who accepted the burden wordlessly. Fluttershy watched from her doorway as the two flitted out of sight.

Jubilant was unaware that her foster father routinely checked on her each night to make sure she was tucked in securely. If she had, she may have tried some sort of decoy in the bed. As it was, a rather distraught Fancy Pants found the filly’s bed empty. As he turned to charge back to the guest room and rouse his wife, he nearly bowled over Uncle D.

The curious stallion was smiling that large smile of his. “Something wrong?”

“Jubilant is missing. I think she must have run out, we need to search for her immediately.”

“Of course, of course. Let’s head out right away. No sense waking the mares and getting them all worked up. She’s probably just trotting around town. She has trouble sleeping sometimes; bad dreams. Have you noticed?”

Fancy allowed himself to be lead downstairs, away from the guest room and toward the front door. “We have. She… screams in her sleep at times. Though she’s never woken herself. I don’t suppose you know what troubles her?”

D’s smile shrank just a bit as he took up his cane and stepped outside with the noble unicorn. “I do, and I can tell you what exactly it is that plagues her sleep.” His horn was glowing with the same wild cacophony of color Jubilant’s did when she teleported. “It’s time for you to wake up, Fancy Pants; you’re going to be needed very soon.”

Chapter 5: A Pinch of Hope

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Chapter 5: A Pinch of Hope

Echo flew Jubilant back to Ponyville, the little filly standing on her back hanging on with just her hind legs as the pair flew through the forest and back into the still sleeping earth pony town. With a few directions from Jubilant, Echo soon had her back at Pinkie’s home. “How’re you gonna explain your eyes to your mom?”

Jubilant shrugged her aunt’s element of kindness looped around a foreleg. “I’ll tell her the truth. She might get a little upset but she ALWAYS finds out when I lie and it’ll get even worse.”

With a smile Echo looked over her shoulder to the house. “You want me to come in with you?”

“No it’ll be ok. Besides my uncle’s visiting, and Miss Rarity and Mister Fancy too. So she won’t yell too much.”

“Alright. Well maybe we’ll talk again Jubilant. Tonight was fun.”

Jubilant returned the night pony’s grin. “It was! I love making new friends. AND we’re necklace buddies!” She tapped her own heart stone, the mirror of Echo’s.

Echo gently laid a hoof over her own pendant. “…yeah we’re necklace buddies. I’ll catch ya later Jubilant Surprise.”

The filly watched Echo disappear into the night. With a little bit of focus she blinked to the other side of the front door, upstairs, and finally into her room. Where of course her mother was waiting for her. “…h-hi mom.”

Pinkamina Pie was renowned for being abnormally cheerful for an earth pony. Members of the unfortunate tribe generally had little to smile about but she managed to find a way. There were very few ponies who’d seen her angry. Jubilant was one of the unlucky few.

“Where were you Jubilant Surprise?”

Instantly the filly in question’s ears flattened against her skull. A dozen excuses flashed through her head before she sighed. “The Everfree.”

“At night? ALONE? You didn’t even take your uncle with you?”

“I wanted to surprise him! And look!” She thrust the leg bearing the element of kindness at her mother. “I got to Aunt Fluttershy’s and back no problem!”

Pinkie’s eyes narrowed as she took in the scratches along her filly’s coat. “NO problem?”

Instantly Jubilant’s jubilance vanished. “W-well…there were a couple um…timberwolves. But Echo saved me!”

Now her mother looked surprised. “Echo? You met her? Did she…say anything?”

Jubilant shrugged. “Well yeah we talked some. Didja know she has the same necklace as me? And she’s a NIGHT pony! I didn’t know there WERE night ponies! Oh but she was really nice.”

Pinkie frowned again staring at Jubilant’s face. “What happened to your eyes?”

“Oh! Well um…Aunt Fluttershy had this little star in a jar. Echo opened the jar and the star kinda…jumped at me! At my horn…I felt all warm and tingly and then uh…I guess my eyes turned the same color?”

Gently Pinkie took the element from her daughter. “Jubilant Surprise you know that forest is dangerous during the day time. And the ONLY reason I’m not going to tell Rarity that you need to be punished is she might not bring you back home. Do you understand? If she finds out you might not be able to come to Ponyville ever again.”

Now Jubilant’s eyes widened in horror. “Wh-what are we gonna tell her about my eyes then?”

With a sigh Pinkie fidgeted with the necklace in her hooves. “Well blame it on your uncle. It’s worked before right?” Now she was smiling a little again.

This brought a smile to Jubilant too. “It always does! Poor Uncle D.” The two shared a giggle before Pinkie scooped the filly up and settled her on the bed, joining her up there herself.

“I think it’s time YOU got to sleep silly filly.”

It was certainly passed Jubilant’s bed time and now that she was in her bed she was already nodding off. “Mkay mom. M’sorry about the forest.”

Tucking her filly against her chest Pinkie settled down to sleep. “I know Surprise. It’s ok just…think before you act alright? I don’t know what I’d do if I lost you too.”

Jubilant mumbled another soft apology before allowing herself to sleep.

***

Rarity stood outside Jubilant’s door observing mother and daughter silently before making her way downstairs. Her husband was already awake and cooking some eggs. “Good morning Rarity. Sleep well I hope?”

She eyed him quietly before using her magic to set the table. “Well enough. Where did you sneak off to so late last night? I woke up to use the rest room and you weren’t in bed.”

Fancy stiffened only slightly but it was a gesture Rarity didn’t miss. “Oh! Last night well D and I went out for a little walk and talk, stallion stuff. Nothing you’d be interested in I’m sure.”

Suspicions aroused now Rarity moved to her husband’s side. “Oh? Hoofball and the like I suppose?”

“Quite right. We talked about the Canterlot Gemstones a bit. D has a rather interesting business venture out west. I thought I may take a trip to Appleloosa with him. See if it’s worth investing in.”

Now the mare’s ears perked. “Appleloosa? Fancy, Ponyville is one thing but Appleloosa is an entire day away by train. And the ponies out there are so...so…uncouth!”

Turning to his wife Fancy wore his warmest smile. “Rarity dearest they’re ponies just like you or I. D thinks he has a real money making opportunity, and more bits mean more we can do for needy ponies in the world. I should only be gone a few days. You’ll see me again within a week I’ve no doubt.”

Slowly Rarity was calming down, if not warming to the idea. “When exactly are you taking this trip out west?”

“Well I thought when you go back to Canterlot tomorrow evening we would take the train to Appleloosa. Get it out of the way quickly then we’ll all be back home.”

The stallion could feel the temperature drop several degrees in the room. “When you say ‘we’ you of COURSE mean you and D, nopony else.” That wasn’t a question.

Shakily clearing his throat Fancy Pants turned his attention back to the breakfast-to-be. “We thought Jubilant might enjoy the trip. She does love seeing new places.”

“Absolutely not! Fancy Pants it’s one thing if YOU want to go out to that dust ball of a town but she’s just a filly! You know the stories of the western towns. It’s all lawlessness and violent out there! I absolutely forbid it!”

Casting a furtive glance upstairs, sure that the mare and filly were awake after his wife’s high pitched shrieking Fancy sighed. “Rarity…I know this is a lot to ask but well, I wish to spend some time with her as well. You’ve had her all to yourself the past few weeks while I’ve been away working on something or another. This will give us a good chance to bond. Besides you heard both she and Pinkie Pie. She routinely went into the Everfree alone. Appleloosa certainly can’t be half as dangerous.”

“Everything ok down here? I heard shouting.” A gently frowning Pinkie Pie had come downstairs.

Rarity looked from her husband to the other mare in the room. “I do apologize Pinkie, Fancy and I were having a disagreement. He wants to drag Jubilant out to Appleloosa on some new money making scheme D has cooked up.”

“Oh is that all? Appleloosa’s a GREAT town. You guys’ll have A LOT of fun! And she’s always wanted to go y’know? Plus Applejack’s out that way and she was a good friend to Surprise.”

All three adults felt the tell-tale tingle in the air that heralded Jubilant Surprise’s teleporting. “Miss Applejack?! When do we leave?” She was beaming ear to ear as she appeared.

Rarity was about to rebuke the filly for eavesdropping (hard NOT to do at the volume she’d been carrying on), when she noticed Jubilant’s eyes. “What in the world happened to your eyes?”

This drew Fancy’s attention as well. The stallion leaned in closer, monocle drifting in to give him a better view. “I say it’s certainly a striking color.”

With a quick look over her shoulder at her mom Jubilant swallowed. She didn’t like lying especially not to any of the ponies in the room, but the truth would probly get her in a lot of trouble. She received a momentary reprieve as her uncle cantered in the front door.

“Morning everypony! You’re certainly a dower looking bunch.” Without waiting for any of the others he helped himself to some eggs and juice plopping at the table happy as can be.

“Uncle D did a spell that turned my eyes a different color, it’s his fault.” Jubilant delivered in a very deadpan manner.

Rarity whirled on the filly’s eccentric uncle; just in time to catch his spit take of orange juice right in the face. “I did what now?!” Seeing the look he was getting from both Pinkie Pie AND Jubilant Surprise he calmly offered Rarity a napkin. “Er, that is yes. I Did it. Of course. I’m quite the…cad?”

With a snort of irritation Rarity snatched the offered napkin in her magic dabbing at her face. “Why pray tell did you feel the need to turn Jubilant’s eyes gold?”

Discord stared across the table at his niece, a faintly thoughtful look on his face. “Oh you know, for fun? It’s a good color though hm?”

Jubilant wilted a little at the stern look in her usually always flippant uncle’s eye. She suspected she’d get a talking to from him later, but she was more relieved Rarity bought their story…and that her ire was focused on Uncle D now. Quietly she ate her own breakfast.

“Well I hope it’s temporary, it clashes with her mane.” With a sniff Rarity set the napkin on the counter. “I’m going to shower.” She left without waiting for any response.

Pinkie flicked an ear toward the stairs once she heard the water running. She looked from Discord to Fancy Pants, and at a nod from the disguised draconequus she trotted upstairs retrieving the element of kindness. “Your niece wanted to surprise you with this.”

“And surprise me she did! Excellent work Jubilant!” With a flourish he summoned the case containing the three elements they already had, allowing the filly to place the fourth in.

Fancy watched it all quietly. “And so we travel to Appleloosa for the last two? Applejack’s sounds simple enough but I suspect Rainbow Dash’s will be harder to acquire.”

Snapping the case shut Discord banished it. “Not to worry! I’ve got a few reliable ponies working on that very problem. I’m assured two of them are masters of disguise and infiltration.”

“D, what really happened to Surprise’s eyes? Why are they gold? What exactly was in Fluttershy’s jar?”

Discord glanced down at the happily eating filly. “Surprise…feel like a game?”

She looked up food forgotten. “Always!”

With a nod her uncle’s horn shimmered with its swirling colorful aura bringing up an image of Sweet Apple Acres. “At the far end of the west field, I buried a secret treasure. If you can find it before lunch time you get to keep it.”

Eyes wide she vanished with a magical swirl of lights, blinking herself away. Chuckling softly Discord looked to the other two ponies. “Right then. I suppose the full explanation is in order, you deserve that much. The both of you.”

Fancy assured them both Rarity was fond of overly long showers. After shutting the curtains and making sure the front door was locked Discord seated the pair and began. “As you know when the queen came to power someone very dear to all of us was lost. My intention is to return her to life.”

Fancy’s eyebrows nearly shot off his head. “But that’s impossible; the dead well…are gone. I’d like nothing more than to see her again but not even the princess’ could do such a magical feat.”

Pinkie just looked concerned. “How exactly do you plan on doing this?”

Discord smiled. “Why, with magic of course. This is going to need a bit more oomph to get done then turning me to stone or breaking our night time princess free of her shell of evil. But the elements are an important component.” Saying this, an image of the six elements of harmony appeared.

“They’re not enough for this. We need just a hefty dose of chaos magic of course.” The next picture to appear was the swirling amulet that contained half of Discord’s energy, it merged with the silhouette of a unicorn filly and settled within her horn bringing about a swirl of color.

“A healthy dose of love…” Next was the heart stone pendant, glowing brightly with the first two images.

“Of course we need some powerful magic that she left her unique signature all over.” An image of a runed sword appeared.

“And last but most certainly not least…” The little gold star flickered into existence, then vanished replaced by a pair of cheerful golden eyes. “A little pinch of hope. Mix all of these together…”

Fancy Pants and Pinkie Pie leaned in, breath held as the images all swirled together coalescing into the form of a familiar and departed friend. It vanished just as quickly as it appeared.

Pinkie was the first to speak. “So…you’re going to just…bring her back? Out of nowhere?”

Discord shrugged. “Well not nowhere of course. Her spirit has to go somewhere, that’s where Jubilant Surprise comes in. It’s what we made her for after all.”

Now Pinkie’s expression shifted from concern to anger. “Now hold on just one minute! Are you telling me she’s going to come back and…and take Jubilant’s place? She would NEVER want that and you know it!”

Fancy added his voice to Pinkie’s. “Much as it pains me to agree I find I have to. She’d find the idea of…well of killing a filly for her own benefit abhorrent. She’d never forgive us.”

Discord quickly raised his hooves. “No, no of course not. I guess I need to clarify a few things. Remember the night I came, a couple weeks after her funeral?”

Pinkie’s angry scowl was easing into a less angry frown. “Of course.”

“Well I had just visited our friend up where she’s been…waiting. I borrowed something from her, and used that as the foundation for Jubilant Surprise. The filly is just an extension of the girl. Jubilant is…her…one hundred percent, just in filly form. She’s a part of her spirit, and when we call the rest of her back they’ll merge into one again. No one’s getting erased or written over, Jubilant and our friend will combine to a whole.”

Fancy was looking vaguely annoyed. “Why do you keep dancing around her name?”

Discord eyed him. “The same reason I go by ‘D’. Names have power and the queen is always listening for a few specific ones. Mine, hers, the princesses. If we so much as mention them aloud she’ll hear and likely come running.”

Now Pinkie Pie was looking intrigued. “So you won’t hurt Surprise?”

Frowning Discord shook his head. “Of course not. I know I was capable of some nasty stuff back in my glory days but I never REALLY hurt anypony. Admittedly I made them pretty miserable but hurting isn’t very funny. And I care about the filly too you know? I’ve been with you raising her all this time.”

Even Fancy Pants was looking interested by this point. “I believe Jubilant should be told before the time comes. It’s only fair.”

Now Discord smiled faintly. “Don’t worry about that, she’s been talking to Jubilant for a while now. I’m sure they’ll have a proper heart to heart sooner or later.”

Pinkie poked at her food a little. “How do you plan to use the elements? You said the queen was watching me and my friends all the time, there’s no way she’d let us all come together.”

“Very true. That’s why we need Fancy Pants here, and a few other ponies she became close with. Echo, Dinky and Lyra to start. The last is going to be a bit trickier but I’m working on it.”

Fancy interjected once again. “I’m sorry, are you proposing that we, her friends use the elements of harmony? Is that even possible? I thought they belonged to Rarity and the others.”

“Just like they belonged to the princesses and their friends years and years ago. The elements are born from the force of harmony that holds out whole world together, not from any specific pony. As long as their wielders strongly embody one of the elements of harmony, they can use it.”

“And which may I ask do you expect ME to be using?”

“Well generosity of course. You can’t deny it fits you to a tee.”

Fancy Pants opened his mouth to do just that but he paused and considered the bulk of his activities before AND after the change. Even when Galaxia rose to power he still donated a good amount of his proceeds to aiding the underprivileged of Equestria. “…I suppose you’ve a point. And the rest?”

“Jubilant will be getting her mother’s element of laughter. She’s certainly cheerful enough and brings smiles to plenty of faces to qualify. Echo will get honesty I think, she’s a better liar than Applejack is but it eats her up inside to do it. The others I’m figuring out, I’m fairly sure Lyra will get loyalty and Dinky kindness but we’ll see how it shakes out.”

Pinkie pushed her mostly full plate away. “What about magic? That’s the hardest one to use right?”

“It is.” Discord had cleared his own plate. “But the last member of our little troupe has used it before; she’ll be able to use it again.”

Both ponies were about to ask who he meant, but stopped as Rarity returned. “Well that’s certainly better…where’s Jubilant?”

“A treasure hunt of course. She should be back soon. I didn’t bury it too deep this time.” Discord began clearing the table, ignoring Rarity’s protests.

***

Jubilant returned triumphant, a box of cupcakes, (only VERY slightly dirt coated) clutched proudly in her mouth. “Fnd it!” Her ears immediately flattened seeing the four less than happy adults in the room.
Rarity was on her in a flash. “You’re positively filthy Jubilant! Dirt all over your coat and leaves in your mane! Tsk! You need a bath.”

She looked to her mother and uncle for support, both of whom unhelpfully looked away as Rarity seized the poor filly in her magic hoisting her into the air toward the bathroom.

With an apologetic shrug to the others Fancy followed his wife, remaining silent while she started Jubilant’s bath. Finally he spoke. “About Appleloosa…”

The filly’s ears perked instantly but her enthusiasm was doused quite literally by Rarity dropping a glob of water over her head. “You can take her…but there are conditions.”

Smiling Fancy Pants took a seat on the opposite side of the tub. “Of course.”

“First, she is not to leave your sight. Not once! Not if her uncle wants to take her somewhere and if she has to use the rest room you’d best be standing right outside that door.”

“A bit extreme but I suppose it’s fair.”

“Second, I expect to be contacted every day and I want to hear from the BOTH of you.”

Fancy’s ears splayed at this. “Well I can certainly do my best…” At his wife’s withering glare he gulped. “To make sure we send the messaging spell at the time of your greatest convenience of course.”

Somewhat mollified Rarity nodded gently as she quietly scrubbed Jubilant’s fur. “Alright then. And I expect YOU to behave young lady. You won’t make me regret this will you?”

Recognizing the very serious tone Rarity was using from when her actual mother was having her rare ‘serious’ moments Jubilant only nodded. “Yes ma’am. I-I mean I’ll be good.”

Her look eased into the warm smile Jubilant much preferred. “Good girl, I know you will.” Rarity playfully dunked the filly beneath the water eliciting a shocked squeal of delight from her. This of course meant retaliation was in order and with strength belying her tiny size Jubilant seized Rarity by the foreleg and tugged her forward, yanking her into the tub with a shriek of disbelief.

Fancy Pants took in the scene of the wildly giggling Jubilant and his mock angry wife with a warm smile. Her memory may have been scrambled by the horrid Queen Galaxia but Rarity’s inner warmth and beauty shone through it all. When all this was over he would most certainly have to see how Rarity felt about continuing their relationship. Neither pony in the tub noticed him slip back downstairs.

He found Discord and Pinkie cleaning up after breakfast. “I have to say I don’t see much of…her in Jubilant.”

The other stallion looked up from the dishes he was cleaning. “Oh? Nothing at all?”

“I’m afraid not. She was somewhat withdrawn, quiet, contemplative even. She seemed to hesitate before speaking what was on her mind. Jubilant in contrast is entirely the opposite.”

Now Discord looked to Pinkie. “What about you?”

Pinkie Pie sat on her haunches thoughtfully. “I see little things. Her art of course, but that’s pretty obvious. They both loved to draw; she could just never find the time it seemed. You are wrong about her not thinking though; she’s a brilliant filly she just…likes to talk. She always thinks about what she’s saying but she usually does it a second before she says it. And she loves to explore of course. They certainly have that in common. I couldn’t keep either of them out of the Everfree.”

With a little nod the former chaos god finished putting up the dishes. “It’s nature versus nurture. Recall she didn’t have a very happy childhood. Her parents weren’t cruel or abusive, just inattentive and disinterested. Pinkie in contrast couldn’t be more warm and loving. How different would she have been if she’d grown up here her whole life? I have a feeling she and Jubilant would be mirror matches for each other.”

The noble stallion looked back up toward the bathroom, hearing the peals of laughter still ringing from within. “…I suppose that may very well be true. I wonder what she’ll be like, how she’ll have changed for having the years of care under you Pinkie.”

Pinkie Pie smiled grandly. “Only for the better I’m sure.”

***

Rarity was showering Jubilant in tight hugs and kisses as the conductor announced last call for the train to Canterlot. “Now stay close to Fancy Pants the entire time.”

“Yes Miss Rarity.”

“Don’t eat anything he doesn’t give you! And no sweets before bed time!”

“Yes Miss Rarity.”

“And…and promise me you’ll be careful Jubilant Surprise.”

“I promise Miss Rarity.”

Rarity’s worried expression softened. “And have fun hm? Fancy’s right he should spend some time with you too.”

Now Jubilant grinned. “I will Miss Rarity. Have a fun week too!” She hugged the mare tightly, and Rarity only reluctantly ended the embrace when the conductor loudly cleared his throat behind her.

“Alright goodbye Jubilant! I’ll see you in just a few days!”

Fancy watched the goings on with Pinkie Pie, smiling faintly. “She didn’t even give me so much as a second glance.”

Pinkie giggled softly and nudged his flank. “Jealous of my filly?”

He polished his monocle on his suit coat. “Not at all. All this has her talking about a foal of her own. When this mess with the queen is sorted I hope she’ll feel the same about me as she does now.”

Smiling knowingly Pinkie collected her filly from the train platform. “I don’t think you have to worry about that. She had a crush on you forever.”

This seemed to please the stallion a good deal and he held his head high as they trotted back to the Pie house. “When’s our train come Mister Fancy?”

“Eleven o’clock Jubilant. We have a little more than an hour before we have to go and your mother has something to give you.”

Eyes shining the filly gripped her mother’s mane tighter, drawing a wince from her. “A present?!”

“Yup. From somepony very special to me. And special to you soon too I hope.”

Fancy remained outside to chat with Discord while the two went up to Pinkie’s bedroom. Jubilant at first was bouncing along merrily but her mother seemed weirdly somber so she calmed and settled on the floor. Pinkie Pie nudged open her closet and slid a panel off the back wall revealing a tiny cubby, and drawing a gasp of surprise from her daughter.

The mare set an object before the filly wrapped in light canvas. Taking one edge in her teeth she tugged it away revealing a gleaming shield. Jubilant’s eyes widened in wonder as she crept closer prodding it with her hoof and smiling at the metallic tink. She stared wonderingly at the embossed image of a horn, hoof, and wing along the face. “What is it?”

“It belonged to…your older sister. It was her shield. She was a brave knight.”

Now the filly looked up at her mother wide eyed. “I have a big sister? How come I never met her?!”

Pinkie’s melancholy seemed to grow. “She…well she died Jubilant.”

Jubilant’s ears flattened against her head. “Like…like Granny Smith did?”

“That’s right. She died saving all her friends from somepony very wicked.”

Looking at the shield in a new light Jubilant ran her hoof along the surface gently. “…was she nice?”

“The nicest! And guess what?”

She blinked up at her mom. “What?”

“She liked to draw too.”

“Really!?”

“Yup. All the time.” Pinkie stuck her head back in the cubby coming out with a bunch of old sketchbooks that Jubilant wasted no time flipping through.

“Wow she was really good!”

“She sure was. She liked to explore the Everfree forest too.”

Jubilant was staring at some of the sketches. “That’s Miss Rarity! And there’s Mister Fancy with Echo and…somepony I don’t know.”

Pinkie peered over her shoulder. “Her name is Lyra. They were all good friends of hers. Dinky Doo too.”

The filly wrinkled her nose at the mention of the mare in charge of the home. “I don’t like her.”

“Now Surprise, Dinky’s a very nice pony. She was just doing her job. She doesn’t like taking ponies from their family I promise. And I’m sure she feels very bad about what happened to you.”

“Hmph.” Jubilant sat back from the books. “…I wish I could’ve met her. What was her name?”

Pinkie hesitated; she knew Galaxia was listening for the name. “I called her Jenny-bean.”

“That’s a silly name.”

Pinkie giggled a little. “She was a silly pony sometimes. But really nice and really cared about her friend sand well, everypony. She was going to be a brave knight protecting all of Equestria!” The mare’s cheer dimmed somewhat. “It wasn’t fair what happened to her.”

Jubilant tugged the shield a little closer to herself. “This is mine now?”

“It is. Keep it in your bag and keep it safe. It’s very special ok? Pinkie promise.”

Nodding somberly Jubilant went through the motions and swore the oath. “I’ll take good care of it mom. It was my big sister’s after all.”

“It sure was kiddo. Now c’mon let’s get you packed up, you have a train to catch.”

***

Fancy Pants got more than a little enjoyment watching Discord try to keep Jubilant Surprise under control on the train to Appleloosa. While she saw he, Rarity, and Pinkie Pie as authority figures not to be trifled with, Discord by contrast was looked at as little more than a big playmate.
The purple suited stallion cantered back to the car, Jubilant firmly in his teeth by the scruff of her neck. His horn glowed fiercely counteracting all her attempts to blink away and she had her forelegs crossed in a spectacular pout. “Finally caught her hm?”

Spitting the filly out onto her seat Discord glowered at the other stallion. “You could have helped you know?”

Casually the noble sipped his tea as he flipped a page of the newspaper. “And deprive you of some much needed uncle-niece bonding time? I’d never dare.”

“Very funny. Who’d have thought all this being responsible nonsense would be so hard?”

“Mmm. Yes you would think being responsible for another living being would be the very picture of simplicity itself.”

Jubilant looked from uncle to foster father quietly as they went back and forth. Her uncle sagged into his seat with a stretch. “I miss the days of snapping my fingers and poof, anything I wanted happened.”

“What’s fingers?”

Both stallions looked at the filly. Fancy raised an eyebrow inviting Discord to field this one. “Fingers are…none of your business is what they are. Draw something.” He tugged a sketchbook from Jubilant’s knapsack thrusting it at the once more pouting filly.

Shooting both obviously conspiring adults a little glare she took her sketchbook to the opposite corner of their private car, pulling out her pencils sullenly.

Fingers go on the end of a hand, sort of like a griffon or dragons talons only no claws.

Ears perked Jubilant whispered back. “How come I never heard of them?”

I don’t think anypony but the queen has them. Have you seen pictures of her?

Jubilant had. She looked like a big furless ape like she’d seen in Miss Cheerilee’s history books. “Uh huh.”

She has arms instead of forelegs, those things on the ends are hands and the wiggly bits on her hands are fingers.

Slowly Jubilant began to sketch. “She’s not a normal pony is she?”

No, in fact she’s not a pony at all. She’s a human.

The little filly’s tail twitched at the word and her sketching picked up speed. “Are they all mean like her?”

No. No the other humans in Equestria are very nice. They were in charge before Galaxia came and imprisoned them in the sun and moon.

“…will you tell me who you are? Please?”

I’m…you have to promise not to tell anypony, PINKIE promise.

Two in one day? This was stretching Jubilant’s nerves but she did as asked…the mystery was too big for her to ignore.

My name’s Jennifer, Jenny-bean? Your um, big sister.

“What?! Mom said you died!”

Fancy Pants and Discord both heard THAT and stood up. “Jubilant who in Equestria are you talking to over there?”

Ears splayed as she looked back at the adults. “Uh…nopony! Myself! I’m…writing a play!”

Both stallions shared a disbelieving look but she was behaving so they weren’t eager to provoke her into running amok on the train again.

Very smooth, they totally bought it.

“Thanks! So um…are you a…ghost?”

Sorta I guess.

“What…what’s it like? Did you see Granny Smith?”

Hey I did! She passed by here…jeez it musta been forever ago. It was nice to see her again; we had a nice long talk. Played some cards before she moved on too.

“How come you didn’t move on?” Jubilant waited for several moments with no answer. Sighing she looked down at her sketch, presenting it proudly to her uncle and foster father. “Finished!”

Both stallions had to stifle a gasp at the image. Discord took the book gingerly and held it closer to Fancy Pants. The sketch is a picture perfect image of the departed Jennifer, in her armor and all. “Believe me now?”

Chapter 6: Infiltration Specialists

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Chapter 6: Infiltration Specialists

As the trio disembarked the stallions were dismayed to find soldiers of Galaxia nearly everywhere they looked. Heavily armed and armored ponies stood at rigid attention at nearly every street corner. With a gentle frown Fancy Pants lifted Jubilant magically and settled her on his back.

She immediately moved to get down but he turned his head to look her in the eye. “No nonsense Jubilant. It’s dangerous here and you have to stay close do you understand? I don’t want to have to tell Rarity you misbehaved.”

This worked to instantly cow any mischievous intentions she may have had. “Yes sir.”

Discord rolled his eyes. “Why can’t she behave like that for me?”

His fellow stallion took in the dusty town quietly. The native Appleloosians scurried from building to building fearfully, heads low and avoiding eye contact with not only the guards but one another. “Not quite what I expected.”

Rather boldly Fancy Pants strode up to the nearest guard. “Terribly sorry to disturb you gentlecolts but why the military presence?”

The imposing guard ponies exchanged a brief look before focusing on the noble. “A bit far from home aren’t you sir?”

With an affable grin Fancy shrugged. “My daughter has a fascination with the ‘wild west’ and I thought Appleloosa close enough to Canterlot we could make a little trip of seeing it.”

Jubilant punctuated his statement by waving cheerfully.

The guards seemed to accept his reasoning and both visibly relaxed. “Word is the resistance is operating somewhere in the desert nearby. Her divine majesty has ordered us to turn the town upside down until we find evidence one way or the other.”

Fancy Pants nodded thoughtfully. “I see. Are we in any danger? Should we depart?”

The talkative guard shrugged. “I don’t think so sir. Nopony’d be dumb enough to pull something with this many soldiers in town. Just don’t go wandering down any back alleys or leaving the town borders. We can’t guarantee your safety if you do.”

“Drat. She had her heart set on meeting some buffalo too. Ah, well better safe than sorry eh? I’ll leave you gents to your work.” With a disarming grin Fancy returned to Discord’s side. “Sounds as though things have gotten a trifle more complicated.”

Discord seemed unbothered. “Only a little. These block heads are easy enough to work around. Come on let’s get to the orchard. I’m sure we’ll find Applejack there.”

Jubilant was practically bouncing on Fancy Pants’ back in excitement. “I can’t wait to see Miss Applejack again.”

“Just remember why we’re hearing Surprise. We need her element of honesty.” At her uncle’s unusually stern tone Jubilant did calm somewhat.

The orchard was simple enough to find, a large grove of apple trees stood out a bit in the desert surroundings. Jubilant’s ears perked at the familiar sounds of hooves bucking trees and she leapt from Fancy’s back darting ahead in anticipation of seeing Applejack. Discord lifted a hoof stopping Fancy from calling her back.

The little filly bounded between the trees but pulled up short as she found the pony bucking. It was a stallion. His yellow coat and orange mane were almost the opposite of Applejacks, but he wore the same kind of hat and had her green eyes. He blinked in surprise at the sudden appearance of a unicorn filly.

“Well howdy there lil lady. Are ya lost?”

She shook her head. “Nope! Well…I don’t THINK so. Is Miss Applejack here?”

Now his eyebrows rose further. “Y’all a friend’a Applejack’s? She’s just down the way a bit further. How d’ya know my cousin?”

“I used to help her during apple bucking season!” She beamed proudly.

“That so? Lotta unicorns do farm work back east?”

Jubilant shrugged. “I don’t think so. I lived in Ponyville though and wanted to earn my own bits!”

The stallion chuckled at that. “Well that’s mighty mature fer such a little filly. G’on an find my cuz. Sure she’d be happy t’see a friendly face.”

With a big grin for the nice stallion Jubilant pranced her way further into the grove. Again she picked up the sound of a pony bucking trees and this time it was indeed the mare she sought. “Miss Applejack!”

Applejack looked more surprised to see her than the stallion did. “Surprise? What in tarnation are y’all doin in Appleloosa?”

“Well we’re here to see you!”

Tipping her hat back the mare stared down at the smiling filly. “We?”

“Uh huh! Me and Mister Fancy Pants and Uncle D!”

Warring emotions flared within Applejack. She knew Fancy Pants; he was a good sort who bought a lot of product from her. Practically kept the farm afloat. On the other hoof she was also familiar with Jubilant Surprise’s Uncle D, and not a big fan. Normally she could read a pony like a book and tell if they were lying to her or not. With that one though she got nothing. And when she got nothing from a pony she got uneasy around them.

“Izzat so? Long way just fer a visit ain’t it?”

“Now Applejack! There’s no such thing as too long a distance to cross to visit an old friend!”

A sour look flashed across her face before the farm pony stifled it as Jubilant’s uncle trotted up. She spied Fancy Pants in the distance talking to her cousin Braeburn. “D. Pleasure t’see ya again.”

He chuckled good naturedly. “You’re getting better at lying m’dear.”

She snorted softly and turned back to her work. “Wanna tell me why yer draggin' Miss Pie’s filly out t’the desert?”

“I do as a matter of fact! Just not out here in this awful heat. Any chance you could take a break? Believe it or not it’s genuinely important.”

The unusually earnest tone in his voice gave her pause. She’d always known him to be a mooch and a lay about off his sister Pinkamina. The most activity she’d ever seen out of him was when he’d tear around Ponyville causing trouble with his niece. “…s’pose Ah could take a few minutes t’chat. But just a few.”

“Of course. That should be plenty. Lead the way hm?”

With a nod Applejack trotted toward her cousins small, (but expanding thanks to her younger sister’s talents) house. Jubilant rushed ahead to excitedly greet Applebloom. The young mare was pleasantly surprised but her smile dimmed to a snort as she spied her sister coming. With a shrug to D Applejack nudged the door open. “She’s still a mite sore on account’a me buckin’ her in the face and stuffin’ her in a barrel.”

With a heavy sigh Discord shook his head. “It’s so hard to tell what’ll set off young ponies these days.”

Despite her distrust of him Applejack couldn’t help but bark a quick laugh. “S’pose that’s true. Getcha somethin’ t’drink?”

“Just a glass of water, if it’s no imposition.”

“Wouldn’ta offered if it were.” She made her way to the kitchen, returning with the requested glass. Jubilant was still outside with Applebloom so she didn’t bother with one for her. She knew the two were close enough to be considered friends. Despite the age gap her younger sister always had a soft spot for the filly.

Guzzling the water in one go Discord set the glass aside. “I’m here on a bit of important business Applejack.”

Eyebrow raised she seated herself across from him. “Didn’ know ya got up t’any sorta business at all there D.”

Now it was his turn to laugh. “You’ve got me there! I suppose I’m not the work horse you are but I’m serious when I say what I’m here for is important.”

“Well don’t keep me in suspense then. What exactly d’y’all want?”

She flinched as his horn began to glow, then leaned in curiously as a large case appeared on the table. He flung the clasp open and opened the lid to reveal the collected elements. ”Huh. Well those look like…uh…” She blinked a moment. “…th’necklace granny left me. It part’a some collection er somethin’? Cause that necklace’s been in th’family fer years.”

Smiling strangely Discord gave a nod. “Yes I imagine it must have great sentimental value. Fancy Pants and I are trying to complete the set however.”

Immediately Applejack frowned. “Fer what? T’stick em in some high falutin’ rich ponies house or some nonsense?”

He shrugged. “Sort of. The Canterlot museum of art and history offers a lot of bits for old knick knacks like these. The kind of bits that could pay for a life time’s worth of sunshine on an apple farm say?”

Now he had her interest. “…so what exactly are y’offerin’?”

“Just what it sounded like. You give me your necklace to add to the set, and I give you a fair split of the profits.”

“An I’m just s’posed t’take yer word for it?”

Discord chuckled. “Of course not, I know I have something of a reputation. It’s what Fancy Pants is here for. He’s providing an initial payment. Say five thousand bits is fair? Once we complete the set and get paid by the museum we’ll send another ten along.”

Applejack rocked back as if he’d bucked her right in the face. “F-five thousand bits now an…an TEN later? That necklace o’granny’s is REALLY worth that much?!”

He shrugged. “When the set is complete you could say it’s priceless. So do we have a deal?”

The mare was torn. On the one hand the necklace was an heirloom from her beloved and departed grandmother. On the other D was offering her enough bits to provide good weather and more than a few comforts around home for her family. In the end the decision was an easy one. She trotted to her room and returned with the element of honesty in tow. “Ah wanna hear from Mister Fancy about this b’fore Ah hand it over.”

With a grin Discord snapped the case shut. “I’ll fetch him myself if you’ll wait just a moment?”

At her nod he was out the door heading for the orchard. Applejack set the necklace by the case stepping outside. Jubilant was regaling Applebloom with the story of saving Applejack from the pegasus soldiers. Her younger sister shot her a quick look that wasn’t quite as venom filled as it had been the last couple weeks. Of course Applejack had told her the story herself but the younger mare had a hard time believing it.

Maybe she’d finally start forgiving her? With a sigh Applejack turned toward the orchard removing her hat respectfully as the Lord Fancy Pants approached. “Afternoon sir. An a pleasure t’see ya again.”

He wore that charmingly disarming smile that made Applejack more than once entertain flights of fancy about a noble unicorn stallion falling in love with an earth pony farmer. “A genuine pleasure to see you again as well Miss Applejack! D has already informed you of our proposed arrangement?”

Replacing her hat she moved up the porch and held the door for him. “Yes sir. Sounds right agreeable t’me Ah just wanted t’make sure it weren’t one of D’s song an dance numbers.”

With a hearty chuckle Fancy Pants set his saddlebags on the floor drawing a very tell-tale metallic clink from them. “I assure you he’s quite on the ‘up and up’ as they say. Five thousand bits now for your necklace and another ten when the collection is safely in the museum.”

With a low whistle she planted her haunches on the floor. “What in tarnation makes these things so darn valuable? If y’don’t mind me askin?”

Fancy shrugged using his magic to levitate the agreed upon sum onto the table by the case. “Oh you know how the nobility can get. Something old and shiny and they take an unusual interest in it. A bit silly if you ask me but any excuse to get out of the city and have a little excitement is reason enough for me. Plus I’m never against investing money to make a few extra bits. I was sorry to hear about your farm by the way. That zap apple jam of yours paid for more than a few improvements to several earth pony cities.”

Applejack studied Fancy quietly. He was definitely lying about the necklaces but not about his donations to needy members of her tribe. He wasn’t telling her the real reason he wanted her heirloom but she doubted it was for anything sinister. Maybe his wife didn’t approve or something? She’d only met Lady Rarity once but she definitely came off as something of a fuss bucket. “Well…Ah s’pose that’s good t’hear. An Braeburn’ll definitely be happy t’hear our money troubles ain’t gonna trouble us again.”

Hesitantly the lord snapped open the case and very gingerly lifted the element of honesty, setting it in one of the two remaining resting places. Applejack watched the care he gave it with a raised brow but assumed it was because they were so valuable. “Indeed. My offer still stands by the way. I’d be happy to sponsor Sweet Apple Acres personally. I’ll see to the weather finances in exchange for a controlling interest in the farms business ventures.”

It was an offer he’d made many times in the past, and one Applejack was now wishing she hadn’t been too stubborn to accept. “Well…that might be a mite difficult. Ah may have bucked our pegasus liaison in th’face when she came t’kick me off th’farm. Only reason Ah ain’t dead is cause’a Surprise out there savin mah hide.”

Glancing over his shoulder he could see the filly tossing her uncles’ hat to Applebloom in a game of keep away that seemed to be getting under Discord’s skin. “She is a remarkable pony is she not?”

“She’s certainly an odd one Ah’ll give ya that. How’d y’all git mixed up with D an her anyway?”

“Ah. Well Rarity and I adopted her. We’ve been raising her since the seekers took her to Canterlot.”

“Huh. Well good t’know she’s in good hooves. No offense but Ah don’t much care fer alotta th’Canterlot ponies.”

Leaning in conspiratorially Fancy dropped his voice. “Between you and I, I don’t either.”

This drew a laugh from Applejack now. “How long you folks in town?”

Snapping the case shut Fancy Pants rested it next to himself on the floor. “A few days I think. I promised Jubilant she could see some of the town. We might take a foray into the desert and see if we can’t meet a buffalo or two.”

“That filly loves t’stick her nose places it don’t b’long. Ah’d love t’offer y’all a room here but we’re already squeezed in tight til AB finished her add on. Though Ah c’n put in a good word down at th’inn for ya.”

Smiling that smile that sent all the mares hearts aflutter he hefted his bags back onto his back and waved D over. “That would be lovely Miss Applejack. Perhaps we could sit down to dinner together hm? My treat.”

She snorted softly as D cantered in and with his magic made the case go…wherever he magics things to. “Nonsense. Y’all’ll have dinner here with us. Home cooked meal is th’least Ah can do after y’all just spent so much t’get a silly necklace.”

“Well we shall certainly look forward to it! Would you mind very much guiding us to the inn? I’d like to check in and drop my bags off.”

“Oh! Sure thing. Follow me.” Applejack set an easy pace through the town doing her best to ignore the imposing soldiers everywhere. The visiting trio in tow she led them to what was likely the only inn in town. After a few quick words with the proprietor she gave the group a quick goodbye leaving them to get settled in.

“Didja get it? Didja didja!?” Jubilant bounced from bed to bed focus flipping from her uncle to Fancy Pants.

“We did indeed. Though I’m curious how you intend to obtain the element of loyalty.” Fancy Pants carefully laid out their luggage.

Discord smiled. “Tonight we’re going to meet up with some friends of mine. They’ve got that handled; in fact the final element may even be waiting for us when we arrive.”

***

Lyra was not happy. The leather armor of a pegasus soldier fit uncomfortably tight about her body. If she wore clothes at all they were usually large silken gowns she needed to have on for performances. Nor was she happy at just how high she was currently flying. She’d been practicing with her new wings for two solid weeks now but she’d never flown so high.

She looked to her companion; the slate gray stallion was dressed in officer’s armor. His blue green mane slicked back and ruby colored eyes glinted playfully as he noted her discomfort. She knew this wasn’t his true form. She was quite surprised to learn her flight instructor had been a changeling. Though once she got to know him, Tak had proven to be a pretty fun guy. “Scared’a heights kid?”

The unicorn turned pegasus shot the stallion a glare. “I’m a unicorn thank-you-very-much! We don’t belong in the air!”

He chuckled. “Well today you’re a pegasus. My official aide-de-camp in fact! So shape up private Minty Fresh.”

Lyra did a double take as he suddenly lost his thick city accent and affected a martial sounding stern tone. “Well forgive me for only having wings for two weeks. You’re SURE the princess’ charm bracelet isn’t going to…poof me back anytime soon?”

“Yes I’m sure. It’s alicorn magic kid. You won’t change back until you want to.” Her guide flapped a bit harder picking up more speed. He’d been her tutor in flight down in the underground hideout the resistance was using and she’d come to like the odd fellow.

“So how’d a changeling hook up with the resistance anyway? I don’t think you ever told me.” She kept her gaze locked solidly on his flanks, studiously ignoring how far down the ground was.

He slowed to match Lyra’s slower pace. “My queens insisted we pitch in. So here we are.”

She frowned in confusion. “Queens? You have more than one?”

“Oh uh, wives I guess you’d call them.” He chuckled. “Though they both ACT like royalty that’s for sure. Though one’s technically a princess so I guess that’s not far off.”

“Have I met them? And how can somepony TECHNICALLY be a princess?”

He shrugged. “Umbra’s adopted, her mother was queen of those spider folk you saw scurrying around down there. Trixie’s always studying with her mysterious study buddy in the old frozen castle.”

“So you’re the head of a herd. Of pony mares.”

“Love’s pretty crazy huh? Got some good stories though. If we live through this we’ll have to grab a drink.”

With a snicker Lyra poked his side. “Don’t get any funny ideas Casanova. I’m only interested in mares.”

With a flare of harsh green light the gray stallion was replaced with a gray mare. Lyra’s wings faltered in mid-flap as the now female Tak shot her a wink. “I can do mare cutie.”

The bard recovered quickly as stuck close to her side. “You’re not going in like THAT are you?”

Tak shrugged and adjusted her armor. “Why not? Sides that Rainbow Dash looked like she played for your team anyway. Maybe I can use my feminine charm to woo the element away from her.”

The fortress city of Cloudsdale was coming into view and a few patrols were out. They received curious looks but Tak was in officer’s armor so they were left alone. “I still don’t get what’s so important about this necklace.”

“Me either but the princess wants it bad. And she made Umbra want it bad. Which means I want it bad. So here we are. Get your game face on kid. Slip up and our wings are clipped.”

Lyra swallowed down her nerves and dipped into a descent after her ‘commanding officer’.

***

Neither Discord nor Fancy Pants got any sleep, only little Jubilant Surprise slept soundly in the shared inn room. “Should we wake her?”

Discord made sure the door was locked and stuffed some pillows to give the appearance of ponies in the bed. “If we’re not here when she wakes up she’s going to go berserk looking for us.”

“Mm. I suppose that’s true.” Gently Fancy Pants lifted Jubilant onto his back. “How do we get to your…friends?”

“Why, with magic of course!” Fancy barely had enough time to blink as Discord’s horn flared to life and all three ponies vanished in a flash. When they reappeared the stallion staggered a bit as his hooves sank into soft sand.

“I say a bit of warning next time hm?”

Discord chuckled watching the unicorn fuss with his mane and jacket. “My sincerest apologies! We shouldn’t be too far from resistance HQ.”

Jubilant let out a particularly loud snore drawing a grin from both stallions. “Once she gets to sleep she stays asleep that’s for sure.” Fancy shifted her to settle more solidly on his back.

“True enough, getting her to bed is the hard part.” The conversation ended as Discord set a brisk pace across the sandy desert ground. The night was brightly lit by the moon overhead allowing Fancy Pants to see some distance all around. Mostly what he saw was sand, sand, and more sand. Far in the distance he could make out the lights of Appleloosa.

“Quite the teleport.”

Smiling smugly Discord brushed at an imagined wrinkle on his own suit jacket. “It’s nothing really. Half my power still packs quite the punch.”

“Mm. I was wondering where the other half got to?”

“I merged the amulet holding it with Jubilant’s magic.”

Now Fancy looked slightly alarmed. “It’s my understanding your magic has a corruptive influence.”

“It would for most. But a foal has too much innocence to get turned to the dark side of the force.” Of course Fancy Pants simply stared blankly at the reference. “…she would have thought that was funny.”

“I’ve seen Star Wars; I just don’t find your antics very amusing. I suppose you planned all this from the very beginning then?”

“I did! Though I can’t take all the credit I’m afraid.”

“Oh? Who else was in on this little plan?”

Discord didn’t respond. He stopped before a seemingly blank rock face. “Hmm…I forget this week’s password. Ah well!” With a jaunty grin he trotted ahead pushing his way through the stone that was rippling like water. “Keep up Fancy Pants!”

Hesitating briefly the other stallion charged ahead wishing to get through the liquefied stone as quickly as possible. It felt like running through pudding…or what he imagined it would feel like. He was met with only slight resistance staggering forward as he exited the other side. He had to adjust his monocle to make sure what he was seeing was real.

A huge chamber sprawled out before him, dozens of tunnels branching out in every direction imaginable. Small lanterns holding some kind of luminescent larva lit the way. Ponies of all three tribes were coming and going, though primarily earth ponies. The real surprise came from the other occupants. Massive spiders the size of a full grown pony skittered here and there. They smoothly transitioned to walls or ceilings to make room for a passing pony, who seemed completely at ease among the giant arachnids.

“D…what are they?”

“The spiderkin of course! Long lost underground civilization. Most don’t speak equestrian alas but they seem nice enough. They’re queen can be a real hoot. Anyway we’re not here to see them! Let’s get going.” He set out down one of the tunnels at a brisk trot.

Jubilant had miraculously not stirred yet. Fancy certainly didn’t like the idea of chasing the energetic filly through the caves filled with giant spiders. He matched his guide’s pace as he was led down a myriad of twists and turns. “How far do these tunnels reach exactly?”

“Mmm. Last time I was here they’d just gotten halfway to Ponyville. The queen’s web originates beneath the crystal mountain valley.”

“That’s weeks away by hoof, this is rather incredible.”

“Well the spiderkin are good diggers. They’ve really stepped up during all this, if not for them the whole resistance would be squished by now I’m sure. Ah here we are!”

Fancy gasped softly. It was another large chamber though the residents were quite familiar, though no less surprising. Princess Cadence herself was standing before a large table of stone, Prince Shining Armor at her side. Her brow was furrowed as she examined a large collection of maps.

“I just don’t know Shining. Of course we have to do something for the empire soon, Sombra is working the crystal ponies to death then that horrid creature is raising them to keep working. But the Crystal Empire is protected by his golems now. Everypony in the resistance couldn’t get through.”

Shining Armor opened his mouth to replay but nodded toward the newcomers as they stepped in. Cadence had a…mixed expression at seeing Discord. “D it’s…lovely to see you again of course. And is that Fancy Pants? It’s been so long!”

“Yes I believe the Crystal Fair just before all this…unpleasant business occurred. It’s good to see you of course princess.” Dipping into a courtly bow he gave her a clear view of the sleeping filly on his back.

She sucked in her breath softly. “Is that her?”

Discord lifted Jubilant from Fancy’s back resting her on the table. Her mouth fell open and she loosed a spectacular snore. “In the glorious flesh.”

Cadence giggled softly. “Oh but she’s so cute. I can see her in there though. And so much of Pinkie too. They love each other so deeply…” She was smiling warmly toward the end bit.

Fancy Pants stepped forward. “I don’t wish to seem contrary, and I dearly miss our departed friend but…why her? Why go to all this trouble to bring her of all ponies back to life? Surely there are greater warriors or mages to overthrow the queen?”

“Because Jubilant Surprise is important. Important to everything.”

Fancy turned to the new speaker. An earth pony in a rather impressive brown leather jacket, collared shirt and tie beneath stepped forward. A large pair of goggles sat on his head holding back his shaggy brown mane. Fancy could barely make out an hourglass cutie mark on his flank. The newcomer spoke in a quick excited tone with an obvious Trottingham accent.

“I don’t believe we’ve met mister…”

“It’s Doctor actually! And no I don’t believe we’ve met! And I must say it’s certainly a pleasure to meet YOU sir! The first one to arrive too. Well aside from Miss Heartstrings of course but D here hasn’t quite sorted her head yet so I’d say you count as the first.” He finished shaking Fancy Pants’ hoof vigorously.

Smiling shakily Fancy reclaimed his hoof. “You were saying Jubilant is important? Important to what?”

“Why to Equestria! To Earth! To everypony and everybody. What happened five years ago…shouldn’t have happened. HE was supposed to arrive and together they would have overpowered the queen before her power had fully come back to her.”

Discord snorted at that. “Or so he says.”

“So I say indeed! And since he was too lazy to get off his rump and do his job…” (this drew an indignant ‘hey!’ from Discord) “It falls to us to set things right.”

“So you really believe she can defeat the queen?”

“What? All by herself? Don’t be ridiculous.”

Cadence finally stepped forward. “Excuse me? I sent two of our best agents to Cloudsdale specifically because YOU told me she could dethrone her!”

“Oh ah, well I may have exaggerated a tiny bit. She can’t single hoofedly do it of course but trust me, everything will make sense soon! Now if you’ll excuse me I have to tend to my assistant. Really just great to meet you Fancy Pants.”

Fancy stared after the strangest pony he’d ever met as he retreated down another tunnel. Finally he turned to Discord. “And I thought YOU were odd.”

With an indifferent shrug Discord cantered after the departing doctor. Cadence offered a wan smile. “I Know we’re something of an eccentric bunch, but desperate times and all that.”

With a shake of his head Fancy settled neat to the princess, resting Jubilant between his forelegs. “I’ve left my wife behind in Canterlot to drag our adopted filly to the desert in the hopes that she’s a fragment of my deceased alien friend from another world so that we can resurrect her fully. You don’t have to explain the concept of desperation to me your highness.”

“You don’t believe D’s plan will work?”

Fancy Pants stared down at the slumbering Jubilant Surprise for a moment. “I don’t know what I believe. Until a few days ago I believed I was a happily married nobleman doing what he could to help the downtrodden masses. Now I’m told I’m to bear one of the elements of harmony and wield unimaginable magic’s.”

Cadence looked troubled but she had to nod. “Yes I suppose you must be troubled. Why don’t you get some rest? Hopefully Tak and Lyra return soon with the last element, and then we can find out if all this was for nothing or not.”

Bowing his head Fancy Pants allowed his fatigue to show. “That would be lovely your highness thank you. It sounds as if I have a busy few days ahead.”

“Indeed. Sleep well Fancy Pants.” One of the ponies at her side led the stallion to a small side chamber where a surprisingly comfortable bed of moss waited. With a chuckle at the novelty of it all he settled down resting Jubilant against his side.

“Well I always did enjoy roughing it…”

***

Lyra’s eyes darted back and forth frantically. “I can’t believe you did that!” She hissed under her breath to the mare at her side.

Tak just smirked. “Oh c’mon it was hilarious. Imagine the look on their faces when they see we dumped all that liquid rainbow in their rations.”

Barely able to hide a smile of her own Lyra snorted. “We’re supposed to be finding Rainbow Dash.”

With a soft sigh Tak collected herself. “Alright, alright. I heard a few of the recruits talking about a mare who spends her nights muzzle deep in a mug down at this dive called the Leaky Mug. Let’s go check it out.”

Having gotten no better leads herself Lyra followed Tak along the cloud city’s streets. It was definitely weird, walking on clouds. It felt like her hooves would fall through any second. It was slightly springy, with just a little bit of give but of course she never slipped through.

The disguised changeling seemed to know exactly where she was going as she led the way. Beneath the initial layer of cloud was an inner city housing all manner of eateries, shops, and residences. They descended further until the clouds became heavy and gray. Their destination soon in sight.

The Leaky Mug had patches of cloud stuff constantly flitting away only to be replaced by the proprietor at the end of the night. The sounds of a brawl could be heard all the way down the street and both spies reared up in surprise as a pegasus stallion was bucked right through the wall only to skid to a stop at their hooves.

Exchanging wary glances the pair entered. Their quarry wasn’t hard to spot. Private Rainbow Dash’s mane and tail were very striking and even after not having seen her in five years Tak was unlikely to forget them. Though the private looked like she’d seen better days.

Dash had heavy bags under her eyes, while her mane and coat were more shaggy and disheveled than usual. Judging by the angle of the exit hole from which the stallion was bucked it would seem the private was his attacker. Though the bar pony didn’t bat an eye, just poured her another drink.

Tak approached calmly. “Quite a kick.”

The already intoxicated mare snorted and was about to shoot a sharp retort her way before she blinked at the officers armor Tak wore. Dash tried to choke the snort back and ended up choking herself much to the changeling’s amusement. “You alright there private?”

With a particularly big hack and an equally big draw from her mug Rainbow Dash nodded. “Jus’ great sir. Ma’am. Sir ma’am. M’on leave til next week.”

Chuckling Tak raised her hooves. “I’m not here about your off duty conduct private. I was hoping we could talk. Privately.”

Now Dash narrowed her eyes. “M’fine. Don’t need any more head shrinker ponies telling me I shouldn’t feel bad or whatever anymore. M’fit for duty.”

“Oh? Well good. I’m trying to assemble and elite squad for high profile missions. Only looking for the best of the best.”

Rainbow Dash’s natural impulse for showing off was pricked a bit at this. “…oh yeah?” She deflated just as quickly. “Well that’s not me. Haven’t you seen my record?”

Tak hadn’t but there was no reason to tell HER that. She could guess what was bugging the pegasus anyway. “I know you’re the fastest flier in Cloudsdale. I need speed, agility, and stealth. You definitely fit the first two. I’m not looking for thugs to shake down ponies for tribute.”

About to protest at the phrasing, Rainbow found she couldn’t. “…really?”

“Really.” This was the hard part. Getting the poor mare’s hopes up then having to dash them, but the mission came first. “Got somewhere private we can talk?”

“Sure.” She was perking up. “Sure! Yeah c’mon my place isn’t too far from here.”

With a jerk of her head toward Lyra, Tak fell into step beside Rainbow Dash. “I’m Lieutenant Sunny Days. This is my aide Minty Fresh.”

“Nice to meet you both! I’m uh, Private Rainbow Dash. But I guess you know that.”

Lyra was shooting Tak a glare for using the embarrassingly stupid cover name she had most certainly NOT agreed upon. “Sure do!”

Looking like she hadn’t smiled so much in weeks Rainbow Dash led them up a short flight of stairs to an apartment building in the lower district. She let them in. “Uh go ahead and grab a seat wherever guys! I think I got some cider or somehtin’ around here.” She hastily brushed off the sofa for her guests.

“Oh no need for a drink we just want to talk.”

Before she could turn back around Tak touched her heart with her magic, plucking the image of her love from her. With a flare of green the pegasus mare was gone and a well build pegasus stallion remained.
Dash’s eyes widened. “S-sergeant Soarin? What’re you doing here? Where’d…” Her wings flared. “You’re…what? A changeling or something!?”

“Or something.” Rainbow Dash felt a wave of magic wash over her, and in a flash all her anger dissipated…leaving warm fuzziness in its wake. She was smiling goofily soon.

“So, Dashie. D’you mind if I call you Dashie, private?”

Feeling a blush form Rainbow Dash shook her head. “N-no sir. Sergeant.”

Tak smiled. “When it’s just us, call me Soarin.”

“O-ok Soarin.”

“So Dashie, I need your help with something important.”

Eyes wide Rainbow Dash leaned forward. “Anything…”

“I’m looking for a necklace. It’s really important. Gold with a red lightning bolt gem in the center?”

Grinning now Rainbow Dash vanished down the hall with a blaze of color, returning just as fast with the necklace in her mouth. She wasted no time laying it before Tak. “No prob!”

“Thanks so much Dashie. Now I need you to do one more thing.”

The bewitched mare nodded vigorously. “Of course.”

“Sleep.” Tak’s eyes flared as Dash felt herself slump to the floor.

Lyra watched the whole exchange silently. “Pretty handy trick.”

With a scowl Tak let the Soarin disguise vanish as he reverted back into the pegasus mare officer. “Maybe but I feel dirty after using it.” She flicked the element of loyalty to Lyra who slipped it into her saddlebag. “Especially on a nice pony like her. She won’t remember much when she wakes up at least.”

“Well we got what we came for. Let’s just get outta here huh? I want my hooves back on the ground.”

Smirking Tak lead the way back up and out. “Sound just like Umbra now. She hates heights.”

***

Archmagister Twilight Sparkle made her way down the ancient stairs of the old library. She could already hear her study partner pacing outside the door. She was always so impatient. Though Twilight could hardly blame her, it was pretty cold outside the library.

Reaching the bottom of the stairs she undid the arcane seals on the door swinging them open. The mare on the other side burst in shivering heavily and sending snow all over the floor. “Well it’s about time! Trixie thought you’d forgotten her!”

Allowing one of her rare smiles to find her face Twilight just shook her head. “Trixie I don’t think anypony who’s met you could ever forget it.”

Choosing to accept that as a compliment rather than an insult Trixie shut the doors behind herself, and followed Twilight up to Clover the Clever's old library. They had magic to make.

Chapter 7: To The Moon

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Chapter 7: To The Moon

Lyra shook her head trying to clear the haze and sort the conflicting sets of memories as Discord’s spell freed her from the queen’s. Having Fancy Pants nearby was helping; somepony familiar was a great relief.

“Just give it a few moments Lyra. You’ll feel better in a flash. It knocked me off my hooves as well.” The stallion smiled warmly to his recovering friend.

Scowling Lyra rubbed at her temples with her hooves. “Ugh I can’t believe I got duped like that!” Her expression turned thoughtful. “Though evil-Lyra was pretty cool I guess.”

With a chuckle Fancy Pants offered her some water. “You weren’t EVIL Lyra, just different. You still did plenty of good.”

Emptying the glass in a few quick chugs Lyra set it aside. “Well I need some way to differentiate between real me and other me. Evil Lyra sounds cooler. You know you have a filly on your back?”

Fancy swung around to give Lyra a clearer view of Jubilant. “Lyra Heartstrings, meet Jubilant Surprise Pie.”

Lyra’s eyes popped wide open. “Whaaaat?! Did she and Echo have a filly or what?”

Jubilant blinked. “Who and Echo?”

Discord hustled Fancy and Jubilant away as he lead Lyra down a side tunnel. “There are some things you need to be filled in on…”

***

With a giggle Jubilant watched her uncle lead the weird unicorn away. “She’s funny.”

Fancy levitated her to the cavern floor from his back. “Yes she is. She’s a very nice pony, I’m sure you two will become fast friends.”

The second her hooves hit the floor she was off like a rocket toward the first side tunnel that caught her eye. With a little yelp she was halted by Fancy’s magic. “Jubilant what is Rarity’s rule number one?”

Ears drooping she huffed. “Always stay beside you. But I wanna talk to one of the big spiders!”

“I don’t think many of them speak Equestria I’m afraid. And we shouldn’t go wandering; I’m told these tunnels go on for miles in all directions. It would be a simple thing to get lost.”

Snorting gently Jubilant trotted back to his side. “I never get lost.”

Brow raised he regarded her fully now. “Oh?”

“Nope! It’s one of my favorite spells! Whenever I’m lookin’ for something my horn points me in the right direction.”

“Handy talent. Though one I don’t possess so we’re stuck here in these chambers. Why don’t you get your sketchpad hm?” He kept a close eye on her as she made her way to the chamber they’d slept in the night before. It wasn’t far and there were no turns along the way so he felt no reason not to allow her a little independence.

“…look ridiculous. I’m not kissing you like that.”

Jubilant’s ear twitched in the direction of one of the chambers she was passing. Curious she poked her head in to see two mares arguing. One was a pegasus, the other was…a unicorn maybe? She was wearing really cool looking black spidery armor but Jubilant was pretty sure that was a horn on her head.

The unicorn was glaring hotly at the pegasus, who seemed indifferent toward her dirty looks. “Oh c’mon I’m a knockout! Y’know y’want me.” She abruptly tackled the unicorn showering her in nuzzles and kisses.

Her victim snorted and squirmed beneath her attentions finally letting out a loud huff and returning the winged ponies affections with a long kiss. Jubilant couldn’t suppress a giggle at their silly antics, and both mares’ heads whipped around at the sound.

“…why is there a pony hatchling in the tunnels?” The unicorn was asking the pegasus.

Jubilant wrinkled her nose in confusion. “Hatchling?”

With a grin the pegasus flapped her wings, using her friend’s stomach as a spring board she lightly glided to land before the amused filly. “YOU must be Jubilant Surprise.”

Feeling inordinately pleased at having her (in her opinion well-deserved) fame preceding her she gave a happy nod. “Yup! Who’re you?”

“I’m Tak. This’ Umbra.” The pegasus, Tak introduced herself and her companion.

Umbra was approaching now staring at the filly curiously. “This is truly her? She is very…small and unimpressive.”

“Yeah well Tak’s a weird name and you talk like a weirdo so now everypony gets to feel bad.” With a little sniff Jubilant turned on her hooves and stalked out.

Shooting her mate a glare Tak darted after the departing filly. “Hey kid hold up! She didn’t mean t’be mean she’s just…eh…honest. She don’t stop t’think about what she’s sayin’ might hurt somepony’s feelin’s is all.”

Jubilant slowed her pace allowing the pegasus to catch up. “Oh. Sorry I said you had a weird name. …what does Tak even mean?”

Tak shrugged. “Nothin’. My full name is Tak’thiss.”

“That’s even WEIRDER.”

“Well it’s not a pony name.”

Now she had Jubilant’s interest. “What kinda name is it?” They had reached the chamber with her saddlebags but now she was more interested in Tak than her sketchbook.

Eyes shifting back and forth Tak crept closer. “Can y’keep a secret kid?”

Nodding eagerly Jubilant watched as strange green flames licked around Tak’s hooves, before abruptly consuming her. The little filly shrieked in alarm before she realized the mare was unharmed. Even if she was definitely not a mare anymore.

Standing nearly twice the height of an ordinary pony the creature before her only superficially resembled one. He had four legs that ended in hooves, but they were full of holes. He had no fur, just a shiny shell like a bug. Large red eyes blinked down at her and she gulped noting the sharp fangs in his mouth. A long jagged horn rose from his head, while a pair of insectoid wings folded against his back. He still had what looked like a mane but it was wispy and slicked back. “It’s a changeling name.”

“Oooo! Mom told me stories about you! …wait are you gonna stick me in a cocoon and suck out all my love?!”

The changeling winced only slightly. “No little filly, I’m not going to cocoon you and suck out all your love. Have to wait at LEAST a few more years for you to get nice and ripe.”

Despite his fearsome appearance Jubilant giggled at what was obviously a joke. “So changelings don’t do that?”

He shrugged and took a seat on the floor. “Some do, some don’t. We don’t just eat love but any strong emotion. They all have different flavors like fruit.”

“Neat! Does it hurt the ponies you eat stuff from?”

“Nah. I mean it CAN if we take too much but only stupid hatchlings take too much. A pony’s no good if we kill them you know? Plus it’s uh, wrong to kill. You shouldn’t do that.” He hastily corrected himself.

Jubilant shot him a ‘duh’ look, then brightened. “Hey! Hold still!”

Curious but happy to humor her Tak did as she asked. He didn’t have to wait long for his curiosity to be slaked, as the fished her sketchbook from her oversized knapsack and went to work sketching him out.

“A portrait huh? Better get my good side. I’m a prince you know?”

She didn’t say anything but the look of incredulity on her face was enough to say she didn’t believe THAT. “So were you the one who got the element of loyalty with Miss Lyra?”

“Sure was. That makes all six right?”

“Mmhm! Uncle D says we’re almost ready. We just gotta wait for a couple more ponies to get here.”

Tak stared at her quietly. He and his mare’s had been informed about Jubilant’s true nature and Discord’s plan to bring Jennifer back to life through her, but he wondered just how much she knew about it all. “Any idea what he wants them for?”

“Uncle D says it’s to make the world a happy place again.”

He wasn’t sure how he felt about keeping the filly in the dark but in the end it wasn’t his call to make. “Well that sounds pretty good to me.”

“Me too!”

Tak glanced to the entryway as Umbra approached silently, the much louder Fancy Pants at her side. Jubilant took note of none of it however, focused on her sketch of the changeling. Finally she held it out smiling proudly. “Done!”

“Huh. I was gonna say it’s good just to be nice but this is really good kid. You just might have a cutie mark worthy talent in there.”

“Really?! Mom says the same thing but it hasn’t shown up yet.” She gave a little huff.

“Hey don’t feel bad. Umbra here doesn’t have hers yet either.”

Now the filly (and Fancy Pants for that matter) regarded the obviously full grown mare curiously. She was large for a pony mare, nearly the tall changeling’s size which made her a little taller than Fancy Pants himself. She returned Jubilant’s curious gaze steadfastly. “He is correct. I do not have my…cutie mark.” She said the last with a touch of disdain.

Disbelieving Jubilant rushed to the mare’s side fussing with the armor over her haunches. Umbra balked at the probing hooves but Jubilant managed to get a view of a very blank flank. “How d’you not have a cutie mark?! You’re a grown up!”

Readjusting her armor with a small glare Umbra looked away before any could see her blush of embarrassment. “I simply do not. Where I am from no…pony does so I assume I will not get one.”

“Arent’cha worried you’ll never know what your special talent is?”

Now Umbra returned her attention fully to Jubilant Surprise. “Do you truly believe the lack of a picture on your rear end makes you talentless? Is your art no less beautiful because a picture of a pencil does not adorn you? One does not need a brand on their flank to tell them what they should do with their lives. As a wise pony once told me, follow your heart. The rest will make sense in time.”

“Well said Madame. Now I believe I should get Jubilant outside. We have to contact my wife and I’d rather not explain why we’re sitting in a cave.” Fancy offered Umbra and Tak a faint smile before levitating the filly to his back and trotting off.

“I like them. They’re weird, but nice.”

“They certainly are strange I won’t disagree with you there. But I think those are the kinds of ponies that make life exciting hm? It would be rather boring if we were all the same. Being different from somepony just means you have new things to learn once you become friends.”

Jubilant grinned. “You’re weird too Mister Fancy Pants.”

“Well Jubilant Surprise, you’re a little weird yourself.” The two shared a laugh as Fancy navigated his way out of the caverns. No sooner had the pair of earth ponies watching the more mundane entrance moved the rocks aside for their passage than a heavily burdened Echo landed nearby, a large squirm sack over her back.

“Hey Fancy! Mind givin’ me a hand?”

Jubilant hopped off his back watching curiously as he approached, levitating the sack from the night pony’s back. “What exactly do you have here Echo?”

“Just somethin’ D asked me to pick up in Canterlot before I came out here. Been flyin’ all night and I could use a drink.”

Fancy eyed the sack dubiously giving it a prod, then jumping back as it yelped. “…Echo is there a pony in this bag?”

“Yeah. Just toss her in the caves for me wouldja? I’ll take it from there.” She spared the watching Jubilant a glance. “Heya kid, how ya doin’?”

“Oh! Um, I’m fine Echo. It’s nice to see you again. Who’s in the bag?”

“Eh some mare from Canterlot. Unicorn so it was kinda a hassle but she stinks with magic so it wasn’t too bad.” This drew a muffled ‘hey!’ from the sack. Both Fancy Pants AND Jubilant recognized the voice. Frowning toward the unconcerned Echo, Fancy undid the tie on the bag dumping out a bedraggled Dinky Doo.

“H-help! She foalnapped me! Right out of the market! I’m a citizen of Canterlot and I…L-lord Fancy Pants? Jubilant Surprise? What are you doing here?!” She looked around frantically. “Where IS here?”

With a reproachful look toward Echo, Fancy helped Dinky to her hooves. “Outside of Appleloosa Miss Doo. I’ve no idea why you were brought here I’m afraid.”

“A-Appleloosa? We FLEW all the way to Appleloosa? In ONE night?!”

Echo shrugged. “Night ponies are fast and strong. What can I say? I’m amazing.”

“Th-there’s no such thing as a night pony! They’re old mare’s tales!”

The very real night pony mare nodded. “Yeah you’re right. I’m a figment of your imagination. Now get your flank in the cave before this figment gives you another knock on the head. I’m in kinda a hurry.”

Dinky looked to Fancy Pants for support, but her heart sank as he looked away uncomfortably. “You’d best listen to her Miss Doo. Not to worry though, I assure you no harm will come to you. Well…no MORE harm. No doubt everything will be clear very soon.”

Ears splayed she looked from Echo, to Fancy, to a now angrily glaring Jubilant before sighing. She really wasn’t very good with magic and she definitely couldn’t overpower the tough night pony. “F-fine I’ll go.”

Perkily, Echo gave her a shove toward the caves. “Well good! And it really IS great to see you again Fancy. Pretty soon we’ll all be back together!”

Fancy gave her a smile and a nod, a smile that swiftly faded as he turned to regard Jubilant. “Well let’s give Rarity a call hm?”

With a snort she planted her rump by him. “Fine. Long as I don’t have to see HER.”

Chuckling softly Fancy Pants levitated a rather expensive enchanted mirror from his bag, using the sending spell to connect it to Rarity’s. The pair didn’t have to wait long for the mare to appear. “It’s about time! I was getting so worried! How is Jubilant? Is she alright?”

“Yes dear Jubilant is right here. I’m fine too of course.”

Heaving a soft sigh Rarity offered her husband a smile. “I’m sorry Fancy Pants, I’m happy to see you of course. The house feels so big and empty with you two gone.”

Jubilant peeked into the mirror over Fancy’s shoulder. “Hi Miss Rarity!”

“Hello Jubilant! Having fun I hope?”

“Mmhm! I’m making all sorts of weird new friends!”

Rarity raised a brow looked to her husband. “What sorts of new friends? And where is D for that matter?”

“Oh just some foals in town. Nothing to be worried about. They all have rather thick accents so she found it a bit odd is all.”

“Oh of course. Well it’s good to hear from you. I should go though I’m at the shop. You two have fun! And we’ll speak tomorrow.”

“Goodbye dear. I love you.”

“Bye Miss Rarity! Love you too!”

Rarity’s mouth opened wordlessly for a moment, eyes watering up at Jubilant’s proclamation. “…I love you both very much. I can’t wait for you to come home. Until then I’ll just have to occupy myself with work.”

She ended the sending on her end and Fancy tucked the mirror away. “That meant a lot to Rarity, what you said Jubilant.”

“Think so?”

“I know so. Come along let’s go back inside. We’re not supposed to be out too much.”

***

Jubilant saw that mean Dinky Doo talking with a funny eyed pegasus mare later. They were both crying and smiling and hugging a lot. So much so the filly was finding it hard to keep the hate alive for the unicorn mare.

She looked up at her uncle as he stepped beside her. “Nice to see hm? Families back together. That’s why we’re doing all this Surprise. For ponies like Dinky and Ditzy. You and your mother.”

The filly sat quietly watching the joyful reunion. Despite her continued dislike of Dinky Doo it was a little nice seeing a mom and daughter reunited. She was frowning thoughtfully. “Someone took Miss Dinky from her mom too, huh?”

“They did. But pretty soon no everypony will be back with their family where they belong. We’re so close now Surprise. We just need to find one more pony to use the elements of harmony.”

Watching the happy pair of mares for another few moments Jubilant finally stood and followed her uncle. She spied that pretty princess Cadenza watching her from the big table she made all her important plans on. With a smile Jubilant offered her a wave, one that the princess returned with a forced smile of her own.

Happily bounding at her uncle’s side now Jubilant playfully bumped against his flank. “Who all is gonna use em Uncle D?”

“Well there’s Fancy Pants, Echo, Lyra, Dinky…” He sighed as she made a face. “…YOU get your mom’s.” This brightened her quite a bit. “And the last one…”

They stepped outside. It was night time now and the moon hung huge and beautiful in the sky. “The last one is right up there.”

Perplexed the filly followed her uncles pointing hoof. “…in the sky?”

“On the moon.”

Her eyes popped open at that. “The mare in the moon?! She’s the sixth pony?!”

“That’s right. She’s a very special pony and she’s been waiting a long time for us to go get her.”

Jubilant had started bouncing circles around Discord by that point. “Well let’s go! How do we get there?!”

“You blink of course.”

She faltered in her bouncing and skidded to a stop. “…I can’t blink that far! It’s…it’s like…the moon!”

“Oh. Well if you can’t do it, maybe I’ll find some other filly to use the element of laughter and go visit the mare in the moon…”

Jubilant Surprise grit her teeth shooting her uncle a glare. “F-fine! I’ll show you!”

Gently the stallion laid a hoof on her shoulder. “Take your time Surprise. Reach out toward the moon like you want to levitate it first. Take it nice and slow, there’s no hurry.”

Hearing the abnormal seriousness in his voice Jubilant took a deep breath in and out, reaching in and drawing out her magic. Her horn began to shine brightly as she cast her gaze up at the moon. Attempting to perform the enormous feat of magic forced her to draw on the chaotic magic of Discord slumbering deep within her normal mana reserves. The verdant green aura around her horn shifted to the swirling chaotic mess of energy Discord wielded.

“Can you feel it Surprise? Just touch the moon.”

The little filly was sweating, but she was determined. “I…I think so Uncle D…”

Jubilant didn’t notice the Princess step out of the caves to watch. “Now…pretend there’s a…fishing line between your horn and the moon. You remember fishing with Aunt Fluttershy to catch lunch for some of her animal friend’s right?”

Cadence sucked in her breath swiftly as a razor thin line of magic became visible from Jubilant’s horn and leading out of sight toward the moon. “That’s my girl. Now do you feel her up there? Waiting for you?”

Her breath was coming in quick gasps as she forced herself to feel about for some kind of living presence on the moon. “I…I think I feel her!”

“Well what are you waiting for silly filly? Go surprise her!”

This was much more in Jubilant’s realm of expertise. Her pained expression abruptly switched to a smile…as she vanished with a soft pop.

Slowly Cadence approached Discord as he stared silently up at the moon. “That’s impossible. Nopony can teleport that far except me or my aunt’s.”

“Don’t forget who she’s a part of princess. She might not have all of her mana but close to it. Plus the half of my power she was holding onto is a part of Jubilant’s for now too. She has enough magical oomph to get up there; the problem is getting the mare in the moon down HERE.”

Cadence frowned gently. “The queen will almost certainly notice if she up and disappears. I hope you have an idea?”

“I do. I just need Jubilant to get through the queen’s traps to where the mare is waiting. Then I can follow along.”

“So you’re using her as what? Bait?”

“Of course not. Despite what you might think of me I do care for that filly a good deal. Jubilant and the other one. The queen has both sisters’ prisons warded against intrusion by any stallion or mare who tries to approach.”

Cadence blinked. “But not against any filly or colt because one would never be able to reach it!”

With a nod and a smile Discord looked back to the moon. “Once she gets to her chambers I’ll be able to follow, you as well if you like.”

Sighing she turned back to the caves. “I’d love to but no, I have things to do here. And it’d crush the resistance on the off chance something happened to me. I…well…I trust you D. Bring her home. Bring them both home.”

Removing his hat he held it over his heart looking to Cadence with an earnestness that surprised her. “I promise, everypony will be home soon. Equestria will be the bright land it was meant to be again. You have my word.”

Recalling a bit of his story from Aunt Celestia she grinned. “Your oath as a knight?”

Chuckling softly he replaced the hat on his head. “I don’t think I’ve been one of those in a few centuries. But if it makes you feel better, I do.”

“It does. I’ll leave this in your capable hooves D.”

He watched her go with a quiet smile, turning his gaze to the eastern horizon. “She’s a little you, you know? I hope you’re watching…I hope you’re proud of her.” He sighed a bit looking back to the moon. “And of me.”

***

Jubilant looked wide eyed at the massive pair of doors before her nose. They were massive, towering higher than the clock tower in Ponyville she imagined. Beautiful pictures of a tall pony like Princess Cadenza carved in bas relief covered every inch of the smooth stone.

She slowly paced along the bottom of the door looking over the pictures. She saw three things…humans, like the queen. Though they only had horns, no wings. They looked like they were falling from the sky in the first picture. The next had the eldest of the three split from the younger two. After that the two humans met a winged and horned pony. The next few pictures were the pony and humans getting into trouble of varying degrees, the pony fiercely protecting the two humans.

Eventually the pictures got too high for Jubilant to see and she huffed. It was kinda a neat picture story. Eyeing the doors dubiously she opted to simply blink to the other side. Vanishing with a soft pop she reappeared on a smooth stone floor. She was in what must be a castle of some kind. Everything was really pretty carved of a dark blue stone of some kind. Silver pillars held up the ceilings here and there.

While pretty it also felt very…lonely. Shivering slightly Jubilant picked up her pace a bit to a slight trot. “Hello? Mare in the moon?”

Nopony answered her calls and she sighed, trotting through hall after hall. She was at it for a while before she clopped a hoof against her forehead. “Dummy.” She used her Find It spell and was soon trotting confidently through the lunar palace.

The pull from her horn was getting stronger and stronger, leading her up a seemingly endless flight of stairs. She finally came to another large set of doors, though these were bare. Just as she was about to blink to the other side, a warm blue aura enveloped them and they swung inward. “Welcome to the Lunar Palace Jubilant Surprise. It is a pleasure and an honor to greet you in the flesh at last.”

The voice sounded very warm and kind. Carefully Jubilant stepped into the room. Regarding her with a kind smile was the most beautiful pony she had ever seen. Taller even than the big Princess Cadenza, her mane and tail flowed like they were underwater, the blue dotted with dozens of twinkling lights like stars. Her horn and wings were larger than any she’d ever seen on anypony back home. “H-hello ma’am.”

“Do not be nervous my little pony. You have come a very long way to see me after all. How about a cup of tea hm? It is the least I can do.”

“T-tea? Um…ok…” She wasn’t the biggest fan of the drink but Aunt Fluttershy loved it and she had a cup whenever she’d visit.

“Wonderful. It has been quite some time since I have been able to share tea with a friend. You may call me Luna, Jubilant. Or do you prefer Surprise?” She smiled playfully and the filly was feeling more at ease all the time.

“Um…either one Miss Luna.”

“So very polite. Your mother has raised you well.” She moved to a small kitchenette through an archway preparing the tea. “Is your uncle going to be joining us?”

“I dunno. He didn’t say so…just that I had to come getcha.”

Brow raised, Luna turned to regard Jubilant. “Get me? I am afraid I cannot leave Jubilant.”

Tilting her head in confusion Jubilant frowned. “Why not?”

“My mother, Queen Galaxia has placed spells on my prison. If I attempt to leave she will know and arrive to stop me. Ponies with as much magic as I cannot move about easily without being noticed when somepony is keeping watch for them.”

“But…but you HAVE to come back! You’re one of the elements of harmony!”

The princess shook her head sadly. “Your uncle will have to find a different sixth to bear the element of magic. I cannot.”

“I can’t and you know it Luna. It has to be you.”

Both ponies turned to find Discord stepping smoothly into the room. “Discord. You decided to come after all. You know very well why I cannot leave.”

Jubilant’s ears perked. It was the first time she’d heard what the ‘D’ stood for in her uncle’s name. “The elements won’t work for just any six ponies who throw them on. They have to be connected. You’re the sixth, it has to be you.”

The filly’s head was swiveling from her uncle to the princess as each spoke. “You certainly had a bond with her, and possess enough magic to wield the element I am sure.”

Discord rolled his eyes. “Don’t be dense, you know I can’t even touch the elements let alone use one. Not after the spell your sister put on them.”

“I…well then bring the other elements to me. We will wield them here.”

“I’m not an expert on her magic but I’m pretty sure she’ll notice if the most powerful magical artifacts in the world suddenly appeared on the moon. You have to come.”

“Discord that is enough. If I could come do you truly think I would not have left already? It is simply impossible. Mother would feel it in a heartbeat if another alicorn suddenly appeared on Equestria.”

“Your mother can’t hear us here can she? You’re using our names pretty casually.”

Luna shook her head pouring the tea. “She cannot. She has to physically be on the sun or the moon to feel us. Celestia and I are strongest here.”

“And she would only notice if you appeared on Equestria? Not if you disappeared from the moon?”

The princess levitated tea cups to the filly and stallion. “I suppose not. But her spells prevent me from leaving.”

Discord ignored the tea while Jubilant sipped at hers, listening silently. “But they wouldn’t stop ordinary unicorns like myself or Surprise from going.”

“No they would not. They are designed specifically to entrap en alicorn here.”

Luna was beginning to shift uncomfortably under the firm stare Discord leveled her way. “You once asked Jennifer what she would sacrifice to save her friends. What would YOU sacrifice to save Equestria?”

Slowly the princess looked from Discord to Jubilant, than out the window at Equestria, so far away. Her shoulders squared and she turned to face the stallion. “Everything.”

***

Shining Armor frowned as he regarded the map of the Crystal Empire. “It could work. We come up right under the palace and move for the king before he knows what hit him. But our intelligence says the highest concentration of his crystal golems are in and around the palace. That’s going to be some fight.”

With a scoff Umbra flicked her tail. “My siblings and I will be more than enough to handle some mindless crystalline ponies. We will utterly crush the golems and return the empire to its rightful rulers.”

Cadence pointed toward the far end of the map. “The king isn’t what concerns me. The crystal ponies he has toiling in his mines are. If we attack there’s a good chance he’ll have his golems kill the miners out of spite. We would need to strike simultaneously at both positions.”

“We don’t have the ponies for that. We can manage one or the other.”

Silence descended on the room as it seemed they’d hit a wall. “Well! Sounds like as good a time as any to arrive and save the day.”

The three leaders whirled at Discord’s voice, new hope in their eyes. “Did you bring the princess?”

“He did. For the most part.” A unicorn mare followed Discord into the chamber. Her coat a deep night blue, while her mane and tail were a much brighter blue color. She was no bigger than the average mare…and most certainly had no wings.

Shining Armor approached disbelievingly. “Princess…is that you?”

“It is, though it is still not save to use my name and I would rather not go by ‘L’. Moon Dancer will suffice until this mess is dealt with.” She had a cutie mark of a full moon beaming three shining shafts of light from itself.

“Aunt…Moon Dancer…” Cadence stepped next to her husband. “You’re a unicorn? You gave up being a princess?”

“It was the only way for me to leave the moon undetected. Mother never visited me, only my sister. She will likely not notice I have escaped for some time. It was a necessary sacrifice I made happily for Equestria.”

“Will you still be able to wield the element of magic?”

“I will. Ordinary ponies have had no difficulty using them in the past. Now will be no different.”

Umbra was staring hard at Luna and the unicorn the strange mare’s gaze and offered a faint smile. “It is good to see you Umbra.”

“…you as well…Moon Dancer. We will have to speak more soon.”

Despite the gravity of Luna’s sacrifice Cadence was soon smiling. “So that’s it then? We’re ready for the spell? We have the six elements now. The amulet, the chaos magic and the spark of hope. Where’s the sword?”

Now Discord shifted uncomfortably. “Well…that’s the tricky part. See when I went back for it, it had ah…disappeared.”

All eyes were on him now. “You do not have Mercy? How could you misplace her blade? We cannot resurrect her without it!”

“Well exCUSE me for being a little busy travelling to limbo and plucking a piece of her soul, forging it into a filly and bringing it into the world! Then going from place to place all over the world trying to piece together HOW to cast the resurrection in the first place. Not even you or your precious sister knew how to do that little bit of magic did you?!”

Luna stepped back at the animosity in his tone, but Umbra leapt to her defense. “Do not raise your voice to her trickster, or I will remind you of your place.”

The shouting was drawing attention from the other chambers. Fancy Pants and Echo arrived first taking in the scene of so many powerful…and angry ponies.

Shining Armor was standing defensively in front of the princess, who was looking more and more dismayed at the growing shouting match. “Everypony please! Please let’s calm down!”

Discord was standing nose to nose with the angry Umbra. “Don’t you threaten me you half-baked excuse of a princess. Princess of the big creepy spiders, now THAT’S a title to be proud of!”

A gout of green flame heralded the arrival of Tak at his mate’s side. “Watch your mouth horn head, or you’ll answer to me. Nopony talks to her like that! It’s not her fault this hare brained scheme of yours is falling apart! What kind of stupid idea was it to pin all your hopes on ONE filly!?”

“It wasn’t even MY idea! HE’S the only who told me she was so important!” Discord thrust a hoof at the approaching Doctor, Dinky and Ditzy at his side.

“That is enough!” With a resounding crack Cadence slammed a forehoof into the cavern floor hard enough to send cracks splitting across the stone. “You’re all acting like a bunch of school foals looking to get into a brawl after class! I trust the doctor implicitly, as well as D. If they believe bringing her back is important to Equestria than I believe it is. If anypony has a problem with that, they are free to go. D you’ve done an excellent job so far, and I’m sure you can find the sword to finish the spell.”

Everypony seemed to relax slightly at her words. Fancy Pants approached slowly. “I’m not entirely sure that’s fair to Jubilant Surprise.”

Cadence held a hoof up toward Discord before he could say anything. “How so Fancy Pants?”

The stallion approached the group more confidently. “Who are we to decide her fate so callously? She’s a living breathing filly, not just some soulless golem like the one’s employed in the empire. Is it fair of us to say she’s to just…cease to exist so our friend can return?”

Echo was a dark blur as she flew from the chamber to get nose to nose with the stallion. “What is WRONG with you?! Are you really suggesting we just ignore that we can bring her back! After everything she did for Equestria?!”

Bristling a bit but not one to back down from a confrontation Fancy Pants nevertheless took a step back. “Of course not. But we should give strong consideration to our actions.”

Now Dinky Doo added her own voice. “He’s right. I…I miss her too but Jubilant IS her own pony. They’re very similar but I can’t help but wonder if it’s what she would want too? To just…take Jubilant’s place.”

With a snort Discord finally spoke. “It’s not like that at all. I didn’t just…steal some of her material and mix it with Pinkie’s to make a daughter. Jubilant is a fraction of her soul. Nothing more, nothing less. And she’s not just going to get erased. The spell will combine the two, all of Jubilant and her memories and experiences will combine into one whole.”

Umbra nodded firmly. “It could not be clearer. The filly is not even a real pony, merely a piece of the deceased girl. If Princess Cadenza is set on this course of action it is not our place to question her. We will cast the spell and return the girl to life.”

All eyes turned to yet another newcomer. Trixie entered the chamber clearing her throat firmly. Tak offered a wan smile. “It’s good to see you Trix but now’s kinda a bad time. You can tell us about your new study session in a bit.”

She didn’t speak, she simply pointed beyond them to the opposite tunnel entrance. Now they turned to see a wide eyed Jubilant Surprise staring at the group in horror. “Is…is that true? I’m…not a real pony?”

A long moment of silence hung in the chamber as the filly looked from face to face, waiting for an answer. A long enough moment the filly decided she didn’t want to wait any longer. Without a sound her horn flared and she blinked away.

“Shame on you. Shame on you all.” Trixie walked toward the group, she didn’t look angry…just disappointed. “I thought this whole plan was ridiculous from the start. Resurrecting the girl is one thing, but not telling the filly of her role in all this was a mistake. If you had taken the time to explain the situation to her she would no doubt be more open to the idea. Instead you what? Drop her in a room alone and expect her to stay put? Now look what’s happened.”

Both Tak and Umbra began to move toward the unicorn but she lifted a hoof stopping them. “I don’t want to speak to EITHER of you right now. I’m going to find the filly.” She eyed Fancy Pants and Dinky Doo. “You two can come along. Gather close.”

Both stallion and mare joined Trixie as her horn began to flare with brilliant pink energy. “The rest of you had better figure out what you want to tell her when we get back.” She turned a sad look to her sister-in-law. “I expected better of you Umbra. I Thought you’d come so far but…you’re just as cold and unfeeling as the day we first met.”

With a flare she and the two unicorns disappeared…leaving the other ponies in the room to quietly contemplate how everything had gone so wrong so fast.

Chapter 8: Small Packages

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Chapter 8: Small Packages

Jubilant was galloping the second her hooves touched solid stone. She didn’t care where she was going, or that she was moving deeper into the tunnels. She just wanted AWAY. Away from Uncle D, Mister Fancy Pants, Princess Cadenza…all of them. She didn’t want to see anypony.

Her horn lit the way in the now pitch black tunnels bathing them in a warm green radiance. Vision impaired by the constant flow of tears she tripped on more than a few errant stones, but she didn’t slow her frantic pace until her chest and legs were burning in protest.

The gallop slowed to a canter, than a trot, and finally to a slow halfhearted plod. Head lowered she continued forward unmindful of her surroundings.

You ok Jubilant?

Her ear flicked once. “…go away.”

I got nowhere to go. And you look like you need somepony to talk to.

“I don’t want to talk to ANYpony! I hate them! They all lied to me! Uncle D! And…and Mister Fancy Pants! And…maybe mom. And what about YOU? Did YOU know about all this?”

No. I knew you came from a part of me. Discord showed up here, said hello…took my horn and disappeared. It took a while but some of my friends showed me how I could look in on Equestria. I wanted to see how Pinkie was doing and uh…when I saw you I knew what he did with my horn.

The sound of running water came to the filly’s ears and she fixated on it as good a destination as any. “So I really AM just…you. Your horn? That’s it?”

I don’t think so. I mean…we’re a lot alike. A LOT alike. But there are differences. Like…you love veggies right? Any kind, it doesn’t matter.

Jubilant intensified her horns glow as she entered a large chamber. A waterfall rushed from a tunnel mouth overhead crashing into a carved out hollow and forming a small river rushing down out of sight. “Uh huh.”

Well I hate em. I can eat corn on the cob, that’s it. Doesn’t matter how Pinkie cooked them, or tried to sneak them in my food…I always found em and always gave em to Izzy.

With a particularly loud sniff Jubilant drew her foreleg across her nose. “Really? …so you knew Izzy too huh?”

Yup. Isabelle was my dog. She came with me to Equestria from our home.

Jubilant collapsed next to the pool gazing down at her reflection in the water. “Where’s your home?”

The world’s called earth. The country is America. My home town’s name is Rochester. It’s where all humans come from. Earth that is, not Rochester.

“Even the queen?”

Yeah. She came to Equestria a really long time ago with Luna and Celestia. I dunno the details really; I uh…died before I could ask Luna.

Lazily Jubilant swirled a hoof in the water. “Was it scary? Dying?”

A little bit. I was with Pinkie and Discord though. It helped, having friends there. Pinkie held my hand until uh…until I was gone. The queen did something to me, my body turned to ashes so Discord or somepony couldn’t heal me.

“Did…did it hurt?”

No. Not really. I was numb all over mostly.

“…am I gonna die Jenny?”

I dunno Jubilant. I mean yeah everypony does eventually but I know that’s not what you mean. It uh…sounds like somepony’s think they need me there to stop the queen.

Does it ever feel like…something’s missing sometimes? Like…you want to pick something up with your hoof but your hoof doesn’t work like it’s supposed to?

The filly’s ears pricked up. “Sometimes! Like…when I first started learning to draw, I wanted to use my hooves. It took mom FOREVER to get me to use my mouth, then my magic. Or um…my fork and stuff. I’m still kinda clumsy trying to eat sometimes. I just use my face.”

I did that too, when I had hooves sometimes. It’s just easier right?

“It is! And it always made mom laugh.”

Oh yeah she laughed like CRAZY when I did that. It drove Rarity nuts though. “Jennifer! That is so uncouth! Use your magic if you can’t use your hooves!”

Jubilant was giggling now. “She said the same thing to me! Mister Fancy thought it was funny though. “I think it’s charming dear.”

She smiled as she heard Jennifer laugh now. That sounds like Fancy. He’s such a nice guy. I’m glad they’re the ones who took you in at Canterlot.

“Yeah. I woulda rather stayed with mom but I guess…it’s been fun getting to live with them. And it helped Uncle D get the elements he needed.” She toyed with the heart stone around her neck. “This is yours…isn’t it? Miss Echo is your very special somepony. That’s why it glowed…because I’m you.”

She was…she is. Yeah. And I think so. You know, I don’t just think you’re a part of me Jubilant. I’m just as much a part of YOU too.

Jubilant sat quietly staring down into the water at her reflection for a few moments digesting that. “So you were a knight? Mom said you were. Did you fight lotsa monsters?”

No. Well…not until the very end. I did save two funny unicorns from a cerberus. When I first got my sword I tried to fight Discord, he cut me up pretty good. When the queen attacked the Crystal Empire, me and some friends had to smash a buncha walking skeletons.

“Was it scary?”

Discord and the cerberus were. The skeletons weren’t. I just bonked them and they poofed into dust or something. I had Umbra, Tak, and Trixie with me too. They’re like super strong.

“I met them! Well I met Umbra and Tak. Tak is really weird, but nice. Umbra is just weird and mean.”

She’s not mean. She’s…confused. She was raised by those big spiders. They’re a lot different from ponies. When I met her she was travelling with her friends trying to learn what it means to be a pony. She looked like she was doing good but I dunno…it’s been a long time since then. Maybe she forgot some of what she learned.

“Hmph. Maybe.” She went back to swirling the water. “Do you…want to come back?”

Yeah. I mean of course I do. I have good friends here but I miss everypony there. And if I can help somehow I’d do anything to help Equestria. But…I don’t want to just take your place. That’s not fair to you.

“So…so if I say no…”

If you say no I’d do everything I can to not let them bring me back. Or to help you stay away from them. That’s a promise. Cross my heart, hope to fly…

“Stick a cupcake in my eye.” They finished together.

Jubilant sat silently for a long time. “Tell me about the time you fought Uncle D. Please.”

Well! It started a LONG time ago with my new babysitter Pennie…

Jubilant Surprise settled in to listen to the story. Unaware of the hungry pair of eyes gazing at her from the opposite end of the cavern.

***

Discord sat quietly outside the caves gazing up at the stars. The only sign he gave to show he heard his visitor approaching was a flick of the ear.

“It is very unlike you…to see you sitting about brooding.” Moon Dancer settled in the sand beside him delicately.

“You don’t know a thing about me. So don’t pretend we’re all buddy buddy. You knew the real me for all of a week before you and your sister decided you needed my help against your mother the first time around. We all saw how well THAT turned out.”

“Perhaps. Certainly my sister spent more time with you than I. But you struck me as a very driven, earnest young man. Eager to always be moving forward to reach his goals.”

“Words of wisdom from the little sister? Spare me. I don’t need you coming out here trying to make me feel better.” His eyes were watering with unshed tears as he turned to regard her. “For so long they called me a monster and I shrugged it off. I was just having fun after all. Nothing evil about that. But now…the look in that little filly’s eyes…” He shook his head.

She laid a forehoof over his own. “Daniel…you were grieving her death. Out of your mind with grief in fact. I cannot imagine what it must have felt like, to finally have a true friend than to have to watch her die. Your actions while extreme are understandable. It is also understandable that you have come to love and care for Jubilant Surprise. In a very real sense she is your daughter too.”

He glanced down at her hoof but didn’t move to remove his own. “Some dad I am then. Making a filly just to use her as a stepping stone in one of my schemes. It was all so easy at first. I was going to wait until she had enough mana in her to sustain the spell then…poof. She’d be gone and we’d have the true her back.”

“What changed?”

He didn’t answer for several moments, just stared up at the sky again. Specifically to the eastern horizon Moon Dancer noted. “I went to check on them. Make sure she was growing right. I’d never tried you know…creating a pony out of a piece of a dead human girl’s soul and magic before. I saw Pinkie playing with her…oh she was maybe a two or three months old? Ponies are cute enough as adults, but the foals? Forget it. She had those little blue button eyes. Pinkie insisted I ‘meet’ her. She introduced me as “Uncle D”. The little monster glomped her mouth on my horn and wouldn’t let go.”

He was smiling now. “Dirty diaper too. I swear she did it on purpose. She has my smile y’know? And boy did she have it on then too.”

Moon Dancer laughed softly. “You came to care for her.”

“To love her.” He sighed miserably letting his head fall on his hooves. “How could I have even considered treating her so callously?”

“You were desperate to do the right thing. No matter the cost. Not the most terrible of mistakes to make, but I suppose it has been sometime since you considered the long term ramifications of your actions. Your heart was in the right place and I believe Jubilant will come around given time. Though she should have learned of her true nature under better circumstances I think.”

The stallion gave an amused snort at that. “That’s the understatement of the century.”

“Mm. I do find it hard to imagine the girl has been resisting the warmth of the fields for five long years. What has she been doing all this time?”

***

The clang of steel on steel rang out in all directions in limbo. A young human woman clad in gleaming pink and gold armor faced down a fiercely grinning golden armored unicorn stallion. She wore a buckler on her left arm and bared a pink-hued long sword in her right. Her opponent swung his massive broadsword in a high overhead arc leaving a trail of flames in its wake. The woman’s green-feathered wings flared wide as she lifted her sword to deflect the swing. She’d learned the hard way that trying to catch Corona’s blade on Mercy’s shield left her arm numb and more often than not on fire.

A circle of cheering ponies surrounded and moved with the battling duo. Every generation of the Knights of Harmony was represented. At first it had just been Bleeding Heart who ventured from the Fields of Elysium to keep the fallen Jennifer company. Though once their sparring matches began the sound of battle drew others from the martially minded order of knights, and soon two became a dozen. Most didn’t stick around too long, just ventured out to challenge one another or the most unusual member of their order who had grown in skill by leaps and bounds from the years of constant battle with far more experienced opponents.

Jen may have lost her horn and unicorn magic but she still had her wings and earth pony strength. With a mighty flap she propelled herself over Comet Streak’s next attack, landing behind the alarmed stallion and firmly planting her booted foot into his plot sending him through the air spinning end over end to land on the ‘ground’ nearby with a grunt. His fellows howled with laughter at the undignified ending to the fight.

His own laughs joined the rest as he rose. His arms and armor vanishing into the aether as did Jennifer’s as she moved to help him up. It was Bleeding Heart who first discovered they could manipulate their surroundings to temporarily craft pretty much anything they imagined.

“Next time I’m not going easy on you filly.”

She grinned toothily down at him. “Maybe you should have your wife join in next time. If you guys double team me you MIGHT have a chance.”

“Ha! Hear that Silent? We’re being called out!”

The dark coated mare rolled her eyes at their antics. “I’ll be happy to humiliate her later but for now we’ve a campaign to resume.”

The original Knights of Harmony, save a noticeably absent Starswirl were crowded around a low table bearing a small stack of papers, tiny replicas of ponies and monsters, and a small bevy of dice. Sun Streak eagerly took his place by his wife’s side as Jen settled at the head of the table looking over the five excited unicorns.

What had started as a casual way to pass the time had quickly become the highlight of their day, or whatever passed for a day in a plane where there was no sun and moon. Clearing her throat she shuffled her notes. “Right, so the party was about to enter the third chamber of the tomb when suddenly…”

***

Discord shrugged. “She’s been keeping busy.”

***

Fancy Pants was beginning to lose patience with Trixie. “You said you were going to take us to Jubilant. We’ve been wandering these tunnels for nearly an hour now with no sign of her.”

With a snort the mare looked at yet another fork in the path. “I could only track her by her teleportation residue. She ran off on hoof after making her jump. If either of you are a professional tracker by all means, take the lead.”

Dinky opened her mouth to add her own opinion, before a dark streak rushed by overhead. “I think that was Echo!”

“She certainly seems to be in a hurry doesn’t she…” Fancy Pants frowned and perked his ear. “Did either of you hear that?”

Both mares quieted and approached the stallion, ears perked and tilted forward. A very faint, but shrill scream came to them. Without another word the three took off in a gallop down the tunnel the night pony had disappeared down.

***

Jubilant hadn’t WANTED to scream. She was a part of Jennifer and that meant she should be a brave heroic knight. Heroic knights don’t scream like little fillies at monsters. But she just couldn’t stop herself from shrieking as the thing stepped out of the darkness.

It was huge, probably two or three times the size of a full grown stallion like Fancy Pants. It looked a little like a cat, but it had six legs instead of four and two long tentacles flailing out of its back. The filly backed up until she felt her rump hit the back wall of the cavern she was in.

Jubilant blink away!

“I…I…” She scrunched her eyes shut tightly trying to focus enough to do just that. The monster’s sudden roar shattered her concentration and she shrieked again. She could feel its hot breath on her face as tears flowed freely down her cheeks.

She heard a strange scuttling sound and then the presence of the cat monster was gone. An ear flicked as she heard it roar and the sound of its tentacles slapping against something came to her ears. Slowly she risked peeking an eye open.

If anything her savior was even scarier than the cat. It…or maybe he? He was just as big as the monster. His bottom half was a huge spider like the ones back in the pony tunnels she’d run from. His upper half though looked like a strangely proportioned human. He wore imposing, ridged black armor that shined in the light of her horn. He held a long curved sword in each hand that he worked in a dizzying dance before himself as he forced the cat back. His face was what made him REALLY scary, eight red eyes and two big fangs peeked from his mouth.

“What are they?”

I dunno what the cat is. But I think the spider guy is Umbra’s brother. She talked about him a little and I’m pretty sure the only members of her family that look like that are him and her sister.

“S-so he’s a good guy?”

Yeah I think so. Just stay there and keep out of his way Jubilant.

That seemed like a GREAT plan to the filly who huddled down and watched Umbra’s brother battle the monster. She scrunched up her nose in confusion watching him. It looked like he’d hit the thing with one of his swords or his really pointy legs, but it didn’t seem to get hurt at all. To her horror she watched him rock back as if struck by something invisible.

She let out another shriek of fright as something whooshed by overhead. Fear gave way to relief as a familiar wail filled the cavern and the monster rocked back, both the image and the unseen one. “The real one’s over there!” Echo thrust a hoof at the unseen monster’s true body.

Nodding his thanks Spinner leapt forward his swords flashing in a blur again. Jubilant winced at the occasional splash of blood that seemed to spring from nowhere. Her relief was short lived. Echo was darting about the top of the cavern. As she passed a long hanging stalactite it abruptly split in half and lashed out with stone tentacles, wrapping about the shocked night pony and dragging her to a toothy maw.

The big spider guy, Spinner was occupied with the cat monster. And to Jubilant’s continued horror she saw ANOTHER cat monster stalking toward him from the side.

“J-Jenny whaddo I do?!”

Use your magic Jubilant! If you have my horn you probably have my mana, and I had a LOT of mana. Help Echo first, she needs it the most!

The filly’s breath was coming in ragged gasps, but she forced herself to push the fear down. Echo was about to get eaten. She’d saved her enough times that Jubilant thought it was time to return the favor. Glaring harshly up at the big rock monster trying to eat the thrashing, wailing night pony she send her magic toward it.

Just like sending it all the way to the moon she imagined a fishing line hooking around it first, then let her power spread over it. Slowly at first, but quicker and quicker a green glow surrounded the monster. Gritting her teeth Jubilant focused on magically clamping down tighter. The monster shuddered and rumbled in confusion, loosening its grip enough for Echo to fall free, angling so she crashed into the pool of water running through the room.

Jubilant was angry. She was already angry before a horrible bunch of monsters showed up and tried to eat her. NOW she was livid. All the hurt she’d been feeling the past few weeks was raging up to the surface. Being taken from mom, everypony lying to her her whole life, and now this. This was the last straw.

With an inarticulate shriek of rage she poured all the strength she had into her magic. The rock monster wailed long and loud as it was wrenched free of its perch in a shower of stone and blood. Wildly flinging her head at the desperately battling Spinner, who only just managed to duck as the thing soared by him at breakneck speeds to crush the pair of monstrous cats he was battling.

Horn still blazing furiously Jubilant scrunched her eyes shut tightly trying to reign in the raging power. Arcs of verdant green energy lanced out in seemingly random directions digging deep furrows into the stone.

Holding his wounded abdomen the spiderkin prince gingerly picked his way toward the unconscious pony floating in the water, plucking her out and backing hastily away from the magically raging filly.

Trixie, Fancy, and Dinky finally arrived all three gasping at the sight. “She’s surging! But I’ve NEVER seen a filly surge like that!”

Trixie ignored the other two, raising a shield about herself and creeping toward the eye of the storm. She let out an involuntary yelp as one of Jubilant’s discharges smashed into her shield nearly shattering it on impact. Taking deep breaths the showmare turned sorceress forced herself forward, nimbly evading another discharge until she was nose to nose with Jubilant.

The filly felt the other pony near her and it helped…but only just. It was so hard to focus on anything but how much hurt she was feeling in her heart. Even the desperately pleading Jennifer’s voice was shut out.

Shifting her head to the side as another discharged crackled by Trixie cleared her throat. Then rose on her hind legs, horn flaring as…a loud fanfare trumpeted through the cavern. “Fillies and gentlecolts! Welcome one and all to the greatest magic show in all of Equestria! Prepare to be amazed by the one, the only, the great and powerful Tr-r-r-r-rixie!” A louder trumpet of music accompanied her announcement.

She had to drop back to all fours and hops back as a lash of magic cracked into the ground where she’d stood. “Trixie sees she has a volunteer already! You’re quite the brave little filly! And what may Trixie ask, is her volunteer’s name?”

It was hard to hear through the throbbing haze in her head but Jubilant could make out the mare wanted her name. “J-Jubilant Surprise…”

“Ah! A lovely name. Now Jubilant, do you like magic?”

Trixie had difficulty telling if she had the filly’s full attention or not. Her head was facing her but her eyes were nothing but solid pools of swirling green mana. “Y-yes…um…usually ma’am.”

“Wonderful!” Trixie typically didn’t perform for fillies in the midst of a magical surge, particularly one with as much raw power as Jennifer possessed in life. “Now Jubilant Surprise, do you see anything in Trixie’s hat?” The mare lifted it from her head, showing the very empty hat to the filly. And having to hastily jerk it aside to avoid it getting incinerated by a bolt of magic.

“No m-ma’am I don’t.” The mare’s voice was getting easier to understand. The discharges were coming fewer and fewer. The other two unicorns in the chamber had darted around the speaking pair to join Spinner and a recovering Echo on the far side.

“Now…watch and behold!” Trixie reached a hoof deep into her hat, retrieving the collapsible bouquet woven into the inseam and drawing it out with a flourish.

“Your horn didn’t glow! How’d you do that?”

Trixie smiled and held the flowers toward the hovering filly, gently tugging the longest and hitting Jubilant with a quick squirt of water right in the face. Jubilant Surprise blinked and fell flat on her rump, the light around her horn and eyes vanishing instantly. She was even giggling a little as she wiped her face.

Trixie leaned in looking about conspiratorially. “Magic of course.”

The little filly blinked, smiled, and promptly passed out on the spot. Letting out a huge breath Trixie swept her hat back atop her head and hefted Jubilant onto her back. “Well! That was more excitement than I’d wanted today.”

She trotted to the group where Fancy relieved her of her burden immediately. Spinner nodded once to Trixie. “Well done sister-in-law. I did not want to strike the hatchling down.”

Trixie waved a hoof dismissively. “I’ve been performing my whole life. Calming down huffy foals is easy. Though I usually don’t try to do it for surging reincarnated humans.”

Fancy smiled warmly. “I can’t thank you enough Miss Lulamoon. And you ah…good…sir?”

The arachnid prince turned to regard Fancy Pants and Dinky Doo. “I am Prince Spinner, brother of Umbra. Is she with you? I have news.”

Dinky knelt to check on the groggy Echo. Trixie cast one last glanced at the slumbering Jubilant before looking to her brother-in-law. “She’s not. She and Tak are back at camp. Why? Is something wrong?”

He shrugged, cleaning his blades and sheathing them. “I do not believe anything is WRONG no. Our scouts were digging a new tunnel toward your Crystal Empire when they made a discovery.”

“Well what KIND of discovery?”

“We do not know. A…structure. A pony structure Kasson believes. He says it looks to be made of a substance called ‘cloud’.”

The three conscious ponies exchanged confused looks. “A pegasus building UNDER the ground? The cloud should have…done whatever clouds do when they get knocked from the sky. Poof I guess?” Trixie shrugged.

“Be that as it may, there is a pony building made of cloud in a chamber not far from here. Shall I escort you? It seemed to be a place of importance judging by the impressive trappings.”

Trixie looked to Fancy Pants, not needing to vocalize the question. Jubilant was his responsibility. He frowned though. “Is it very far? I don’t relish the idea of running into more monsters.”

Spinner shook his head. “It is not. You are quite far from your safe tunnels. Our family has secured the route nearby, the going will be as safe for you as if you were in your own caverns.”

“If you’re willing to escort us back afterwards I see no problem in accompanying you.”

Spinner nodded once, settled Echo on his back and started forward, the unicorns sticking close. Fancy eyed Trixie curiously. “Interesting family you’ve married into Miss Lulamoon.”

“Trixie please. And it certainly is. Though they’re very good…people. Once you get to know them. Queen Neela especially. If you hang around down here enough you’ll meet her. She visits Umbra all the time.”

Spinner snorted at that. “Against my advice I may add. Mother NEVER left her web save for dire emergencies.”

Trixie rolled her eyes but didn’t feel the need to argue. “Well it’s not really my place to comment.”

He turned to regard her. “But it is now. You are of the family by way of your…herd…with Umbra. Her family is our family. You disagree that the queen should remain where it is safe?”

Trixie frowned as all eyes were on her. “Er…well remember a few years ago the web was invaded and we had to move? So really it seems no place is completely safe. Neela’s just as safe with Umbra as she is surrounded by her guards.”

The prince grunted softly once and looked away. Fancy and Dinky shared a quiet look and a shrug, happy enough to remain silent and out of the conversation. They had walked for maybe a half hour before Echo rose and started walking on her own.

The tunnels here had little to no illumination, the spiderkin able to see perfectly in the darkness. All three unicorns lit their horns much to Spinner’s annoyance, but he kept his complains silent. Now and again the group would pass a tightly knit patrol moving in perfect formation of ordinary if huge spiders. It wasn’t long before the tunnels ended and a massive chamber yawned before them.

It was certainly the biggest they’d seen since coming underground. Trixie focused a little harder and sent a ball of light whizzing toward the ceiling that burst into a miniature pink sun illuminating the cavern. Here and there an errant shaft of sunlight lit the gloom, the ceiling broken and partially collapsed in places.

Sitting in the center of the chamber was very clearly an ancient cloud structure. The ponies approached in quiet awe looking over the structure which was quite impressive even from the distance. Tall strong looking walls surrounded what appeared to be an ancient keep or castle within. The cloud stuff was still pristinely white and fluffy, though it must have lain down here for decades, maybe centuries. Proud standards depicting a hoof, horn, and wing intertwined hung from the walls and flew from the flag posts.

Fancy tilted his head as he regarded the symbol. “I say, isn’t that the symbol from Mercy’s shield?”

Dinky blinked. “It is! It’s the same thing! This must have belonged to the Order of Harmony!”

Echo perked her ears and darted forward excitedly, only to collide with a suddenly visible magic barrier. The night pony yelped and fell to the ground with a grunt, gingerly rubbing her muzzle. “What the heck?!”

Spinner nodded once. “There is some sort of…invisible wall around, above, and below the structure. We could not penetrate it.”

Trixie regarded him with mild amusement. “You couldn’t have told us?”

He shrugged and she saw what she SUSPECTED might have been a smile. “I was curious if it halted ponies as well.”

Jubilant was slowly coming around and slipped from Fancy’s back to land on her hooves. The stallion regarded her with concern. “Are you alright Jubilant?”

She gave him a little nod and a smile. “Yes sir. I was just really sleepy.” She looked up at the keep wide-eyed. “Hey that’s on Jenny’s shield!”

Fancy nodded. “It is, but we can’t get in. There’s some sort of magical…” He trailed off as Jubilant Surprise excitedly ran forward, passing through the barrier seemingly meeting no resistance at all. The assembled ponies gasped and lurched forward after her. Two unicorns and a night pony bounced off hitting the ground. A surprised Trixie looked back at them from the other side.

“Don’t worry! I’ll get her!” Trixie sighed and took off at a gallop after the annoyingly fleet hoofed filly. She was a showmare and a sorceress, she was NOT an athlete. She’d done entirely too much physical activity since forming her bizarre herd. …of course some of that physical activity wasn’t too bad she mused to herself. With a grunt she shook her head and crossed the gates into the keep.

“Jubilant Surprise! Come here this instant!”

The filly was in the process of squeezing into the main doors of the keep itself. “C’mon Miss Trixie this place is cool!”

Grunting in annoyance she teleported to the other side of the doors barring the fillies’ way. To her dismay Jubilant grinned playfully and teleported as well. “Why you little…how did you do that?! IT took me years to learn it!”

Looking over her shoulder Jubilant blew a raspberry at the mare. “Can’t catch me!”

Scowling now Trixie straightened her hat and disappeared with a flash, appearing before the filly and making a grab for her. Jubilant squealed in delight at a playmate to indulge in a most unusual game of tag in, and blink’d away once more.

It wasn’t hard for Trixie to follow. She was more experienced with magic and capable of tracking her teleportation residue. Though the filly was always just a LITTLE quicker on the draw as she’d vanish before the mare could grab her.

Giggling like a lunatic all the while Jubilant Surprise lead Trixie on a chase throughout the keep. “Jubilant Surprise, Fancy Pants is worried about you! That’s enough now!”

This caused some of her cheer to fade and she faltered. “Why’s he worried?”

Trixie cried triumphantly as she locked her hooves around the little monster’s flanks, clamping a magic dampening charm on the filly. She was pleased to find it worked and Jubilant couldn’t teleport away. “Cheater!”

With a harrumph Trixie hoisted the filly in the air with her magic and turned back the way they’d come. “We’re going to leave and find some way to get the others in here.”

She stopped short as she heard…jingles? Her ear twitched in the direction of the sound. It definitely sounded like jingling bells. And it was getting closer. She set Jubilant down and cast about worriedly for an escape route. The little monster had lead her deep into the keep however and she had no idea where she was, let alone how to get out. She steeled herself for a fight.

The jingling got closer and closer, Trixie’s tension rubbing off on Jubilant and making HER nervous now. The figure rounded the corner into the hallway…just in time to catch a pink and green bolt of magic square in the face. The thing gave off a very ponylike whinny of alarm as it was sent careening back the way it came. Something fluttered gently to the ground and both ponies approached cautiously.

It was…a hat. A hat very similar to Trixie’s own, if only a much darker blue and lined in bells along the brim. Eyes wide the mare levitated it close. “I-it can’t be!” She dashed ahead looking down over the banister they’d blasted the imagined monster.

There groaning on the floor was a pony stallion. Brown coat and a long beard from his muzzle, wearing a cape to match the hat in the mare’s hooves. He looked up with a decidedly unfriendly look on his face. “Well that’s some hello to your great-great-great-great-great-great-great-great…” He paused to take a breath. “…great-great grandfather missy!”

Trixie managed to utter his name before fainting dead away. “Starswirl the Bearded!”

Chapter 9: A Hero Returns

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Chapter 9: A Hero Returns

Trixie woke slowly, rubbing her sore muzzle where she’d smashed it on the floor when she passed out. Her ear flicked gently at the sound of…laughter? Groaning at the dull ache in her face she peeked an eye open.

She was lying on a long wooden table in what appeared to be some sort of magical laboratory. Opened spell books lay haphazardly strewn about the floor and tables of the room mingling with quills, beakers (some empty some not), and what the mare suspected were various enchanted objects in varying stages of completion. A rather mundane and ancient looking walking stick leaned against the door, utterly ordinary save a single rune scribed at the base.

Another peal of high pitch giggling mixed with the occasional indelicate snort drew Trixie’s attention from the room. There was Jubilant Surprise, being regaled by what must be a hilarious story by Starswirl the Bearded, the legend come to life. Trixie’s breath picked up speed again and she nearly fainted a second time before she wrestled the hyperventilation down.

“You’re Starswirl the Bearded!” She shrieked her voice a bit higher than intended.

Her exclamation drew both ponies attention. The ancient sorcerer flashed a toothy grin. “Just Starswirl is fine or great to the tenth grandpa if you like.” He winked with a hearty laugh.

Jubilant joined in while Trixie just stared trying to find the words. “You’re dead!”

Now he looked surprised. “I am?” He looked in all seriousness to Jubilant. “Young filly am I dead?”

“Umm…” She scrunched up her face looking at him closely, even going so far as to prod him with a hoof. “I don’t think so! Unless…are you a zombie?!”

He rubbed his chin with a hoof giving the question serious consideration. “I DO admit I’ve been hungry for brains now and again but I’m fairly certain I’m not undead.”

The filly nodded in the affirmative. “He’s alive Miss Trixie! And he’s really funny!”

Trixie’s wits were gradually returning to her. “HOW are you still alive?”

With a faint snort Starswirl tilted his hat back fixing Trixie with his suddenly steely gaze. “In my day when you meet somepony new for the first time we were usually more polite. Especially when meeting family for the first time hm?”

She blinked at the admonishment suddenly finding the brim of her own hat very interesting. “O-of course I’m sorry. Ah…it’s a pleasure to meet you?”

“Likewise! Always nice to have family drop by. Even if I haven’t run into anyone in the clan for a good six hundred years or so.”

“Woooow you’re old!” Jubilant helpfully put in.

He only laughed heartily at that. “Very old! In fact I was old when Celestia and Luna were young. That makes me downright ancient!”

Trixie gasped softly. “You can’t say their names! The queen…”

Starswirl cut her off with a wave of his hoof. “Can’t hear what anypony says down here. She might have plenty of magical muscle but she’s a dimwit when it comes to intricate spell work. It’s why that lunatic can so easily lift the spell she used to rewrite everypony’s memory.”

“He’s not really a lunatic anymore, as I’m sure you know. Since you seem to know so much.” Trixie was getting over her awe; he was ancient but just a pony like any other. “How HAVE you lived so long?”

“Mmm.” He seized the gnarled staff in his magic drawing it closer. “I take it you’re familiar with the Arms of Harmony yes?”

At her nod he continued. “This was the one I wielded after I passed Mercy along. After what I did to the apes I…didn’t feel it was the weapon for me. You remember the ritual the core of the knighthood underwent don’t you? Once we became in tune with harmony so long as we kept that bond we stopped aging.”

“Oh. Oh yes of course your journal that I got from…ah…Jennifer.” She smiled a little. “It’s nice to say her name again. We weren’t terribly close but I like to think if we’d have more time…” Trixie sighed.

Jubilant’s ears splayed at Trixie’s words and she slipped to the corner of the room. “…lotsa ponies miss you huh?”

I guess so. I didn’t know she felt that way. We didn’t get along when we first met.

“I want to do it.”

Do what Jubilant?

“You know…it. Uh…bring you back.”

Jubilant you don’t have to do that. Sometimes pe…ponies die. It’s sad but it’s just life. Like Granny Smith.

“Yeah but Granny Smith died from being old. You died from being killed by a bad pony. That’s different.”

I guess it is a little. You’re a pretty smart filly Jubilant Surprise.

“Well you must be a pretty smart human than Jennifer.” Jubilant was smiling now, and though she couldn’t see the human spirit she had a feeling Jen was too. “So um…what now?”

Uhh…ask one of the grown-ups?

Jubilant huffed. “Aren’t YOU a grown up?”

I was sixteen when I died, and I don’t look any older here so I guess not!

“Sixteen?! I was OLD.”

S-sixteen isn’t old! I’m still a teenager!

The filly huffed again. “Sixteen is old. That’s old enough to live by yourself old.”

Oh just ask Starswirl or Trixie!

Jubilant turned around to do just that, only to find both ponies staring at her. The mare confused and the stallion grinning in gentle bemusement. “Who in Equestria are you talking to Jubilant Surprise?”

Starswirl approached giving Jubilant a wink. “Why herself of course. Isn’t that right?”

With a grin she nodded. “Yup! And…I’m ready now.”

The ancient stallion eyed her quietly. “Are you certain young filly? There’s no changing your mind once it’s done.”

Realizing what she meant Trixie lapsed into silence. Jubilant nodded firmly. “I am. Mom needs me at my best. I want to make the whole world smile again!”

“Well then!” Starswirl took up his staff. “We’d best get things started than hm? Follow me ladies, if you please.” He lead the way from the lab, Jubilant and Trixie close behind. Stepping out into the outside of the citadel they were greeted by relieved cries from the others left behind by the barrier. Tsking softly Starswirl dispelled it allowing them to enter.

The three ponies galloped in immediately while Spinner entered more cautiously. Fancy looked Jubilant over head to tail. “You had me worried Jubilant Surprise! What did Rarity tell you about running off?”

Instantly her ears splayed back. “S-sorry Mister Fancy Pants I just…I felt like I should…y’know…go in.”

Eyeing the supposedly deceased legendary unicorn who was busy drawing magical diagrams in the cloud stuff of the floor Fancy’s ire eased. “…I suppose you’re alright and that’s the most important thing.”

Seeing everypony was okay, Echo let herself into the keep within the citadel’s walls happy to explore the ancient structure she’d heard Jennifer talk about so excitedly.

Dinky kept a cautious distance from Jubilant, watching her reunite with Fancy with a faint smile. The filly spied her and approached to the mares’ quiet alarm. She had no idea what to expect as their last parting was less than pleasant.

Jubilant stared up at the nervous mare and snorted softly. “Are you sorry?”

Dinky blinked. “F-for what?”

“For taking me from my mom.”

“O-oh…” Dinky scuffed the ground with a hoof. “I am Jubilant. I’m truly sorry. Nopony should be separated from her mom. I would know. And if it weren’t for the queen’s spell I would never take you from Pinkie. She’s a great mom.”

Jubilant nodded sternly. “The BEST. But if you’re sorry…I forgive you.”

A relieved smile spread across Dinky Doo’s face. “That means a lot to me Jubilant Surprise. Thank you. I was very close with Jen you know? I thought of her as my big sister.”

“Yeah? So that means I’m your big sister now?” The filly was grinning.

Dinky blinked in surprise at how casually she was talking about her past life. Then she laughed. “I guess so!”

“Good. When we get home you can do my chores. Mom makes me do so much work.” She stuck her tongue out to the delight of the older unicorn.

“It’s a deal.” At ease now Dinky settled on the ground beside Fancy Pants, watching Starswirl work.

Trixie was following close at his side. “This looks like a teleportation spell matrix but it’s so big!”

“Well I’m teleporting in three ponies at once from who knows where. It has to be big.”

Eyes wide Trixie studied the diagrams more closely. “You can do that? I thought only the princesses could do something like that!”

The old unicorn barked a laugh. “Who do you think taught those two little monsters in the first place? Ugh now THEY were a hoof-full. Crazy mare shows up on my doorstep, dumps them off with their lunatic mother than off she goes.” He shook his head, though he was smiling a little. “…hm. Anyhow! I need to bring the rest of Discord’s elements of harmony here. And Discord himself of course.”

“You know about all that?”

“Well of course I know about all that. I’ve been keeping an eye on him since he got loose the first time. And when one of the most powerful beings in the world is out to collect THE most powerful magical artifacts in the world it’s hard not to notice. Unless you’ve got your nose so far up your rear you can’t see anything else like the queen does.”

Trixie snickered at that. “I suppose that makes sense. Still just seeing a regular unicorn wield such powerful spells…”

“Any unicorn with a special talent for magic can learn spells like this. If she applies herself.” He left Trixie to contemplate this as he stepped toward the magic circle. “If everypony and ah…” He eyed the imposing Prince Spinner. “…and spider would please step back.”

The group complied backing toward the gates. Mystic currents swirled about the courtyard of the keep as Starswirl’s silvery aura of magic began to manifest. Stronger and stronger the magic whirled about the area gathering around the mage’s staff and infusing it with a blindingly bright silvery sheen. The spectators were forced to look away as it grew too bright for their eyes to stand. When it faded a confused Discord, Lyra, and Moon Dancer stood within the magical circles.

The elder pair recovered quickly while Lyra looked like she wanted to heave up her lunch. Moon Dancer rushed to Starswirl tackling him to the ground in a tight embrace. “It is so good to see you again!”

Laughing the stallion returned her hug, getting back to his hooves and reclaiming his fallen hat. “And how’s my favorite student doing hm?”

With a small shrug she looked over her far diminished form. “I feel like a filly again. Everypony is so tall now, and my magic is perhaps half what it used to be.”

“Bah. It’s not how much power you have, but what you do with it. That was one of the first things I taught you young lady.”

Unable to hide a smile at being admonished so, Moon Dancer shrugged helplessly. “True enough. But it is hard to recall such lessons when fifteen hundred years of accumulated magic is sheared to a fraction of its former self. Still it was a sacrifice I made willingly, and would do so again to stand here.”

“Mmm.” Starswirl was eyeing Discord carefully now. “Well I need to fetch something from the keep. You sit tight for a few moments hm?” He headed back to the keep.

Jubilant walked up to Discord staring him hard in the eye. “You lied to me.”

He sighed and looked away. “I know. I should have thought things out a little better. Never my strong suit I’m afraid.” Finally he looked back at the filly. “Can you ever forgive me? For all of this?”

Seeming to take the request under great consideration Jubilant frowned, crossing her forelegs over her chest. “I can on ONE condition.”

“Of course. Anything.”

“That you’re never late for my birthday again. And you never give me such a crummy present as you did this year.” She delivered her condition in all seriousness.

So serious Discord didn’t even smile as he accepted her terms. “I think that’s fair. From now on I solemnly swear to never miss your birthday again, and to make every present better than the year before.”

His worried look eased into a warm smile as the filly threw her hooves around his neck. “I love you Uncle D. I always will…ok?”

Gently he rubbed her back. “I love you too Jubilant Surprise.” Nopony seemed more surprised by this than he did, but they kept their silence allowing the pair their moment.

Finally Jubilant stepped back. “Alright! Let’s do it!”

Discord seemed more hesitant than ever. “You’re sure? You’re absolutely sure Surprise? I don’t want you to do this because you think it’s what I want, or what anypony else wants for you.”

With a resolute nod she stood tall, (as a five year old filly could). “I’m sure Uncle D. I’m ready to be all of me again. We both are.”

After a moment of staring at her quietly he nodded and summoned the case containing the elements. “Gather up everypony. It’s time.”

Moon Dancer, Fancy Pants, Dinky Doo, and Lyra approached Discord and the open case holding the elements of harmony. Without hesitation Moon Dancer claimed the element of magic for herself. As the tiara settled about her head the gem shifted from a star to a crescent moon.

The others were slightly more hesitant to touch what basically equated to holy equestrian artifacts. Discord motioned Fancy Pants over. “Generosity is yours sir. Just slip it on if you please.”

The other stallion complied after a moment’s hesitation, lifting his wife’s necklace from the case and settling it about his neck. The diamond instantly became a crown reflecting his own mark.

Lyra was next, looking over the remaining elements with a frown. “Which one is mine?”

Discord smirked. “I don’t know which one IS yours?”

Rolling her eyes Lyra looked the remaining three over again before gently plucking the element of loyalty up with her magic. As it fastened around her neck the lightning bolt became a lyre.

“Miss Doo?”

Swallowing the lump in her throat Dinky tore her gaze away from the expectantly watching filly and looked into the case. There was little hesitation on her part as she claimed the element of kindness. The pink butterfly becoming the bandaged heart of her own cutie mark to reflect her love of easing orphaned foals’ hurt feelings. With a deep breath she joined the other four.

Casting his gaze at the keep Discord gave an irritated snort. His horn flared and with a pop a surprised looking Echo appeared. “Hey what’s the big idea!?”

“Get your element you ninny, we’re ready for the spell.”

“O-oh, heh…sorry. That keep is really cool.” Like Dinky she claimed her element without pause. Flipping the element of honesty over her neck the apple shifted to the sound waves on her flank with a silver flash.

“Your turn Surprise.”

Lifting herself over the edge of the case with her forehooves Jubilant lifted her mother’s element of laughter fastening it carefully. She was grinning gleefully down at the gem expecting to finally discover her cutie mark. With a flash it became a…

“…a BALL? What kind of cutie mark is that?!”

The others were all laughing uproariously as Discord ruffled her mane. “Since you don’t have your cutie mark it went back to its original shape. This is what the elements look like before they have owners.”

Snorting she flopped on the ground with a pout. “That’s not fair! I wanted to know what my cutie mark would be…”

Moon Dancer lifted her from the ground. “You’ll know when it is time Jubilant Surprise.” Her warm smile eased the filly’s feelings somewhat. The mare looked over at Discord. “We are still missing one piece of the spell are we not?”

He blinked. “We are! That bearded bumbler summoned us here for no reason!”

“You’re not one to comment on anypony’s choice in facial hair DANIEL. As I recall you wore a rather sad excuse for a beard for the past millennia or so.” Starswirl returned bearing the blade of Mercy in his magical grip. “Did you really think I’d just leave my old sword laying around for anypony to pick up? Now what do we need to do to get this spell going?”

It was Discords turn to look superior. “You mean the great Starswirl the Bearded doesn’t know?”

Starswirl merely rolled his eyes and laid Mercy at the other stallions’ hooves. “Just get on with it would you?”

All mirth gone Discord gave a nod. His horn shimmered as he drew five circles on the ground in the courtyard then drawing lines from them to a sixth circle in the center. “If everypony would pick a circle. Surprise the one in the center is for you.”

As Jubilant took her place in the center Discord leaned down giving her a gentle nuzzle against the cheek. “I’m very proud of you Surprise. And if your mother was here she’d be proud too.”

Jubilant returned the gesture with a grin. “It’s not really a big deal. Besides being a grown up again will be cool! I get to stay up as late as I want and…and eat what I want and never go to school again!”

Looking highly amused the others took their places. “Yes that’s exactly what it’ll be like Surprise. Would you bring the sword into your circle with you?”

She scooted Mercy over into the circle with herself, running a hoof on the reflective metal. “It’s pink! Just like my mane!”

“It is. You ah…always loved that it was pink.” Another round of laughter from the others. Jennifer’s disdain of the pink blade of her sword wasn’t something she tried to hide. “Now all everypony has to do is focus on their love for Jennifer. Picture whatever your favorite moment was with her, then let your magic do its stuff. Whenever you’re ready.”

Discord stepped back to join Starswirl, Trixie, and Spinner away from the others. Trixie looking incredulously at him. “That’s it? Think about happy times and you can bring the dead back to life?”
“You can if the deceased was somepony with a lot of magic and left behind a token infused with her magic, a lot of love for her special somepony, liquefied hope, and the magic of chaos within her, a strong bond with six ponies wielding the elements of harmony…then yes. That’s it.”

With a little ‘oh’ Trixie returned her attention to the six in the circles. “W-well I suppose if all that is taken into account it should be easy.”

Echo was first of course. Her eyes shut tightly to keep the tears from sneaking out. The element of honesty around her neck shined brightly, the glow spreading to her circle and sending light racing toward the center circle. Dink was next, and then Lyra close behind. Their own lights mingling with Echo’s.

Giving Jubilant one last, long look Fancy Pants closed his own eyes adding his thoughts to the rest. Finally Moon Dancer smiling warmly for the brave filly sent her magic along. She was the only of the five who didn’t look away as Jubilant’s own element glowed.

The filly had never physically met her other half but they’d talked enough over the years. When it was dark and she was feeling scared Jennifer’s voice had always been there to comfort her when her mother wasn’t. Always whispering a little bit of encouragement when things were tough.

A brilliant pillar of light rose from the circle around Jubilant reaching to the cavern ceiling. She reared at its sudden appearance but didn’t try to run. It wasn’t scary. It felt warm…comforting. Like her mom hugging her tight at night.

Moon Dancer could see Jubilant’s golden eyes glowing just as brightly. The heart stone pendant around her neck added its light, than her horn shined with Discord’s chaotic swirl of colors. Finally Mercy floated into the air hanging before the filly. The colorful lights became an opaque rainbow hued wall of magic cutting off everypony’s view of the pony within. It burst apart with a deafening boom sending everypony in the cavern falling to their flanks.

Darkness descended.

***

“…and so you open the chest to claim your well-earned reward. When suddenly the dragon’s remains begin to stir and…” Jennifer was cut off in mid-narration as she simply disappeared from the table the original knights of harmony were clustered around.

The five great unicorn warriors stared at the spot she’d occupied seconds ago. The youngest of the bunch, Sunshine sat back letting out a deep breath. “That filly is a master of suspense.”

***

Soft groans and the sounds of stirring ponies filled the cavern. Ponies helping their nearest neighbor to their hooves they checked on one another after the explosion ensuring nopony was harmed. It took them several moments to realize the cavern was being illuminated by a warm green magical glow. As one the assembled group turned to the center circle.

Standing within it was a young alicorn mare. Large wings flared from her sides. Green feathered wings, each outlined with a pale pink coating. She stood taller than the average mare, just about Fancy Pants’ height. Her deep green coat shone healthily in her magics aura as she stood with her head lowered and eyes closed. Her tail and mane the same dark pink they had been when she’d been a filly moments ago. Mercy hung in the air just barely touching her nose.

Eventually she blinked her brilliantly blue eyes open and took in the group in the cavern. Her gaze drifted from Starswirl, Discord, Trixie and Spinner over to her dearest friends. All five stood staring in awe, even the ordinarily stoic ex-princess of the night. Again she closed her eyes and her horns glow intensified.

Now a human woman stood where the mare hard a moment ago. Her wings the same green and pink, her hair bounced in cheerful pink curls about her shoulders. Slowly she reached a hand out to clasp Mercy by the hilt taking a deep breath. Even in adulthood she remained modest of curve, but the muscle in her arms, legs, and abdomen stood out far clearer. The awkward gangliness she’d had most of her life was gone, replaced with the strong sleek tone of a swordswoman.

Perhaps most noticeable of all at least to those who knew her best were the tattoos adoring both hips. A shield bearing the standard of the Order of Harmony and a pair of sword crossed behind it. The standard on her mark was different than the one hanging from the walls, in addition to the hoof, wing and horn it had the image of a crystal and a slit-pupiled eye as well, representing all five pony tribes.

Discord approached first. “You’re naked young lady.”

Jen blinked a couple of times looking from the stallion then down to herself. With a strangled urk she crossed her legs tightly and threw her free arm over her chest. This seemed to snap friends from their awed staring and with a chorus of laughter she was buried beneath five excited ponies.

Many happy tears were shed and tight hugs given all around. It took quite some time for Jennifer to extract herself from the pile of over joyed ponies. Even Moon Dancer hadn’t held herself back from the emotional moment. Jennifer just sat on the ground of the courtyard smiling around at her friends. “It’s so great to see everypony again.”

Echo was draped over her back, seeming content to remain cheek to cheek with her returned special somepony. Lyra couldn’t seem to stop smiling. “So what was it like? Y’know…up there?”

Jen wrinkled her nose in confusion. “I…remember sitting by the gates. It was really warm, like fuzzy warm y’know? And I remember the old knights coming out to fight with me. Train fight not like…to the death fight. But I don’t remember what it looked like really.”

Settled on the ground with the others Moon Dancer nodded slowly. “Such things are not meant for mortals to know. Not entirely anyhow.”

“Yeah I guess not. You look so cute now Luna!” Jen was grinning playfully.

The former princess huffed. “I look like an ordinary unicorn. And I will continue to go by Moon Dancer. I am not Princess Luna anymore…and to be honest I would like as few ties to my mother as possible. I am Equestrian through and through now, a proper Equestrian name should be mine.”

Jen frowned thoughtfully. “Is it…permanent? Y’know your uh, change?”

“I believe so. I expelled all of the power that set me apart from other ponies. I could perhaps take a human shape like you used your bracelet to do but I have no reason to.”

Fancy Pants had been quiet for some time now. “Are you Jennifer, or Jubilant?”

His question gave the woman pause. “I’m…well I’m both. It’s a little confusing to be honest. Having five years of little filly mixing with sixteen of human teenager. But I’m sorting it out.” She laughed a little. “Thank you though Fancy. For taking such good care of me. I’ll have to thank Rarity too. I know I must have made life a little difficult for you both.”

He waved it off. “Nonsense. It was a delight for us both. Rarity’s certain to demand a foal of her own when all this is done. Assuming she wishes to remain married to me of course.”

The three Ponyville residents rolled their eyes at that. Even Lyra and Dinky knew of Rarity’s designs on Fancy’s’ affections. She wasn’t a very subtle mare. Jen was grinning at Dinky. “You’re so big now! And you have your cutie mark!”

Dinky giggled. “So do you.”

“I do?” She twisted around to see her hip. “I do! What is it? I can’t see it!”

Her friends made room as Discord approached, summoning up a mirror for her to see. “It looks like the emblem on my shield! Only there’s a crystal and…a night pony? What’s that mean?”

Starswirl stepped closer. “It means young lady that you’re the new commander of the Order of Harmony, and you have a lot of work to do.”

Chapter 10: Harmony Reforged

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Chapter 10: Harmony Reforged

Jennifer stood in the citadel’s armory, gazing silently at the thirteen glass cases contained within. Only three were occupied. She recognized the twin scimitars of Nightsinger of course. Though she’d never seen it, Sunshine’s rapier—Hymn—was easily recognizable. The last occupied case held a pair of short but wickedly sharp looking daggers. The small plate beneath the weapons said their name was Stinger. Beneath each weapon’s name was a list of the bearers. Mercy’s case had the most names of any of the arms of course. The sword had been passed from pony to pony far more frequently than any other Arm of Harmony.

“Is there a reason for that, Heart?”

‘Nothing specific to my knowledge. If I were to give my opinion, Mercy is regarded as the most difficult of the arms to wield. It requires significantly more self-sacrifice than any of the others to properly utilize its abilities. It could simply be a matter of its bearers being worn down more swiftly than the others.’

Jen quirked a little smile. “You’re still kinda depressing, Bleeding Heart, but it’s great to talk to you again.”

‘Hmph. I am not depressing, simply truthful! If thou dost not wish answers to thy questions I will simply begin making up mistruths. There was a pause. ‘Tis good to speak with thou again as well, Jennifer.’

“No, no, you don’t have to start lying to me. I’m a big girl, I can take it.” She was clothed again, courtesy of Discord. After the initial reunion with her friends, he conjured up some of her old stuff. It was all a bit tighter than she’d remembered—her jeans especially—but she was physically five years older now. Her sports bra wasn’t terribly tighter, much to her annoyance. With a grin she glanced down at her ratty old tennis shoes and sighed happily. One of her pink curls bounced into her frame of vision as well, and she coiled a finger around it bemusedly. “I just can’t get away from it, can I?”

‘T'would seem thou art destined to be pink no matter how much thou protests.’

She let the curl bounce back into place. “It doesn’t bother me much anymore. The blue eyes are a little weird though.” She was staring at her reflection in one of the empty cases. Her hands tucked into the pocket of her hoodie, Mercy in place on her left forearm where it always went. Now and again, her eyes drifted to the necklace around her neck, the Element of Laughter now shaped like the shield on her hips.

“A lot of history in this room, huh?”

‘Indeed. Each arm belonged to one of the core of the knighthood. ‘Tis troubling to see so many missing however. Celestia, Cadence, and Starswirl possess theirs still I presume, but that leaves many unaccounted for.’

She rested a hand against the empty case that should hold Abundance’s warhammer within. “We’ll find them, Heart. When this is all over, we’ll find all the lost Arms of Harmony. They belong here with the order.”

“You’re quite the optimist. I like that; already making plans for when this is over.”

Jen turned to see Starswirl approaching, Luna—or rather Moon Dancer now—at his side. She offered them both a faint smile. “If you’re not optimistic, you’re the opposite, and that’s no good for anypony.”

“Ha! Quite right! I do believe I like this filly. She’s got a good head on her shoulders.”

Moon Dancer only smiled faintly as she moved to Nightsinger’s case. “I took her under my wing for a reason after all.” Her horn shimmered warmly as she opened the case, slowly claiming the blades for her own. She frowned gently as she gazed at them however.

“What’s wrong?”

“My connection to Nightsinger is… diminished. It still exists, but I cannot access its powers. I do not understand...” She looked to Starswirl in confusion.

He stroked his beard as he quietly regarded the mare and her blades. “I believe you’re different enough now that the swords think you’re a different pony entirely. You’ll have to bond with them all over again I think.”

An indelicate snort was her response. “I journeyed to the heart of Zebrica last time to bond with them!”

Jen shrugged. “Just do the fasting deal I did to bond with Mercy. It wasn’t so bad.”

Moon Dancer eyed her traitorous blades with a baleful glare. “I suppose it would be the most expedient path.” She sheathed them at her flanks and fixed Jennifer with a careful look. “How are you feeling? Your mind is acclimating with Jubilant’s memories well?”

Now the woman nodded with a grin. “They are! It’s a little weird, but most of them are really nice. I really wanna get back to Ponyville and see mom.”

The mare quirked a brow at her casual use of the term toward Pinkie Pie, something she’d been rather vehemently against in the past. She wondered just how much of Jubilant lingered, and how much was Jennifer, but it was none of her business she supposed. “Well, it is not safe to reveal ourselves to any of the previous element bearers. The queen has spies watching them. How Discord managed to retrieve the elements themselves so easily is beyond me.”

Jen was moving slowly from case to case, studying the names beneath each weapon carefully. “I don’t think she trusts ponies to do much of anything. She probably didn’t tell them why they were watching the girls, just to do it. If her spies saw Discord come and go, they’d think nothing of it I bet.”

“I wonder if you’d indulge me in a favor Jennifer.”

Jennifer straightened up and turned to face her mentor. “Sure! What’ya need?”

Moon Dancer smiled faintly. “I would like to have a small practice bout outside. I am somewhat out of shape, and would like to see how much you have forgotten as well.”

“Oh! Well sure. Let’s do it. S’cuse us, Starswirl.”

The stallion stepped aside to allow the pair to pass. “Not at all! I was hoping to have a few words with Trixie anyhow. Have either of you seen her?”

Jen waved vaguely down the corridor. “Your lab. Said she wanted to study some stuff.” She walked with Moon Dancer at her side. “How’re you doing? Being a normal pony after being the immortal princess of the moon for so long must be tough.”

“I suppose it is rather disconcerting. I feel very diminished. I cannot feel the moon, which is… unpleasant. But everypony for over a millennia has made do without moving the moon about. I see no reason why I cannot either.”

Jennifer held the doors open for the mare to exit, following close behind. Casually she strode to the opposite side of the courtyard from the mare, shedding her hoodie and t-shirt, flexing her wings wide. She stretched her arms overhead and twisted back and forth, limbering up; Moon Dancer watching it all bemusedly.

“Whenever you’re ready.”

Jen snapped her blade from its sheath, and raised it to her forehead in a proper knight’s salute. A surprised Moon Dancer did the same. She barely had time to register the woman had vaulted forward in a lunge before she was upon her. Mercy’s gently glowing blade left a twinkling trail in its wake with each swing Jennifer leveled the mare’s way.

So surprised was the unicorn, that it was all she could do to scramble back and parry the ferocious barrage of thrusts and slashes. This was no inexperienced knight in training, she was a full-fledged swordswoman. Recovering from her shock quickly, Moon Dancer skipped several steps back and brought her blades into an offensive posture, each half of Nightsinger gripped in her magic; the twin scimitars began to weave their hypnotic dance in an attempt to distract the woman.

To Moon Dancer’s further surprise, Jennifer reversed her grip on Mercy and hurled the blade to the side, sending it spinning into a whirling dervish of flashing pink metal. Confused at first, the mare soon realized a green aura had surrounded Mercy and was arcing it around Nightsinger, towards her unprotected flank. She swung around, bringing both blades to bear, deflecting the incoming missile. She felt a momentary twinge of irritation at her foolishness, and was not at all surprised when she felt the shield half of Mercy collide solidly with the side of her muzzle, sending stars to dance before her eyes. The boot to her barrel—vaulting her off her hooves and through the air—only further hammered home the forgotten lesson.

A lesson Jennifer hadn’t forgotten. “‘Now… I suppose the most important and most basic lesson is to always keep your eyes on your opponent. Not just their weapon.’” The woman mimicked the first lesson Luna had ever taught her in swordplay.

With an angry snort, the former diarch rose to her hooves, charging forward and hurling first one, then the other blade of Nightsinger at her opponent. Jennifer deftly swatted the first from the air with her sword, and deflected the second with her shield. Moon Dancer wasn’t finished. With a shout, she leapt and flipped in midair, intending to deliver a heavy kick. She was met with only empty air as Jen rolled beneath her, the woman not bothering to rise, simply bucking her leg out and catching Moon Dancer in the rump, sending her skittering across the ground.

“‘Never lose your temper in battle. If you get angry you stop thinking, and if you stop thinking…’” She seemed to be taking great pleasure in repeating the basic lessons learned.

Snorting softly to herself, Moon Dancer recalled Nightsinger to her side. Eyeing the faintly grinning woman carefully, she began to circle. Far more cautious now, she darted in with a quick swipe. When it was blocked or parried, she’d try to strike with her other blade, only to find it too thwarted. Jennifer seemed content to defend now, blocking and parrying each strike with sure, steady motions. She moved as little as possible, the mare observed, conserving her energy no doubt for a finishing strike.

The unicorn’s horn glowed softly as she and her blades vanished. Jennifer was genuinely surprised. “I thought your bond was broken!”

Moon Dancer didn’t answer, delivering a flurry of strikes to Jennifer’s chest and stomach. She winced and yelped as a number of welts and bruises appeared in rapid succession. The smile was gone from her face as her eyes blazed with determination. Her own horn flared to life now, the green aura racing to Mercy’s blade. With a shout, she leapt into the air and brought the sword down, smashing it point first into the ground. A rolling wave of green magic was released, catching an alarmed Moon Dancer and flinging her into the air again.

Her invisibility broken now, Moon Dancer twisted in preparation to land, only to find a grimly determined Jennifer flying to meet her in the air. Howling a battle cry at the top of her lungs, the unicorn braced herself for the coming blow. At the last second, Jen dropped her sword and flicked the mare in the muzzle. “Gotcha.” She was grinning widely now as she snagged the pony in her arms, gently carrying her to the ground.

An astonished Moon Dancer stared at her for a moment, and then began to laugh. “You were most certainly busy in the other realm were you not?”

Jen shrugged, sheathing her blade and retrieving her clothes. “Not a whole lot to do up there. Once the old knights came out though, we did a ton of sparring. Apparently no weapons allowed in the Fields. They all kinda missed it.”

“You remember no specifics of your time, but your body recalls its training, hm? You have become quite skilled Jennifer. I am very proud to have been your first instructor.”

Blushing now, she huffed. “Oh stop. I’m sure if you were at your full strength it woulda been a lot different.”

She wasn’t so sure of that, but clearly all the praise was bothering the young woman. “We seem to have attracted a crowd.”

Blinking, Jen looked over her shoulder, mildly surprised to find her friends assembled by the doors, having watched the entire exchange. Echo and Lyra raced to her side. “That was amazing! You were… you were awesome, Jenny!”

Jen grinned at the gushing unicorn by her side, while Echo glomped her around the neck. “That’s my filly! …Or mare now, huh?”

Laughing, she kissed Echo on the nose. “I guess so. Feels kinda weird but I suppose I’m all grown up now, huh?”

“Indeed. You are quite the warrior, Jennifer Allen. I wonder if you would be willing to match blades with me? There are very few opportunities to test my sword against a fellow wielder of the blade.”

Jennifer blinked at the cultured tones of Prince Spinner as he descended from the cavern ceiling along a thin strand of webbing. Showing none of the trepidation her pony friends displayed, she grinned. “Sure thing your highness, it’d be an honor.”

Dropping smoothly to all eight legs, he raised to his full height, a good deal taller than Jennifer. “I would ask you keep the magic use to a minimum. I wish this to be a contest of martial skill. I am aware of how you bested my sister with your magic. No doubt it would make our duel simple for you to win.”

A faint frown found the cheerful woman’s face. “Right. I can’t apologize enough for hurting her like I did. I reacted more harshly than I should have. I probably could have subdued her with less force.”

To her surprise, he brushed her apology off. “It is my understanding that Umbra attacked you unprovoked. She is lucky you did not slay her, as you were well within your rights to do so. Her actions reflected poorly on our family, and on her behalf I apologize to you, and thank you for sparing my foolish sister’s life.”

“O— oh uh… Don’t mention it?” She smiled hesitantly.

With a simple nod, he took Moon Dancer’s place in the courtyard. “Very well. Shall we begin?”

Straightening her shoulders, Jennifer nodded, raising her blade.

Lyra had joined Echo, Fancy Pants, and Moon Dancer by the doors to watch the spectacle of the two non-pony creatures battling with their blades. “Miss Heartstrings? Could I borrow you for a moment?”

She turned to see Starswirl the Bearded standing in the entrance hall behind her, regarding her with a small smile. “Uhhh…” She seemed torn between watching the spectacle in the courtyard, and following the living legend. Heaving a sigh, she climbed to her hooves, following him inside and wincing at a particularly loud ‘ooooh’ from Echo behind her.

“I’m not in trouble or anything am I? Should I not be wearing the element of loyalty or something?”

The old stallion laughed and shook his head. “Not at all, Lyra. I have something for you is all.”

Now her curiosity was piqued further. “Oh yeah?”

“Two somethings in fact. A bit of an inheritance you could call them.”

Lyra’s ear flicked as she tilted her head. “Inheritance? From who?”

Leading the young mare toward the armory, he held the door for her. “How much do you know about your clan name?”

She blinked. “What? Heartstrings? I dunno. No more than anypony else knows about their own, I guess. I mean, my family has more or less been some form of musician for as long as we can remember.”

“For as long as your clan has existed in fact. I knew the patron of your clan.”

Lyra missed a step and face planted at the revelation. “Wh— what? You did!?”

“Of course. Sunshine was one of the original six of our Order. I’m not terribly surprised you were unaware of any relationship to him. We all thought it was a good idea to have clan names when we founded the order, and he came up with Heartstrings on a lark.”

“A— a lark!? That’s all the history there is to my clan name!?”

Starswirl shrugged casually. “I’d say maybe nine of every ten clan names originated much the same way. A pony thought of something they enjoyed doing, and stuck it on the end of their name. After a couple generations it just sticks.”

With a sigh, Lyra rubbed the back of her head in thought. “I uh… I guess that makes sense. So was he a big lyre player or something? A fan of string instruments?”

“Not exactly. His talent lay in his voice, but it was a common joke among us that he was capable of ‘plucking the heartstrings’ of any filly he had his eye on with just a few words. Your ancestor was an incorrigible tail chaser. Why, there’s a good chance you have a relation in every town and city in Equestria and don’t know it!” He had a hearty laugh at that.

A laugh the young mare did not share. “Wh— why are you telling me all this!?”

He sobered somewhat. “I ah… apologize, Miss Heartstrings. Having you here—all of you—is bringing back old memories. Memories of when the Citadel was full of light and laughter. Happier times and all. You very much remind me of Sunshine. Optimistic, driven, quick to share your heart with others. Though you’re a good deal more committed than he ever was. He said he couldn’t marry like our friends did.”

Lyra stared quietly. “Why not?”

“Mmm.” Starswirl resumed walking, leading her to one of the few occupied cases. “He said he couldn’t bear to watch a wife grow old and die while he remained eternally youthful.”

“Jen told me about the book, how the others opted to age normally again. Why didn’t he?”

The ancient mage’s smile turned sad. “He wouldn’t leave me. Said the others all had each other, but I’d be all alone if he left.”

Lyra looked down pawing at the floor with a hoof. “What happened to him?”

His smile vanished entirely now. “He stayed by my side until the end. Galaxia herself struck him down. She thought she’d slain me as well but…” He shrugged, looking away. “When a unicorn gets as much mana accumulated as I had, it’s not easy to kill us.” With a grunt, he shook his head. “If only the fool colt had paid more attention to his magic lessons…”

The mare allowed him his moment of silence and turned her attention to the case he’d lead her to. Held within was a gleaming rapier, resting against its ornate sheathe. Hymn was the name on the case, below that read Sunshine Heartstrings. “This was his.”

“Hm?” Starswirl blinked out of his contemplations. “Oh! Oh yes why I brought you here. Yes this is Hymn, Sunshine’s blade. It’s yours now.”

Sputtering, Lyra looked from the sword to the stallion. “Wh— what!? Mine!? A sword!? One of those… those… Arms of Harmony things? But aren’t those only for the uh…”

He raised a brow. “The Knights of Harmony? Yes Lyra. Technically I’m still commander of the order, and within my rights to offer anypony I wish a chance to enter. Of course, Hymn has to accept you before we can go any further.”

The poor mare was beginning to look a little woozy, and Starswirl hastily drug a cushion over for her to sit on. “Y— you must be joking. You’re joking right? Me? A knight? Like… like Jen? Like Princess Celestia? Ahahaha! That’s a good one, really. You are a funny guy.”

“If it’s such a ridiculous idea, then take up Hymn. When it rejects you, you’ll know this is all just an old stallion’s crazy rambling.”

“I… well… fine. Just to prove you’re crazy.” She opened the case with a flick of her head, seizing the glass in her horn and sliding the door open. She’d seen what happened when somepony tried to touch Jen’s Mercy, and fully expected a shock from the rapier. Needless to say, she was more than a little surprised when she lowered it into her hooves and felt only a warm tingle run along the blade’s hilt through her forelegs. She looked up at a smiling Starswirl questioningly.

“Well I suppose that settles that. Welcome to the order.”

“I… that is I…” Lyra frowned down at the sword in her hooves. She switched to holding it with her magic, lifting it in the air. “I’m just a musician.”

“Sunshine was a cook’s apprentice, Abundance was just a cook. Bleeding Heart a nurse, Luna, Celestia, Jennifer. They were displaced creatures from another world. Luna was Jennifer’s age when she received Nightsinger. Being a member of the order isn’t about who you were, it’s about who you’re willing to be. Who are you willing to be, Miss Heartstrings?”

Lyra held the slim blade horizontally before herself, gazing at her reflection in the metal.

Jennifer rose shakily, sheathing Mercy and flashing her sparring partner a smile. The prince of the spiderkin didn’t smile back, but he too sheathed his blades, giving her a simple nod. “Thank you; it was a most enjoyable experience.”

Both were sweating more than a little, though Jen was certainly breathing harder than he was. “It’s a lot trickier when your opponent is twice your size, but it was fun! I learned a lot.” Her smile was back in full force.

“If you will excuse me, I believe I will return to the web. The queen gets… fretful when I am away for long periods. I look forward to speaking with you again.” He bowed once to the woman before departing, vanishing into the gloom of the tunnels.

Dinky and Fancy rose to their hooves as Jen approached, toweling her forehead with her hoodie. “Where’s Echo?”

The unicorns exchanged a look before shrugging. “That’s a good question. Haven’t seen her in a bit Jenny. She’s probably in the Citadel somewhere.”

Fancy rubbed his monocle against his coat. “She’s quite taken with it. I was just about to delve into it a bit myself.”

Jen rubbed the back of her head, looking into the Citadel behind them. “I was hoping to talk to her. I think she’s been dodging out of talking to me one-on-one.”

Dinky brushed up against Jen’s side comfortingly. “I’m sure she’s not ducking you! She’s probably just excited and trying to figure out what to say!”

Ruffling the mare’s mane Jen nodded. “Yeah, you’re right. Alright then everypony, let’s check the place out huh? I read about it enough. I kinda wanna go see the heart.”

“Actually, would you lot mind following me for a few moments? I have something important I wanted to discuss.”

The three turned to find Starswirl at the top of the stairs, Lyra at his side with a contemplative look on her face. None of them failed to take note of the sword belted around her flank. Jen answered for the group. “Sure thing sir. Lead the way?”

Nodding, he turned and cantered casually down the hall. Lyra lingered behind him to walk with her friends. “Lyra is that Hymn?”

She nodded to her human friend. “It is. I guess uh, Sunshine was like my great—times a hundred—grand-dad. Starswirl said nopony else ever touched the sword, but he’d want someone from his clan to take i,t so I guess that’s me.”

“Lyra that’s awesome! I sparred with Sunshine a ton too, so I can show you all sorts of little tips and stuff I picked up watching him fight! This is gonna be so much fun!”

The mare smiled wanly back up at her excited friend. “Yeah. I mean… it’s kinda heavy stuff. I feel like yesterday I was some bum mooching off my fillyfriend, and now I’m supposed to be this big deal knight? The princesses are all knights, Jen! Does that mean that like, I have to call them by their names and stuff now?”

Jen’s grin didn’t dim. “I don’t plan on calling Princess Celestia anything else unless she tells me otherwise. Cadence and Luna both told me to drop the title when we first met though. Remember, they’re just like anypony else only… bigger. And magic-ier. Heck, Cadence is only a few years older than me, and she was human too.”

Dinky—quiet ‘til now—piped up. “What d’you think he wants all of us for?”

Jen shrugged. “Dunno, but looks like we’re here.”

Starswirl entered a large pair of double doors. Within was what appeared to be some sort of meeting room. A very large circular table dominated the center, with thirteen seat cushions going around it. Moon Dancer was already sitting comfortably in one, a nervous looking Trixie on the seat next to her.

“This was the meeting room for the Order of Harmony. It was rare when all thirteen of us were together; more often than not, we were off alone or with a number of the squires taking care of all manner of world-shattering business. Once a year however, we would return without fail to refresh the bonding ceremony and keep our spirits in synch with harmony. That day is today.”

With the exception of Moon Dancer, everypony was looking to one another, confused and nervous. Jen frowned up at Starswirl. “Are you saying you want us—all of us—to be in the ceremony? To be the new Order of Harmony?”

“Of course. You need a minimum of six to start the rite. One for each element of harmony. And I don’t mean the necklaces you’re sporting; I mean the intangible elements of harmony. The ideals the physical elements embody. It’s been quite some time since six ponies who had already formed a bond with one another came to this place. Though honesty seems to be missing once again.”

Slowly, Jennifer lowered herself into the seat opposite Moon Dancer at the table. Lyra took the cushion to her right, and Fancy to her left. Dinky seemed significantly more hesitant to join them. The young mare only stared at the imposing ponies already seated. Even if she was littler, Moon Dancer was still Princess Luna. Trixie terrifying Ponyville with the alicorn amulet was still a raw memory in her young mind. Jennifer she’d seen wielding her blade to spectacular effect. Fancy Pants was one of the wealthiest ponies in the whole wide world, and Lyra while just a musician, had one of the arms of harmony strapped to her side.

Glancing quickly around the table, Jen looked back to the hesitating Dinky. “C’mon Dinky, let’s go find Echo and drag her flank in here. We’ll be back soon everypony.”

Eager to be away from the room, Dinky nodded and hastily followed Jen out. “… y’okay?”

She laughed nervously, looking up at Jen. “Am I ok!? You’re kidding right!? D— did you hear what he wants me to do? Me?”

Jen shrugged, activating her find it spell to lead them to Echo. “Why’s that so nuts? I mean, we’re a pretty lame bunch, Dinky. My big claim to fame is I can draw pretty good. Fancy’s a nice rich dude, Lyra’s a lazy musician, Trixie is an over-the-top showmare. The only one of us who really fits in the ideal of knighthood is Moon Dancer. But I mean, that’s kinda the whole idea behind the Order, remember? It’s not about being wealthy, powerful, or noble. It’s about wanting to help your fellow pony.”

The blond mare gave a little snort. “Well of course I wanna help! But to do what you do? I dreamed about it when I was a filly but…”

“But nothing. Do you still want to do it?”

“I… I guess so. It’s kinda scary though, huh? It sounds like a lot of responsibility.”

“It is. And if you don’t want to do it, I’d understand. We can get Cadence to be our spark of kindness. I don’t wanna do this without her anyway. I figure we’ll get Echo, and send her back for Cadence since my bum of an uncle went and disappeared on us.”

Dinky eyed the necklace dangling from her throat. “Still can’t believe this thing worked for me...”

“Don’t be crazy. Besides Aunt Fluttershy, you’re like the nicest pony in the world. Who else would it go to?”

Dinky Doo smiled suddenly up at Jen. “I really missed you, Jenny. It’s… it’s really nice to see you again.”

Jen knelt down, gathering Dinky up in a tight hug. “It’s great to see you again too, Dinky. When this stuff is done, we’re gonna have to have a nice sit down. Maybe all of us. A picnic! Me you, Fancy, Echo, and Lyra. We’ll get Luna back to her big self. Mom and Aunt Fluttershy of course, and all their friends. Everypony happy and smiling again. There’s been waaaaay too much gloom and doom if you ask me.”

Wiping a happy tear away, Dinky nodded. “Maybe mom and her friend’ll wanna come too.”

The woman’s smiled faded just a tad as she stood with a nod. “Yeah, maybe.” Ditzy Doo’s mysterious stallion friend. That was a pony Jen definitely wanted to have a long talk with. Her horn was pulsing quicker, meaning Echo was close. Tilting her head, she nudged open the armory doors, eyes widening at the sight.

Echo had the daggers out of their case, Stinger was their name. She was tossing one into the air with a hoof and catching it, before flinging its twin up in a constant motion. “E— Echo!”

With a yelp, the night pony jumped, letting the daggers clang to the floor. “Ack! B— busted huh? Am I uh… in trouble?”

Slowly, Jen approached eyeing the nearest half of Stinger curiously. She reached out to pick it up, but it sent a firm jolt along her hand when she touched it. Yanking the throbbing appendage away, she shook it, glaring balefully at the dagger. “There’s never been a knight who wasn’t a unicorn. Or uh… alicorn I guess.”

With her familiar cocky grin, Echo scooped the daggers back up, deftly tossing them into the air and catching them in the sheaths she’d secured around her forelegs. “Oh yeah? So I’m a trendsetter, huh?”

“More I think it’s that they’re made with unicorns in mind, I dunno if you can use any of their abilities.”

“Hmph.” The night pony glanced down at either weapon she had strapped to her legs. “Well they’re awesome, and I like em, so I’m keepin’ em.”

Now Jen was grinning. “As long as Starswirl doesn’t get his beard in a knot. Though he does want you there for the bonding ceremony, so I guess he shouldn’t mind if you already have one of the arms.”

“Whaaat? So we get to be super powerful and immortal and stuff too?!”

Jen shrugged. “Guess so. I mean, I’m already super powerful, but younormal ponies get to see what it’s like to be as amazing as me.” Before Echo could give a smart comment back, Jen raised a hand, cutting her off. “I need you to go get Cadence. She should be here for this. But do it quick alright? I think we’ve been sitting on our butts long enough with this.”

Echo snapped her mouth closed and nodded once, taking off like a rocket from the room. “Wow. She got a lot faster.”

Jen could only nod along with Dinky’s summation.

Seven ponies sat in the meeting room, waiting for Echo to return with the princess. Jen had shed her human form, and returned to the young alicorn mare they’d all seen when she’d first been reborn. “Never tried the ritual with a human before. Never tried it with a non-unicorn or alicorn for that matter, and I think your friend Echo will throw enough variables into the mix; the fewer we have the better.”

Jen laughed at Starswirls apology. “It’s not a big deal. Really, either one feels totally natural. I do have a question though. Why only thirteen? Why not make like, a whole buncha super knights so we can kick Galaxia’s flank easy peasy?”

The bearded stallion had elected to remain standing from the table. He leaned against the wall, considering her question. “Any more than that, and you’ll begin to put a strain on harmony itself. It’s already being diverted to the ponies the ritual is being performed on. The further you get from one another, the more it strains. Putting too much stress on it could cause irreparable damage. In fact, I always exacted a pledge from a new member of the core of the knighthood to never exceed this limit. I expect all of you to give me your word that you will never have more than thirteen at a time.”

Without hesitation, the assembled ponies nodded. Most had taken to talking softly amongst themselves, save Trixie who sat apart. Jen cantered over settling on the cushion beside her. “Hey Trixie. Been awhile huh?”

The other mare smiled thinly, removing her hat and letting it rest on the table. “It has. It’s lovely to see you again, Jen. I’m sure Umbra and Tak will be delighted too.”

“Glad to hear you guys are still together. Everypony doing well?”

“Oh yes. Tak and I were wed a few years ago.” She lifted her foreleg to display the promise bracelet it bore. Platinum with a black opal inlaid. “Umbra didn’t understand a wedding of course, but eventually she decided she wanted one too. Mostly at her sister’s constant prodding. Neela’s really wonderful; I hope you meet her soon.”

Jen grinned. “Well congratulations! I wish I coulda been there. Was there any crazy changeling stuff?”

Trixie laughed nervously. “Ah… you could call it that. I’ll have to tell you the story sometime; it’s funny after the fact.”

“I’d like that.” They sat in silence for a few moments. “You don’t have to sit over here by yourself. You can join the rest of us.”

“Oh no. I’d hate to intrude.”

“Mmm. You know what you’re getting into here, right? This bond deal? You’re going to be stuck with the lot of us until like, you decide it’s time to break away from the order and pass on. Gonna be kinda awkward if you spend all that time avoiding everypony.”

Trixie only huffed softly. “I’m only doing this because that old codger talked me into it. I don’t belong here with all of you.”

Jen rolled her eyes. “Alright I’m not giving this pep talk again. If you didn’t belong here Trixie, you wouldn’t be here. You might have a checkered past, but you want to make up for it. You’re a good mare, Trixie Lulamoon. Anypony willing to do what we’re about to do has to be. This isn’t about getting super magic’d up, this is about laying our lives down for the good of all of Equestria.”

“Yes. You’re right of course. I’m sure everypony has regrets, maybe not as great as mine but still, nopony’s perfect are they? Thank you Jennifer.”

With a cheery smirk, Jen lifted Trixie’s hat onto her own head. “The great and powerful Jubilant didn’t forget you promised to let her join you in your show sometime! She fully intends to hold you to that!”

Snorting huffily, Trixie snatched her hat back, settling it upon her head again. “Well good. Because when Celestia is back on the throne, I’m saying goodbye to caves and tunnels forever. Umbra’s family are a decent lot, but ponies aren’t meant to live underground.”

“I can’t disagree with that. I’ve only been down here a day and I’m already antsy.”

The frenzied flapping of wings interrupted the conversations as Echo returned. “Got her!”

It was a few moments before an exhausted looking Cadence appeared, chest heaving for breath. Shining Armor was at her side, looking much better off than his wife. Both focused on the other alicorn in the room, Cadence smiling grandly. “So it… worked? It really worked?”

Eyes wide, Jen levitated a glass of water to the gasping princess. “Holy cow... maybe you should sit down, huh? Not doing a lot of exercise leading the revolution.”

Shining chuckled, and made his way to the young mare’s side, ruffling her mane. “It’s great to see you, kiddo. And Cadence mostly sticks to the planning side of things. We can’t risk her being spotted and captured.”

The princess set her empty glass aside, giving her husband a grumpy huff. “What he means, is he won’t let me so much as poke my nose ten feet from the tunnels.”

Jen offered her fellow alicorn a faint smile. “He’s not entirely wrong though, right? I mean, you’re probably this huge figurehead for the resistance. Without you I bet it’d fall apart pretty quickly.”

Cadence’s retort was cut off by Starswirl clearing his throat gently. “Princess Cadenza… may I see Convalescence?”

The youngest princess jumped in surprise at the appearance of the legendary unicorn. “O— of course sir.” She touched the gem at her breast and called her own arm of harmony to her side; the slim scepter appeared and hovered in the air before him.

He couldn’t touch it of course, but he just stared at it silently. “It’s been… such a long time since I’ve seen anything of hers. Thank you miss.” He blinked and looked away from the scepter. “Well! Now that everypony’s here, let’s get this started.”

“Jubilant Surprise, I am formally passing command of the Order of Harmony to you. In addition to being responsible for pretty much everything that has to do with the order, you’ll also have final decision on who joins the core thirteen of the knighthood. The only requirement is that they firmly embody one of the tenants of harmony, and that all six are represented at the time of casting the ritual.”

Jen’s ears splayed at this. “Wh— what? Me? No, no. You mean like… Luna, right? Or Cadence? Or uh… Celestia! I can go get her! Maybe…”

“The princesses each have their own duties that demand most of their attention. Command of the order must come first and foremost in the commander’s mind. While any of them would make fine commanders, you can’t expect them to lay down the duties they already tend to. You’ve the same strength of will and good character they possess, even if you don’t quite see it yet. Your cutie mark certainly does.”

Jen shifted her attention to the shield bearing the altered standard of the order on her flank. “I… I guess that’s probably what it means, huh?”

“There’s never been a core member who wasn’t a unicorn. I don’t know if you’ll be able to use Stinger’s runes, Miss Echo, but the blades didn’t reject you when you helped yourself to them. That means they’re yours for as long as you wish to remain with the order.”

Having at least enough good grace to off an apologetic smile for taking the daggers without permission, Echo turned her focus to Jen. As long as her special somepony was here, she’d be here. “I understand.”

“Well then!” The old unicorn took up his staff in his silvery aura, and unceremoniously tossed it Trixie’s way. The surprised mare fumbled with it in her hooves before she settled it on the ground beside herself. “My however-many-greats granddaughter here will perform the ritual. I made sure she knows the important bits. You lot have fun now. I’ve some business of my own to attend to. Good luck!”

Everypony jumped in their seats as the doors boomed shut, staring at the departing archmage for a time before looking to a nervous Trixie. “Can you cast it?”

Delicately, as if expecting it to come to life and bite her, Trixie lifted the staff, resting it against her shoulder. “Technically. I’m capable of casting the spell; he showed me the proper diagrams and such. After they’re drawn out, it’s actually a very simple spell.

Taking a deep breath, Jennifer looked over the table at the ponies before her. “Right then! So this is it. Anypony who wants to back out, now’s the time. Once it’s done, you’re stuck until at least Celestia is returned to her throne, I think.”

The more she looked, the more she could… feel which tenant of harmony everypony embodied. Most were obvious, what with the elements hanging from their necks. But Cadence, Trixie, and Shining Armor had no indicators. Jen could just feel kindness, magic, and loyalty almost radiating from them. “Shining, you’re more than welcome as well. I mean, you’ve pretty much been a knight forever anyway, right?”

He looked surprised, but pleasantly so. “I guess you could say that, yeah. And I’d be honored, Commander Jubilant, to join your Order’s ranks.”

Everypony got a good laugh at the discomfort on Jen’s face at the formality of his words. Cadence less than the rest however. “You should get used to it, Jennifer. It’s not quite as bad as Princess, but you’re still stepping into a position of authority.”

Another deep breath, and the verdant pony nodded. “Right! I’ll just pretend you lot are my foals at the daycare. Shouldn’t be too different for most of you.” Her good natured smile had them laughing again.

Trixie rose, and with her magic began drawing nine circles upon the ground. Nopony needed prodding to take their places; they just knew where to step. Starswirl’s staff, Spell Nexus drifted along behind her. “Alright everypony. Brace yourselves. I have no idea what to expect, other than that our spirits are about to find perfect harmony.”

The group set their hooves; some with eyes clenched tightly, some shining in anticipation. Trixie’s aura raced along the staff’s frame and intensified nearly fivefold, blinding those who were looking. Everypony could see light racing from their circle to one of the others. Colored the same as the lights that were conjured in Jennifer’s resurrection. Shining’s red, Cadence’s pink, and Trixie’s purple joined the other six as a line went from every circle to join the others. A dizzying array of color linked each pony to one another, as one by one they were lifted from their hooves to hang in the air. The light intensified, brightly flowing into the assembled group. Little fanfare or fuss was made when the ritual ended. They just unceremoniously clopped back to their hooves.

“I feel… the same.” Cadence glanced around to the others.

Her husband could only shake his head. “Not me. I feel like… I don’t know, like everything’s been muffled and now my eyes and ears are clear. Everything smells better no less.”

Most of the group seemed in agreement with Shining Armor. Moon Dancer looked from a perplexed Jennifer to an equally confused Cadence. “As alicorns, you two were already in perfect harmony. Your bodies are comprised of the three tribe’s attributes. The only way for that to happen is if harmony already rests within you. It was the same for Tia and myself.”

Both Princess and Commander didn’t bother to hide their disappointment. Soft ‘ohs’ from both brought little smiles and shared glances to the pair. Jennifer stood tall and cleared her throat. “Alright everypony. Let’s uh… get some rest. Lyra and Echo, maybe play with your weapons a little. I should probably talk to Cadence and Shining some. Get a feel for what’s going on, and what we should be doing. I know Starswirl said I’m apparently the Commander of the order, but honestly I’d have no idea where to begin outside of ‘charge and beat everypony up.’”

Another round of laughs came at her frank honesty. They began to disperse throughout the citadel. Fancy paused at Jen’s side. “Come see me when this is over, would you? We need to contact Rarity again. If she doesn’t hear from us daily, she may very well alert the guard.”

“Oh, good call. Lemme talk to these guys and I’ll come running.”

“Good show Jubilant.” His smile turned playful. “My apologies. Good show, ‘Commander Jubilant’.”

He darted from her swatting hooves, laughing cheerfully and leaving Commander, Prince, and Princess alone. The royal couple sat together, offering her warm smiles. “It’s great to see you again kid, really.”

Grinning herself, Jen plopped down next to them. “Likewise, guys. So! I guess I need to be filled in on some stuff. I know as much as Jubilant knew which uh, isn’t too much.”

Cadence took a deep breath, and with a heavy heart began to fill Jennifer in on the past five years.

Lyra had Hymn out, giving it a few practice swishes and thrusts in the air. She eyed Echo, who was clumsily trying to wield Stinger in either her mouth or her hooves. “Am I the only one who feels kinda dumb standing here, swinging at nothing?”

With a grunt, Echo spat the dagger onto the ground. “At least you can use yours right. Maybe I should just tie them to my hooves or…?”

Her musings were interrupted by the sound of hooves. A lot of hooves. Confused, she flew above the Citadel’s walls. Eyes widening at the sight of dozens of ponies streaming in the tunnels. Discord and Umbra at their head. She darted to the familiar pair. “What’s going on!?”

Umbra looked grim. “The Lich’s forces found us. These are the only ones who managed to escape, and his forces are very likely closing on us fast.”

There were nearly three hundred ponies that she knew of, and it seemed like less than a hundred were staggering into the cavern. Jaw set, she turned and winged for the Citadel meeting room. It looked like her new Commander wouldn’t have much time to settle into the role...

A Villainous Interlude

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A Villainous Interlude

“B— but my King, at the rate we’re losing workers…”

Sombra glowered at the trembling crystal pony mare he’d chosen as his current aide. He went through them so fast it seemed. Of course even when he grew tired of them they still had their uses. “I don’t care how quickly you lazy crystal ponies expire. All that matters is you keep mining my gems! We’ve been over this time and again!”

The beleaguered mare bowed low enough that her muzzle was grinding against the floor. “O— of course King Sombra. I’ll… inform the overseers that the work shifts aren’t to change.”
His frown deepened as she hesitated to depart. “What else?”

“W— well Sire, it’s the miners. They’re hearing noises again, and say they see monsters in the mines. The overseers are… are requesting additional golems to patrol.”

He regarded her silently for a moment. “Tell me, Emerald Dream, do you know much of the golem making process?”

At his surprisingly soft change of tone, Emerald blinked up at him. “I… W— well no, my King, I’m afraid I don’t.”

Sombra nodded slowly, as if expecting her answer. “Come with me. I do enjoy educating my subjects.” The mare couldn’t suppress a shiver as Sombra’s horn flared with cruel-looking purple magic. The wall to her right began to glow the same deep purple color before it simply vanished. “Follow me.” The unicorn King set a brisk pace through the new opening, his aide having no choice but to follow close behind. “Do you know why I covet the crystals in the caverns so?”

Again she blinked at the King’s question. “N— no King Sombra. Because they’re pleasing to the eye, I assumed.”

He shook his head with a deep chuckle. “Not at all. Crystals, you see, hold power. Not all of them. In fact, it’s very rare to come across the sort I’m looking for. But every now and again, the miners bring me precisely what I await. Before my banishment, I strove to collect them for my own gains. To expand my power and dethrone the usurper alicorn sisters, restoring the true royalty to the Equestrian throne.”

“Y— you, Sire?”

Now he smiled back at her. “Very good. Yes, Emerald Dream, I am the great great grandson of Princess Platinum herself. The Equestrian throne should have been mine to rule! Instead, those freaks just bullied their way into power! Declared themselves Princesses!”

Her ears splayed back as his voice rose, but she ignored her fear, pushing onward behind the mad King. “Now however, I’ve come to see the error of my ways. Our glorious Queen Galaxia is working to put things right. The tribes are where they belong, and she has gifted me not just a kingdom, but an entire empire. Soon we’ll expand, resettle the old cities.”

Feeling herself growing braver, Emerald cleared her throat softly. “But my King, if you work all the crystal ponies to death in the mines, who will settle the cities?”

Sombra smiled to her again, but this time it had a sinister cast to it. “They will, of course.” He revealed another hidden door, lifting Emerald with his magic and carrying the now struggling mare through. Her flailing ceased at the sight before her. Dozens, hundreds, maybe even thousands of crystal golems stood staring vacantly into the space directly before them. Though they lacked the telltale glow of an active golem. The chamber descended in a steep decline, leading toward some sort of massive furnace at the center. “I do apologize; I didn’t bring you down here for you to listen to me ramble on about my plans for the future. I was going to show you how the golems are made.”

Sombra walked casually down a narrow staircase, toward the center of the huge chamber. Emerald’s struggles increased as Sombra nudged the door to the furnace open, revealing a roaring blue fire. Without so much as a second thought he heaved the mare into the furnace, slamming the door shut. Emerald Dream had time for one long, drawn out wail before the flames consumed her physical body entirely, leaving a small floating orb of green mana.

Once more, the King opened the door, this time guiding the soul of the deceased mare into the nearest golem. The soul struggled futilely as it was forced into the shell, but it was absorbed instantly once touched the crystalline body. The lifeless golem jerked its head upright as its body began to glow a radiant emerald hue. Sombra tilted his head curiously as the golem’s eyes looked from side to side frantically, before his horn glowed once more. A rune on the golem’s forehead glowed to match as he removed the pony’s personality. “And now you know. I suppose you can head to the mines as the first of several new golem patrols. Off with you, now.” The golem turned on its hooves, walking unerringly to the mine. Sombra returned to his throne room, sealing the golem chamber behind himself. “Now to find a new aide…”

“Lord Whiteskull, the newest batch has arrived.”

“Aha! Excellent!” The Lich had been settling in quite well to Galaxia’s regime. She allowed him free reign to pursue his research any way he wished, and her only stipulation was that to the ponies of Equestria he appear as a living unicorn. If he were being completely honest with himself, he’d actually come to like his noble Lord persona. Flashing his assistant a toothy grin, he made for the lower floors of his keep. “How many, Sand Stone?”

The earth pony stallion flipped through a clipboard. “Well the attack on the resistance had plenty of casualties of course, but we managed to bring back thirty live ones.”

“Thirty!? Wonderful! Why, that will keep me busy for months! Oh how I love the resistance! Traitors to the Crown, and they lose all their rights. Meaning they’re free game! Haha! I love it!”

Used to his Lord’s eccentricities, Sand Stone only smiled back. He was one of the few ponies who knew his lord’s true nature, and he certainly had no intention of winding up in the Lich’s laboratory himself. He’d served his lord well for five long years; eventually he’d grown numb to the screams and pleas for help. He considered himself lucky to have such a prestigious position, but his lord curiously seemed to lack the racism inherent in much of the nobility.

Of course, to Lord Whiteskull, everypony was equal. Unicorns, pegasi, earth ponies… all were ‘fair game’. After his minions’ constant failures to capture the pure-blooded alicorn Umbra, he’d been forced to resume his search for living immortality using his old methods. Methods that were far easier to carry out now that Celestia and Luna’s watchful eyes were away from their precious little ponies.

Undeath was not without its advantages—It’d allowed him to survive as long as he had after all—but he was beginning to miss the taste of food. The feel of the sun on his skin. The touch of a mare. He would have sighed if he were capable of drawing air into his long-dead lungs. Shaking off the uncommon melancholy, his cheer returned. He had new subjects!
Sand Stone heaved the door to the dungeons open, allowing his lord to enter undisturbed. The Lich considered him a moment. It was strangely pleasant having a living pony about. Almost like he had a friend again. It had been so long since he could remember what that felt like. Sure, the stallion served out of fear of winding up on an exam table, but maybe that would change in time.

“Sand Stone, do you know the purpose of my research?”

“Immortality, My Lord?”

“Yes! Yes, precisely that. As everypony knows, the invisible force we all draw our mana from is called ‘harmony’. It’s taught even to earth pony foals, yes?” At his assistant’s nod, he continued. “Well I had a thought one day. What if the secret to Luna and Celestia’s immortality was simply that they shared the attributes of all three tribes? They would draw from harmony like an earth pony, a pegasus, and a unicorn all at the same time. It is this sort of internal harmony that I believe is the key to everlasting life.”

To the Lich’s pleasure, Sand Stone nodded along. He was a bright stallion, it would seem. “That makes sense I suppose, My Lord. That’s all that set them apart from anypony else, after all.”

“Yes! Yes, precisely!” Grinning cheerfully now, the Lich once again was pleased with his foresight of releasing Sand Stone from Galaxia’s inane spell. An assistant who actually understood what he was trying to achieve was of far more use than some gibbering doltish farmer. He would never understand Galaxia’s asinine insistence on clinging to the old archaic ways of doing things. All three pony tribes had made amazing strides in both magic and scientific technology. Sand Stone was one of the top engineers to graduate from Manehattan University.

“I’m afraid I haven’t studied much magic my lord, but it’s impossible for a pony to change tribes isn’t it?”

“Typically, yes. Only the Princesses were capable of such a feat, and Celestia selfishly refused to share the technique with me. I was forced to turn to my own methods, as you’ve seen.” Sand Stone tried, but failed to suppress a shiver, a gesture the Lich didn’t miss. “Don’t worry about offending me. I know my condition is horrific. It’s why my research is so important to me now.”

Nodding slowly, his assistant cast his gaze about the zombie ponies shambling here and there. “If you find it so abhorrent, why keep them around?”

“Convenient labor sources for the most part. And Galaxia demands I contribute to her military. Sombra has those creepy golems, and Chrysalis just spews a dozen drones to send to Canterlot every week.”

“Well here we are, My Lord.”

The Lich surveyed his nearly overflowing cells, smiling grandly at the terrified ponies held within. For the most part, they were earth ponies, but he had his ways of getting ahold of unicorns and pegasi both. Ponies were always committing crimes, regardless of tribe. His gaze settled on one specific mare. Cream colored, with a blue and pink curly mane. A cutie mark of three candies adorned her flank.

If he still had a beating heart, it would be pounding. This creature was gorgeous! Magnificent! “…Have her brought to the dining room, Sand Stone. See that she’s given a proper meal, then prepare my first subject for testing.”

Again, his assistant couldn’t hide his surprise. “Ah… w— well, yes My Lord, very well.”

Opening the cell, he motioned to the mare in question. “You heard Lord Whiteskull, let’s go.”

Her progress was halted as the Lich lifted a hoof to stop her. “What is your name?”

She blinked large crystalline blue eyes at him. “B— bon-bon… I— I won’t betray my friends!”

Tilting his head, the Lich shrugged. “I don’t care one bit about the resistance. My only interest in pursuing you folk is to keep the Queen from nagging in my ear. But it’s been sometime since my keep had a mare about. I invite you to be my guest, Miss Bon-bon.”

Her first instinct was to spit in his face… but seeing the undead ponies shuffling about, she couldn’t remain brave for long. “I… what about them?” She nodded back to the cells.

Brow raised, the Lich regarded the other prisoners. “Well they’re traitors to the crown, the sentence is execution. …however, I can promise to make their ends painless.”

Eyes watering now, as she looked to the ponies she’d grown close to over the years. One and all, they either nodded to her or made shooing motions. Lowering her eyes, she simply nodded. “I accept your invitation.”

“Wonderful! Now Sand Stone, see that she gets a proper meal, then meet me in the lab! We have miracles to perform!” Bowing, the stallion ushered Bon-bon from the prison. The Lich watched them go, feeling his spirits only rise. He was even humming as he trotted into his laboratory, giving a little yelp as he slipped in a pool of blood on the floor. “You!” He motioned angrily to one of the mindless zombies. “I thought I told you to clean the floors! Get to it!”

Moaning softly, the undead stallion retrieved a mop and set to work. Shaking his head, the Lich began to prepare his latest experiment. “Perhaps I should keep more living ponies about. One Sand Stone has been a godsend, three or four could be even better.”

Queen Chrysalis surveyed her hive with mixed emotions. On the one hoof, it had expanded exponentially in the past five years. Galaxia allowed her children to grow and annex whatever land she deemed necessary to the hive’s needs, so long as she didn’t harass any unicorns. She turned away from her drones’ busy ministrations, to the hundreds of cocoons suspended from the walls and ceilings, each bearing a pony that was being harvested for sustenance.

Quietly, she strode through the twisting tunnels and caverns to the hatchery. This was the future of not only the hive, but her entire race in general. To the best of her knowledge, she was the last changeling queen in the world, let alone Equestria. Either by her own hoof, or at the claws, talons, or fangs of others, her fellows had been whittled away until only she remained.

Her heart always sank at the sight of the hatchery. Of the dozens of eggs, only a scant few showed any signs of life. She could try to blame it on inferior males or random changes in the mana of Equestria, but she knew the simple truth.

Her people were starving.

Changelings can feed on any emotion, good or bad. Just as a large apple provided more sustenance than a grape however, pleasant emotions were far more filling than negative. Her people had been forced to scrape by on misery and woe for five years, and it was finally beginning to show. Under Galaxia’s rule, the earth pony tribe were little more than slaves; unsurprisingly enough, this lot in life was not conducive to happy, love filled hearts. Certainly, families still loved and cared for one another, but lately fewer and fewer earth ponies were bothering to wed or have foals. It was as if they had begun to give up.

She knew the answer before she asked, but even so, she asked the drone caring for the eggs the same thing every day. “Has there been any change?”

Fearing his queen’s wrath, but knowing that not answering would be worse, he shook his head. “No, Queen Chrysalis. Maybe one in twenty eggs is surviving. The rest…” He trailed off, not needing to verbalize their plight.

She wasn’t even angry anymore. Lashing out at them didn’t help her children any. “I see. Please continue your duties as best you’re able.”

He bowed as she departed. Wings flicked open as she lazily carried herself above the general hustle and bustle of her hive, toward her personal chambers. To her surprise, the royal consort was there. He was a large male who had distinguished himself as one of strength and power some time ago, when he rather valiantly repelled a minotaur invasion of the hive almost all on his own. Tall and strong, clad in the armor she had personally crafted for him. She had to admit, she found his presence comforting at times. “I didn’t send for you.”

He inclined his head. “I beg your forgiveness, my Queen. But I have chanced upon a rather… unique opportunity. I wished to bring it to your attention immediately.”

“Oh?” Now her interest was piqued. He’d been given the assignment to infiltrate the pony resistance, and report their location to her, who would then relay it to Galaxia. “About the resistance? Whiteskull has already crushed them.”

He shook his head once. “Again, I beg you forgive me, but you are incorrect. Initially they chased them deeper into the tunnels. I accompanied them myself for a time. Eventually the force—mostly undead—chased the stragglers to a massive cavern. There was… a woman there.”

Chrysalis furrowed her brow. “A woman? You mean a mare?”

“No, my Queen, a human woman. With both wings and a horn like Queen Galaxia. Only she was young. Clad in gleaming armor and wielding a mighty blade, she swept the undead away nearly effortlessly. The living soldiers she released, telling them to deliver a message to Galaxia.”

“Did you hear this message?”

He nodded once. “I did, my Queen. She told them to tell Galaxia the Order of Harmony will not let the subjugation of Equestria continue, and that her days on the throne were numbered.”

The changeling monarch settled on her haunches, eyes closed and deep in thought. “The woman, her weapon. Was it pink?”

“Ah… Yes in fact. Her armor as well. At first I dismissed her presence, as she was dressed so… ridiculously. But the way she fought, I am ashamed to admit I fled rather than face her blade myself.”

“You did well to retreat; she is a mighty foe, if it is indeed who I believe it to be. It was my understanding Galaxia had slain her, however.”

“She didn’t fight alone either, Highness. A powerful sorceress wielding an enchanted staff wove spells the likes of which I’d never seen before. A unicorn mare at her side bore twin blades, using them almost to as devastating effect as the woman’s own sword.”

Chrysalis was older than she let on. She was familiar with the Order of Harmony. She’d not been around during the height of the order’s power, but she’d been a young hatchling when it fell. Still she heard tell of its power and knew that the knights were a force to be reckoned with.

She opened her eyes, regarding her consort steadily. “Prepare to depart. You will escort me to this cavern.”

Eyes popped wide open as her consort sputtered. “M— my Queen!? You seek these warriors out willingly? I— Please do not take this the wrong way, but not even your considerable power can match them.”

Scowling now, Chrysalis rose. “I know that, fool. We’re not going to fight.” She gazed from her chambers at her massive, but struggling hive. “We go to offer an alliance.”

Her Divine Majesty, Queen Galaxia, rose from her massive bed, stretching languidly. Her wings spread wide as she yawned away the night’s drowsiness. She had barely moved to the edge of her bed before her slippers and dress robe were hovering in the air. She simply lifted her arms from her sides as her chambermaid dressed her. “Your bath is ready, my Queen.”

Galaxia spared the young unicorn mare a brief glance. She talked like a person, even behaved like one at times. But even the superior unicorn tribe were still simply animals at the end of the day. “Heated properly this time? I can’t stand a bath any less than near to boiling.”

The mare nodded. “Yes, my Queen.” She followed several steps behind as her Queen strolled to the royal bath chambers. “Would you like to go over the day’s schedule?”

Reaching her tub, she lifted her arms, not having to wait as the mare removed the robe she’d just placed upon the queen, careful to avert her eyes. Gazing upon Galaxia while she was undressed was punishable by death.

“I suppose we can, if you feel the need to do so. What was your name again?”

The pale pink mare suppressed a sigh. “Page Turner, Divine Majesty.” She’d been Galaxia’s chambermaid and primary assistant for nearly a year now.

“Ah yes, that was it. Very well Page, you may tell me the day’s schedule.”

Nodding once, she levitated a clipboard before her nose. “Delegates from Griffonia wish to discuss the proposed peace treaty over breakfast.”

“No. I never conduct business so early. Schedule it for this afternoon.”

The griffons would see it as an insult, but Page knew Galaxia wouldn’t care. “Very well. You’re scheduled to appear at the grand cathedral. The High Priestess has prepared your throne for you to oversee the evening mass.”

Now that was a duty the Queen enjoyed. Temples existed in every town and city, dedicated to praising her name. “Well of course I’ll be there promptly for that. What time?”

“Ten o’clock, Divine Majesty.”

“Ah good, good. Nothing before ten, as always. And this evening?”

“The captain of the guard has requested you refresh the spells on the Juggernaut’s armor. Apparently he’s been growing restless again, and last time it happened…”

Galaxia waved a hand dismissively. “I recall the damage he did. Very well. I’ll be sure to pay a visit to the barracks and bring the unruly beast back in line. If he wasn’t so powerful, I’d have him executed. Anything else?”

“Only the dinner with the Sheik of Saddle Arabia. A dinner you’ve postponed three days in a row now. He’s growing impatient.”

“Bah. His impatience is of no concern to me. Still, I suppose I have no other plans this evening. I’ll dine with the horse.”

Page’s ears splayed at the use of the term ‘horse’ to describe so important a pony, but she knew better than to correct the Queen. “That’s all for today, Divine Majesty. Will you be stepping out for a morning visit today?”

Galaxia abruptly rose from the tub, forcing Page to hastily look away. The unicorn used a simple drying charm, then held her Queen’s actual clothes for the day up for her. She didn’t look again until Galaxia was dressed. “Yes, I think I will. It’s been nearly a week since I saw her last. Try to keep my kingdom from falling apart for an hour, won’t you?”

“Of course. I’ll inform the griffon ambassador of the new time for the meeting in the interim. Have a pleasant morning divine majesty.”

Without sparing Page a second glance, Galaxia strode past her, and back to her bedchambers. Sealing the doors behind herself, she turned her attention to the sun just cresting the horizon. Eyes closed, she reached within herself, feeling a connection with the celestial body and willing herself up to it. When next she opened her eyes, she was standing on the roiling, blazing surface of the sun. Striding across it casually, as if she were in the Canterlot Gardens, she walked toward the small cottage that seemed to rise from the flames of the sun itself. Allowing herself a grimace at the almost obnoxiously humble dwelling her eldest had created herself, she entered without bothering to knock.

The interior was nearly identical to any home you’d find in an earth pony village. Galaxia knew it was comprised of the suns flames, but it looked like she was standing on a wooden floor. The furniture appeared to be actual cloth upholstery rather than roiling sun stuff. Her frown deepened as she beheld her eldest. The white coated mare stood taller than she did if you included the former Princess’ horn. “Celestine, why do you insist on gallivanting about as one of those animals?”

Celestia raised a brow casually, looking up from the book she’d been reading. “And good morning to you mother, a pleasure to see you as always.”

There was no sarcasm or venom in her words. An observer would think it was indeed just a pleasant exchange between mother and daughter. “Yes, yes, good morning Celestine. Can’t you wear your proper form while I’m here?”

“This is my proper form, mother. I stopped being Celestine centuries ago. You don’t use your human name I’ve noticed.”

“Names hold power, Celestine. As you well know. I’ve no intention of giving those little beasts even the slimmest chance of upsetting the order I’ve established.”

Gently, Celestia closed the book, allowing it to vanish back from wherever she’d conjured it. She strode past the human woman to her kitchen. “Tea?”

“No thank you, I can’t stay long this time. I just wanted to… check up on you. I don’t understand why you live in such mundane accommodations. Your sister crafted an entire palace for herself on the moon.”

“Yes, well, Luna was driven mad at the time. Having to seal away her own mother was a bit much for the poor dear. She was only sixteen after all.” Slowly she looked around her cottage. “I like living here, anyhow. Doesn’t it look familiar?”

Galaxia scowled faintly as she realized the cottage was indeed identical to the home she shared with her daughters in the human realm, so many years ago. She brushed aside the unpleasant thoughts and rearranged her features to an impassive mask. ”Mmm. Lucinda was always such a sensitive girl, I suppose. Still, I know it was she who whispered in your ear about conspiring against me. We should be ruling together. It brings me no joy to keep you girls prisoners like this.”

“Luna and I will never stop working to free our little ponies, mother. You know that.”

The queen snorted softly. “And where has that thinking gotten you, hm? Trapped up here where you can’t affect anything. My agents have located the rebellion, you know? By now they’ve no doubt been stamped out.”

Celestia turned her gaze out the window, looking down upon the world below. “You underestimate them, mother. Just as you always have.” Pouring a cup of tea for herself, the former Princess returned to her seat. “Have you been to see Luna yet?”

“Your sister wouldn’t allow me within her palace last time I tried to visit.”

“She took your fall very hard. She loved you dearly, mother. As did I. It’s not too late to turn away from the path you’ve chosen. You’ve done many horrible things, but you can put them right before it’s too late.”

Now Galaxia laughed. “Oh Celestine, poor deluded Celestine. Even with your pet monster, it still took the two of you and that meddling unicorn to seal me away. I’m not overly worried about being bested by a herd of uppity horses. Most of whom don’t even have proper magic. Now I believe I’ll be going. I’ve a kingdom to run.”

“Mother.” Galaxia turned to regard Celestia, a trifle surprised at the hardness in her voice. “They will stop you. And I only pray you survive when they do.”

Finding it hard to laugh off the steeliness in her daughter's’ voice, Galaxia simply frowned and willed herself away. Not to Canterlot however. She appeared on the moon before the Lunar Palace’s doors. A gentle frown found her face as she regarded the bas-relief carvings on the doors. Depicting she and her daughters’ arrival to Equestria… and her subsequent abandoning of them. No doubt both would have perished if not for the mysterious pony who protected them on their journey to Canterlot.

She gently laid a hand upon the doors, pushing them open with ease, much to her surprise. She felt the spells and wards she’d lain in place to keep Lucinda trapped still holding strong. Curiously, she entered. “Lucinda?” The interior of the palace was just as beautiful as the exterior. Of course, her youngest had always been the more fanciful and artistic. Physicians of the time were even under the impression she may have been a bit touched in the head, but Galaxia knew her daughter wasn’t simple or crazy… merely sensitive and delicate.

Walking quickly through the halls and corridors, she searched for her daughter’s chambers. The palace was organized much like Canterlot castle, and she rightly assumed Lucinda’s chambers here were in the same place as there. Pausing at the door, she knocked softly. “…Lucinda? It’s mother.” She waited a moment before entering. “Lucinda, I’m not in the mood for games. Why did you allow me inside if you plan to…” The woman trailed off at the sight of her surprisingly human, but very pale daughter lying still on her bed. Hesitantly, she moved to Luna’s side. Her skin was cold to the touch; she’d been dead for days now, it appeared. Her horn was missing entirely, though it didn’t seem to’ve been cut off.

Scowling, she whisked herself back to her palace in Equestria. A startled Page Turner looked even more pale and frightened upon seeing her Queen’s disposition. Galaxia focused on the mare. “What?”

“N— news from the… the resistance, Divine Majesty. The initial incursion was a success h— however, when the combined royal guards and Lord Whiteskull’s… creations pursued the rebels deeper within the tunnels, they were met with r— resistance.”

Galaxia’s frown deepened. “Surely they weren’t defeated. I sent five hundred guards, and who knows how many of Whiteskull’s creatures!”

“W— well everypony returned safely. Unarmed, but… alive. They were told to… to bear a message to you.” Arms folded over her chest, the woman glared down, silently bidding her to continue. “A… human like you, with both wings and horn was there. She um… she said that the…” She swallowed. “That the Order of Harmony was intending to… to dethrone you.”

Galaxia sat slowly in her throne. “Did any of those soldiers get a clear look at her?”

“Yes, Divine Majesty. She was young, barely a mare they believe. Her armor and weapon were both a gleaming pink color. She wielded her sword to devastating effect, wiping out the undead nearly effortlessly. Others fought at her side. A sorceress with a powerful staff, and a unicorn mare wielding twin scimitars.”

The Queen’s eyes narrowed dangerously. “Did they describe the unicorn?”

“Reports say she was hard to make out most of the time. Her form blurred and disappeared constantly, but she was a midnight blue hue.”

Closing her eyes, Galaxia took a deep breath. “Somehow the girl has returned, and Lucinda is with them. No doubt Discord as well.” She again looked down upon her trembling aide. “…send word to our allies. All of them. Strengthen their borders, and send a summons to the dragons. Tell them I’ve a job for them, and they will be rewarded beyond their imagination if they succeed.”

“Wh— what is the task, Divine Majesty?”

Galaxia strode to her balcony, looking off in the distance. “Raze Ponyville to the ground. None are to survive.”

Chapter 11: Battle for the Citadel of Harmony

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Chapter 11: Battle for the Citadel of Harmony

Jen, Cadence, and Shining Armor joined Trixie, Fancy Pants, Moon Dancer and Dinky Doo in the entrance hall of the Citadel. Echo and Lyra were leading Discord, Tak, and Umbra inside. “What’s going on guys?”

“There’s a whole army of undead and brainwashed ponies coming our way, Jenny! The Resistance was attacked while you guys were down here and Discord lead the survivors here!”

A frowning Jennifer looked to Discord for confirmation. He nodded. “We got everypony we could out, but… it wasn’t many. I’m sorry, Princess.” He bowed his head to Cadence.

The Crystal Princess looked aghast, racing by them to check on the survivors of her band. “I’m sure you did your best, Uncle D. What are we dealing with here exactly?”

Feeling his spirits rise a bit at the restored girl still using Jubilant’s name for him, he allowed a faint smile to appear. “Nothing too serious. Just a few hundred zombie ponies and a small detachment of Galaxia’s guards. Maybe fifty living ponies total.”

Looking from the group of ponies to the citadel wall, Jennifer blinked herself to stand atop it, gazing out at the cavern before her. Resting her forehooves on the wall, she lifted herself out, squinting to see the far side. She could make out the shadowy mass that must be the undead horde; flickering lights had to be the living ponies carrying torches behind them. She noted a frantic Cadence racing about the courtyard tending to anypony she got near that required her aide, Shining Armor doing his best to calm her down.

Blinking back down to the wall, Jen cleared her throat. “I need everypony to get into the Citadel itself! Bar the doors and keep away from the windows!”

Her friends were fighting the rush of ponies trying to press their way inside, but soon she was joined by the other newly baptized Knights of Harmony, along with Umbra, Tak, and Discord. Looking from Cadence to Umbra, Jen frowned. “How much does Galaxia know about The Resistance? Does she know the spiderkin are helping? Does she know Cadence leads it?”

Umbra shook her head. “I do not believe so. She is aware of my kin through the Lich, but so far as she knows, we have nothing to do with one another.”

Shining stepped forward. “Nopony’s seen Cadence or myself either.”

Nodding slowly, Jennifer looked over the group. “Alright. Cadence, Shining Armor, Fancy Pants, and Lyra all wait in the Citadel. I think it’s a good idea to keep the royals a secret, and Fancy and Lyra; you guys are important in Canterlot, so it might be a good idea to keep your involvement here secret. Let’s have Trixie and Discord up on the wall throwing spells, while Echo’s overhead giving support with her screams. Moon Dancer with me. Dinky, I want you to stay here and help Cadence with the wounded. Umbra, you stay behind too. If these undead are as weak as the last batch, we should have no problem with them, but I want somepony who I know can fight here to protect the Citadel in case these things sneak by us.”

Jen blinked back up to the walls, taking human shape again and staring hard across the way. She barely registered Discord appearing beside her. “I think we need to address a quick issue before you go racing off into battle.”

Brow raised, the woman looked down at the stallion… who jabbed her in the stomach with a forehoof. A look of confusion crossed her face as a queasy feeling welled up from her belly. Retching loudly, she gagged and hacked up… the glowing jewel half she used to have attached to Mercy’s hilt. It hit the ground with a soft clink. She turned a baleful glare on her uncle. “There wasn’t any other way to get that out of me?”

Shrugging innocently, he levitated the jewel into her hands, and she wasted no time fastening it to her hilt again. “That was the most fun. And Jennifer… be careful. I doubt they’ll be able to get through your armor, but still... the old knights died just the same. Best not to take any chances out there.”

Offering him a quick smile, she squeezed his shoulder firmly. “I’ll be fine, Uncle D. I’ve got you guys up here watching my back. Echo and Moon Dancer will be down there with me too.”

“I know, I know. You’re a big pony now. I just... well, you know…”

Jen was grinning teasingly. “Is Discord, the Spirit of Chaos and Master of Disaster, worried about little old me? I am flattered!”

With a snort, he gave her a magical nudge, sending her over the edge of the wall. Wings flapping wildly to soften her impact, she hit the ground with a grunt, glaring up at him. He only gave a jaunty wave and a toothy grin, nodding toward the oncoming undead horde. Standing, she brushed herself off and summoned her armor.

Moon Dancer was galloping her way as the Citadel doors boomed shut behind her. Echo soared over the wall as Trixie took her place beside Discord. The former Princess of the night trotted to Jennifer’s side, summoning her own armor and drawing her twin blades with her magic. “This is your first battle since returning, Jennifer. Are you prepared?”

Letting out a long breath, Jen looked to the shambling mass slowly crossing the chasm toward the Citadel’s waiting defenders. “I suppose I have to be. It’s what you brought me back for, right? To fight.” She allowed a faint frown to form.

Moon Dancer didn’t miss the change in her tone. “That is not the only reason your friends sought your resurrection. The fighting will be over soon enough, and you will return to your quiet life in Ponyville.”

Jennifer didn’t look like she entirely believed the mare, but she didn’t comment. “Well. No sense standing here waiting for them to come to us right? Let’s get to work!” Blade shining bright, she leapt into the air. With a few flaps of her wings, she carried herself to the center of the span, landing and holding her sword up high.

‘Will thou summon me right away or would thou prefer to save thy mana?’

‘I’ll save my mana for now Heart. I’ll call if I need you, don’t worry.’

Moon Dancer was hot on her heels, rushing past Jennifer with Night Singer held before her. Her horn shimmered as she cloaked herself in invisibility, going to work. The only mark of her passing was the occasional skeleton or zombie being sliced to pieces. Echo flashed overhead, unleashing her sonic screams down into the undead horde. She easily twisted in the air avoiding the clumsy spears thrown by the shambling mass.

Wrinkling her nose, Jen batted aside an errant spear and waded into the melee herself. Setting Mercy’s blade to work with her magic, she swung her shield, bashing heads and skulls with it while she pounded away with her empty gauntleted fist to equal effect. Her swordwork required no finesse to dispatch the mindless shambling monsters. While they may be a threat to the unarmored earth ponies of The Resistance, the heavily armored, magic wielding knights were another story.

A sudden flare of light overhead caused the young woman to leap backwards, using her wings to propel herself away quicker. Arcs of bright pink lightning formed in the air, crackling down to the ground and digging deep furrows in the stone as it blasted the undead in its path to dust. Jen craned her head back to regard an equally surprised looking Trixie holding her staff, Spell Nexus, out away from herself with a look of increasing respect.

Allowing herself a small chuckle at the mare’s amazement, Jennifer turned back to the waiting monsters. Setting Mercy into a rapid spin, she nudged the whirling blade through the throng, sending putrefied flesh and clacking bones flying in all directions. She could detect a faint shimmer in the air to her right that she correctly guessed to be Moon Dancer, and kept her weapon far from that area.

Smashing her way through them like a freight train, Jen soon found herself on the other side of the cavern, facing the astounded living ponies of Galaxia’s guard. Without taking her eyes from them, she held her free hand out to the side, calling her blade to it. She could see several of the guard gulp and break out in a sweat as they stared at her. Straightening up, she flared her wings to their full span at her sides.

“I am Jubilant Surprise Pie, Commander of the Order of Harmony! I offer you all a chance to lay down your arms and join us in the fight against Galaxia’s tyranny! Her time is coming, and anypony willing to fight with us will be forgiven for their crimes against Equestria!”

‘Very well said, Jennifer.’

‘Well thank you, Bleeding Heart. I thought so too.’

The occasional undead would shamble Jen’s way, but she’d swat it aside without looking away from the living ponies. After a short time conversing, a representative stepped forward. An armored stallion with gold filigree denoting him some sort of officer, most likely. “You and your Resistance are traitors to the crown, miss! We order you to stand down and surrender yourself to the mercy of the crown!”

Jen glanced over her shoulder, seeing the undead threat being easily squashed by Moon Dancer, Echo, and Trixie, she sighed, focusing on the living ponies. “Right then. Hard way it is.”

Lifting her blade, she charged it with her magic, swinging horizontally and releasing a wave of dazzling green. The ponies of Galaxia’s army scrambled to get out of the way, but it only grew larger and larger, overtaking the lot in one fell swoop and sending them tumbling head over hooves to land on their flanks or slam against the back wall of the cavern. Flicking her head to the right, she sent a light wave of levitation magic washing across the ground, sending most of their weapons over the side of the chasm. The few still armed took one look at the stern woman glaring at them and turned tail straight away, bolting from the cavern.

With a firm nod, Jennifer made her way back to help her friends clean up the monstrosities. Moon Dancer shimmered into view at her side, panting lightly. “Well done, Jennifer. You sent them running with no casualties. They cannot help but obey Galaxia. She conditions them well with her magic.”

Batting aside a skeleton, Jen frowned down at Moon Dancer. “If Discord can free ponies from her spell why haven’t you just freed everypony?”

The mare dispatched a pair herself. “Releasing a pony here and there will go unnoticed, but if Discord begins unraveling the spell en masse, then Galaxia will be able to home in on his exact position. If that happens, we would be unable to fight her off.”

Blowing out a heavy breath, Jen’s shoulders sagged. “How are we going to beat her?”

“I am afraid I do not know. In the past Celestia, Discord, Starswirl and myself cast a spell that made everypony forget her name. This drained her of nearly all her power and we sealed her away. She has taken steps to protect against that happening again.”

Seeing the threat ended, Jen sheathed her sword. “Well for now, let’s concentrate on weakening her power base, I suppose; rallying outlying earth pony towns. Freeing the Crystal Empire should be a priority too. I’m hearing some scary things from Cadence.”

“I do not disagree. Let us return to the Citadel and…” Moon Dancer trailed off, focusing on an increasingly bright red glow forming at the center of the cavern. Eldritch wind began to whip up from nowhere, blowing the remains of the undead into a swirling whirlwind of bone and flesh.

Squinting her eyes from within her helm, Jen could make out a pallid pony’s face taking shape within the storm. It fixed glowing red eyes on her. “Well, well… look at this. You somehow survived Galaxia’s curse? Bravo, young lady, Bravo. I am impressed.”

Mercy was in her hand again in a flash. “Lich! Show yourself!”

“I think I’ll turn down your generous invitation. ‘Commander’. The power of The Order is not unknown to me, and I’d much rather prefer to be as far as possible from any of those blades of yours, thank you. Instead, I thought I’d test a new idea of mine on you lot; see how it measures up to the famed knights of harmony. Good luck! If you don’t die, I’ll be excited to try something new.”

The storm was churning faster and faster now, the flying body parts being pulled closer to the eye of the storm. A fearful looking Echo landed beside Jennifer and Moon Dancer. “What is it!?”

Jen could only shake her head, staring open mouthed as the flesh and bone began to merge together. Heaving and surging larger and larger, a shape was beginning to form. Nearly twice the size of the cerberus she slew years ago, this undead abomination had no legs. Its torso melted into a large blob of undulating flesh, which it used to slither about on the ground. Two writhing, spindly arms grew from its shoulders. A gaping maw that dominated the bulk of its body yawned open, revealing broken shards of jagged bone for teeth as it loosed an ear splitting roar.

The trio scattered as the creature whipped an arm over its head, slamming it down unnaturally fast and cracking the stone. Jen and Echo took to the air, the latter darting around to the other side of the thing. Moon Dancer frantically galloped away from the scrabbling bone claws on the end of the monster’s arm. Seeing the beleaguered mare barely keeping ahead of the reaching hand, Jen folded her wings and dove, slicing the hand off cleanly at the wrist. She came to a skidding stop on the ground turning to face the monster.

The turn saved her life. The severed hand suddenly twitched to life, lashing with dozens of razor thin tentacles at the spot she’d occupied seconds ago. With a startled yelp, she kicked off the ground, taking to the air once more as the tentacles whipped and writhed just beneath her feet. Jennifer watched grimly as the hand reattached itself to the arm, seeming to have no damage done whatsoever.

Echo darted to and fro overhead, dodging the occasional tendril of goopy flesh that would whip upward from the monster trying to swat her from the air. She’d occasionally loose one of her screams into the beast, but its fleshed dimpled inward and sprang out like a giant jelly, evidently unbothered by her sonic attacks.

Trixie and Discord fared little better with their magical attacks. Bolts of pure energy were absorbed smoothly into the things body. “What do we do!? Nothing seems to be hurting it!”

Discord scowled down at the scene. He was wishing for the times when a snap of his fingers would turn something like this into a giant pudding cup. “It’s just dead flesh, right? We could rot it away to the bone with an aging spell!”

The sorceress’ eyebrows shot up. “An aging spell!? I can’t cast one of those!”

Rolling his eyes, Discord nodded to the staff gripped in her magic hovering over her shoulder. She cast a sheepish look at it and sighed. “Right, right. I’ll do my best. I don’t know if I can affect something so big though.”

“Good point. Aim for the arms. It’ll make things easier on the fighters down there if we can take those out.”

“Right!” Tugging her hat down tighter over her head, Trixie focused inward on her magic. She knew the age spell of course, but had never had the raw power to cast it before. Now it seemed almost easy. Like when she’d worn the alicorn amulet, only without the corruption along with the power. Smiling confidently, she felt her connection with her staff strengthen as she leaned upon it to cast the spell. Her aura raced out toward the monster, focusing around its whipping arms. She released a whoop of delight as the flesh rapidly shriveled and decayed, flaking away and revealing the brittle bone beneath.

Her delight was short lived as it rounded on her, fixing her with its balefully glowing eyes. Its maw gaped wide as it belched forth a wave of noxious green fumes. The unicorn duo on the wall erected a hasty magical bubble around them, but the fumes weren’t stopping with them. They were rushing toward the citadel keep, and the unprotected ponies inside.

“I’m on it! You stay here and try to help them!” Discord vanished with a flash, reappearing at the keep doors. The ponies within were startled, but he wasted no time with words, throwing a barrier around as much of the keep as he could.

Shining Armor charged to his side, not asking what was going on, simply adding his magic to Discord’s and stretching the magical bubble around the whole of the keep. “Things not going well out there then?”

Grimly, Discord shook his head. “Nothing they can’t handle. I hope.”

Having a better target than blobby flesh to aim at now, Echo streaked in, screeching along the creature’s arms. Small cracks raced along the bone, growing thicker and thicker, before the arms finally shattered to pieces. Giving a quick victory twirl in the air, Echo didn’t see the newly manifested tendril snap out from the creatures’ chest. It splattered against her barrel with bone breaking force, vaulting her into the ceiling where she was pinned in a cocoon of necrotized flesh.

“Echo!” Jennifer’s first instinct was to fly up and check on her fillyfriend immediately, but she knew her focus had to be on the battle first. Fighting back the urge to rush upward, she charged her blade again, unleashing a surge of magic into the fleshy beast. It actually seemed to tear at the flesh momentarily before it sealed over again. Giving another burbling roar, it lifted a tendril, slapping a surprised Jennifer in the back and hammering her into the ground.

Moon Dancer was leaping and twisting nimbly to avoid all the slapping tendrils of gooey flesh, slicing with either blade of Night Singer when she was able, but it seemed futile. Her invisibility spells didn’t seem to confuse it at all either. She winced, seeing Jen slapped down into the ground. When the thing lifted the flesh it’d struck her with, it left a sizeable piece behind, keeping her tethered to the ground. She struggled weakly to break free, but was clearly trapped solidly.

‘Trixie’s age spell seemed to slow the beast but in my diminished state I am unable to wield such spells.’ The former Princess frowned and shifted her gaze to the wall. Trixie was trapped inside her own magical bubble. The noxious fumes belched by the beast were eating away at the stone; she shuddered to think what it would do to a pony’s flesh. Gritting her teeth, she focused on her blades, resuming her work.

“Bon-bon!? Has anypony seen an earth pony mare named Bon-bon!? Cream coat; cutie mark of three candies!?” Lyra was rushing from group to group of the survivors in the Citadel. She felt her spirits sink lower and lower as her beloved was nowhere to be found amongst them.

“Miss Heartstrings isn’t it?”

Lyra whipped around at the voice. It was an earth pony mare, heavily bandaged with one eye covered… probably missing. “Y— yes ma’am. Did you see my Bonnie?”

“I’m so sorry miss. She was one of the last to fall in the attack. She was very brave. Got quite a few of us out, but the tunnel collapsed on her. There’s just no way she… that she survived.”

Lyra felt her heart drop all the way into her hooves. “O— oh. Well… thank you. I should… I should go find my friends. Help out you know? Knightly duties and all that.”

“Of course. If you want to talk more, I’ll be here.”

By then, Lyra wasn’t listening anymore. The whole world felt… numb. Dark and gray. Just moments ago she’d become one with harmony apparently, and everything felt bright and vibrant, but now... without her Bon-bon to welcome her home, what was the point of it all? She wanted to make the world a happy place again for her.

She saw Discord and Shining Armor at the door, making some kind of magical shield. “What’s going on?”

“Some kind of giant undead monster out there. Jen and the rest are out there fighting it off. It spit out some poison gas, so we’re keeping it away from the keep.”

Lyra was only half-listening to Discord as he spoke. She tightened her jaw, staring out the window. She could see the rampaging beast swinging around its big tentacles. She winced, seeing Echo slapped into the ceiling. Her eyes flicked to Hymn at her side. With a sigh, she drew the blade, focusing her magic through the rapier. She felt a shield stronger than one she’d ever conjured form around herself. Without a word to the others, she burst out the doors, racing for the sight of the battle.

She passed under Trixie up on the wall, shielding herself. She shouted something as Lyra passed by her, but the musician didn’t hear. Crossing through the citadel’s outer wall, she arrived in time to see Jennifer smashed to the ground. Moon Dancer was cutting at the thing to little effect. Sword and spell seemed equally useless.

It was then she recalled the old story of how Sunshine calmed the dragons. With a little shrug, she levitated her lyre from the saddlebag on her side. Slowly at first, but with more confidence she began to play the lines to the song she’d planned to perform for Bon-bon on their wedding day. Long before all this insanity with Queen Galaxia began.

At first, her efforts had little effect. The monster didn’t seem to notice at all. Then she began to amplify the music with Hymn’s assistance. Now the creature turned its head to regard her. Its constantly thrashing tendrils slowed and calmed as it began to slither toward her slowly. Shifting her gaze back and forth, she started to walk backwards, the monster following her unerringly. Closing her eyes, she turned out the sounds it was making, focusing instead on her music.

Moon Dancer sidled around the beast toward Jennifer, slicing her free of her bindings. With a groan, she began to pull herself free. “Whass goin’ on?”

The unicorn nodded toward Lyra. “Your friend the lyre player seems to have saved our lives. Can you free Echo?”

Worriedly looking toward the slowly backing away Lyra, Jen nodded, flapping hard and carrying herself up to Echo. Drawing her sword, she cut the night pony free of her bindings, catching her prone form as she fell. She was breathing, but shallowly. “It’ll be okay Echo; I’ll get you inside and fix you up.”

Holding Echo in her arms, Jen landed beside Moon Dancer. “Where is she going? There’s nothing over there!” Realization dawned on the woman as Lyra continued to walk to the edge of the chasm. Sucking in her breath, she laid Echo on the ground and broke into a run.

Lyra saw Jen get up, and get Echo down. That brought a ghost of a smile to her face. That was good. At least her friends were alright. Even if her Bonnie wasn’t. She was going to see her soon anyway. She could feel the edge of the chasm on her back hooves now. Jennifer was running for her, but she wasn’t fast enough. With one last deep breath, Lyra leapt backwards over the edge of the chasm, playing as she fell. The monster mindlessly followed, tipping right over the edge.

Jen watched, horrified, as Lyra lead the undead abomination over the edge of the seemingly bottomless chasm. She didn’t hesitate in leaping over the side after her. “Lyra!” She could see the glow from Lyra’s magic as she continued to play while she fell, but it was faint. Hidden by the beast’s bulk. Gritting her teeth, she tucked her wings in and dove toward the falling unicorn. Dipping under the undulating monster, she could actually see Lyra. “I’ve got you!”

Harder and harder she beat her wings, drawing closer to the mare. Lyra was even reaching out toward her now. Hand outstretched, she could just barely touch the tip of Lyra’s hoof. Jen’s eyes popped wide open as the monster lurched to life behind her, snapping a tendril around her middle and flinging her out to the side. She spun through the air away from the plummeting pair, slamming hard into the wall and smacking the back of her head against it, dazing herself. She hovered shakily, trying to focus, but by the time her vision had cleared enough to see, she’d lost sight of Lyra.

“No! No, no I’m not losing one of my friends!”

Up above, the fumes were clearing, and Shining Armor joined Moon Dancer and Trixie at the edge of the chasm, looking down with Umbra and Tak close behind. The eldest pony gazed down sadly. “Umbra, please retrieve Jennifer.”

The young alicorn glanced to Moon Dancer and nodded, inching to the edge and leaping off. Her ebon wings flared open as she glided down in lazy circles. She found a bloodied and disoriented Jennifer flying erratically back and forth, making an awkward descent. “Jennifer, it is time to return to the others.”

Stubbornly, the woman shook her head. “Lyra needs me, Umbra. She… she fell!” Her words were slurred. Judging by the blood running freely from her helm, she suffered a severe head blow.

Regarding her sadly, Umbra changed tactics. “Lyra is fine. She awaits us above, Jennifer. Come, she and Echo are both in need of your aid.”

She could see the confusion in the woman’s eyes as she met her own. “I… she is? Are you sure? I— I thought she fell… I…” She wobbled in the air. “…I don’t feel so good, Umbra.”

Nodding once, the alicorn surrounded Jennifer in her crimson aura of magic. “Relax yourself. I will carry us back up. You have done well.”

Jen relaxed, allowing Umbra to carry her back to the others. “She has sustained a serious head wound and needs immediate attention.”

Echo was already on Shining Armor’s back. “Right. Let’s get them inside. Cadence will see to them as soon as she can. It’s nothing life threatening, I think.”

Nodding, the group made their way back into the keep. Moon Dancer regarded Jennifer sadly. A look Shining Armor didn’t miss. “Losing somepony under your command is never easy. She’s going to have to get used to it.”

“Still. Lyra was the first friend she made in Equestria. To have her be her first loss…”

“War isn’t fair, Princess. There are going to be many more losses before this is all over.”

Shining and Umbra got Jennifer and Echo to beds up in the citadel’s private chambers upstairs. Moon Dancer cast one last look at the slumbering duo before shutting the doors and following the others downstairs.

Jen woke to gentle hooves probing her head. She blinked awake fully, lifting her head. She’d reverted to pony form in her sleep apparently. Cadence was standing over her, changing a bandage on her head. “I’m sorry, did I wake you?”

Giving a shrug, Jen shifted her gaze to Echo. “S’ok. How’s Echo?”

“She’s fine. Night ponies are pretty tough, you know? Some bad bruises, but nothing broken. It’s you I’m worried about. Cracked your head wide open you know? I used what healing spells I had left, but I’m running on empty after seeing to everypony down below.”

Nodding slowly, the young mare settled back down. “I didn’t catch her.”

Cadence said nothing for several moments, moving to Echo’s side and checking her bandages. “I know.”

“I was… so close. I could feel her. I… why didn’t I use my magic? I’m so stupid!”

“Hey… hey. You can’t think like that. It was the heat of the moment. If you’d tried to use your magic without proper focus, you would have crushed her. Lyra gave her life to save everypony. Honor her memory and continue on. It’s all we can do.”

Jen let her head fall back against the pillows again. “…have you lost many ponies? In The Resistance?”

Gently, the Crystal Princess nodded. “I have. Missions go wrong from time to time. We’ve had to change hideouts several times until we settled on the last one. You’ve been asleep for an entire day, Jennifer. Now that you’re awake and recovering, it’s time to get a move on. We need to finish this. Equestria needs us. Even with the losses, having close to a dozen ponies near our strength should be enough to take back the Empire. From there, we’ll move on to Canterlot.”

Slowly, the young alicorn was shaking her head, but Cadence rested a hoof on her shoulder. “Lyra’s death was a tragedy, one we’ll properly mourn when we can. For now, we have to push onward. She wouldn’t want us to just give up. She gave her life for you. For all of us. Let’s make her death mean something.”

Jennifer closed her eyes, taking a deep breath. Slowly, she exhaled and opened her soft blue orbs, determination once more lit in them. “Right. Gather everypony to the planning room. We’ve got an Empire to save.”

“Actually.” A new voice sounded from the door, causing both mares to turn toward it. It was a tall, leggy unicorn that neither had ever seen before. She stepped into the room, nudging the door shut behind herself. Her horn lit with an acrid green light as flames raced across her body, burning away the velvety grey coat and revealing shiny chitin beneath. Wings flickering lazily, Queen Chrysalis regarded the two alarmed mares with mild amusement. “You have more pressing matters than the Crystal Empire.”

Chapter 12: Ponyville Aflame, Part 1

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Chapter 12: Ponyville Aflame, Part 1

Cadence stood between the recovering ponies and the changeling Queen, wings flared protectively. “Chrysalis! You have a lot of nerve to show your face here! How many of you have infiltrated the resistance!?”

Queen Chrysalis regarded the furious Princess casually. “Just one. But I pulled him out when ‘Jubilant Surprise’ there made her big return. I wanted to speak with you personally.”

Jen frowned, realizing the Queen was addressing her. With a grimace, she got to her hooves, moving to Cadence’s side. “It’s alright Cadence. Look at her. She looks terrible.”

The Crystal Princess didn’t relax her guard, but she did regard the changeling more closely. Chrysalis gave an indignant scoff. “You’re very rude, Commander. Especially since the last time we met, you melted half my face.” She said ‘commander’ with no small amount of sarcasm.

Frowning still, Jen shook her head. “You melted half my face first. And I don’t mean it like that. Your carapace is dull, your eyes filmy, and I can see ribs poking out. I remember feeding on the fear of the crystal ponies to fight off the undead when we first met. It took a lot of fear for me to feel full. Your people are starving, aren’t they?”

Cadence was looking from the pony at her side to the changeling Queen with increasing concern. The ghost of a smile found Chrysalis’ muzzle. “You’re very perceptive. Yes, my people won’t last another year if things continue the way they have been in Equestria. We can sustain ourselves on negative emotion for only so long before it loses nutritional value. And happy emotions are few and far between nowadays, save her precious unicorns, which Galaxia has forbidden us to touch.”

Shaking her head with a fierce scowl, Cadence took a step forward, her horn flaring to life. “We don’t want to hear anything you have to say, Chrysalis! You’re a liar and a sneak! You’ll stab us in the back the first chance you get!”

Chrysalis was backing away from Cadence as the Princess advanced angrily, horn glowing brightly. The changeling Queen had her head craned as far from the offending horn as possible. “Eheh… Yes, well I thought that’s how you’d react, Princess. It’s why I’m here to speak with your Commander, not you. She is your Commander, isn’t she? You’re a Knight of Harmony, are you not?”

Nostrils flaring, Cadence flicked her gaze back to a quietly watching Jennifer. “I am and she is! But she doesn’t know you like I do! And we don’t want you here!”

The young Commander in question cleared her throat softly. “Cadence, please gather the other knights in the meeting room. Tak and Umbra too. I’d like to discuss this with everypony.” She spoke quietly and calmly, never taking her eyes from Chrysalis.

Eyes wide, Cadence rounded on the young alicorn. “Jennifer, you can’t be serious! She’s the Queen of the changelings! She helped kill you!”

Now Jen shifted her gaze to Cadence. “Am I in charge or not? If you want to be Commander, just say so. I’m more than happy to pass the title off on anypony else. But if not, then at the very least I’d like my decisions to not be met with screaming.”

Cadence worked her mouth open and closed, her wings flaring at her sides with the movement. Finally, she inclined her head sharply. “I’ll round everypony up, Commander. Don’t take your eyes off of her.”

“Thank you, Cadence. I didn’t plan to.” Jen remained where she’d been sitting, watching Cadence leave the room. Once the door was closed, she looked back to the changeling. “Would you like something to eat?”

Chrysalis blinked. “That’s a kind offer, but I don’t exactly fill up on fruit and veggies.”

“I wasn’t talking about fruit and veggies. You look more than half-starved. I can muster up something more filling than misery and woe for you before we go speak to the others.”

Eye narrowed, Chrysalis tilted her head, regarding Jennifer curiously. “You’d really let me feed? On actually nourishing emotion?”

“As long as you don’t suck me dry, sure. I think you’re honest in your offer to help. I know you don’t care about the ponies of Equestria any further than what they can do for you, but that’s still caring enough that our goals are aligned.”

The Queen chuckled softly now, approaching at Jen’s behest. “You’re very pragmatic for a pony Princess.”

“I’m not a Princess. And I’m not all pony, as you well know. We need all the able bodies we can get if we’re going to get Celestia back on the throne. I think your hive can provide more than a little much needed help. Not just for fighting, but information as well. You’ve been a part of Galaxia’s infrastructure for years.”

“Very true. You save my people, I save your people. A very fair deal, I think.” Chrysalis could feel the love welling in the pony sitting before her. It was a sensation she hadn’t experienced in a very long time, and it was very nearly causing her to drool. Still, she controlled herself. Reaching out, she just barely touched her horn to Jen’s cheek, feeding from the immense wellspring of love within the mare.

Jen’s gaze didn’t falter as Chrysalis fed from her. She could see the Queen’s chitin grow glossy and strong again. Her mane filled out once more, and her eyes shone with strength again. She stood straighter when she finally broke the connection. “Feeling better?”

“Mmm, much. Better than I have in years, in fact. I don’t suppose you’d be willing to visit the hive? We could make you very comfortable.”

Jennifer chuckled now and stood. She was nearly the Queen’s height, only a bit shorter than her now. “We’ll see what the others have to say. If they agree, we’ll work something out to get your people back on their hooves. I’m all for this, but I won’t make a move if my friends are against it.”

Chrysalis followed the Commander from the room and into the hallway. “A very generous opinion to have with your subordinates.”

Not looking back, Jen frowned faintly. “They’re my friends, not my underlings. Just because I have a title doesn’t mean things are going to change.”

“No? They already have changed. Did you order Princess Cadence about before you received your title? I very much doubt it. Whether you want them to or not, no one will look at you the same. Treat you the same. When you’re in a position of power, there’s always a degree of… isolation that comes with it.”

Jen’s frown deepened. She wanted to contradict her, but she couldn’t help but think of Princess Luna. She was so lonely she ended up going crazy and turning evil, even though she was as nice and big-hearted as anypony else. Was that going to happen to her? Would everypony really start to distance themselves and treat her differently? She didn’t speak again until they’d reached the meeting room.

She could tell by the looks on many of their faces that Cadence had already announced what they were gathering for. Tak and Shining Armor both looked ready to attack the second the Queen stepped into the room. Umbra laid a wing over her stallion’s back to calm him. Cadence took no such precautions with her husband.

“I didn’t want to believe Cadence when she said you were allowing that thing to speak to the rest of us! She could already have you under her spell!” The Crystal Prince’s horn was already glowing hotly.

With a snort, Jen slammed the doors shut behind her with a resounding boom. “I don’t want to have the same conversation with you that I just had with Cadence. I’m the Commander of Harmony until somepony else volunteers to take the title. Until then, at the very least, I expect a little bit of respect. Queen Chrysalis is here offering some much needed help. Our forces consist of about sixty wounded ponies, and however many of Umbra’s people her sister is willing to commit. Is it enough to wage a war on the Crystal Empire and Canterlot, Umbra?”

The mare in question shuffled when all eyes turned to look upon her. “I do not believe so, no. Queen Neela is willing to commit three hundred warriors to our cause, but if she spared more, she would open the web to attack from the many dangers lurking in the tunnels. It is a considerably force, do not doubt, but I do not believe it to be enough.”

Tak broke away from Umbra, rushing toward Chrysalis, his face twisted in fury. “She killed my mother! She killed half a dozen other Queens and ruined my people’s chance for peace!” His charge was halted by his mares both snaring him with their magic. Umbra’s red mingled with Trixie’s pink as they drug him back to the seat between them.

“She also planned and led the attack on Canterlot that claimed six ponies’ lives and injured who knows how many others. She attacked Princess Celestia herself! Imprisoned and impersonated me, and nearly killed Shining Armor feeding off him!” Cadence wasn’t rushing at Chrysalis as Tak had, but she looked ready to.

Jen’s eyes were darting from Tak, to Shining Armor, to Cadence, to the still silent Chrysalis. She could feel herself rapidly losing control of the situation. Fancy Pants noted her increasing distress and cleared his throat. “It occurs to me that we have the other half of Canterlot’s ruling body in attendance at this very moment. I believe we should hear what our former Princess has to say.”

Moon Dancer stiffened, giving Fancy a decidedly unfriendly look at being thrust into the spotlight so suddenly. “Queen Chrysalis is a war criminal who committed high treason when she attacked my sister. She was part of the coup that placed my mother in power and shares responsibility for every death that has been wrought under her rule.”

As she spoke, those speaking against the Queen’s presence began to grin. “That being said… Jennifer is not mistaken that our situation is desperate. We need all the help we can get, and if she is here—alone—then she must be just as desperate as we are. It’s safe to assume that the changelings are in danger of starving to death if Galaxia remains in control of Equestria for much longer. It is my opinion that we accept her offer of aid.”

The second she finished, Tak, Shining, and Cadence all began shouting at once. Each trying to be heard over the other. Moon Dancer met Jennifer’s gaze and cocked a brow, tilting her head only slightly toward the shouters. Jen got her meaning well enough. With a deep breath, she summoned her magic and sent a bright green flash to dazzle everypony in the room. “That’s enough!” When they’d all quieted, she settled back in her seat. “…that’s enough. I agree with Moon Dancer. We need Chrysalis and her changelings if we want a chance to win this war. That being said!” She raised a hoof as the others started to draw in breath no doubt to shout again. “I don’t suggest we just ignore her crimes. Obviously the things she’s done are pretty serious and need to be addressed. If she agrees to lay herself at Princess Celestia’s mercy when she’s back on the throne, I think we can work together.”

The others didn’t seem especially pleased by this, but it wasn’t the worst compromise. Chrysalis finally spoke up. “I suppose those aren’t the worst terms I’ve ever heard. I accept on the condition that whatever happens to me, my children’s needs are seen to. I’m asking you personally to pledge this, Commander Jubilant Surprise. I want your word that if I’m executed, you’ll ensure my children are taken care of.”

Jen blinked, and her eyes darted back and forth, mostly toward Tak. She knew he was a changeling Prince, and he might be able to help if she was indeed suddenly put in charge of an entire hive of his people. “I uh… I can promise to do my best to see that they’re taken care of. You have my word.”

“Well that’ll have to do. I suppose since we’re all good friends now, I should tell you Galaxia’s sent a wing of dragons to burn Ponyville to the ground. She heard you stood up to her soldiers here, and thought burning down your hometown a proper response. She’s a bit extreme for my tastes, to be honest.”

Jen was on her hooves in a flash, followed closely by every other pony in the room. “What!? Why didn’t you tell me sooner!?”

Chrysalis shrugged innocently. “I wanted a little leverage in case I needed to get out of here in a hurry. You can hardly blame me.”

Jennifer looked like she wanted to do just that, but she had more pressing concerns. “Trixie! Can you work Starswirl’s big teleport spell?”

The sorceress blinked at the sudden question. “I… Yes, I believe I can. I’ll need room to draw the diagrams, and a few moments to get them in place.”

“Then go. Get it done quick. Big enough for me, Uncle D, Moon Dancer, and yourself. Echo’s still recovering, or I’d bring her too.” She looked to the others. “Cadence, I want you, Shining Armor, and Dinky to stay here. Keep helping the survivors and get everypony on their hooves as quick as you can. Dinky, I want you and Fancy Pants to sit down with Queen Chrysalis and get any information down that she has to give. Tak, if you can control yourself, I’d appreciate it if you stayed with her and made sure the Queen here doesn’t try anything funny.”

Nopony argued with their orders, and each rushed off to their assigned tasks without complaint. Fancy Pants moved to Jen’s side. “I know this isn’t the best time, but we missed the call to Rarity yesterday. If you could spare just a moment?”

Taking a deep breath, Jen looked toward the departing Trixie. “She’s going to need time to get the spell ready, so we have a few moments. I’ll have to—I don’t know—sit away from the mirror so she doesn’t see me. She might notice I’m an adult all of a sudden.”

The pair cast a brief glance toward Dinky sitting with Chrysalis, a less than happy looking Tak hovering nearby before departing. Jen walked Fancy back to the room she’d been recovering with Echo in. “Go ahead and call her up. I’ll sit just over here.”

With a nod, Fancy arranged the scrying mirror, sending the summons. It was answered by a scowling Rarity. “You didn’t contact me yesterday! Is everything alright!?”

Holding his forehooves up defensively, Fancy offered a faint smile. “Fine, just fine, dearest. We got a little caught up in a soiree thrown by the lovely Miss Applejack. You remember her, I trust?”

Slowly Rarity’s scowl eased into a frown. “I do. Where’s Jubilant? Is she alright?”

“She’s taking a bit of a nap. She wore herself out running about with a lovely young buffalo calf she met last night.” Hastily, Jennifer squirmed under the covers in bed, tucking herself into the tightest ball she could. Fancy tilted the mirror to show a bit of her pink mane peeking out. “See? Just fine.”

Rarity finally relaxed. “Well alright. You worried me terribly! And all this nonsense in Canterlot. Martial law! Can you believe it!? Well, I was having none of that. I snuck out! First train to Ponyville!” She giggled playfully, somewhat confused when her husband didn’t seem to share her mirth.

“Ponyville? You’re on your way to Ponyville right now?”

“Well… well, yes I am. I thought I’d spend some time with Pinkie Pie. We got on rather well last time, and I hoped some time just the two of us would help us bond a bit more. I wanted to talk to her about Jubilant without the little dear there to overhear. What’s the problem?”

Fancy was breathing quicker now. “Rarity, whatever you do, do not get off that train in Ponyville! Just stay on the train, ride it wherever it goes! You can’t go into town!”

Huffing softly, the mare rolled her eyes. “Oh you’re being ridiculous, Fancy. We’re stopping even as we speak.” She frowned faintly, tilting her head. “Oh my. There seems to be some sort of commotion outside. Give me just a moment to see what’s what. I’ll call you soon, Fancy! Give Jubilant my love!”

“Rarity! No Rarity don’t…” He trailed off as she broke the connection. He looked wide-eyed at Jennifer as she rose from the bed. “I’m coming with you. No arguments.”

She nodded once. “Of course. Get whatever you need to get, and meet me down in the courtyard. I’ll see you there.” The stallion raced off without another word. Frowning slightly, she looked to the still slumbering Echo. With a sigh, she kissed her forehead softly. “I’ll see you soon. Wish you were going with us.”

Securing Mercy on her foreleg, Jen raced down to the courtyard. Trixie looked to be about done with the diagrams. Moon Dancer and Discord were already waiting. Umbra approached Jennifer as she neared the circles. “I wish to accompany you as well. You are entering a potentially dangerous situation, and need as many able warriors at your side as possible.”

Smiling softly, Jen rested a hoof against Umbra’s shoulder. “Thanks. I didn’t want to order you around. I know you’re not a knight or anything. I’d feel better having you there though, you pack a wallop.” Glancing at the mare’s flanks, specifically the pair of glossy black morning stars, she grinned wider. “Probably more of a wallop with those. They’re fancy.”

Glancing at her weapons, Umbra nodded in acknowledgement of the complement. “Fashioned of the same material my armor is made from. Spinner made them for me when he replaced the last suit of armor I ah… lost.”

Wincing a bit at the memory of destroying the last suit of armor Umbra wore with the mare inside, she offered a wan smile. “R— right. Well hopefully this one doesn’t get smashed to bits. I’m gonna see how Trixie’s doing with the spell.”

Moving to the sorceress’ side, she was rewarded with a satisfied smirk from her. “The great and powerful Trixie has finished the spell matrix! …she thinks. The great and powerful Trixie is like, ninety-nine percent sure it will take us to Ponyville and not scramble our parts along the way.”

Unable to contain a smile at the mare’s antics, Jen’s grin returned. “I have faith in you Trixie. …well I have faith in your staff giving you enough of a magical jump to get the spell right.” Ignoring Trixie’s indignant huff, Jen moved to Discord’s side. “Does this uh… look right to you?”

The purple suited stallion eyed them critically. “It does. Trixie knows her stuff. She’s been studying in Clover’s library with Twilight Sparkle for years now. Twilight has no idea Trixie’s helping the resistance of course, the esteemed Archmagister is alas firmly in Galaxia’s pocket.”

Seeing Fancy Pants approach, Jen moved toward the teleportation circle. The others were gathering into it as well. “I dunno how many dragons are in a ‘wing’, but more than one full grown dragon is more than I want to be up against, and we’re gonna need all the magic we can muster. In fact, if you want the other half of your amulet…”

Discord recoiled, eyeing the half of the jewel hanging from her sword hilt like it was a snake lashing out at him. “No! No thank you. We’ll make do with what we have. This isn’t exactly an insignificant force you have going with you.”

Nodding a little, Jen frowned nonetheless. “We’re two ponies shy. Echo and Lyra should both be here with us.”

Moving closer to his adopted niece, Discord leaned against her comfortingly. “You did the best you could. We can worry about them after we save Ponyville, alright?”

Taking a deep breath, Jen looked to Trixie. The unicorn took a deep breath of her own before nodding firmly. “Right then! Everypony cross your hooves! Here we go!” It didn’t help anypony’s nerves when Trixie scrunched her eyes shut while charging her magic into her staff. Spell Nexus glowed brightly with Trixie’s pink aura. The spell circle everypony was standing in glowed to match, and with a bright flash, the six ponies vanished.

The group reappeared in the middle of a burning town. The crackle of roaring flames mingled with terrified screams and monstrous roars, turning the once idyllic town into something from a horror show. The four Knights of Harmony, one Princess of the spiderkin, and one former Chaos God took only a second to orient themselves before springing into action. No orders needed to be given by Jennifer. Everypony looked for the closest place they could help, and moved to do so.

Fancy Pants made a direct line for the train station. He’d spoken with Rarity only moments ago, and there was a good chance she was still near the station, if not on the train itself. A shrill cry for help sounded to his right, drawing his attention. With a grimace, he tore his gaze from the not-too-distant train station, and veered toward the calls.

He found a house well on its way to burning to nothing, but he could hear screams coming from within the roaring inferno. Gritting his teeth, he called on his magic, surrounding himself in a bubble of solidified mana. The spell came easily, easier than any magic he’d ever cast before. Not pausing to contemplate the shift in his spell power, he dashed into the burning home.

Ears twitched as he tried to separate the desperate shouting from the sound of the flames consuming the building around him. The crack of splintering wood and shattering glass didn’t make it any easier. He managed to see a flash of pink and red to his right, and pushed through the flames. He found a trio of mares cowering together under the kitchen table. All three were earth ponies, the cream coated mare with the red and pink tail was the one he’d spotted. “Ladies! If you would join me in the bubble, I’ll get you to safety!”

Needing very little prompting beyond that, all three dashed from under the table and passed into Fancy Pants’ spell shield. Giving them a reassuring smile, he set a slow pace for the door out. All three shrieked and clung to him tightly as a beam fell from overhead, splintering in half over his shield and falling to the ground harmlessly. “There now, see? We’re just fine! Miss, if you could let go of my neck…”

The pink mare with the green mane slowly pried her forelegs away as he stepped from the home, out into the open air. Once free, he dropped his shield. He managed to maintain his composure as the blonde with the wilted lily in her mane showered him in kisses. “N— now now Madame, I’m a married stallion. Hurry to the center of town. My friend there is getting everypony to safety. Quickly now! Don’t stop for anything!”

He waited long enough to see the trio reach Trixie’s spell circle before he turned and raced toward the train station, feeling a little more confident after his first successful rescue as a knight.

Moon Dancer and Umbra worked side by side, clearing away wreckage and freeing anypony they ran across in the smoke clogged streets. Pony after pony was sent on their way to the waiting Trixie by the unicorn and her estranged daughter. “This is not exactly the sort of quality time I had hoped to spend with you, Umbra.”

The mare offered her mother a faint smile. “Nor I you. But it is very pleasant to be spending time with you, regardless of the circumstances.”

Finding the door to the bakery wedged shut, both mares lit their horns simultaneously, simply pulling off the entirety of the front wall and flinging it into the air to collide with a passing dragon. The astonished earth pony couple within only gaped at the pair of mares.

Moon Dancer gave an annoyed snort. “Well? Do not just stand there! Run to the center of town! Trixie will evacuate you!”

The mare and stallion needed no further prodding as the galloped away from their home and business. Looking to her daughter, Moon Dancer gave her a smile. “I am happy to spend time with you as well. Perhaps when my sister has retaken her throne, we can do some sort of familial activity not involving death and fire. A picnic perhaps?”

With an enraged roar, the dragon the pair assaulted landed before them. It was a big red brute, not full grown but easily the size of a small house. Grimly, both mares readied their weapons. Umbra looked to her now armor-clad mother. “A picnic sounds delightful.”

Jennifer considered taking to the air, but every time she spread her wings, she’d catch sight of another dragon winging by overhead. She was in too much of a hurry to be interrupted by one of the stupid lizards getting in her face every five seconds. Despite her frantic pace, she still paused to help anypony in trouble. Seeing a trio of dragons racing after a small family of four, she wasted no time enveloping the legs of the reptilian monsters in her magic, sending them all sprawling to the dirt with surprised roars. The ponies were already racing toward the town center, so she didn’t bother shouting at them.

She was nearing the hill her house was settled on, and she’d noticed the largest dragon she’d seen yet flying toward it. Surrounding herself in a sheath of magic, she spurred herself forward, energizing herself with her own mana. The homes and streets raced by in a blur as she sped toward home. She broke free of the town center, her mother’s manor finally in view. Lowering her head, she charged forward full tilt as the full grown red dragon crashed into her family home, belching flames and roaring loud enough to shake the ground.

“Get away from my mother!” Pulling up all the mana she could, Jennifer focused her magic around the dragon’s tail, heaving back with all her might. The alarmed beast’s eyes widened as he was forcibly flung away from the home and sent careening helplessly through the air toward the nearby Everfree.

Frantically, Jennifer smashed her way through the ruined front door into her house. “Mom! Mom!? Where are you!?”

“Down here!” Jen’s ear twitched toward the basement door, and she flung it open with her magic, charging downstairs.

“Mom!?” There was Pinkie Pie, clutching a terrified looking Isabelle and an indifferent looking Gummy to her chest. “…Jenny? Is that really you!?”

With a flash, Jen grew to her human shape. A suddenly happily crying Pinkie flung herself across the room, into the girls waiting arms, tumbling to the floor together. Laughing and hugging each other fiercely, Pinkie buried her face in Jen’s chest. “Oh Jenny-bean! You’re really back!”

“I’m really back mom. And we really need to go! Trixie and Uncle D are waiting at the center of town, getting everypony to safety. They’re sending them to Umbra’s tunnels. You’ll all be safe there. As safe as anywhere is anyway. Is Aunt Fluttershy here?”

Pinkie shook her head, dragging the family pets in close again. “No, she’s still in the Everfree I think. Do you think she’s in danger too?”

“Maybe. The Queen knows I’m back. She sent these dragons to destroy Ponyville as punishment for standing up to her soldiers. You and your friends could all be in danger. Miss Applejack’s in Appleloosa, and Rarity’s somewhere here in Ponyville. Fancy’s gone to find her. But we need to get you all to safety. Once we get you back to Trixie, I’ll go to Aunt Fluttershy’s cottage myself.”

Pinkie Pie didn’t look like she was terribly pleased with this idea, but Jen’s tone and demeanor were so very different than they used to be. Gone was the shy introvert, replaced by this surprisingly authoritative young woman. “Alright Jenny. Let’s get to safety. We can catch up when everypony’s safe and sound, right?”

With a grin, Jen lead the way upstairs. “Right. Just be careful okay? There are dragons everywhere.”

As if on cue, the adult red she’d flung away returned, slamming into the ground and knocking her off her feet. “Just run! I’ll see you soon!” Lowering her visor, Jen drew Mercy. She raised the blade in a proper salute, and with a flap of her wings vaulted straight at the roaring monster...

Chapter 13: Ponyville Aflame, Part 2

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Chapter 13: Ponyville Aflame, Part 2

The train station was in ruins when Fancy Pants arrived on the scene. A dragon must have loosed its fire all over the train and station in a flyby attack, judging by the lack of claw marks anywhere. Worry for his wife increased as he noticed the uncomfortable amount of sizzling charred black lumps that were all that remained of anypony caught in the flames. Doing his best to ignore the loss of so many innocent lives, he cleared some wreckage from the nearest entrance and boarded the train.

“Rarity! Rarity can you hear me!? It’s Fancy!” His theory about the dragon not actually landing was dispelled as he saw the deep rents in the ceiling and walls of the train now that he was inside. He knew his wife—even when sneaking out of the city—would likely board first class, and those cars were toward the back of the train. He began to pick his way through the thrown about luggage and other, formerly living debris.

A low moan came from the cabin he was passing, and with a firm set of his jaw, he pried the door open. Within was a pegasus stallion laying protectively over a trio of foals. The luggage rack had collapsed and pinned them all to the ground, but the foals were squirming about and seemed healthy enough. “Sir? Can you hear me?”

With a groan, the stallion cracked an eye open, nodding. “Yeah… Who’re you supposed to be? Search and rescue here already?”

With a chuckle, the unicorn stallion carefully enfolded the luggage rack in his magic, lifting it ever so slowly so he didn’t cause more damage to the car. “Of a sort. Rather unusual to see a family of pegasi on the train.”

Slowly, the wounded pegasus rose and his foals all shot out from under him, clustering about worriedly. “Kids wanted to take a ride. I was on leave and figured, why not? Didn’t expect a damn dragon attack on Ponyville of all places. Why would they even bother?”

Fancy set the rack back down once the other stallion was clear. “It’s my understanding the Queen is displeased with somepony hailing from this town. She enlisted the dragons to burn it down as punishment.”

The rescued father’s features darkened at the news. “An entire town just to punish a single pony? I’m no earth sympathizer, but that seems… harsh.” He examined Fancy Pants closer now. “You don’t look like the average train worker. And that’s a Canterlot accent. What’re you doing in Ponyville?”

“My wife is—or was—on this train somewhere. We were speaking via a spell when the attack struck. A friend teleported me here so I could get to her. I don’t suppose you noticed a white unicorn mare with a purple mane?”

“Sorry, I wish I had. The door was sealed and I was pinned pretty much right off. Are the uh… dragons still out there?”

“In force, I’m afraid. If you head to the town center, my friend is evacuating everypony to a safe place. Though it’s quite a ways from any pegasus cities, and I’m not sure when you’d be able to return to one.”

“My duty to my family is more important than my duty to the military. If you can get us someplace safe, then we’re with you. In fact, let me get my foals there and I’ll come back to help find your wife.”

It warmed the noble lord’s heart to know that even in this twisted mockery of Equestria, ponies still cared enough about one another to lend a helping hoof when needed. “I appreciate the offer sir, but I’ll be quite fine on my own. I may not look it, but I’m a fighter.” He laughed and gave the relieved looking pegasus a good natured wink. “Just see to your family, I’ll see to mine.”

With a nod, the stallion began to lead his foals from the car. “Well then thank you sir. From the bottom of my heart. And if there’s ever anything I can do to repay you…”

Fancy waved his platitudes off. “Nonsense. Just doing what any good citizen would. Help a fellow pony in need, and all that. Do be careful out there.” Waiting just long enough to see the family hurry toward the town square, Fancy turned back to his mission. Clearing a few more spots of debris away, he finally made his way into the first class cars.

Almost immediately, he realized something was wrong. The fur along the back of his neck was prickling, and he could feel a very heavy amount of magic in the air. Cautiously, he slid open the door to first class and stopped short. Every object not bolted to the ground was floating lazily through the air. Luggage, drinking glasses, and chairs from the dining car. Then there were the passengers. The ponies were floating, frozen like everything else trapped within the magical field. A magical field the stallion recognized. Frowning, he surrounded himself in a thin shield and cautiously stepped forward. He met no resistance; his wife’s released magic sliding off him like it wasn’t even there.

Carefully, Fancy navigated the train cars, keeping an eye out for Rarity. Nopony seemed hurt, for which he was thankful. Entering the next car along, it was easy to pinpoint his wife’s location now. The rear of the train was blown completely to pieces from her magical release. Shrapnel and wood hovered aimlessly, trapped in the magical time field. Following the destruction to its center, there he found Rarity.

The pain on her face was unmistakable, and given her injury, likely unimaginable too. Something heavy must have struck her horn with enough force to break it in half. When a unicorn’s horn breaks, all of their stored mana is released with wildly unpredictable results. Really, a field of frozen time wasn’t too bad considering some of the horror stories he’d heard of other unicorns breaking their horns. He found a dislodged ceiling support in front of Rarity. Lifting it aside, there was the broken half of her horn. He slid it into his breast pocket before looking to the mare.

While no Archmagister, Fancy Pants attended Celestia’s School for Gifted Unicorns, as most well off unicorn foals tended to do. He had more than a passing knowledge of most types of spells and how to dispel them. While time magic was normally outside his field of expertise, his newly enhanced abilities should be enough to banish the field. Slowly, he reached out with his own magic, feeling at the edges of Rarity’s unintentional spell. Smiling in satisfaction, he plucked at the field here and there, very abruptly sending the whole thing crashing down.

Time sped back to normal in a flash, and Rarity resumed the pain filled wail she’d been in the midst of when her magic froze the first class section. Fancy Pants was at her side, hooves cupping her muzzle gently. “I’m here dearest! I’m right here! It’s going to be alright! Shh…. shh…”

Rarity’s frenzied screaming dimmed to pained whimpering at her husband’s soothing words. “F— Fancy? H— how?”

“Don’t worry about how. I’m here now, and we’re going to get you someplace safe and see that you’re patched up.” He gently levitated her to his back. Frowning at the debris and now-panicking pony filled way he came, he looked to the intact wall of her car, and blew the whole thing away with a powerful burst of magic. He could feel Rarity gasp sharply at his sudden display of power, but he paid it little mind as he gently levitated she and himself to the ground from the train.

“Where’s Jubilant? You didn’t… didn’t bring her with you, did you?” Rarity’s voice was a pained whisper, but Fancy couldn’t help but smile.

“Dear, your horn broke, and you’re even now worried about others. Truly, I could not have married a finer mare. Jubilant is here, but... she’s fine. It’s… complicated.”

He began making his way toward the town square, setting a slow pace to give Rarity as easy a ride as possible. “…Jubilant is Jennifer… isn’t she?”

This brought the stallion to a startled stop. “Wh— what? What did you say?” He craned his neck around to look her in the eye.

“I…” Rarity’s pained expression was mingled with confusion. “I remember. I remember… everything! Oh! Oh, Fancy Pants! What… what has happened to Equestria? That… wretched Galaxia creature has destroyed everything! And…” Her eyes widened at a sudden realization. “…and we’re married?!”

He offered her an apologetic smile. “I’m afraid so. I hope it isn’t too disagreeable a situation. I’ll have it annulled once Princess Celestia has returned, of course.”

“O— oh yes. Yes… of course… we weren’t in our right minds, after all.” She gasped again. “My family! They’re still in Canterlot! And my friends… and… oh no… Ponyville… my home…”

He found it hard to find the words to comfort her about the things he had no control over. “Well! Applejack is safe in Appleloosa. Fluttershy has her hut in the Everfree, and even now I’m sure Jubilant is racing to safety with Pinkie Pie.”

This did seem to lift her spirits. “What about Rainbow Dash? And Twilight is stuck in Canterlot…”

“Rainbow Dash is serving in the Cloudsdale military, though last I heard she’s just fine. Obviously she and Twilight would be rather difficult to get to. Perhaps once Ponyville is evacuated we can turn our attentions to their rescue, hm?”

Slowly, the exhausted mare nodded her head. “That would be lovely…” She was finding it harder and harder to stay awake.

“Ah! Here we are. Trixie and D have the portal ready and waiting! I’ll see you off to safety, and be along soon enough myself. And look there! Here comes Pinkie Pie!”

This brought some energy to the wounded unicorn, who raised her head with a smile. Pinkie Pie was indeed galloping full tilt toward the waiting Trixie and Discord (Rarity couldn’t help but wrinkle her nose at that hideous purple pin stripe suit he was in). To their surprise however, the pink earth pony mare didn’t enter the circle herself. She slowed long enough to heave a yowling beagle and glossy eyed alligator in, before racing off toward the Everfree Forest.

“She must be going to get Fluttershy! We have to go with her!”

An incredulous Fancy Pants again looked to the mare draped over his back. “Rarity, I know you’re concerned for your friends, but your horn is broken! You can’t cast any magic; you can barely stand on your own.”

Even now she was struggling to get off his back. “Then I’ll crawl in on my belly through the dirt if I must! But I won’t run away while my friends are in danger!”

Clicking his tongue, the stallion used his magic to secure her across his back more solidly. “Well I’d be a rather poor Knight if I allowed that. I’ll try not to make the going too rough for you.” He broke into a quick trot.

“Don’t worry about me darling, worry about them. Come on now I know a strapping stallion like yourself can muster more speed than this.”

Smiling again at her inner fortitude, he could only nod and comply. “Yes dear.”

She was smiling as well now.

Umbra leapt backwards, using her wings to propel herself away from the snapping jaws of the dragon quicker. Hovering in the air, she narrowed her eyes at the red scaled monstrosity and smashed both her morning stars into its head from opposite sides. The dazed beast staggered back, shaking its head vigorously.

“You have become rather adept at using your wings, Umbra. Quite a bit of progress from the last time we were together.” Moon Dancer ducked under the dragon’s swinging tail, allowing it to pass harmlessly overhead. With a grimace, she brought the blades of Night Singer up crossways, using the momentum of the swinging appendage to shear it cleanly off.

The dragon apparently decided the two mares were more trouble than they were worth. With one last enraged roar, it leapt into the sky, winging away from them and leaving a trail of glittering blood droplets in its wake like some sort of morbid facsimile of its removed tail.

Umbra landed beside her mother, offering a faint smile. “Tak and Trixie both hounded me ceaselessly about learning to fly. They correctly pointed out that I was only limiting myself by ignoring my wings. They are as much a part of me as my horn or hooves. …of course it took them three years to convince me of this.”

Moon Dancer laughed aloud at that, running her blades through the grass to clean them before sheathing them. “Well we should continue on, I think. There’s much to do still.”

Her daughter was about to reply before a familiar armor clad form smashed through the home beside the bakery they stood in front of, impacting heavily into the dirt and groaning softly. The pair raced to Jennifer’s side as she struggled to rise. “Big… dragon…”

Mother and daughter turned to face the direction Jennifer had been hurled from. Indeed a full grown wyrm was bearing down on them, its yellow eyes flashing with fury. A long fresh cut extended the length of its snout, almost reaching its right eye. The two looked at one another before nodding and drawing their weapons, racing forward fearlessly.

This dragon was older, stronger, and far more intelligent than many of the youngsters flying about burning everything that caught their eye. While the black coated alicorn flying his way was no Princess Celestia or Luna, he knew enough of their rare breed to be mindful of the power she wielded. The unicorn moving to flank him seemed ordinary enough, but she wore armor similar to the human girl, and the blades she bore had a very powerful magical aura about them. No doubt they would sting as badly as the pink sword.

With speed belying his great size, he reared back away from the swipe of a Morningstar, swiping a claw and swatting the alicorn with a glancing blow. He couldn’t rake his claws into her, but he hit her hard enough to send her spinning through the air away from him. One threat temporarily seen to, he rounded on the unicorn, only barely managing to twist his neck away from her flashing blades. While she could get nowhere near his head physically, she didn’t need to be close to use her magic to propel her blades forward.

Wanting no part in any combat involving these strangely familiar weapons, he sucked in a breath loosing his great magical flames upon the upstart pony. Assuming her dealt with, he turned toward the recovering alicorn, intent on finishing this fight and leaving this pitiful little town. It came as no small surprise then, when he felt a curved scimitar slide into either of his hind legs, right in the meatiest part of the thigh. The wretched pony dragged them down and out, doing considerable damage to the muscle. Roaring incredulously, he rounded on the mare, his fury growing when he saw she was smoking slightly but otherwise apparently unharmed.

If his fire wasn’t up to the task, his claws and fangs most certainly would be. Doing his best to ignore the painful twinges in his hind legs, he bore down on the unicorn with all his fury. A quick stomp of his foreleg was enough to disrupt her concentration while she tried to bring those wicked swords to bear against his snout. With a bellow of triumph, he lunged forward, jaws gaping for the kill.

A sudden stabbing pain in his hindquarters brought him up short, and he reared back, bellowing in pain and fury and belching a great gout of flame into the sky. Twisting his head about, he saw the human sword rammed to the hilt in his backside. Giving his haunches a powerful shake, he sent her tumbling to the ground, the blade remaining lodged where she’d stabbed him. He realized a split second later that the human’s horn likely functioned exactly as a unicorn’s, and as she held an empty hand toward the lodged sword, it tore through his scales and flesh easily as it returned to her hand.

Rearing on his hind legs, he gave his wings several mighty flaps, whipping up a terrific wind storm. Sending the human and the once more charging alicorn hurtling backward to slam one after the other into a flaming structure, sending the whole building crumbling down atop them.

Scowling fiercely, he lifted his tail and slammed it down into the ground behind him with as much force as he could muster. He was rewarded with a startled cry from the unicorn, her invisibility shattered as she tumbled to her side. Again, his tail rose and slammed down, pinning her solidly to the ground. Twisting his body around uncomfortably while keeping the mare pinned, he leaned his head in close. “…your arms and armor. They’re familiar.”

Moon Dancer squirmed beneath his tail, her armor protecting her somewhat, but not blocking out all the pain. More than enough was getting through to keep her from focusing on her magic. Her ear flicked in surprise as the dragon spoke, and she dared to meet his gaze. “A— are they?”

Gingerly, he lifted his tail to look closer. She briefly considered scrambling to her hooves or trying to thrust her swords into his face, but that would likely only incite his anger. “They are. They smell of old magic. Familiar magic I haven’t seen in centuries.”

Eyeing him carefully she slowly climbed to her hooves, making no sudden movements. “My weapons are called Night Singer. My armor the trappings of a Knight of Harmony.”

Now the old dragon moved his tail away fully, sitting back, a look of consternation on his face. “Knight of Harmony? The order yet persists? It was my understanding it was disbanded centuries ago. Are you a pony playing at knighthood, or has the order truly returned?”

“I was inducted into the order by Starswirl the Bearded himself. Along with my sister Celestia.”

This caused the dragon to draw in its breath, bringing its head in close once more. “You make a bold claim, little unicorn. I was not close with the Princesses, but I at least knew of them. You are no regal alicorn Princess.”

“You are no doubt aware of the shift in power. The Queen is my mother, returned from her imprisonment. She deposed my sister and I. The only way I could return was to shed most of my former self. I assure you dragon, I was the alicorn known as Luna, now called Moon Dancer. I am a Knight of the Order of Harmony. As is the woman you swatted aside. She is the Commander of Harmony, in fact.”

Snorting softly, the dragon stomped over to the building Jen and Umbra had landed in. With a flick of his claws, he sent the top half tumbling aside, plucking out the smoldering pair. The unconscious human seemed to have become an alicorn mare. Poking at the mare’s leg bearing the shield, he eyed it closely. “…this was Starswirl’s, wasn’t it?”

Moon Dancer raced to keep near the dragon. “It was. It is hers now. She is Jubilant Surprise, Commander of Harmony, and my personal protégé.”

“Hrm.” He looked from her to Umbra before laying the pair gently on the ground. “You alicorns are multiplying at an alarming rate.”

“The other is my daughter, Umbra. Neither have designs on a crown, so far as I know. You have little to fear from either, so long as you are not trying to massacre their people.”

“My clan had a pact of peace with your Order of Harmony. So long as they protected Equestria and her people, the red dragons would do them no harm. I seem to have broken that pact, and brought great dishonor upon myself and my clan. We will withdraw, Lady Moon Dancer, and you have my apologies. While I will not involve my people in your political business, I will see that I make amends for our actions this day.”

Moon Dancer was frowning. “You apologize because of an ancient pact, and not for the deaths of innocents? Your code of honor is strange indeed.”

“We are predators. You are prey. It is the way of the world. If your own Queen wishes to pay us for doing what we would do naturally, I am not about to turn away the gems. The reds will aid her no longer, so long as your order remains standing. Be aware however, the other clans have no such pact, and will likely come if she bribes them. Fight well, former Princess now Knight. Truth be told, I preferred your sister’s rule to your mother’s. I find her… distasteful.”

He looked away, lifting his head and bellowing an earth-shaking roar. Every dragon in and around the town halted in their burning and pillaging. As their leader lifted from the ground, flying off as one, they hastened to follow.

Once they’d flown far enough to be but specks in the sky, Moon Dancer moved to check on the wounded alicorn mares. Jennifer was the first awake, rolling to her hooves and shaking her head groggily. “Where’s th’dragons?”

“Gone. Your fearsome skill of being rendered unconscious scared them off.” Moon Dancer was smiling teasingly, and Jen couldn’t help but laugh.

“I’m gonna go touch base with Trixie and the others. Is Umbra gonna be okay?”

Dismissing her armor, Moon Dancer moved to Umbra’s side. “She will. You girls are made of stern stuff. Go see to the others, I will get Umbra to safety.”

Without another word, Jennifer was in the air, flying toward town square. With a soft sigh, Moon Dancer removed Umbra’s helm, cupping the slumbering mare’s muzzle gently. “Well come along then, daughter of the night. Let us get you home to rest and recover.”

Jennifer ‘landed’ beside Trixie, skidding along, her face on the ground until she came to a stop. With a grunt, she stood up and shook the dirt from her fur. The sorceress quirked a brow at her entrance. “A very graceful landing.”

The Commander of Harmony just shot her a dirty look and flexed her wings. “How’s the evacuation coming?”

Discord moved toward the mares after he ushered another group through the teleportation circle. “Fine. By my count we’ve gotten nearly everypony still ah… ‘able to leave’ out. I only sense a few stragglers out there. I was just about to go collect them.”

Nodding to her uncle, she raised an eyebrow when he looked suddenly uncomfortable. “What’s wrong?”

“Ah well it’s your ah… mother. She might have, sorta, kinda not gone through.”

Jen grew very still at that. “What? What do you mean she didn’t go through?”

Now Trixie was shuffling from hoof to hoof. “Well she ran up, lobbed her dog and alligator through the portal, then raced off to the Everfree. Who keeps an alligator as a pet?”

Scowling, Jennifer spread her wings and crouched. “My mom does.” Without another word, she took off toward the forest. No doubt her mother went racing off to collect her aunt herself. Of course she wouldn’t want Jen to do it. The Everfree forest is ‘dangerous’. Despite her mom racing away from the safety of the tunnels, she had to grin and roll her eyes. She could fight dragons, but the Everfree was still too dangerous for Pinkie Pie’s little Surprise.

All amusement fled as she saw a trio of small dragons in the distance ahead over the forest. The three circled for a time before diving down in the trees. While she wasn’t one hundred percent sure, she had a good idea that they’d found Aunt Fluttershy’s cottage. Snorting angrily, she called on the same magic as before, strengthening her wings this time rather than her legs. A sudden burst of speed had her soaring over the treetops, reducing them to little more than a green blur beneath herself.

She could hear panicked screams and pained yowling coming from the forest beneath her. Heart hammering in her chest, she folded her wings back into a breakneck dive. The scene before her however, was not at all what she expected.

It was indeed her Aunt’s hut in the forest the dragons had descended upon, only it wasn’t a timid and helpless pegasus they’d cornered. Instead, it seemed to be the bulk of every monstrous creature in this region of the Everfree. Timber wolves, manticores, and giant shriek bats attacked the dragons with tooth, tail, and claw. Vividly shining will-o-wisps darted about the beleaguered reptiles’ snouts, blinding and dazzling them with bright flashes of magic. Jennifer even saw one of the trees with a face swinging its limbs about in a frenzy at the dragons.

The dragons had had enough, and—roaring in protest—took off over the treetops, being pursued by huge, loudly wailing bats. There at the center of the chaos stood a very disheveled Fluttershy. The poor mare was shaking like a leaf, and looked about ready to keel over in a dead faint any second now. With gentleness belying its size, a manticore scooped her up, laying her back inside the hut. Cautiously, Jennifer lowered herself to the ground, very much aware of the many pairs of eyes staring her down. She offered a wavering smile and made her way toward the hut. When none of the beasts made a move to stop her, she slipped inside, shutting the door softly.

There was Pinkie Pie fanning a near catatonic and weakly laughing Fluttershy. To Jennifer’s surprise however, Fancy Pants was in the hut as well, with an exhausted looking Rarity lying on the ground beside him. Jen’s eyes widened when she saw the fashionista’s horn had snapped in half. “M— miss Rarity! What happened!?”

The four other ponies started at her unexpected cry, looking to the mare in the doorway. Even Fluttershy stirred from her fright induced state. Rarity offered her a small smile. “Look at you. Little Jubilant all grown up in the blink of an eye.”

Jen felt a blush forming in her cheeks as she moved to her side. “Your horn it… it broke. I didn’t know a unicorn’s horn could break.”

“Oh it’s… well it’s not fine. It’s actually a very serious wound, but I sincerely doubt I’ll be able to get proper medical attention in Ponyville or Canterlot anytime soon, given that we’re all rebels and traitors to the crown and all.” She paused to take several slightly labored breaths. “Oh, but it’s so good to see you again Jennifer. Though I think I’ll stick with Jubilant, if you don’t mind.”

Jen laughed. “No ma’am, I don’t mind at all. But… wait, how do you remember me?”

Fancy cleared his throat. “When our horns break, it releases all of our stored mana at once. Such a huge magical explosion would be more than enough to push away the Queen’s spell. Likely many of the passengers nearby were likewise freed.”

Glancing at her aunt and seeing her offering her a warm smile, she knew Fluttershy would be alright. Tugging Fancy aside, she shot a furtive glance toward Rarity. “Just how serious is a broken horn?”

“It… is potentially fatal. Unicorns, like anypony else, need to absorb mana to survive. We draw it into ourselves through our horns. A broken horn is incapable of drawing in mana.”

Jennifer’s frown only deepened. “Well Cadence can take care of her when we get back, right?”

The stallion frowned in response. “I’m not sure, Jubilant. Typically, the only way to heal a broken horn is with a very specific compound applied to the pieces. A sort of ‘horn glue’ if you will. I have the broken piece with me, but the glue is kept in the hospitals and such. Ponyville’s was destroyed, and we can’t get into Canterlot’s. I doubt Appleloosa’s clinic is equipped to handle this either.”

‘Heart? Is this something I can heal with Mercy? Will my horn uh… regrow?’

‘Aye, Jennifer. It is, and it will. Though I must warn thee, thy release of magic will likely be rather spectacular.’

‘Well it’s a good thing we’re In the Everfree Forest where nopony will be hurt.

Moving to Rarity’s side, Jen lifted her in her magic. “Aunt Fluttershy, I need you to get all the animals away from here. I’m going to heal Miss Rarity, but it’s gonna break my own horn in the process. Bleeding Heart says my magical release is gonna be big.”

Hearing this, Rarity immediately began to resist. “What? Absolutely not! I’ll not allow you to go through such a traumatic experience on my behalf, Jubilant! You put me down this instant, young lady!”

Glancing timidly at Rarity, Fluttershy moved to Jen’s side. “I um… don’t know a whole lot about unicorn horns, but if the explosion is as big as I’ve heard in stories, we need to go someplace where none of the animals can be hurt. I know just the spot. If um… if it’s alright with you?”

Laughing softly and completely ignoring Rarity’s protests, Jen nodded. “It’s alright with me. Lead the way.” She stepped from the hut, a still protesting Rarity levitating above her, Fancy on one side and Pinkie Pie on the other.

The latter was smiling warmly at Jen. “I’m really proud of you for doing this for Rarity. Though you will be alright, right?”

Nodding, Jen followed her aunt as she led the way into the forest. “Heart says it’ll heal fine, just like any other wound I take using Mercy.” She smiled weakly at her mother though. “Can’t say I’m too excited to be doing this though. It doesn’t sound very fun. But Miss Rarity will die if I don’t. I can’t let that happen.”

Pinkie’s smile faded, and Rarity’s protests stopped at that. No doubt the latter was aware of how serious her wound was, but hearing it actually vocalized was still a sobering experience. Jen glanced to Fancy Pants. “I think you should go back and tell Trixie and Uncle D what’s going on. I know you want to be with Miss Rarity, but those two might start to freak out if they don’t hear anything from us.”

Taking a deep breath, the stallion nodded. “You’re right of course. Rarity dear, I’m afraid I have to leave you in the capable hooves of these lovely mares. I’ll see you very soon however.”

Rarity smiled wearily in return. “Of course, Fancy. I’ll be just fine. You go do what you have to do.”

With one last worried glance for both Jennifer and Rarity, he galloped back the way he’d come originally. Now that Rarity had calmed some, Jen settled her more comfortably over her back. The wounded unicorn kept glancing Fluttershy’s way. “So Fluttershy… you’ve been ah… living out in the Everfree. All by yourself. For five years.”

Giving a little eep at being unexpectedly addressed, the pegasus looked back at her friend. “Oh, well, yes. After Zecora left and I saw what happened to everypony, I thought it might be best if I um... kept to myself. I’d go into town to visit Pinkie, but that’s about it. It really isn’t so bad out here.”

Brow raised incredulously, Rarity looked to Pinkie Pie, who only shrugged in response. “But you’ve been living here for five years. Among all the wild beasts and monsters of the forest. And you forgive me for saying so; seem just as frightened of everything as ever.”

With a self-deprecating smile, Fluttershy shrugged. “Oh, well… the animals here really aren’t so different from the critters I normally care for. Just um… bigger and more fangy.”

Rarity couldn’t help but giggle softly. “It’s good to know that some things will never change.”

Jennifer kept quiet, allowing the pair the chance to reunite. Pinkie was likewise silent, though she more out of worry for her filly than anything else. Even if her little Surprise was a full grown mare, she’d still carried her and raised her for five years.

Both Rarity and Pinkie soon recognized where they were headed. Fluttershy lead the group over a rickety old rope bridge. The foursome could make out the ruins of the Royal Sisters’ old castle. “Oh how very clever of you, Fluttershy. All the ambient magic in the air here keeps the animals away, does it not.”

Smiling proudly, the pegasus nodded. “Mmhm. Nothing comes around here. Well, after us of course. It should be safe for you to heal Rarity here, Jennifer.”

Laughing a bit, the alicorn mare laid Rarity on the ground. “Everypony calling me a different name is going to get confusing. Let’s just stick with Jubilant Surprise, huh?”

The three mares shared a quiet look. “Are you sure, Jenny? That’s kinda a big deal.”

Nodding, she grinned. “I’m sure, mom. I’ve been Jubilant for the last five years; to be honest, it feels a little weird being called Jen by you all now. So! Let’s get that horn fixed, Miss Rarity.”

The mare in question sighed softly. “Alright, Jubilant. You’ve made up your mind. But I warn you, this is going to hurt. And girls, I suggest you keep well clear of her. Try and aim your horn up at the sky. With any luck, your magical release won’t be too destructive…” She trailed off sounding decidedly unsure of the last part.

Taking a deep breath, Jubilant drew Mercy. “Right! Well, no time like the present. Everypony step back.” Her mom and aunt retreated to a safe distance. She focused on her fifth rune as it shimmered gently. A pink glow surrounded Rarity’s horn. As the mare winced uncomfortably, the shattered appendage swiftly regrew, looking as pristine and perfect as always. She smiled in relief only briefly before her eyes went to Jubilant’s face. The young mare’s muzzle was contorted in a grimace of pain as her horn’s top half vanished with a soft ‘pft’ sound. Squealing in fright, Rarity dashed to Pinkie and Fluttershy’s side.

Jubilant Surprise staggered on her hooves, weaving back and forth. “Guh… huhn…. nnnn….” Her eyes snapped open, revealing solid green pools of swirling mana. The glow around her broken horn began to intensify brighter and brighter, until the watching ponies had to look away. With an anguished wail, Jubilant threw her head toward the sky as her accumulated magic was released. A massive pillar of emerald light soared into the sky, punching through the clouds and spiraling higher and higher. The release of mana continued on and on for several moments. With one last cry, it stopped and Jubilant tumbled to the ground, moaning weakly.

Pinkie Pie was the first at her side of course, nosing her fallen daughter’s muzzle in concern. “Surprise? Can you hear me, Surprise!? Are you alright!?”

Ears splayed back as Jubilant cracked an eye open. “I… I can hear you mom… Q—quit screaming in my ear…”

Pinkie laughed and cried at the same time as she hugged Jubilant tightly. “Oh, you silly filly! You had me so worried!”

Rarity laid a hoof on Pinkie’s back, gently easing her away. She lifted Jubilant in her magic, smiling softly. “My turn to carry you I think, Jubilant. We should get you to the Princess. I’m sure she’ll be able to make you comfortable while you heal.” An exhausted Jubilant Surprise could only nod silently.

“Girls… l— look… in the sky.”

Everypony looked to where Fluttershy was pointing. There in the sky shone a star. A green star, blazing brilliantly off in the distance of space. Jubilant laughed weakly. “I dub thee the Star of Jubilance!”

“Ooooh, that’s a good name! Did you just come up with that on the spot!?” Pinkie was bouncing at Rarity’s side.

“I guess so. I wonder if it’s gonna stick around.”

Fluttershy walked on Rarity’s other side, shooting Jubilant constant worried looks, but she did indeed appear to be in better shape than Rarity was. A soft pink glow was surrounding her horn, working to heal it. “We can worry about the new star you placed in Princess Luna’s sky once your horn is healed again. For now, let’s get back to Ponyville. I don’t know about you girls, but I’ve had more than enough excitement for one day. I wonder if there’s a spa in Umbra’s home.”

The three all shared a laugh at Rarity’s antics as they left the old castle behind. “What? What did I say that was funny? I was being serious…”

Unnoticed by any of the departing mares, a few wisps of twinkling green light hung in the air around the site of Jubilant’s release. Ever so slowly, as if blown on the breeze, they drifted through the air into the castle itself. Through the halls and corridors of the ancient castle. Up the stairs and through the arch to the old throne room. There their pace began to quicken as they swirled about the air faster and faster. Small black shards of broken magic and armor shuddered on the dusty old floor, rising up into the swirling whirlwind of verdant magic.

A soft green flash burst through the windows of the castle. If anything living was nearby, they may have heard the soft sinister giggles of the new creature given birth at the sight of Nightmare Moon’s defeat years ago.

Chapter 14: Music All Around Us

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Chapter 14: Music All Around Us

Lyra had been fully prepared to meet her end leading the abomination over the edge of the chasm. That’s not to say seeing Jennifer diving for her didn’t fill her heart with hope. Bon-bon was gone, and there was nothing she could do about that. She was one of the Knights of Harmony now, she had a duty to all of Equestria and her Bonny would beat her senseless if she knew she was throwing that away over her.

Reaching a hoof out, she could almost feel Jenny’s fingers touching her, then the stupid monster wrapped a tentacle around her waist and flung the frantically flapping human woman into the wall. Eyes wide, Lyra hastily resumed her playing, bringing the beast back under her thrall. It was too late. Jen was wobbling erratically, shaking her head in a daze.

Grimacing slightly, she looked at the enthralled monster staring at her in a daze. Flicking her eyes beyond it, she couldn’t see Jen anymore; she’d fallen too far. The light from those weird glowing plants from above was gone, and the only light now came from her horn. She narrowed her eyes at the monster, briefly considering jabbing it repeatedly with her sword. That thought was dismissed quickly. Splattering on the ground would probably hurt less than being torn apart by a giant undead monster.

Splattering on the ground. “What the hay is wrong with me? Splattering on the ground!? I don’t want to splatter on the ground!” Her music continued to play, holding the monster in thrall while she expanded her magical light to illuminate more of the chasm wall as she fell. Her eyes darted back and forth, looking for something to grip with her magic, or a ledge or something to try and land on. Of course, she’d been falling long enough now anything she hit would probably turn her into a smudge.

That was when a sound reached her ears. Stretching toward it, she perked her ear fully. There! She could hear water down below. ‘Maybe some kinda underground river?’ Water definitely made for a more delicate landing than stone. She looked back up at the falling monster. Of course if that thing landed on top of her, it didn’t matter how deep the water was, it probably wouldn’t make a difference.

Newly determined, she continued to play her song while focusing her magic in her hind legs. The sound of the water was getting closer, and she knew she had little time to act. Covering her hind hooves in a protective sheath, she grit her teeth and kicked off the stone wall behind her. Her legs snapped back painfully the second they made contact with the wall, her momentum carrying her along so quickly even the brief contact jarred her legs up and back. Still, the kick had the desired effect, carrying her through the air away from the plummeting creature.

“Alright! Step one complete! Step two… don’t splatter all over the water…” She finally stopped her playing, pulling her lyre in close as she enveloped her body in a glowing bubble of magic. “Come on harmony magic, do your stuff…” Lyra squinted down at the now visible raging river. Praying to Celestia that it was deep enough for her to not smash right into the bottom of it, pouring all her energy into hardening the bubble into a protective shell.

Even with her amped up magic, the impact against the water sent her bouncing around her bubble painfully. Her prayers were answered that it was deep enough to not crush her on impact at least. Her bubble sank beneath the surprisingly raging river, then bobbed back to the surface, smacking her muzzle painfully against the side. It was all she could do to maintain her concentration as she was tossed about. Dizzily, she looked back the way she’d came, in time to see the monster smash into the water with no such protection. She turned a darker shade of green as bits of bone and gore spattered her shield.

She was still being tossed about on the underground river, but at least she was staying on the surface of it. Turning to face the direction she was going, she looked about, trying to find a bank of some kind to pull herself out on. No such dry patch presented itself, only the sheer walls on either side of her stretching up into the blackness overhead. Her ears swiveled forward as they picked up a new sound over the roaring river about her. They soon splayed back as the light from her bubble illuminated the rapids ahead. She was approaching a waterfall.

“Ponyfeathers.”

Lyra was wet. Very wet. With an irritated grunt, she twitched an eye open to be greeted by perfect blackness. She panicked for just a moment before she remembered where she was. Her left hind leg was throbbing painfully, and she could just barely feel the tug of a gentle current on her lower half. With a grimace, she ignited her horn, bathing the area in its radiant golden glow. She must have banged her head and been knocked out when her bubble went over the falls. Her saddlebags were still on her back, sword on her hip, and even her lyre had somehow made it out intact. The instrument was a little dinged up, but more or less undamaged, clutched tightly to her chest.

Laughing a little, she nudged it further up onto the bank before working to pull herself up. Her leg immediately gave a scream of protest, buckling under her and sending her tumbling to the ground with a pained cry. “M— must have twisted it…” Gingerly rising on three legs, she held the injured hind leg away from the ground, hobbling out of the water onto the cool stone.

She was in a large cavern. She could still hear the waterfall roaring back the way she’d come, but the raging river had calmed to a gentle running stream for the most part. Dipping her head down, she drank her fill from it, letting out a deeply satisfied ‘ahh’. Awkwardly walking from the river, she used her horn to light the darkness ahead. There was some kind of green plant growing on the stones and walls around her that smelled edible.

“…well, if Umbra ate this stuff her whole life…” Wrinkling her nose at the slightly slimy texture, she scooped up a mouthful, nearly gagging it back out. Still she was exhausted and starving, and forced herself to swallow. “Bleh-eh-heh! Oh that poor mare.” With a deep breath, she took another mouthful of the vile slimy stuff, swallowing it down. She managed two more before she’d had enough.

“Right, if I starve I starve, but that’s enough rock muck for me.” She could see a tunnel ahead, but with a sigh, she looked back at her wounded leg. “Not gonna get very far on you…” She trailed off as she heard… a voice.

Ears perked, they swiveled forward, back, and to the sides trying to pick up on it. “…hello? Is anypony there?” It was faint. Very faint, but it was definitely… kinda a voice. She couldn’t make out words really, more like a feeling. It was close. It was… coming from her hip. Eyebrows raised, she looked back at the sword belted around her hip. “That’s right. In Jen’s story the old knights heard the voices of their weapons, didn’t they?”

Carefully lowering herself into a sitting position, mindful of her leg, she used her magic to draw Hymn from it’s sheath. The rune at the base of the blade was glowing the same gold as her magical aura. “Well hello? What’s that you’re saying…?” She craned her head closer, ear perked up. “…sing? I don’t really think this is the… well alright, alright no need to be rude! Sing what?”

Eyeing the blade skeptically, she sighed and cleared her throat.

“Hush now quiet now it’s time to lay your sleepy head…”

She faltered as the rune began to glow brighter, small twinkling motes sparkling away from it toward her leg. Once she stopped singing however, the glow dimmed. “Alright, jeez! You’re very pushy for an inanimate object.”

“Hush now quiet now it’s time to lay your sleepy head.
Hush now quiet now it’s time to go to bed.
Drifting off to sleep, the exciting day behind you.
Drifting off to sleep, let the joy of dreamland find you.
Hush now quiet now lay your sleepy head.
Hush now quiet now it’s time to go to bed…”

As she sang, the glow from her sword’s rune intensified, the golden light flowing from the blade to envelop her wounded leg. She felt a warm tingling sensation, then… the pain was gone. With a grin, the mare tapped her leg on the floor of the cavern once, then twice. “Look at that! Is that my first rune? Did I figure it out!?”

She slid her sword back into it’s sheath, nodding at the voice only she could hear. “Wow, that’s really cool. Gotta sing every time though, huh? I’m more of an instrumental musician, y’know?”

Lyra walked about the cavern a bit, making sure everything was in working order. Sending a little magical pulse through her fur, she pushed the water away, drying herself off. “Alright! Leg is fixed, belly full of cave slime, nice and dry. Time to get out of here.”

Looking back the way she came, she dismissed that idea right away. “No flying spells, so no going back up the waterfall. This would be an awesome time for one of my flying friends to swoop in and save the day!” She shouted toward the waterfall, ear perked hopefully. An ear that soon drooped back down. “They think I’m dead of course.” Her eye drifted to the element of loyalty still hanging around her neck. “Probably come looking for this, but who knows when? Guess I’m hoofing it.”

Tightening the strap on her saddlebag, and glad Bon-bon bought her the enchanted waterproof one, she set off down the tunnel. Her gait sagged a bit at the thought of her lost fillyfriend. She shook her head violently after a moment. “Now’s not the time for moping! I’ll do plenty of that when I get out of here. If I remember right, Umbra said her family sends patrols through the tunnels all the time, I just have to run into one of them.”

Shaking her head at the idea that she was hoping to run into a bunch of giant spiders down here in the dark, she set out once more. It was quiet, which was nice. After leading a giant undead monster over a cliff, then riding the rapids over a waterfall, she could use a little peace and quiet. She hoped Jen and the others were alright. Who knew what craziness they were getting up to now...

She walked along, eyeing the occasional mushroom or bug with idle curiosity. This place had its own kind of natural beauty. If she weren’t all by herself, she might actually be enjoying herself. She stopped short as she stepped on something that crunched loudly underhoof. Curiously, she peered down, and her breath caught in her throat. The floor ahead was littered with bones. None looked like they belonged to a pony, but still; a whole cavern full of bones was pretty off-putting.

Glancing back the way she’d come, she considered backtracking, but that was no good. It’d been a straight shot so far, and all that was back there was a waterfall she couldn’t climb. Focusing on her magic, she created a globe of light, casting it forward and making it swell and grow as it went, hanging in the air like a tiny golden sun. Her brief moment of relief at the bright illumination faded at the loud hissing sound issuing from within.

She barely caught sight of movement on the wall to her right, instinctively lunging forward, she managed to dodge ahead of the huge sticky tongue that smashed into the spot she’d occupied seconds ago with enough force to crack the stone. Lyra scrambled over the bones, whirling to face the massive lizard. It looked like a gecko, but one big enough to swallow her in two bites.

Escape was her first thought. She could see an exit on the other side of the chamber, but when she tried to move toward it, the lizard raced like a blur across the wall to bar her exit. Gritting her teeth, she slid Hymn free. “I don’t want to fight! Just let me pass!” She had no idea if it was smart or not, but it was worth a try.

Its only response was an enraged hiss. It had its eyes tightly shut against the light, but somehow it was still unerringly moving toward her. When it opened it’s mouth again to shoot its tongue, Lyra could see a row of razor sharp teeth. Gulping, she hastily conjured up a magical shield. The tongue impacted hard enough to send a backlash through her horn, giving her a ringing migraine.

“Alright! That’s it!” She sent her sword racing ahead in a lightning quick thrust. At the last second, the lizard flinched away, but she still managed to scratch a deep line along its side. She flinched at the sudden spray of blood, hoping it would be enough to scare the beast off.

If anything, it seemed to make it angrier. Jaws gaping wide, it barreled down on her, hissing wildly. Lyra screamed in fear in response, scrunching her eyes shut and bringing Hymn racing back toward herself in an attempt at defense. She heard a weird ‘thunk’ sound. After several seconds of not being eaten, she dared to open an eye.

There was the lizard lying very still on the floor, her blade sunk into the back of its head to the hilt. She stared at it for a long time, just sitting amidst the bones of the lizard’s prey. A big undead monster was one thing, but this was a living creature, and she’d killed it. Sure it was trying to kill her first, but still… it was a pretty jarring experience.

Sighing softly, she drew her blade from the back of its head, resting a hoof on its side. “Sorry about that, fella. But I have friends who’re waiting for me. Can’t get eaten today.” Flicking Hymn clean, she sheathed it and continued down the new tunnel.

Lyra had been walking for a while now. A few hours maybe? It felt like it. Anytime she’d come to branching tunnels, she’d simply flip a bit to decide which way to go. “Now I’m kinda wishing I’d learned Jenny’s Find It spell…” She paused and blinked. Jen was terrible with magic, so the spell couldn’t be that hard to pull off. She was no Twilight Sparkle, but Lyra knew her stuff when it came to basic magic use. And she was all hyped up on harmony juice now to boot!

Grinning excitedly now, she planted her rump on the ground and started to work out the basic ideas of the spell in her head. It would have to be really simplistic for Jen to’ve mastered so quickly, maybe a very rudimentary variation on a locator spell? Lyra could work with that.

Closing her eyes, she took a deep breath and concentrated on what components would be necessary. Blending a locator spell matrix with the very broad concept of ‘stuff’ she felt the spell click into place. “Jeez she’s kinda a dummy. But if it works, it works!” Sticking her tongue out as she focused, she tested her new spell, desiring to be lead to the surface. Almost immediately her horn tried to pull her in a dozen directions and once, and with a strangled squawk she ended the spell.
“Ok, maybe she’s not such a dummy. Let’s be more specific…” She narrowed the search to ‘nearest path to the surface’. She was directed to head back the way she came. Hopping to her hooves, she dashed back along the tunnel, retracing her steps for quite a while before she finally came to an unfamiliar branch. She had no idea how far she was from the surface, but her spell was (hopefully) leading the way.

After another long stretch of walking, her stomach began to grumble again. Heaving a sigh, she switched from ‘surface’ to ‘nearby food’ for her spell. Luckily, it was leading her in the same direction, and the tugging felt far more insistent than it had when she was looking for the surface. That was interesting to note. Apparently the closer she got to what she was looking for, the stronger the pull.

The pulsing in her horn grew almost frantic as she exited the tunnel into a new chamber. This one was certainly different than any other she’d passed through. It was filled with giant mushrooms of a dizzying array of hues. Their sizes ranged from as big as she, to the size of the tallest trees in Whitetail Woods. Grinning in amusement, she approached the nearest mushroom. “A whole mushroom forest. This is pretty awesome.”
A basic spell to detect poison showed the large mushroom she’d been eyeing was safe to eat. Gingerly, she took a bite from the cap. It was surprisingly sweet and flavorful. Almost tasted like real food if she could ignore the bizarre spongy texture. Doing her best to push aside the ‘this is gross’ thoughts, she nudged the mushroom onto its side, eating her fill. With a satisfied grunt, she sat up from her meal, looking about the cavern.

While not terribly excited at the prospect of falling asleep down here, her body was definitely telling her it was bedtime. Trotting to the nearby wall, she used her magic to uproot a handful of mushrooms, surrounding herself with them like a little fortress. She seriously doubted they’d actually keep out anything that wanted to eat her, but hopefully it would be a bit of camouflage.

Settling down atop the cap of a particularly squishy fungi as an impromptu bed, she slid the other gift from Starswirl free of her saddlebag. Grateful to Bon-bon for springing for the waterproof enchantment, she laid the old book out before her hooves. She was a mare who always needed to read a bit before bed, and now was as good a time as any to crack her new book.
The Secrets of Spellsong, by Sunshine Heartstrings

Movement from outside her mushroom fortress roused Lyra from her sleep. She felt rested, if irritated about being woken up early. Her irritation fled when she recalled where she was. Frowning at the impenetrable gloom beyond, she had no choice. She lit her horn, announcing her presence to whatever was out there. If she was about to be attacked anyway, she needed to see it coming.

Slowly sliding Hymn from it’s sheath, she prepared to defend herself as the movement came closer. She was surprised as a large pair of hands gripped the biggest mushroom sitting in front of her, lifting it away. She was even more surprised at the owner of the hands. It was tall, shaped vaguely like a human, but its body was pale white and spongy. Instead of a head, it had a huge mushroom cap, but she could vaguely make out slits beneath the cap that may be eyes.

Lyra held her sword out threateningly, but the creature merely stared down at her. More movement drew her attention as another pair of the creatures approached. Rather than attack however, all three merely stared at the mare. She tensed again as the first knelt down reaching a hand out, but it was moving slowly, carefully as if to show it lacked hostile intentions. Gingerly, Lyra reached a hoof toward the hand touching it. The mushroom man gripped her hoof and shook it up and down once.

Smiling now, the mare slid her sword away. “Uh… hello? Do you talk? Do you understand me?” The creature released her hoof, tilting its head at her words. She sighed a little. “I’ll take that as a no. Uh… sorry if I ate some of your friends… I was pretty hungry.” Looking to its companions, the mushroom man surprised Lyra by emitting a low hum from somewhere in its body. The others likewise hummed, looking to Lyra almost expectantly. Her eyes widened as she realized they were trying to communicate. “Oh! Oh one second! I have just the thing!”

The creatures leaned away at her sudden shouting, but made no move to withdraw. She hastily dug out her book, flipping through the table of contents. “Where is it… where is it… aha! Musical communication! Let’s see now…” The spell song was a mix of spell matrix and musical notes. Sunshine had apparently found a way to make very complex spells simply by blending unicorn spell casting with music.

Clearing her throat, Lyra sang her way through the song slowly, splitting her focus between the spell matrices and the lyrics. She felt a warm tingle in her throat and ears. “Ahem. How’s this?”

The lead mushroom looked to its companions in surprise. “You sing our song?”

Lyra’s grin widened. “I do now! It’s uh, magic. A special kind of song I can use to understand you and speak to you!”

It seemed to accept her explanation, nodding. “We are the myconid. What are you?”

“Oh! Uh… I’m Lyra. It’s nice to meet you, Myconid.” She offered him a friendly smile, looking between him and his friends.

“The myconid have never seen a creature such as the lyra before. How came you to be in our forest?”

She giggled a little at being called ‘the lyra’, but didn’t see any need to correct the creature. “I fell down a waterfall. I’m trying to find my way home. To the surface? Do you know it?”

It nodded. “The myconid know of the surface, though do not venture to it. It is far from here. Does the lyra wish for us to guide it?”

Lyra had her locator spell, but she’d feel a whole lot better travelling with somepony—or something—friendly. “It does! It really does! Thank you!”

Again, the myconid nodded. “Come then. Though try to be quiet. There are many dangers in the tunnels beyond, and it would be best to not attract attention. The lyra does not appear to be very large or dangerous.”

She had to smile at that. “The lyra isn’t very large, but she can be dangerous if she has to. Don’t worry about me.”

This seemed to satisfy the creatures as they began to shamble along the cavern. She hurried to keep up, and almost immediately they halted. The leader leaned down, gently scooping the mare up and resting her atop his cap. “The lyra is too loud. The myconid will carry it.”

She looked down at her hooves. Of course hooves clopping across stone would make tons of noise. Sheepishly, she leaned over his cap to look her bearer in the eyes. “Sorry about that. Not much I can do about my hooves.”

It shrugged. “We are all as the great creators made us. The lyra should not apologize for her differences.”

Lyra settled back with a smile. “For giant mushroom men, you guys are alright. Bet you’d fit right in in Equestria.”

The myconid didn’t seem to have a response to that, and travelled in silence for a time. Since they didn’t seem to require light, Lyra reluctantly dimmed her horn. She wasn’t in the dark long. As the myconid trudged along, making barely a whisper as they went, the mare could see a dim glow coming from the tunnel ahead. As her bearers entered the area, her eyes widened.
Spread out among the huge chamber was a village. Cut from the giant mushroom trees, dozens of myconid went about their business. She could see big ones and little ones scurrying about. It almost looked like a normal pony town. “Is this your home?”

“Yes. The myconid welcome the lyra to their new grove. It has stood longer than any before it.”

Lyra couldn’t help but smile. From here she could hear the song the myconid below hummed to one another as they worked. “It’s beautiful. What happened to the old grove?”

“The devourer came. As it always does. It comes, feasts, and then leaves. The myconid that survive rebuild.”

Lyra didn’t like the sound of that. “The devourer? What’s that?”

“A great beast. It comes, eats the myconid and their homes, then leaves.”

“That’s terrible! Can’t you do something!?”

“No. The devourer is…” The myconid’s song faltered as the ground began to rumble. “…the myconid apologize to the lyra. The devourer is come. If the lyra is silent, it may not notice her.” Gently, the myconid she was riding set Lyra down on the ground. “The lyra must remain still and silent until it has passed.”

Lyra’s eyes widened. “What about you? Where are you going?”

“This one has spores that it must try to protect. It apologizes, and hopes the lyra can forgive.” Her bearer and its two companions each bowed before they moved to the edge of the ledge they had been walking. Soundlessly, they began to walk down the side toward their grove, their sticky feet clinging to the stone seamlessly.

Despite their warning, Lyra moved to the edge of the ledge. There in the center of the grove, she could see the ground beginning to bulge upwards. With a tremendous explosion of stone and dirt, a massive worm ripped itself free. It glowed an eerie purple color in the light of the glowing fungi in the grove. It towered as big as the largest mushroom trees, opening a great gaping fanged lined maw and bellowing as it towered above the panicking myconid.

Lyra gasped in horror as the worm slammed down on the nearest group of mushroom people, the trio disappearing into its maw, their song silenced forever. She felt her fury rising as she drew Hymn. With a loud cry she reared up on her hind legs and slammed her forehooves into the stone. “Hey! Hey over here!”

The worm had no eyes, so it must hunt by sound, and she was making quite a racket. It swiveled in its hole toward her, working its mandibles in anticipation of the noisy meal. She gulped as it began to slither her way. “Oh maybe I should have thought this out a little better.”

With the worm bearing down on her, she frantically darted back the way she’d come, leading it away from the grove. It followed relentlessly. For a moment she thought she’d get away as she darted into the tunnel leading to the forest she’d slept in. A disgusting squelching noise from behind drew her attention. The worm had compacted its body, slithering into the smaller tunnel using its slime to propel itself forward.

“Oh that is so gross. Definitely grosser than the big undead monster guy.” She burst into the forest, running for her life as the worm wriggled and writhed its way free. She had a few moments as she raced through the chamber before it’d be after her again. Looking about for something bigger than her toothpick of a sword to use as a weapon, she gave one of the big mushrooms an experimental kick. Of course her hoof sank into the spongy fungus.

“Shoot. Was hoping it’d be hard as a real tree.” A bellow from the tunnel heralded the worm freeing itself, and Lyra shook her head, galloping faster. Her horn glowing brightly to help her see, something above caught her eye. Glancing up, she saw a stalactite, a huge one. An idea was swiftly forming in her head. She swapped Hymn for her lyre, positioning herself where she hoped she wouldn’t be crushed by the stone. Frantically, she flipped through her book of spell songs.

“Okay, okay, I can do this! Come on great grand-dad, you old horndog, your song better work!” The worm was smashing aside the huge mushrooms on its rampage toward her. Lyra in turn began to sing and play rapidly. She could feel the magic prickling in the air, a bolt of pure destructive sound forming. Trying to tune out the slithering slimy worm on its way to eat her, she focused on her spell, building it bigger and bigger. With one last sharp note,she released it, sending the magic screaming up into the base of the stalactite.

It sheared through like a knife cutting butter, and with a resounding ‘THOOM’, it dropped from the ceiling, piercing the worm’s head and squishing it like a grape. This had the considerably less desirable effect of showering the young musician in a small wave of dead worm gore. Lips pursed tightly together, Lyra stood very still, trying her best not to keel over. ‘Is this what Rarity felt like when a speck of dirt hit her coat? The poor thing must be half insane.’

Her thoughts were interrupted as her myconid guide arrived. “The lyra has… slain the devourer?”

This helped bring her a bit out of her shell shock. “Yup! The lyra has slain the devourer. Your people are safe.”

The myconid trudged through the goopy mire of worm head, lifting Lyra almost reverently. “The lyra will be sung of for generations! For all time! The myconid will never forget their savior!”

“…The lyra would really appreciate a bath if the myconid doesn’t mind.”

Shuddering a little at the memory of getting a worm bath, Lyra ran her hoof through her mane for probably the thousandth time since emerging from the stream the myconid use for water. The trip had been rather uneventful after she killed the worm. The myconid claimed the predators could smell her prowess, and would trouble them not at all. She believed them when they passed a trio of giant turtle monsters who didn’t so much as give the group a second look.

“Hey those are the spiderkin! Will they bother us?” They had reached the tunnels of Umbra’s people. The thick webbing hung from the walls and ceilings here and there. A small group of the large spiders regarded the myconid and pony silently.

“The spiders do not bother the myconid, as the myconid do not bother the spiders. Though the myconid have never come so far into the spiders’ tunnels. It may agitate them.”

Lyra smiled and hopped off his head. “Well I think I should go it alone from here. I’m uh… friends with their Princess. I’ll be fine.”

The myconid accepted her words without argument. “Very well. The myconid is pleased it met lhe lyra, and would invite it to return to the grove whenever it should wish.”

Lyra smiled. “The lyra will do her best to visit the myconid sometime soon. Thank you for all your help!”

Bowing its head, the myconid turned and began to trudge its way back to its home. Lyra watched him go for a time before turning to the still watching spiders. “So uh… is Umbra around?”

The spiders looked to one another. One of them approached Lyra slowly. It was missing the eyes on the left side of its face. She tensed a bit in case it was going to attack. She was definitely not expecting it to speak. “You are a long way from home, pony.”

She gasped. “You speak Equestrian!? Oh thank Celestia! I know! I fell down a waterfall and fought lizards and worms and I really, really just want to get back to my friends!”

The spider clicked its mandibles together in what Lyra suspected was a laugh. “Alright, calm down pony. Let’s get you to the web. Queen Neela will want to speak with you.”

“Is it closer to the surface?”

He nodded as his small group began to lead her through the tunnels. “It’s a rather short walk from the surface. The Queen relocated the family so her sister could have easier access to her family.”

“Her family. You mean Tak and Trixie right? I guess that makes sense, Trixie probably wouldn’t want to live underground.”

“Yes, Lady Trixie is… loud about what she does and does not like. The Queen enjoys her company however, so she visits often.” He was eyeing Lyra curiously. “You have come all this way from the falls unharmed? You must be formidable.”

“Nah. It was luck mostly. Luck, and the nice myconid guy.”

“Ah, the mushrooms. Bizarre creatures. Then again, I think ponies are bizarre too.”

“Well I think spiders are bizarre.” Lyra’s grin was friendly however, and she had the feeling the spider was returning it. She found it a little odd that she was feeling safe in the company of humming mushrooms and giant talking spiders, yet here she was. She’d certainly come a long way from the lazy lyre player hanging about in Ponyville.

The spiders were popping up more and more frequently as they drew closer to their home tunnels. Her guide lead her into a large chamber where there sat a female version of the creature like Prince Spinner. She was a bit bigger than her brother, hair longer and her torso slimmer. She regarded the approaching pair curiously. “And what is this, Kasson? A pony? An envoy from their Princess?”

“No, my Queen. This pony was lost near the myconid tunnels. She made her way here trying to find her way back to the surface.”

The Queen looked surprised. “You made it here on your own? You are a very lucky pony.”

Lyra smiled. “Yes your majesty, I am.”

“I am sure you are eager to return to the surface. Allow me to show you the way. You can regale me with your story.” She picked her way down from the massive web she was crouching in, landing lightly on the ground, making not a sound despite her huge size.

Lyra shook her head. “Oh no, I couldn’t put you out like that! I can find my own way from here if uh… Kasson was right and it’s not far.”

The Queen smiled. “It is not far at all, but I do enjoy the company of ponies very much. Would you indulge me?”

Looking a bit unsure, Lyra nodded. “W— well I suppose so your majesty, if you’d really like to.”
“I really would. Kasson, you may accompany us, as I am no doubt sure my going alone would give brother a heart attack. Come along.”

The scarred spider fell in behind his Queen as she led Lyra through her tunnels. “I am called Neela, and you?”

“Oh uh, Lyra ma’am. Lyra Heartstrings.”

“Lyra Heartstrings. A curious name. You are a warrior? You wear your blade with confidence.”

Lyra blinked back at the sword on her flank. “Oh uh… kinda? I only just got my sword. I’m a musician really. A bard I guess you’d say.”

The Queen’s eyes lit up. “A musician? Did you hear that, Kasson?”

He seemed to roll his eyes. “Yes highness, I heard.”

She was smiling grandly now. “I am so very fond of music. We did not have any until Trixie came to us. She is so very… alive. Her music and performing are always exciting. Would you play for me?”

Lyra raised an eyebrow, looking about the dank spider infested tunnels, then up at probably the strangest audience she’d ever had. “W— well uh, sure, I guess one song couldn’t hurt.” Kasson didn’t look quite as excited as his Queen, but his expression changed as Lyra drew out her lyre.

Settling comfortably, Lyra began to pluck the strings; slowly at first, then with more speed. Playing Bon-bon's song. Not to lure a giant monster over a cliff this time, but to perhaps bring some music and joy to somepony (someone? Something? Lyra wasn’t sure how to think of the spiders) who had very little of it in her life.

By the time she finished, the Queen looked teary eyed, and even the battle hardened Kasson was looking away discreetly. “Lyra, that was… that was the most amazing thing I have ever heard. You must play more!”

Lyra offered a wan smile. “Ordinarily nothing would make me happier, but I’m sort of eager to find my friends. War going on and all.”

This seemed to sober the Queen hastily. “I… yes of course, forgive me. I have in fact dispatched Spinner and our finest warriors to aid in the retaking of your Crystal Empire. They should be moving to their destination even now.”

Lyra’s smile faded. “So they’re heading to the Empire already? I’ve got a lot of ground to cover. Are we almost out?”

Nodding, the Queen took the lead at a swifter pace, sensing Lyra’s urgent desire to be out of the tunnels. She lead her increasingly upward, and Lyra felt possibly the greatest thing she’d ever felt in her life. Fresh air blowing through her mane. Grinning like a schoolfilly, she galloped ahead. There at the far end of the tunnel she could see a pinprick of daylight.

“Thank you! Thank you both! I’ll be sure to come back and play all you like when Equestria is safe again, your highness.” Lyra dipped into a low bow.

A bow the Queen returned, to her embarrassment. “Very well, Lyra Heartstrings, I will hold you to your promise. Go now and aid your friends. I wish you well.”

With one final nod to them both, Lyra took off down the tunnel. Galloping full tilt, she burst free into the bright sunlight with an elated shout. “Hello sun! Hello snow! …snow? Gah, it’s freezing!”

Lyra was in the mountains, apparently in the middle of winter. Which was weird, since it was spring not too long ago. Was she down there for that long? That was impossible. It must just be a really cold region.

Shivering, she encased herself in a bubble of magic, almost immediately feeling warmer. “There we go. Now let’s see where you are…”

Focusing on Jennifer, her horn pointed her unerringly to the northeast. “Right then! Lyra the Knight is on her way!”

Chapter 15: What a Pony Does Best

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Chapter 15: What a Pony Does Best

Rarity stoically refused any assistance with her burden from either Pinkie or Fluttershy, insisting more than once that it was the very least she could do in exchange for Jubilant saving her life. Though toward the end of their trek from the Everfree, her legs were looking just a bit unstable. Still, she grit her teeth and soldiered onward. Trixie and Fancy Pants alone waited at the portal.

“It’s about time! The Great and Powerful Trixie was moments away from rushing in to fetch you lot! Get your flanks through this portal. Trixie wishes to be away from here in case any dragons decide to come sniffing around again.”

Despite her protests, Fancy shifted Jubilant from Rarity’s back to his. “I’m starting to feel like a sack of potatoes.”

The stallion chuckled at the weakened mare’s complaints. “We’ll get you back to the Citadel and have you back on your hooves in no time.”

An impatient Trixie ushered the group through the gate, leaping in herself once they were clear. As they exited the other side back in the courtyard of the Citadel, she send a small magical blast back the way they came, destroying the diagrams in Ponyville and collapsing the gate. With a brief nod toward the ponies she’d come through with, she set out to find Tak and Umbra.

“Well! I suppose your old bed will do fine, hm? I’d best get you up there then see where I can help out down here.” Fancy started to push through the throng of confused, frightened, and injured citizens of Ponyville.

A drowsy Jubilant could make out Cadence pushing through the crowd, healing the worst off first. Dinky and Shining Armor were at her side, trying to organize things as best they could. The Princess spotted the injured Jubilant and pushed to her side immediately. “Your horn! What happened!?”

Jubilant waved a hoof lazily toward Rarity. “She broke her horn. Had to heal her. Where’s Chrysalis?”

A faint frown crossed Cadence’s features at the mention of the Changeling Queen. “She left. Said she had to return to her hive, but she would send one of her changelings along to act as an intermediary between she and us. Are you sure you’ll be alright? A broken horn is very serious.”

“Mercy is already healing me. I’ll be alright in a little while. I’d just like to lie down a little if that’s alright.” Fancy Pants was already making his way toward the Citadel again.

“Of course! And Jubilant? You did very well tonight. You saved many lives.”

Jubilant gave Cadence a weary smile as thanks and let her head sink down onto Fancy’s back as he strode into the keep. Her eyes roamed the courtyard briefly, seeing more than a few familiar faces. But what stood out more than the ones she saw, were the ones she didn’t see. The ones she was too late to save.

Rarity laid a gentle hoof on Fluttershy’s back as the pegasus made to follow Fancy and Pinkie into the Keep. “Just a moment darling, we have something to discuss.”

Curiosity warred with concern for the filly she’d raised as a niece for the past five years, but Fluttershy knew Rarity wouldn’t have stopped her if it wasn’t important. “Of course Rarity. What’s wrong?”

“It occurs to me that we are missing three Elements of Harmony. Applejack, Rainbow Dash, and Twilight. I worry that if Galaxia suspects the three of us are with the resistance now, she may do something unthinkable to our other friends.”

Fluttershy’s eyes widened at the implication. “Oh no. You don’t think she’d be that cruel, do you?”

Rarity just quirked a brow. “Dear, she sent dragons to murder everypony in Ponyville because Jennifer turned out to be not dead. I’m fairly certain there is no limit to her cruelty.”

The timid pegasus was on the verge of panic now. “What do we do? How can we save them?”

“Mmm. Well I recall Fancy saying Applejack was in Appleloosa. I believe that’s close enough we can retrieve her rather easily. The real problems are Twilight and Rainbow. Canterlot and Cloudsdale aren’t exactly easy to get into.”

Usually the first to run and avoid confrontation, Fluttershy could be brave when her friends were in trouble. “Unless somepony is already familiar with both cities.”

Now Rarity wore a faint smile. “Precisely. Somepony like you and I. You see to Rainbow Dash, and I to Twilight.”

“Oh, but how are we going to get them out? Both are still under Galaxia’s spell! They won’t come willingly!”

Rarity’s smile widened as she looked back at the throng of Ponyville survivors. Specifically to a certain unicorn mare in a star studded hat and cape, and a pegasus stallion wearing officer’s armor fussing over his foals. “I think we’ll be able to get just the help we need.”

Jubilant grumbled as Pinkie Pie fussed over her in bed. “Mom… Mom I’m fine. I’m fine! Really I’m just really tired that’s all.”

The normally cheerful earth pony bit her lip in worry. “Does it hurt?”

With a little shrug, the alicorn mare made herself more comfortable. “A little. But it’s already healing up. I’ll be good as new by tomorrow.”

Huffing softly, Pinkie fetched her some clean water from a nearby container. “Silly filly. Never thinking, always doing.”

“Just like my mom.” Jubilant’s grin matched her mother’s usual ear to ear smile. She sipped lightly from the glass before letting her head flop back in the pillows. “It’s really great to see you again. And I really want to catch up, but would it be alright if I had a little nap?”

Pinkie’s smile softened. “Of course. You rest up. I’ll go see what the girls are up to, alright?” With a quick kiss to the adult mare’s forehead as if she were still a little filly, Pinkie slipped out.

As soon as her mother was gone, Jubilant’s smile vanished. One ear trained toward the door she slowly lowered herself to the floor, pacing to the window overlooking the courtyard. It was hard to tune out the sounds of crying and moans of pain coming from below. Harder still was to see just how few Ponyville citizens had escaped.

“It doesn’t get easier. I Can tell you that much.”

She didn’t turn to face Starswirl as he spoke up behind her. “How did you do it? For so long?”

The ancient sorcerer moved to her side looking down beside her. “You don’t dwell on what you didn’t do, but focus on what you did. Would any of those ponies be alive right now if you and your friends hadn’t rushed to their aid? I very much doubt it. Certainly not as many would have lived as is down there. Young Miss Rarity would have certainly perished, I can promise you that.”

“But I could have been faster. I should have gone to get my mother the second I returned. If I had…”

“If you had, you would not have been here to fend off the undead forces. Your friends are formidable; perhaps they would have managed without you. Or perhaps more than the songstress would have perished. Perhaps you would have saved everypony in Ponyville only to return and find everypony here dead. Unless you’re all-knowing and all-seeing, you can’t know what ‘might’ have happened. You only know what did happen. Not even Celestia can see and know everything at once.”

Jubilant heaved a heavy breath, and very nearly toppled to her knees. Clicking his tongue reproachfully, Starswirl hefted her in his magic, laying her back in bed. “A broken horn is very serious. Even with Mercy working to heal it, you have to give it time.”

The young mare lay in her bed, regarding Starswirl quietly. “Are you alright? You look… Worse than when we first met.”

He laughed at that. “My time in this world is nearly at an end, my dear. It’s time this old stallion finally left Equestria in the hooves of you youngsters. I think you’re more than up to the challenge.”

“I met her, you know. Healing Touch.”

“While you loitered about outside the gates of Elysium I suppose?”

Jubilant nodded. “Yeah. I don’t remember much, but she seemed nice. She’s waiting for you I think. They all are.”

“Well! I think they’ve waited long enough, don’t you?”

She smiled. “Hey, do… Do you think we can beat her? She’s just so strong.”

Tilting his head back, he looked her square in the eyes. “We ponies can overcome any obstacle, any challenge. There’s nothing too difficult for us if we do what we do best.” Almost as an afterthought he tossed a small box on her bed. “This might help. Do not open it until you face Galaxia.”

Jubilant blinked and gingerly moved the box to her nightstand. “What do we do best?” Rather than answer, he was turning to go. “Starswirl! What do we do best!? What’s in the box!?”

Glancing over his shoulder, he shot her a wink. “Think about it little filly. And good luck. Take care of my castle!”

And then he was gone. Leaving a very dissatisfied Jubilant Surprise alone in the dark of her room.

“I simply wish to ensure she is well. There is no harm in that. Nor do I believe the activity will be overly strenuous, mother.”

Moon Dancer felt a giddy little thrill in her heart every time Umbra called her that. “You were badly hurt yourself, Umbra. You should be resting.”

Tak piped up from the other side of the bed. “Aw she looks fine. If y’want, I can just toss her on my back and haul her up t’ the kids room.”

Shifting her gaze to her daughter’s husband, Moon Dancer eyed him speculatively. A changeling prince married to what was technically an Equestrian Princess. After all, Umbra was her biological daughter. That made her royalty. So that title extended to him as well, she supposed. “Very well. I suppose I would like to visit her as well.”

“Are we talking about Jubilant? I was just on my way to see her myself.”

All eyes turned to the door to find Trixie in the doorway. Umbra raised an eyebrow at her wardrobes addition. “You feel you did not look ridiculous enough?”

Tak was doing his best to hold in laughter of his own, only Moon Dancer regarded the showmare seriously… Perhaps a touch sadly. “He gave them to you, didn’t he?”

Trixie didn’t need to ask who Moon Dancer was referring to. She kept her grandfather’s old hat proudly perched on her head, but now several jingling bells hung along the brim. Her smile was the rarely seen genuine one, usually reserved for private moments with her family. “He did. A parting gift, he said.”

Moon Dancer nodded sadly while Tak and Umbra looked on confused. “Well. He will be missed. Come along you two, let us see how my former student fares.”

Umbra moved to stand on her own, and squawked in protest when Trixie hoisted her into the air and settled her across Tak’s back. His mare secured, the foursome set out to Jubilant’s chambers.

The young mare looked to be just on the brink of dozing off when they let themselves in. “Behold! The Great and Powerful Trixie has come all this way to personally grace your bedside with her presence! You may hold your applause, given the circumstances.”

Laughing softly Jubilant sat up straighter. “Hey guys. And uh… Hey Umbra. How you doing?”

The other alicorn in the room gave an indignant grunt as Trixie lifted her from Tak’s back, depositing her unceremoniously at the other end of the bed from Jubilant. Casting the mare she shared her husband with a baleful glare, her gaze softened as she regarded Jubilant. “Well enough for having been used as a plaything of a dragon. And yourself?”

The younger mare shrugged with a grin. “Well enough for having my horn snapped in half.”

Moon Dancer regarded the mending appendage curiously. “Yes, you left quite an impression in my night sky when you did as well.”

“D’you like it? It’s the Star of Jubilance!”

The former diarch’s eyebrows rose. “Is it now?”

“It certainly is. I made it, so I get to name it.” She stuck her tongue out, drawing a laugh from the other three at Moon Dancer’s expense.

“You do know precisely what that star is, do you not?”

Jubilant shrugged. “Really green?”

“It is all of the mana you have accumulated in your time in Equestria, released at once. That means your reserves are very nearly empty, and it will take years to build back up to that point. What you did was reckless and foolish. You will be severely weakened in the time to come, when your strength was sorely needed.”

Now it was Jubilant’s turn to frown. “So I should have let Miss Rarity die?”

The elder in the room shifted under the scrutiny of the younger ponies (and changeling). “Sometimes…” She took a deep breath. “Sometimes one must make harsh decisions that are unfair and cause us great pain. These decisions are almost exclusively made by ponies in positions of great power. My sister and I. No doubt Umbra’s mother made such decisions. And now Jubilant, you will be called on to make such decisions.”

Jubilant’s expression only darkened as the mare spoke. “So you are saying I should have let her die?”

Closing her eyes, Moon Dancer took another deep breath. “Given the circumstances, it would have been more prudent to return here with her and let us attempt to mend her horn another way.”

“Everypony there told me there was no other way. That what she needed we wouldn’t be able to get for her. Not even Cadence’s magic would have done the job. It was the only way to save her, and I would do it again a thousand times.”

Moon Dancer bristled a little, about to retort, when she was interrupted by Umbra. “I believe you are incorrect in this circumstance, mother. Yes, Queen Spinneret had to make many difficult choices. But recall the very first one she made in regards to me? A helpless pony hatchling obviously incapable of surviving in the harsh land she ruled. Imagine the difficulties she knew she would face raising me as she did. The scrutiny from her subjects, the trials she was placing upon herself in order to ensure my health and safety. She most certainly did not choose the wiser of the two paths when she adopted me. But she chose the right one. Jubilant’s decision may have been foolish, but it was the right one to make.”

She finished, smiling over at the younger mare. “You are a fine example to us all, Jubilant Surprise. The kind of mare I myself hope to be one day.”

“Indeed! Clearly more than a little of Trixie has rubbed off on you. It’s the only explanation for how you received so sterling a character.”

Tak rolled his eyes, tugging Trixie’s hat down over her face. “You did good kid. And we’ll get by without you bein’ all crazy magic. I married one’a you alicorns after all. Probably the only one in Equestria who uses less magic’n a newborn foal. She’s got all the wallop we’ll need to knock that Galaxia witch on her butt.”

Jubilant sniffed a little, feeling tears coming on. “Thanks guys. I guess Moon Dancer is kinda right… I wasn’t thinking. But if we start letting our friends down now when times are tough, we don’t really deserve to have them when they’re good. Just because things aren’t at their best, I don’t think that means we have to be any less than our best. Y’know?”

Sighing softly, Moon Dancer briefly nuzzled Jubilant. “I do not know why I feel the need to keep poking at you with these little tests of mine. Your bright and beautiful nature shall never be dimmed, I think. Come along children; let us leave Jubilant to her rest. The half-wit needs all she can get to recover from her injury.”

The other four stared, mouths slightly agape as Moon Dancer strode from the room, head held high. A chuckling Tak settled Umbra back on his back as the trio made to leave. As they exited the room, Jubilant called out, “Trixie? Can you stay a minute?”

The mare looked to her partners and shrugged, closing the door as they left. “What is it Jubilant?”

Jubilant’s eyes drifted down toward her sheathed sword. Using her teeth she slowly drew Mercy from its scabbard. “I was hoping you could teach me a spell.”

Ditzy Doo smiled as she saw Dinky making her way through the keep. “Hey muffin! Where ya goin?”

Dinky blinked as her mother approached. “I was gonna visit Jenny. I heard she got hurt pretty bad and I want to make sure she’s alright. It’s been a couple’a days since she got back and I’ve just been so busy…”

Smiling proudly, the grey mare fell into step with her filly. “I can’t believe my little Dinky’s all grown up and now a big important knight! Like the Princesses even!”

Dinky blushed heavily. “Oh mom, it’s not like that. I don’t even have one of those fancy weapons or anything. I’m just really magic now. Also I guess I’ll live to be like a billion.” Glancing quickly around the younger mare frowned thoughtfully. “Where’s your stallion?”

This brought a heavy blush to Ditzy’s face. “He’s not my stallion Dinky. We’re just friends.”

“Just friends mom?”

Ditzy heaved a tremendous sigh. “Yeah…” Her wings even drooped a bit. “…anyway! He’s getting our ride ready. We were gonna head out soon.”

Dinky frowned a little. “You’re leaving?”

Her mother shrugged. “When The Doctor says it’s time to get ready to go, we get ready to go. He said we have some very important places to be going soon. Sometimes his ship gets a little funny, and when we actually have someplace we have to be, he has to make sure it’s gonna behave.”

“Oh.” She didn’t bother to hide the disappointment in her voice. “It’s just… We haven’t talked in so long.”

“Aw don’t worry. I’ll be back soon. I’ll tell him we’re sticking around some too. We can have a picnic! Once uh… Ponyville’s not all burned down.” This brought a deep frown to both mares.

Dinky stopped at Jubilant’s door. “Well this is her room. Didja wanna come in too?”

“I can say hi real quick!” Smiling, Ditzy just shoved her way through the door. “Hey Jenny!”

A drowsy looking Jubilant bolted upright in the bed with a startled sort of ‘gnargh!’ sound, bringing a fit of giggles to Ditzy and a look of consternation from Dinky.

“Sorry Jenny, did we wake you up? Oh! You want to be called Jubilant Surprise now, don’t you?”

The bedridden mare shrugged. “Jenny’s fine for you, Dinky.” She winked, though she looked pretty worn out. “What can I do for you girls?”

“We just wanted to see how you were doing.” Ditzy helped herself to the end of Jubilant’s bed, flopping right down. “After all, a friend of my muffin’s is a friend of mine!”

Smiling, Jubilant was about to say something…. Then her mouth snapped shut. She slowly looked from Dinky to Ditzy. “We’ve only talked maybe three times, Ditzy. And one of those got pretty heated. Do you remember? On Wrap up day?”

Ditzy frowned now, fluffing her wings uncomfortably. “Y— yeah. And I feel just awful about that too! I never did apologize, did I?”

Jubilant waved it away with a hoof. “No, it’s fine. I was a bit out of line myself. We both said things we probably shouldn’t have.”

Ditzy’s smile returned full force. “Well good! I hate fighting with my friends!”

Dinky just stared at Jubilant’s thoughtful frown curiously. “Jenny?”

That was it. That was what ponies did best. First there was Discord. Then Tak, Trixie, and Umbra. Lyra and Dinky. Fancy Pants and Echo. Pinkie and all her friends. She knew exactly what ponies did best. “Ditzy! Your stallion friend? The two of you travel a lot?”

Ditzy blinked suddenly. “W— well yeah. All over really! It’s great!”

“How do you travel? Can you get from place to place really fast?”

“Why Jubilant Surprise, I thought you’d never ask.” All eyes turned to the door to find the Doctor leaning against the frame, grinning like a mad pony.

“Well here she is!”

Jubilant—horn more or less back to its old self—stood with Dinky and Ditzy outside a… “It’s a phone booth.”

Dinky looked at Jubilant curiously. “What’s a phone booth?”

“Like this super old, out of date thing people used before cell phones were invented. This is serious, guys!”

Ditzy and the Doctor shared a smile as he swung the door open. Curiously, Jubilant and Dinky stepped inside. “Oh! Neat.”

“Neat? neat?” The other pair followed the younger two inside. “I’ve never heard that one before...” he mumbled. “Really though, I show you my one of a kind—only one in the universe—TARDIS, and you say ‘neat’?”

Jubilant looked around at the weird arches and brassy metal walls. The strange consoles and machinery sitting in the center. “Well what should I say?”

“It’s a spaceship! A time machine! It’s not ‘neat’, It’s absolutely fantastic!”

Ditzy beamed at the Doctor’s side. “The Doctor’s an alien!”

Both Dinky and Jubilant nodded together. It was Dinky who spoke this time. “That’s kinda cool.”

“K— kinda cool!? An alien from a whole other world! And it’s just kinda cool!?” The doctor questioned, briefly running a hoof through his mane in frustration.

Dinky shrugged, looking at Jubilant. “Well I mean, so’s Jenny. And I kinda got to know her before I got to know you. So she kinda beat you to it I guess. Plus she’s a cool alien. You just look like a pony.”

He fixed Jubilant with an icy stare, prompting her to shrug helplessly. “Sorry. I mean, I got over the whole ‘oh my gosh they’re not human!’ thing a long time ago. Finding out you’re not a pony is like… I dunno… not that mind blowing.”

The poor stallion’s shoulders sagged as he regarded Ditzy sadly. “When did our youth get so jaded, Ditzy?”

“Aw, cheer up Doctor! You’re still my favorite alien!”

Heaving a sigh, the Doctor smiled faintly. “Thank you Ditzy dear, that does help.” He rounded on Jubilant, all smiles again. “Well! You’d best go let somepony know you’ll be gone for a little while. Don’t want them to worry and all!”

“O— oh good idea! I’ll be right back!” She ducked out of the machine, racing toward the keep.

Ditzy turned a curious gaze to the Doctor. “Are they coming with us?”

“Well of course! Why do you think I said we need to get going? Commander Jubilant needs our help after all. You didn’t really think we’d just up and abandon everypony in Equestria’s darkest days, did you?”

With a squeal and a laugh, Ditzy tackled the Doctor in a ferocious hug, prompting her filly to blush and look away.

“Hey! Uncle D!” Jubilant stopped short, seeing the large squirming sack over her uncle’s back. “Wh— why do you have that? What’s in there?”

Hoisting it into the air with his magic, he upended the sack and out came Applejack, spitting and cursing up a storm, trying to buck anything around her for dear life. “D, Ah swear t’all that’s good an holy yer gonna get yer teeth knocked right down outta yer fool muzzle fer this one!”

The stallion hastily hoisted the bellowing earth pony back into the air overhead with his magic. “Your mother thought it a good idea I go and collect her. Now that we’re a bit exposed, Galaxia may try to harm the other element bearers.”

A thoughtful frown crossed his niece’s face. “That’s a good point! Oh, but what about Dash and Twilight?”

` “Already on the case! Not to worry. They should be here any day now, I’d expect.”

“What’re y’all carryin’ on about!? Don’t ignore me!”

Jubilant glanced up at the squirming, and furious Applejack. “Let her down, Uncle D. I’d like to try something.”

Eyeing his niece dubiously, he lowered Applejack to her hooves. The indignant mare straightened her hat, fixing Jubilant with a heated glare. “Thank ya kindly fer that missy, but if you’ll excuse me, I need t’give this here varmint a whuppin…”

She trailed off as Jubilant drew her sword. Applejack wasn’t one to run from a fight, but this mare was armed and had magic. And… Wings? That was a little weird. “N— now hold on! Ah dunno what this’ all about, but y’don’t gotta be stabbing anypony!”

Tilting her head, Jubilant smiled softly. “I won’t be.” The rune on the very end of the blade began to glow softly. The newest rune. Her rune. A warm green glow pulsed from the blade, spreading across the entirety of the courtyard. All around, the dazed refugees blinked and shook their heads in confusion. Applejack was among them.

“Ah…” She blinked from Discord to Jubilant. “…Jenny? What in tarnation? Ah… Ah remember everythin’. Two different Equestria’s. Two different lives even!” Her eyes widened. “Applebloom! We have t’git m’sister! Ah already lost Mac an Granny, and Ah sure as heck ain’t losin’ her too!”

Almost on cue, Tak arrived, rubbing his cracked jaw. “Made th’mistake of carryin’ her in my teeth.” He dumped his sack out, sending an ornery looking Applebloom tumbling to the ground. She shot a nasty look at the changeling before tackling her sister in a hug.

Discord stepped next to Jubilant as the sisters reunited. “That’s quite a power you instilled in the sword. Does it work specifically on Galaxia’s magic?”

Jubilant shook her head. “No. I had Trixie teach me the spell for cleansing mind altering magics. It was actually pretty basic, thank goodness. Once I knew the spell, it was pretty easy getting it transferred to Mercy.”

Her uncle grinned. “Keeps up with the ‘helping others’ aesthetic of the sword too.”

She nodded, grinning as well. “Sure does! Anyway! I need you to tell Cadence I’m going out. I’ll be back… Soonish. As soon as I can, anyway. Just let her know it’s really important.”

Discord’s smile faded. “Do you want me to come along?”

She shook her head. “Nah. They need you here. I’m not doing anything dangerous… I think.”

Nodding, he set out for the inner keep. Jubilant was about to head back to the TARDIS when Applejack firmly rested a hoof on her shoulder. “Hold on there sugarcube. Y’all think y’can fill some things in for me?”

Sighing a little, Jubilant shook her head. “I’m in a bit of a hurry, Miss Applejack. Find mom, Miss Rarity or Aunt Fluttershy. They can tell you anything you need to know. It was nice talking to you again! The uh, real you. We’ll catch up soon, I promise! But I really need to go!”

The Apple sisters watched her gallop off for the distant blue box. “…that mare is still crazy.”

Applebloom shrugged. “She is Pinkie Pie’s filly.”

With a laugh, Applejack ruffled her sister’s hair. The pair then went into the keep in search of their friends.

“SHE’S WHAT!?”

Discord’s ears splayed back at Cadence’s use of the Royal Canterlot Voice. Good to know she could whip that out too. “She’s ah… Gone. Said she had something important to do.”

“GONE!? HOW CAN SHE BE GONE!? WE’RE PLANNING TO RETAKE THE EMPIRE!”

Shining Armor laid a hoof over his wife’s back. “Dear, calm down. Screaming Discord deaf isn’t going to make Jubilant reappear.” He looked to his fellow stallion. “You have no idea where she’s going?”

He shrugged. “Hey, I’m her Uncle, not her babysitter. She’s a grown mare. If she says it’s important, it is.”

Cadence gave an indelicate snort. “No. She’s a teenager mixed with a five year old filly. In no way shape or form is that an ‘adult’. Physically maybe, but not mentally!” She closed her eyes, taking a deep breath.

“If what Moon Dancer says is true, she’s not even as strong as one of the Knights of Harmony. After her horn broke and she discharged all her mana. It’s going to be a while before she’s even back up to normal unicorn standards, Cadence. If she thinks she can be useful elsewhere, I think we should trust her.”

Fixing her husband with a stare, her expression soon softened. “You’re right. I was just counting on her being here.”

“Well we have Umbra. She’s definitely not somepony to ignore. Plus Tak and Trixie. Fancy Pants as well. And now most of the element bearers are up and on our side. Oh! And Moon Dancer. How could I forget her?”

Discord cleared his throat uncomfortably. “Well we have Umbra, Tak, Fancy, Moon Dancer, Pinkie, and Applejack.”

Cadence’s eyes widened again. “Wh— where are the rest!?”

“Rarity and Trixie left together. Then Fluttershy and that pegasus Fancy saved… Thunderlane I think his name was? They left together as well.”

“Left!? FOR WHERE!?”

Discord was ready and had braced himself this time, so he wasn’t blown off his hooves. “I don’t know. Rarity said ‘on a mission of the utmost importance, darling. And if you come near me in that suit again, I will burn it off your body.’”

Cadence was rapidly approaching full meltdown status. Seeing his wife about to hit critical, Shining hastily intervened. “Cadence honey, it’s fine. It’s fine! We were ready to do this without all this extra magic I’m packing. We have four Knights of Harmony instead of one. Umbra’s people are ready to help us too. We’ll be fine.”

“Actually, you have five.” Echo was standing at the door, looking a bit weary, but she was on her hooves.

Eyeing her with a faint frown, Cadence beckoned her closer. “How’s your head?”

The night pony shrugged. “Fine. Little sore. Where’s my mare?”

Cadence just turned to a suddenly uncomfortable looking Discord. With a heavy sigh, he began again…

Chapter 16: Preparations

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Chapter 16: Preparations

Cadence settled in the room she’d claimed for herself in the Citadel, gazing down at the Ponyville refugees in the courtyard below. She recognized the look on Jubilant’s face when she’d returned. It was the same one she herself had when she realized she couldn’t help the Crystal Empire. If she had remained behind, would more of her subjects be safe? Aunt Celestia had told her time and again that a ruler couldn’t second guess herself, but she was finding it hard not to at the moment.

Her ear flicked towards the door as she heard the hoofsteps of her husband approach. She allowed herself a small smile at that. He always made her feel better, no matter how bleak things had gotten over the past few years. “Umbra’s people are getting prepared, Cadence. Everypony has their orders and understand what to do. Even Discord seemed oddly cooperative.”

She turned from the window to let Shining Armor see her smile. “He’s really not so bad. I don’t know what he was like when he ruled Equestria, I’ve only known him since all this started. He seems like he truly wishes to help. He definitely cares about Jubilant.” The mention of the missing Jubilant Surprise brought a faint frown to the Princess’ lips.

Shining picked up on it immediately. “We’re going to be fine. It’s a good place, Cadence. By this time tomorrow, we’ll be sitting in our old room in the Crystal Palace.”

The youngest Princess of Equestria sighed softly and rose to her hooves. “I hope so. My concern is, what comes after? We don’t have any means to protect ourselves should Galaxia decide she wishes to take the Empire back. The reports say Sombra refuses to allow any guards in the Empire outside those crystal golems of his. Resistance should be minimal, but once we’re there I don’t doubt the Queen will turn her attention to us.”

Shining was about to open his mouth to reassure her, until she pressed on. “Then there’s the Lord Whiteskull. If Sombra’s forces put up more of a resistance than expected, Whiteskull Fortress is only half a day’s march from the crystal capital.”

Heaving a deep breath, Shining Armor came forward and rested his chin against his wife’s neck in a comforting embrace. After a slight hesitation she closed her eyes and returned it. “Deep breaths honey. Moon Dancer and Umbra were talking about that exact thing.” He stepped back, relieved to see Cadence looking calmer. Of course, he was sure that wouldn’t last. “They want to go to Whiteskull Fortress and, er… ‘deal’ with the lich.”

“No! No absolutely not! We’re already missing Jubilant and Trixie. Two of our strongest members. We can’t afford to let the next two go as well! Not to mention that sounds dangerously like they’re suggesting an… an… assassination!”

Shining’s ears splayed at the word. “Well… This is war, Cadence. And that’s exactly what they’re suggesting. I don’t like it any more than you do, but Whiteskull is a monster. An unnatural abomination. Even Discord had his place in the world when he was making everypony’s life miserable. This lich monstrosity goes against harmony itself. His very existence is… wrong.”

Looking more troubled than ever, Cadence shook her head slowly. “But to willingly take another pony’s life? That is what he is… Or was. A pony. Like you or I.”

“No. A pony like you or me would never have done what he did. Even in life, he killed dozens of innocent ponies for his experiments to find immortality. That creature may have been a pony once, but he stopped being one a long time ago. He’s tormented Umbra her entire life, Cadence. She deserves a chance to find some closure, don’t you think?”

Cadence sighed. It was hard to forget the tale Umbra told her of her hometown’s destruction at the lich’s hands. “But both she and Moon Dancer?”

“And Tak. The three of them are already preparing to go. They’re all very powerful, dear. Even Moon Dancer—weakened as she is—still has centuries of experience and magical aptitude. And the way she was talking about this… I have a feeling she has experience in this very situation.”

Slowly Cadence shook her head, eyes closed. “So who does that leave us? Fancy Pants, Discord, and Echo?”

“Applejack and Pinkie have both volunteered to come too. Though I think at least one of them should stay behind and offer the refugees a face of authority and familiarity. I’d say you should stay here, but I know that’s not going to happen.”

“You’re right about that!” Cadence sighed. “Come on. Let’s go see Moon Dancer and her filly off. I’d like to have Umbra get me in contact with her brother before she’s gone anyhow.”

The pair started downstairs toward the courtyard, many things weighing heavily on Cadence’s mind. Though the foremost of which was what could possibly be so important that Jubilant decided now was the time to disappear?

“I’m telling you, brother; we can’t go back to Equestria. It’s a mad house! Zebrica may not be the most hospitable of countries to two entrepreneurs such as us, but it’s a good deal better than dealing with that lunatic Queen.”

Flam snorted softly as his brother shot down his idea to go back to Equestria once again for who knows how many times in the last five years. “Well we’re not exactly in great shape here, Flim! The only folk who are less interested in what we have to offer than the ponies are the zebras!”

Flim crawled out from under their transport, wiping some grease from his forehead. “Well we could try across the sea. Maybe the ponies of Prance or Saddle Arabia would be more interested?”

Taking the hammer from his brother, Flam passed him a wrench as he slid back under their vehicle. “That’s a possibility. The temperature in Prance has to be more comfortable than here.”

“Ha! The temperature in Tartarus is probably more comfortable than it is here!”

Both brothers shared a laugh at that. But it didn’t last too long. Thoughts of their home country being terrorized by a madwoman made it hard to be of good cheer for any length of time. About to join his brother in the repairs, Flam’s ear twitched suddenly. “Flim, do you hear that?”

“Little busy down here, brother! Hear what?”

The bewildered stallion cast about. It was the strangest sound, like nothing he’d ever heard before. “I have no idea what it is. But it’s…” He trailed off at the sudden appearance of a large blue box slowly fading into view in front of him. It grew more solid by the moment before it sat some twenty feet from him, solid as can be.

“Flim! Flim get out here! There’s a box!”

“… A box? Who cares? Somepony probably just threw it away.”

With an annoyed grunt the unicorn seized his brothers’ tail in his magic dragging him out from under the Super Speedy Cider Squeezy. Flim gave an annoyed yelp and rolled to his hooves. “Whats’s the big— Where did that come from?”

Flam shrugged helplessly, approaching it cautiously, his brother at his side. Both stallions leapt back in alarm as the doors swung open. And out stepped a very familiar pony. “Well, well! Look who it is, brother dear! And making a grand entrance as per usual!”

Flim grinned at the sight of the pony who had saved their lives in the Badlands years ago. “If it isn’t Miss Jubilant Surprise! What a… Well… Surprise!”

Grinning ear to ear, Jubilant stepped out of the TARDIS, blinking at the sudden bright sunlight. “Wow! That was a rush! Bit of a rough landing, you should really learn how to fly this thing.”

Ignoring the indignant ‘hey!’ coming from within, she focused on Flim and Flam. “Hey guys! Good to see you again! Remember when you said you could never repay me for saving your lives?”

A sudden look of apprehension dawned on both stallions’ faces. “Er… Yes?”

Her grin if possible, widened further. “Well I thought of just the way you could do it!”

Cadence watched the trio depart for the exit tunnels. “Good luck! Stay safe, and hurry to the Empire as soon as you’re finished!”

Moon Dancer spared her sister’s adopted niece a look back, nodding once before she, her daughter, and her son-in-law were gone into the darkness.

Unable to quiet the unease she was feeling entirely, Cadence turned back to the courtyard. Applejack and Pinkie Pie were busy helping to settle the refugees from their home town, and she felt no need to interrupt them just yet. Umbra had sent a runner with a message for Prince Spinner, so until he arrived, all she could do was wait.

The two mares were openly wearing their Elements of Harmony too. While unsure if they could do any actual good without all six being present, they felt it might help boost morale for the ponies to see the original bearers sporting their returned magical artifacts.

Turning toward the Citadel’s main doors, she was nearly bowled over by Echo as the night pony raced around the corner. Yelping in alarm, the Princess leapt aside as the excitable mare flashed by her in a blur, screeching to a stop. “There you are!”

“Honestly, Echo! It’s like having a bat-winged Rainbow Dash tearing around here! What’s the matter with you!?”

Echo was too excited to even attempt to pretend to be ashamed. “No time! You have to come see what I found!” She was already streaking off before Cadence seized her in her magic.

“I’ll come along, but at a reasonable pace if you don’t mind? I’d rather not be half dead from exhaustion before our enormous assault on the Crystal Empire. You know, the one we’re leaving for within the hour?”

Snatching her tail out of Cadence’s aura, the mare landed. “Yeah, yeah alright fine. But just hurry okay? This is big!”

Rolling her eyes slightly, Cadence fell into step with Echo. Shining was off planning something or other with Discord and Fancy Pants, so she had little to do as it was. “What’s this all about, Echo?”

Wings twitching at her barely contained excitement, Echo had to visibly force herself not to rush ahead. “How much did Jenny ramble at you about that book of hers? Because before all this went down, she wouldn’t shut up about it. I know every little thing about that dumb journal of hers.”

Cadence shrugged. “She didn’t tell me much, just that she was trying to learn about the Order of Harmony. Why?”

Echo started leading her down a flight of stairs she hadn’t bothered to explore before. “Well. I remembered the story of how they built the Citadel. Of what they used to make it fly.”

Now Cadence’s curiosity was piqued. “What did they used to make it…” Her question died in her throat as they reached the bottom of the stairs, coming to the very heart of the Citadel of Harmony. Literally… The heart of the Citadel. Darkened and laying on its side was a crystal heart, easily three or four times the size of the one used to protect the empire. The destruction of the Citadel seemed to have dislodged it from its proper place, but the heart was undamaged. Cadence could feel the powerful magic it radiated from where she stood across the room.

Echo turned a proud smile on the baffled Princess. “So? Whaddya think? Am I awesome, or am I awesome?”

Feeling the first genuine smile she’d felt in a long time coming on, Cadence nodded. “You’re awesome.” She looked around the heart’s chamber slowly for a moment. “How are we going to get it out? It’s way too big to fit through the door.”

Echo shrugged. “I dunno. You’re the big magical alicorn Princess. Blow a hole in the ceiling and just float it up?”

After a brief moment of consideration, that’s precisely what Cadence did.

“Where is Gilda!? And if you say on the front lines again I’ll have you plucked, stuffed, and cooked for the evening feast!”

The young griffon scout paled at his furious Emperor’s words. Licking his beak, he silently reminded himself he was a proud warrior, and to show fear would be inviting his ruler to actually follow through on his threat. “I’m sorry My Lord, but that’s where she is. She says she won’t come back until she finds who she’s looking for.”

The massive griffon on the stone throne bristled, wings flaring and talons flexing in his fury. “She is by far the greatest embarrassment I’ve ever had to suffer! My other children fight proudly to bring glory to our name! And what is she doing!? Hunting for some… some…. pegasus!”

The scout straightened up, trying to keep his voice steady. “My Lord, isn’t this exactly why you sent her and several other youngsters to learn in the pony lands? To attempt at forming a stronger bond with our neighbors?”

“Yes! When they had a reasonable, sane ruler! I never thought I would miss that infuriating rainbow maned marshmallow of a Princess, but I’d give my right wing to see her fat flank back on the Equestrian throne! Celestia understood diplomacy. Celestia understood give and take. This Galaxia is a lunatic! A voracious conqueror who doesn’t care one whit how many of her subjects are slain in her moronic attempts to oust us from our eyries. Why does she even want our lands!?”

The advisors and courtiers of his court were silent. That had been the question on all their minds, and the only answer they kept coming to was simply because ‘she didn’t own them yet.’ Which wasn’t a terribly satisfactory answer.

The bold scout didn’t back down. “Well I think Lady Gilda did learn the lesson well, My Lord. This pony she seeks is obviously one of great importance to her.”

The Emperor glared down at the young scout before him. The lad looked to be his youngest daughter’s age, now that he thought of it. Good strong beak, sharp talons, impressive wing span. “What’s your name, boy?”

The scouts’ eyes widened. “E— er… Swiftwing, My Lord.”

This brought a faint smile to the emperors’ face. It’d been a long time since a hatchling was named using the old ways. “Fine. Swiftwing, go find my daughter. Bring her home. Tell her… Tell her that her father simply wishes to speak with her. If she agrees to come home for a day or two, she can resume her search, with an entire scouting party at her side.”

Nodding rapidly, the young fellow turned and bounded into the air, completely unaware of his Emperor’s designs to match him up with his daughter. The sharp-eyed old griffon watched the scout depart before turning to his war advisors. “Galaxia continues to push further into our territories. The pegasus cities are nearly unassailable with the lightning and tornadoes they can throw at us. We need some way to strike at the Queen directly. Cut off the head, and the body will fall.”

Before his highest ranking general could respond, the strangest sound began to fill the room. Every pair of golden eyes looked to the center of the Emperor’s throne room. As the large blue box began to manifest, the guards snapped to attention, leveling their spears.

The doors swung open, and out stepped a green coated alicorn mare. An annoyed looking one at that. “This better be the right place! And I swear to all that’s holy if we’re in the future, past, or an alternate reality, I’m going to stuff that screwdriver of yours right up your—” She blinked at the spears trained on her. “Oh! Hello! I ah… This is the court of the griffon Emperor, right?”

Silence reigned in the hall for a time. The Emperor himself finally broke it. “Uh… It is?”

“Good! And would it be the year 1537… A.C. that is. If this is B.C. again, so help me…”

Waving a talon sharply, he cut her off. “Yes! That is the year! Who in the blazes are you, and why shouldn’t I have my men skewer you and turn you into tonight’s supper!?”

Despite the direness of her situation, the mare only smiled. “My name’s Jubilant Surprise, sir. And I’m here to see if we can’t help each other out a bit. We both seem to have a bit of a ‘crazy evil Queen’ problem on our uh… hooves and claws.”

The Emperor was an old griffon. Older than most of his warlike race grew to be. He’d survived by not only being stronger than any other, but smarter. He trusted his instincts, and right now they were all screaming that this bizarre alicorn could be just the answer he’d been waiting for. “Alright then, Princess Jubilant Surprise. I’ll hear what you have to say.”

A grimace flashed across her face. “Commander Jubilant, actually. Definitely not Princess.”

“Commander? That’s a military title, young lady.” His eyes drifted to the odd sword and shield she wore openly on her foreleg. Not something one generally saw a pony doing, at least before Galaxia. And this pony didn’t have the dull eyed look that most of her fellows did under Galaxia’s reign.

“Well it’s my title if we’re going to insist on using them, sir. Personally I prefer Jubilant.”

The Emperor stared down at her from his throne for a long, silent moment. Then he smiled. Then he laughed. “Well then, Jubilant. Welcome to the Empire of Griffonia! Let’s hear what you have to say. If I like it, maybe I won’t eat you after all.”

She just smiled a wide, very pony-like smile in his opinion. He was surprised to find he’d missed seeing that smile from time to time. “Well I certainly hope you like what I have to say.”

“Your plan is very simplistic, Princess. I understand the role I and my men will play in it.”

Cadence grimaced at the spiderkin’s description of her plans. “If you think it so simplistic, perhaps you have a better idea?”

The strange creature’s face betrayed no emotions. All eight red eyes focused on her calmly. “I apologize if my words seemed an insult. Often times the best strategies are the simplest ones. Your plan is sound, to the point, and has very few complications. While I share your sentiment of wishing my sister had not rushed off on whatever fool’s errand she has gone to, we will succeed. While your hand picked group assaults the Keep, my people will see to the… golems… watching over your subjects in the mine. Our workers have already prepared tunnels into the crystal mines.”

Taking a deep breath, Cadence forced herself to relax. “No, I apologize Prince Spinner. You and your people are risking your lives for my own, with little to gain. I’m just a bit on edge, I’m afraid.”

“You are unused to war and military action. Queen Neela is much the same. She does not care for combat. It is her wish that by assisting you, we will be able to forge a stronger alliance and perhaps bring some amount of peace to our people.”

Cadence smiled now. “Well if everyone comes out of this alive, I can promise at the very least, your people will be welcome in the Crystal Empire for as long as I rule it.”

Spinner nodded once. “I should return to my men and make the final preparations. I wish you victory in the coming battle, Princess Cadence, cousin of my sister.”

Cadence watched him go, the same way Moon Dancer had left. Shining Armor stepped up to her side. “Technically that means you and he are cousins right?”

Huffing softly, Cadence turned away. “Is everypony ready?”

Shining nodded. “They are. Pinkie agreed to stay behind. She’s been doing a surprisingly good job of keeping everypony’s spirits up. Though I suppose given who she is, that’s not too surprising.”

Now his wife laughed softly. “No. Not surprising at all. Come on then, let’s go see to getting ready ourselves.”

Shining grinned playfully, nudging his wife’s side. “Are you going to be wearing your armor? Because you have never looked se-”

Cadence thumped him solidly on the head before he could finish. Though as she trotted ahead, she called the armor gifted her by her Arm of Harmony over her body, throwing in an exaggerated sway to her flanks as she went.

Shining Armor was not displeased.

“My Queen, what you shared with the hive has helped, but…”

Scowling Chrysalis cut the drone off. “I’m aware that it wasn’t enough.” She was feeling exhausted again. The second she’d returned to the hive, she’d given all but the smallest drop of love Jubilant shared with her to the hive.

The drone bowed his head silently and scuttled back out of her chambers. Her consort invited himself in without permission again. For a moment she thought about disciplining him, but the more independence he began to show, the more enticing she was finding him. “My Queen, I bring news of the ponies.”

Now she sat up fully. “Go on.”

“They prepare to depart for the Empire. The spiders march with them. A force large enough they could very well take the Crystal Empire back. Should we inform Queen Galaxia or King Sombra of the impending attack?”

Chrysalis sank back in her cushiony throne, pondering the question. She knew this was possibly the most important moment in the history of her race. If she informed her allies in the coup against Celestia, there was a chance Galaxia would reward her by letting her children feed on a few of her unicorns. Then there was always the chance that Princess Cadence’s little rebellion would fail. If word got back that Chrysalis knew of their plans and she didn’t tell anyone… She doubted she would be about long enough to regret her doomed people’s lack of a future.

On the other hoof, Galaxia seemed to genuinely fear this Order of Harmony. Chrysalis remembered seeing the girl, Jubilant in action in the Empire. She was certainly a force to be reckoned with. Then there was Cadence and her husband, Shining Armor. By all accounts, he was now counted among the Orders ranks too, which from what she’d been told meant he had a considerable increase in his magical power. If Cadence and Jubilant were true to their word, her people could very well be in a position to improve their lot in life considerably.

There were too many ‘maybes’. Too many ways for it to go wrong. She regarded the patient male before her. Several moments stretched by in silence while she considered her choices. Finally she sighed. “No. No, they will not be informed of the attack. The ponies are our best chance for survival. We just have to hope they’re strong enough to do what needs to be done.”

To her surprise, the drone grinned toothily. To her further surprise, he was engulfed in emerald flames, and a changeling Princess stood before her. Perhaps a head shorter than she herself, this young female’s chitin was a dark forest green. Her mane and tail crimson red. Large blue eyes that sparkled with delight gazed back at her. “Whew! I was worried for a sec you were gonna let me down, and I woulda been totally bummed.”

“What?” Was all that Chrysalis could think to say.

“What what? Oh! Oh this! Right.” Her horn flared again and Chrysalis was looking at the pony form of Jubilant Surprise. “Yeah sorry about that. Had to make sure, y’know?”

“What?”

Smiling cheerfully, she reached into her now visible saddlebags. When her foreleg came back out it had a silver charm bracelet on it. “My new friend took me to my grave to dig this up. Man that was kinda creepy, lemme tell you.” She pressed a hoof to the small alicorn charm and Chrysalis felt the mare’s changeling magic vanish.

“I… You… What!?”

“Sorry. I feel really bad about, y’know, sneaking around like this. But this is too important to take a chance that you’d let us down. But you didn’t! I’m glad I was right about you, by the way. I was kinda looking forward to seeing your hive… Very cool, I have to say. A little spooky, has kind of an Alien vibe going on, but I like it.”

Chrysalis was working hard to quell the fury building inside her. If she were being completely honest with herself, she couldn’t blame the mare in the slightest. It was exactly what she would have done were their positions reversed. Now that she thought about it, if the girl ever got sick of playing pony, she’d probably make an excellent changeling. “What are you doing here!?”

“Weeeell… Besides testing your loyalty?” Seeing the Queen not returning her smile she sobered a bit. “I was thinking about how starved you look… And uh… Look now, actually. And if your people are going to be helping us take back Equestria, a bunch of half-starved changelings probably wouldn’t be the most impressive fighting force.”

She was walking now, and Chrysalis—almost against her will—was following. More than a few surprised drones and warriors snapped to attention, looking ready to attack the intruding pony, but their Queen waved them away. “Where is my consort?”

“Oh! The guy I was impersonating? He’s with my friends. He’s fine really. Might have a little headache when he wakes up.”

Rolling her eyes, Chrysalis decided not to hold it against her. “I’m sure.”

“Anyway!” She stopped before a large blue box tucked away in a shadowy alcove. Rapping on the door with a hoof, it swung open as another pair of mares stepped out. A wall eyed pegasus and a timidly smiling young unicorn. “Meet Ditzy and Dinky Doo! Probably the nicest, love filled ponies in all of Equestria! We’re here to give a donation!”

Chrysalis could actually feel the good cheer and warm feelings radiating off of the two new mares. Not to mention Jubilant herself seemed more than full of love, friendliness, and happiness again. The Queen smiled faintly, feeling a warm stirring in her own heart. “Well come along then. Let’s get you lunatic ponies to work.”

The three of them—Dinky with slight hesitation—followed along behind the changeling Queen on their way to rejuvenate an entire race.

Chapter 17: Love Conquers All

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Chapter 17: Love Conquers All

The trip through the tunnels wasn’t supposed to be terribly long. Only a few hours from where the Citadel of Harmony had crashed. But to Princess Cadence, it felt as though they’d been walking for days. It helped a little to have Shining Armor at her side. Her husband walked confidently, secure in the knowledge they were about to retake their home. Now and again she’d catch sight of Echo scouting the tunnels ahead, making sure they were clear.

Discord and Fancy Pants rounded out the last of their infiltration group, the two stallions carrying the huge crystal heart from the citadel between them. At Shining Armor’s suggestion, Cadence had sent Applejack and the surviving members of the resistance with Prince Spinner’s group to liberate the slaves in the crystal mines. “I know you’re nervous dear, but four Knights of Harmony and one Discord can handle Sombra. He’s just a normal pony now, not some huge shadow monster.”

Cadence sighed and nodded again. “I know Shining, I know. I just feel like we should all be going to the mines first.”

“I understand, but this is what’s going to work. If we don’t strike at both targets simultaneously, too much could go wrong. If we all focus on Sombra, then he’ll be able to use the slaves as hostages. If we all focus on them, he’ll be able to escape. We need to end this decisively.”

Echo darted back toward them, practically bursting out of her skin. “I found the exit! It’s marked just like we were told!”

Nodding to the night pony, Cadence’s horn glowed softly as she connected with the crystal she’d given the spiderkin Prince. “Prince Spinner, we’re in position. Are your forces ready?”

The slightly uncomfortable voice of the Prince came back to her. “Yes. We are prepared to strike. You are certain this crystal will not… Harm me in anyway?”

Unable to stifle a faint giggle, Cadence smiled. “It’s perfectly safe. I know you’re uncomfortable with magic, but it’s been a great help, you must admit.”

“I suppose I must. We are beginning our attack. May your battle end swiftly and favorably, Princess Mi Amore.”

“And yours as well, Prince Spinner.” She let her sending spell end. “Alright everypony. We’ll breach the surface here. D, I want you and Fancy Pants to set the crystal heart up in its proper position. Everything is going to depend on your protecting the heart. Even if we depose Sombra, with no way of protecting the empire, the Queen can just storm in and oust us again.”

Both stallions nodded firmly. The Princess looked to the waiting Shining Armor and Echo. “Alright. The three of us will storm the castle. Expect plenty of golems between us and Sombra. We haven’t much tested their capabilities, so to be safe I think flying over them, or using spells to move them out of our way would be best. We want to conserve as much strength as possible. It’s anypony’s guess what surprises Sombra has waiting for us.”

He husband nodded and fell in behind her with a grin, nudging Echo good naturedly. “You ready for this, cadet? Your first real military maneuver, isn’t it?”

Echo snorted softly at her former captain. “I was there when the Queen returned, remember? And I was with Jenny when we faced down Tak and Umbra. It’s you I’m worried about. Old timer like you should be in bed, not running around fighting evil Kings.”

Smirking at the brash young mare’s words, Shining fell silent, glad that one of the ponies he’d helped train in the past was at his side. His wife looked over the group before igniting her horn with a brilliant blue aura, and blasting through the roof of the tunnel.

Sunlight poured in immediately, blinding everypony momentarily. Their vision cleared quickly. Cadence and Echo were the first out of the tunnel, born aloft by their wings. The Crystal Princess reached down, seizing the three ground bound stallions in her magic and hauling them up. They were standing beneath the now-repaired Crystal Palace. “Alright you two! Hold your ground here! If you’re overwhelmed, follow us into the palace, but do your best to protect this spot!”

Fancy stood tall as he and Discord maneuvered the still inert heart into position. “We shan’t let you down, Princess.”

Discord snapped a salute, smirking all the while. With a roll of her eyes, Cadence lead the rest of her raiding party up the stairs into the palace. Already a number of crystalline pony golems shambled toward them, their hoof steps scraping along the floors as they lumbered at the group. Echo simply flew over them. When Shining Armor and Cadence tried to lift the bulk of them out of their way. To their dismay, they felt their magic slipping around the golems as if they weren’t there.

“This could be a problem!”

With a grunt of annoyance, Cadence hefted her husband into the air magically, and took flight behind Echo. “Maybe if we couldn’t fly over them!”

Shining Armor grumbled about the degrading manner he was being held under the forelegs by his wife, but it was getting them over the golems at least. Echo had disappeared ahead but, Cadence could feel her presence drawing closer to the throne room. The strong love she radiated for Jubilant made it a simple matter to keep track of her.

Cadence frowned in alarm as Echo’s presence flickered and a magical blast erupted around the corner. They were very near the throne room, and no doubt the headstrong night pony had barreled in alone. Indeed, Echo was dazedly picking herself off the ground, coat being licked at by biting purple flames. The Princess hastily banished them and landed inside the throne room after depositing her husband next to his former trainee.

King Sombra stood before his massive throne of black crystal, regarding Cadence with equal parts surprise and fury. “You were a fool to return here, Mi Amore Cadenza! And an even greater fool to bring so few of your forces! You will surrender now, or my guards will slaughter every stallion, mare, and foal in the mines.

Instead of the worry he expected, Cadence only grinned toothily. “I don’t need anypony else to deal with you, Sombra. And our allies are already liberating the slaves in the mines. It’s over. Surrender now and you’ll be treated fairly.”

With a growl, Sombra sent the command to have his guards in the mine execute the prisoners, only to have his attempts stymied. It seems the guards were already busily engaged. “Well, well. You’re more clever than I gave you credit for, little Princess. We can do this the hard way then. It’s been some time since I’ve had a worthy battle. Try not to disappoint me.”

Cadence started in alarm as the doors boomed shut, locking Shining and Echo out. She could hear her husband beating on the door fruitlessly. The wicked King’s magic had sealed them shut tight. “Shall we begin, Princess?”

“Zecora! You have visitors!”

The wise shamaness was enjoying a hot cup of tea in the hut she was born in. The youngest daughter of the Wander tribe, she was generally left alone while her elder siblings saw to the important duties of running a tribe. She was content with her books and herbs. The return to her homeland had been met with many happy welcomes, though it was a return tinged with sadness. Every member of her family went on a long journey to unknown lands in honor of the mare who founded the tribe, but typically they would return when they felt they’d seen and done all they needed to.

Zecora’s journey had ended on a much sadder note than that.

Frowning softly, she rose from her contemplations and lifted the flap on her hut. “Who is it? I’m in the middle of some potent… Brewing.”

The young zebra colt grinned. “Brewing tea?”

“Bah! Do I really have visitors, or are you just pestering me?”

Still grinning, the youngster shook his head. “Nope! You really do have visitors! Ponies!”

The caused the mare’s eyebrows to rise. “Ponies? Not those two stallions again, is it?”

“Nope! It’s one of each kind. And then one of all kinds.”

Zecora blinked. “One of all kinds? Do you mean a Princess?”

He shrugged. “Maybe? She had wings and a horn though.”

Zecora sucked in a breath, casting a somewhat worried glance to the large boxes stacked in the corner. “What are her colorings?”

“Green coat, pink mane and tail. Why? Do you know them?” He frowned. “Are they not friends of yours? Should we send them away?”

He leapt back with a yelp of shock as she whirled on her hooves, dashing to the corner and heaving against a large book shelf, pushing it into the corner to conceal the boxes. “Why is she here!?”

A minor scuffle at her door drew her attention. “Why is who here?”

Her eyes widened at the earth pony stallion who entered. “You! Oh I should have known it would be you sticking your meddling nose into this! Why have you brought her here!? Do you know what harm you could have done!?”

The Doctor backed up, raising his forelegs defensively. “It wasn’t my idea! She insisted! I tried to steer her away, even got us ‘lost’ once or twice. Then she ah… Took my screwdriver and… I’d rather not talk about it.”

With a snort, the zebra looked over her shoulder. “Well where is she?”

He shrugged, looking about as well. “She and the Doo’s were right behind me. You know how she can get, always something or other catching her eye.”

Hm’ing softly, Zecora exited her hut, stepping into the bright Zebrican sun. The three ponies were easy to spot, having drawn quite a crowd. For the younger zebras, this was likely their first time seeing a pony so close. For the elders, it was certainly the first time seeing a near-mythical alicorn in the flesh. No doubt they all wrongly assumed she was a Princess.

“Collect her and bring her here. She’s making a big enough ruckus to disrupt the entire day’s work for the tribe.” So saying, she went back to her tea. She didn’t have a long wait before the young mare entered.

“Zecora! It’s so good to see you!”

Feigning surprise, the zebra smiled. “Who is this before my eyes? Is it young Jubilant Surprise?”

The pony couldn’t stifle a giggle at the zebra’s use of rhyme as she moved to hug her. “Aunt Fluttershy told me you left that bit of magical hope behind. Did you know I’d be coming back?”

Stepping out of the embrace, Zecora shrugged casually, eyes flicking now and again to the boxes in the corner. “Know and hope are two different things. Best to say I wished to be prepared to help you return home, borne on hope’s wings.”

“Well it sounds like it helped out a lot! I can’t thank you enough.” Sitting down at Zecora’s invitation, Jubilant got comfortable on the floor of her hut. “I’m hoping you can help with something else too.”

Strongly suspecting what the mare’s request was going to be, Zecora heaved a sigh. “I am sorry to say I cannot do what you wish of me. My people will not march to war so long as Galaxia leaves us be.”

Jubilant was frowning now. “But she won’t for long! They have to realize that!”

Zecora shrugged. “Perhaps they do, perhaps they do not. Thus far she has left us be, even if it is only to scheme and plot.”

“Well… What about you? Is there some way you can help?”

With a last glance to the hidden stacks of boxes, Zecora’s jaw firmed and she nodded. “There is indeed.”

“We have to get in there!” Shining backed up and charged the door again, even going so far as to augment himself with his magic as he slammed into it… and bounced back harmlessly yet again.

“I don’t think ramming your face into it over and over is the trick, Captain. Are there windows or something outside I can use to get in?”

Shining’s eyes lit up with hope. “There are! Go on and help Cadence! I’ll try to find another way in!”

Echo was gone in a flash, darting back down the hallways. She didn’t slow as she approached the first window large enough to fit through, she simply loosed a sonic scream, blasting the glass away and soaring out into the open sky.

Below her she could see Fancy and Discord dealing with an increasingly larger number of golems. The clever magic users had given up on trying to affect the golems directly with their spells, and were instead targeting the air or ground around them. Discord was somehow making the air around the golems heavier, and they were moving as if in slow motion. Fancy Pants had taken to blasting the ground out from under the golem’s hooves, sending them tumbling into small pits all about.

Satisfied they were holding their own for now, she started releasing softer cries. Her sharp ears finally picked up the sound of her echolocation hitting a closed window, along with the sounds of battle. Deciding that was the throne room, she angled for it without delay. Bright flashes of blue and purple tinged with black magic flared from the window as Echo loosed a wail loud enough to shatter it, barreling back into the throne room.

Neither Cadence nor Sombra took note of her arrival, which suited her fine. Flitting to Sombra’s back, she sucked in a breath, shrieking for all she was worth. The force caught the cruel King full on, lifting him from his hooves and slamming him hard into the wall. Cadence fired off a lance of magic in hopes of keeping him down, but a shell of black crystal grew from the ground, protecting him.

“Good timing Echo. He’s stronger than we expected, but the two of us shouldn’t have too much trouble.”

Princess and guardspony advanced carefully on the shell. Nodding to one another, they attacked as one. Cadence’s magic and Echo’s shrieks fractured the shell, revealing not a cowering unicorn King, but a passage leading deeper into the castle. Neither mare wasted any time charging down the stairs after the fleeing stallion.

Echo was the first to arrive in the massive antechamber lined with inert golems. She took in the sight quickly, then glanced down at the center. Sombra was galloping full tilt toward some sort of massive device. The night pony swooped lazy circles around the room, waiting for Cadence to catch up. One face full of dark magic was enough for today in her opinion.

Cadence wasn’t far behind. “Sombra! Enough! Surrender, or I can’t be held responsible for what happens to you!”

This drew a chuckle from the dark King. “Foolish filly. Did you really think it would be so easy? Did you think I hadn’t planned for this very circumstance? Tell me, Princess Mi Amore, do you know how I craft my golems?”

Despite herself, Cadence was mildly intrigued. That, and perhaps if they could start a proper dialogue, this may be resolved without more violence. “… We don’t. It’s one of the things we could never figure out.” She glanced up to see Echo perched on one of the pipes leading from the device in the center into the ceiling.

“You can see the shells all about you of course. Painstakingly hoof crafted by myself. But what drives them? Look at the runes on their heads.”

Cautiously Cadence approached one of the inert golems. It certainly seemed lifeless enough. She examined the rune carefully. “It looks like the rune for… For some sort of forgetfulness spell?”

“Close, though far more powerful. It completely obliterates any sense of self a pony has, leaving them a blank slate.”

Cadence felt her blood run cold as the implications sunk in. “What is that device behind you?”

“Ah! Yes, my greatest triumph. I’ve taken to calling it the Soul Furnace. Care to guess what its purpose is?”

The young Princess felt a fury rising within greater than any she’d ever felt before. “You… You’re lying! Nopony could be so cruel! Not even the Queen would allow something so heinous to happen!”

Sombra tilted his head curiously. “Would she not? Queen Galaxia values the life of a pony very little. She tolerates unicorns and pegasi for their usefulness, but earth ponies? They may as well be bugs to be trod upon, unnoticed by her. And what are crystal ponies if not sparkly earth ponies?”

Echo was shaking her head, trying to understand what was happening. Cadence advanced slowly, raw magic curling about her form as her fury began to manifest physically. “Every golem? Every single one!? One of… One of my subjects!?”

Sombra simply inclined his head modestly, as if accepting a compliment. “Imagine it. A true Crystal Empire, populated only by crystalline ponies. My beautiful golems. It will be the most beautiful kingdom in the entire world!”

“You’re… you’re mad! A monster! So many lives lost to… To this!? You have to be stopped!”

His smile grew. “And who will stop me? You? The Crystal Princess of Love? Utterly ridiculous!”

Cadence drew herself up to her full height, mana leaking from her eyes as she continued to gather her magic. “I am the ruler of the Crystal Empire. I’m the Crystal Empress, Sombra! And you… You have worn out your welcome!” Vaulting from the stairs with her hind legs, she focused her power into her forehooves, diving unerringly at the still smirking King. He made no move to protect himself or avoid the sudden wave of power that swept across the floor of the room, blasting him backwards. Right into the gaping Soul Furnace.

Cadence had expected him to protect himself, to move, to do anything but allow himself to be thrown into the magical flames. A flutter in her heart threatened to buckle her knees as the King was consumed by the blue flames, which swiftly took on a black color. Echo flew from the piping overhead to land at Cadence’s side. “Whoa. Hardcore, Princess…. Uh… Empress?”

Casting one last glance at the sight of Sombra’s death, Cadence sighed. “Empress. I rule an Empire, after all. It’s time I began to act like it. Let’s go make sure Shining and the others are alright. I want to check in with Prince Spinner as well.”

Echo nodded and crouched, about to leap back into the air, when a sudden tremor knocked her from her hooves. Cadence spread her legs, steadying herself as the ground began to crack. Eyes wide, she took to the air, lifting Echo beside her. Once she was sure the night pony could fly under her own power, she released her.

“What’s happening!?”

Echo could barely be heard over the ground tremors. “I don’t know!” A huge chunk of the ceiling fell nearly crushing both mares. “We need to go! Back up the stairs!”

Echo didn’t need more prodding. She disappeared in a blur of black and purple, back up the stairs. Casting a worried glance at the splitting ground below, the newly dubbed Crystal Empress flew after Echo. The ground was rapidly falling away into a black chasm, where Cadence saw two huge pools of swirling purple and black energy before she was too far up the stairs to see back any longer.

The throne room doors stood open revealing an alarmed Shining Armor. “What’s going on!? What did you two do!?”

Shaking her head, Cadence snared him as she flew by, dragging a suddenly wailing stallion out the window after herself. “Calm down, you baby. I’m not going to drop you!”

Crossing his forelegs indignantly, Shining Armor hung helplessly in his wife’s magic. “But what’s happening?”

“We don’t know! Sombra was consumed in a magical flame and then this started!”

Echo left the couple flying down toward Discord and Fancy Pants. The ground was beginning to fracture around their hooves too. “Get the heart out of there guys! Something’s coming up from below the ground!”

The crystal golems had fortunately stopped their advance once the rumbling started. Neither stallion needed much prodding to get moving, galloping away from the growing fissures with the heart in tow. A particularly large split in the ground was racing to catch them. “Behind you!”

Discord heard Echo’s warning and didn’t even bother to look. His horn swirled with the chaotic colors brought about by drawing on his chaos magic and he, Fancy Pants, and the heart disappeared in a flash, reappearing a few blocks away.

Cadence descended, with Shining in tow, to Echo’s level. The airborne trio watched in horror as a massive crystalline hoof punched its way through the ground. It gripped the street and began to pull itself out. A second hoof joined it. Cadence could see those horrible pools of swirling light… a massive pair of eyes, she realized as a crystal golem larger than the biggest full grown dragon she’d ever seen pulled itself from the widening chasm beneath her now tumbling palace. King Sombra was back, and bigger than ever.

“Surprise! Where have you been!? Everypony was worried sick!”

Jubilant braced herself as her mother collided with her, tackling her to the ground in a tight embrace. Squirming a little to at least loosen her neck and draw in air, the young mare returned her mom’s hug. “I was getting some friends together to help us out.”

“Friends? But what about the Crystal Empire! Don’t you think that’s more important?”

Jubilant raised her eyebrows. “Nothing’s more important than friends, mom. You should know that, you’re the one who taught me after all.”

Pinkie huffed and tried to worm her way into further rebuking her daughter, but she was trapped. “Well… Alright, fine! So who are these super-duper important friends?”

Her filly stepped aside to allow the excitedly chattering Flim Flam brothers to exit behind her. “Imagine what we could do if he’d let us get under some of those panels for just a few minutes!”

“I Know brother, but he was rather adamant about keeping our hooves to ourselves.”

Both sighed at the prospects of picking a technological marvel like the TARDIS apart. Pinkie Pie wore an uncharacteristic frown. “Them? Surprise, they tried to steal Sweet Apple Acres!”

The brothers lowered their heads contritely. “And we intend to apologize the moment we run into the Apple clan again; you have our word on that, Miss Pie.”

Flim lifted his head, chancing a smile. “Might I say you’ve raised quite a fine filly, Miss Pie.”

Pinkie snorted, but her expression softened. “Well you’re right about that, I suppose. If you’re here to help, and are really sorry about what you did to Applejack’s family, I guess I can forgive you. Just watch your step! I’ve got my eye on you!”

Nodding in all seriousness to the pink mare, both turned to Jubilant questioningly. She just nodded with a smile. “Get to work fellas. Oh, Doctor! Please go with Flim and Flam and help them with any supplies they need, would you?”

Grumbling, the Doctor trotted from his conveyance. “What am I, the delivery pony?”

Jubilant’s smile never faltered. “For today! Please and thank you!”

Eyeing the grinning mare a touch darkly, he trotted after the twin stallions. Pinkie peered around inside the TARDIS curiously. “Weren’t Ditzy and Dinky Doo with you?”

“Mmhm. They stayed behind at Chrysalis’ hive to help feed the changelings. The Doctor’s gonna pick em up when they’re done.”

“Jubilant Surprise!”

Even being an adult, hearing her mother shout her full name still caused her to wince, fold her ears back, and lower her head. “It’s not that bad! Queen Chrysalis is making them, you know… Super happy and stuff while she feeds her hive. She promised they’d be fine, and I believe her. In fact, the first group should be arriving….”

As if on cue, a loud buzzing filled the cavern. A few fearful ponies peered out around the windows of the keep, gasping and ducking back inside as the large swarm of a few dozen changelings appeared. The largest—a solidly built drone in black armor—landed before Jubilant, dipping into a low bow. “We’re here as requested, Commander Jubilant. Queen Chrysalis has instructed us to follow your orders as if they came from she herself.”

Jubilant grinned. “Great! And you are?”

The large warrior blinked. “Ah… Warrior? Some of the warriors under my command call me Cutter?”

“Cutter! Alright, well, how good are you guys at building?”

Now it was the changeling’s turn to grin. “If you don’t mind a bit of green goop holding everything together? You won’t find anyone better in the world.”

Jubilant shrugged. “You can turn the whole citadel into a giant honeycomb for all I care. As long as it’s put back together.”

The warrior regarded the ruins speculatively. “Gonna be a big job. Might take us six, seven hours?”

The Commander of Harmony had to laugh at that. “Seven hours to rebuild the whole Citadel? Buddy, you get it done like that and I’ll give you a heaping pile of love for your trouble. Find a mare named Applebloom. Yellow earth pony with a red mane; big pink bow. She’ll help out with planning and such.”

His eyes glinted at the prospects. “Let’s get to work, changelings! I want this heap turned into a serviceable fortress in five hours!” A chorus of yes sirs met his orders as the small swarm buzzed about the keep getting to work.

Pinkie watched her little Jubilant giving orders to everypony so easily, and in such a way it didn’t seem like she was handing out orders. More she was asking for favors from close friends. “I’m proud of you, Jubilant Surprise.”

Jubilant blushed, rubbing the back of her head. “Aw jeez mom, don’t say junk like that.”

Grinning at her daughter’s embarrassment, Pinkie ruffled her mane. “C’mon! Let’s go find something to eat, huh?”

The mother and daughter pair turned toward the inner keep. A bright silver flash in the courtyard heralded the return of Trixie and Rarity. The latter of whose mane had been singed from its long flowing curls to a much shorter and uneven bob. Flouncing past the gaping Pinkie and Jubilant, she paused long enough to hiss ‘not one word’ before storming inside, no doubt to find a mirror to adjust her hair.

Trixie looked only slightly better off. Her cape singed around the edges, and her mane slightly frazzled beneath the bell-bedecked hat. “Well… here she is.” She unceremoniously dumped a bound and gagged Twilight Sparkle at their hooves, the incensed unicorn squirming against her bonds. Every time her horn began to glow with summoned magic, Trixie simply thumped her over the head with her staff, making the Archmagister go cross-eyed and disrupt her spell.

Pinkie looked down at her friend a touch worriedly, while Jubilant merely grinned harder. “Great work guys! I knew you could do it.”

Trixie huffed. “Well of course the Great and Powerful Trixie was up to the task! She is Starswirl the Bearded’s heir after all!”

Jubilant quirked an eyebrow. “You’re gonna slip that in as much as you can, aren’t you?”

Now Trixie flashed a grin. “You better believe it.”

Laughing aloud at that, Jubilant drew Mercy and invoked her own rune. The warm green glow bathed Twilight, whose struggles ceased for a moment as her eyes lost focus. Then the lavender unicorn blinked and looked around a little wildly. “I think we can get the ropes off.”

Nodding to her Commander, Trixie did just that. Woozily, Twilight climbed to her hooves. “I… Oh my head is killing me. Jennifer? Is that you? You’re… You’re all grown up! And Pinkie Pie! Oh it’s so good to see you!”

Squealing with glee, Pinkie tackled Twilight to the ground in a hug probably tighter than the one she unleashed on her own daughter. Smiling at the scene, Jubilant took Trixie to the side. “Any chance you can check on my aunt and that Thunderlane guy?”

Heaving a dramatic sigh, Trixie nodded. “Yes, but I really do need to rest after this. Twilight put up quite a fight. In the end I had to just wallop her over the head with Spell Nexus. She definitely didn’t see that coming.”

Smiling at that, Jubilant stepped back, giving Trixie space to cast her spell. Eyes closed, the sorceress focused on the proper mental incantations. With a flash of her horn, a window in the air appeared. It showed a somewhat grumpy and roughed up Fluttershy carrying a bound Rainbow Dash along with an equally beat up Thunderlane. “Ouch. Looks like Dash put up a fight.”

“They’re almost back though. It looks like they’re in the tunnels now.”

“Thanks Trixie. Go ahead and get some rest. I’ll wait out here for them.”

Ending her spell, Trixie nodded once to Jubilant, before glancing back toward Twilight. “Thank you Jubilant. I’ll see you in a little while.”

Once Trixie had gone Jubilant rejoined her mother and Twilight. “Feeling better?”

“Feeling confused! You own a castle now!?”

The young Commander laughed at that. “Mom just had to brag, huh?”

Pinkie huffed. “I’m just proud of my filly! She’s in charge of a whole bunch of important ponies now!”

Twilight regarded the ‘filly’ in question with burning curiosity. “Did you really die? You went to the other side?”

Shifting uncomfortably now, Jubilant looked away. “I did. And I did. I don’t remember much of it though. Just comforting warmth outside some big golden gates. And meeting a bunch of dead ponies.”

“And you met the Starswirl the Bearded!?”

Smiling at Twilight’s ecstatic tone, Jubilant nodded again. “I did! He was really nice, and kinda funny. Trixie spent a lot of time with him. You could probably get all sorts of juicy info out of her.”

Twilight was already on her hooves and trotting after the departing Trixie. “Thanks Jennifer! We’ll catch up soon, Pinkie!”

The Pies watched her go with matching smiles. “Well, she seems more or less unchanged for all this.”

Pinkie shrugged. “That’s Twilight. As long as she has some new bit of fancy magic-whatever to focus on, she can shrug off pretty much anything. Just don’t make her think she’s late for anything with the Princess. She can go a little nutso.”

Smiling a little, Jubilant laid down on the cool stone floor to wait for her Aunt. She contented herself with watching the busy changelings, mostly being brow beaten at every turn by Applebloom. The young mare had quite an affinity for construction, and was determined the ‘changeling critters’ do the job right.

Pinkie looked down at her thoughtfully. Jubilant seemed to switch from quietly contemplative to exuberant and excitable in a flash. It was probably a phase she’d be going through while she adapted to the year gap in her memories, Pinkie supposed. She didn’t know a whole ton about magic. Maybe Twilight and Trixie could help settle some of her worries. “Hey! You still hungry? I’ll go fix ya a snack while you wait.”

Nodding up at her mother, Jubilant wore a wide smile. “I’m kinda starving! We didn’t eat a thing while we were bouncing all over the place. Thanks mom.”

Pinkie bounded inside in search of a still-stocked larder, leaving Jubilant to her thoughts. Which in all honesty was not something the young mare liked to be alone with. Inevitably, they turned unerringly toward her imagined shortcomings. Lyra’s death coupled with the numerous losses in Ponyville were weighing heavily on her mind. And now more and more, she was thinking of Cadence and everypony else who’d left for the Empire. Would her not being there result in more loss of life?

Mercifully, she heard a struggling pair of pegasi approaching with the last of the original elements of harmony in tow. Dark thoughts of distant friends could be put aside for now. She was the Commander of Harmony, and temporary element of laughter. It was her job to make sure everypony’s spirits were high. As her aunt approached with her old friend in tow, she forced a wide and very fake smile on her face.

Fortunately, she’d been getting good at hiding what she was really feeling.

“I don’t mean to alarm anypony, but our spells didn’t do diddly against the little golems! What are they supposed to do against this one!?” Discord had sent Fancy Pants into the city to keep the heart safe while he rejoined the the others. The massive black golem that now housed King Sombra seemed content to allow them to fruitlessly assault his seemingly indestructible shell. Every now and again his horn would glow brightly, unleashing a massive ray of jet-black magical energy, forcing the beleaguered attackers to scatter.

Cadence had deposited Shining Armor on the ground to give herself more aerial maneuverability, and the two stallions were doing their best to at least try and hamper the golem’s attacks. If Shining gave it his all, he could deflect the massive beam of magic, but it forced him to use his strongest shield spell. A spell he couldn’t call on too frequently back to back.

“I don’t know, but we can’t just ignore him! He’s making his way to the mines, and it’s a safe bet he’s not going there to set everypony free!” The former guard Captain regarded Discord speculatively. “Isn’t there something… big you can do? You’re the spirit of chaos, for Celestia’s sake!”

“I can maybe whip something up. There’s no guarantee the Queen won’t notice and come swooping down on our heads the second I do, though!”

Shining looked up to the sky as his wife narrowly avoided being incinerated by one of Sombra’s beams. “Do it! We’re dead already if we don’t do something!”

Nodding, Discord began to gallop a ways away from a now-confused Shining Armor. “You want something big? Here you go!”

Shining’s eyes widened as Discord charged his magic and focused it on him, rather than Sombra. The other half of the Empire’s ruling body felt his body shiver and shudder as Discord’s magic coursed through him. For a moment he was confused and disoriented as everything around him seemed to be shrinking. It didn’t take him long to realize however, that he was growing. And growing rapidly. Soon he matched the massive golem in size. “This is more like it!”

Knowing his magic was a no-go, Shining just lowered his head and charged the Sombra golem. Colliding with it felt like charging shoulder first into a solid wall of crystalline rock, but to his relief the sudden throbbing pain in his shoulder paid off. The golem was knocked off balance and sent tumbling onto its side, creating a massive shockwave as it landed.

Cadence could only gape at her enormous husband open mouthed. Echo paused in her frantic darting back and forth, using her scream directly in Sombra’s ears to at least somewhat distract him when her old Captain broke into his charge. The night pony flitted to Cadence’s side, wearing a little smirk. “Gawk at your giant dreamboat husband later! We need to hit this thing while it’s down!”

Snorting softly at the impertinent Echo, The Crystal Empress couldn’t entirely hide a smile of her own. “Right. Let’s get rid of this monster once and for all.”

Echo’s smile dropped as she darted over the immense form of Shining Armor, trying to get a good angle on Sombra’s head again. Shining Armor was rearing back, prepared to slam his forehooves down upon the prone golem, the crystal monster’s movements beneath him going unnoticed as it lined up its hind legs for a kick. “Captain, look out!”

Either Shining couldn’t hear her warning—or he couldn’t react in time—but Sombra’s buck landed solidly in his mid-section, blasting the air from his lungs and sending him flying back off his hooves. The titanic stallion smashed to the ground, creating a small earthquake and taking out several blocks of the city as he went. Silently hoping that Fancy Pants wasn’t hiding in that direction, Echo tore her focus from the fallen stallion as the golem began to rise again.

Her screams weren’t doing much, that was for sure. Glancing down at the knives strapped to her forelegs, she snorted softly. “Alright, let’s see what you guys got, huh?” Lifting a foreleg to her mouth she gripped one half of Stinger in her teeth, drawing it from its sheath. Teeth clenched tightly around the pitifully small weapon, she darted in at Sombra’s back, swinging her neck in a quick slash. To her surprise, she was rewarded with a small cut actually being opened on the massive monster’s back between its shoulders.

If Sombra felt his shell being cut, he didn’t react. This drew a ferocious smile from Echo as she began to hack back and forth at the same point between his shoulders. The cut was getting deeper and deeper, soon noticeable even by Cadence from her position in the air.

Nodding in satisfaction, Echo sheathed her blade and landed with her hooves spread above the cut. Sucking in all the air she could, she lowered her head, pressing her mouth against the small incision and loosing the loudest scream she could muster up. She could feel the crystal around her hooves vibrating as dozens of hairline fractures splintered out from the wound.

Now Sombra took notice. Bellowing his fury, he kicked off the ground with his forelegs, bringing his entire body up off the ground, and around so he was falling onto his back. A terrified Echo shrieked in alarm as the monster she was riding abruptly flipped over onto his back. Cadence could only cry out in shock as the night pony vanished beneath the immense bulk of the golem.

The youngest ruler of the Empire only stared in horror as Sombra rose again, no sign of Echo anywhere. “No more! No more, you monster!” The wound Echo had created was bigger than ever now. Cadence again let her rage take hold as she summoned up all the magic she had within herself. The ponies privileged enough to witness the coming moments would speak of it in wonder to their children’s children, passing the story of how their Empress toppled the evil tyrant once and for all.

Cadence’s body shone like a small star as she enveloped herself in every ounce of magic she possessed. Angling her body toward the scar on the golem’s back she streaked through the air like a shooting star. She built so much speed that when she impacted the scar, the crystal along Sombra’s back shattered into a million pieces, her momentum carrying her through his back and out his chest.

The golem bellowed in pain and shock as thick black mist poured freely from both holes in its shell. Futilely, it tried to close the holes with its hooves, but of course it couldn’t reach the gaping wound on its back. Teetering unsteadily back and forth, Sombra fell to his knees and slowly toppled onto his side. The golem body was rapidly emptying itself of anything that remained of the unicorn King.

An exhausted Cadence lowered herself to the ground, panting heavily. Her victory was bittersweet as the remaining crystal golems slowly assembled before her. Expecting them to finish her off in her weakened state, she grew confused as they did little more than surround, unmoving and silently staring.

As one they opened their mouths as the essence that animated them flowed out. One by one, the emptied shells toppled over onto their sides as the freed pony souls began to dance about joyously overhead. Cadence could feel their good cheer and gratitude as more and more joined the swirling mass in a beautiful dance.

Tears flowed freely down the young Empress’ cheeks. “I’m so sorry everypony! I should have protected you! I should have been here!”

As if trying to comfort their grieving Empress, the whirling mass of color surrounded her, enveloping her in all the warmth and love they could give. And she felt it. Tears of sadness turned to those of joy as she realized her subjects not only held no malice in their hearts for her, but were nothing but grateful.

Her joy was short lived as she felt the terrible presence of Galaxia rapidly approaching the Empire. Grimly, she rose to her hooves, determined to face the Queen standing. She watched the freed souls race away into the city, hopefully on their way to their final resting place.

Turning her face to the horizon, Cadence could see the blazing trail of magic Galaxia left in her wake as she raced for the Empire. Bracing herself for her coming end, for she knew she couldn’t hope to stand against the wicked Queen in her weakened state. She only wished Shining Armor was at her side.

The sound of galloping hooves behind her drew her attention. Fancy Pants was racing from his hiding place in the city, the enormous Crystal Heart pulsing with life above his head. Eyes wide, the Empress galloped to the site of the heart’s resting place. The pillars supporting it had been destroyed by Sombra as he emerged from the ground. Having no other choice but to try, she used her magic to reconstruct as much of a facsimile as she could. “Place the heart between the spires, Fancy!”

Nodding firmly, the unicorn did as instructed, carefully levitating the pulsating heart into place. Both ponies heaved massive sighs of relief as it began to spin rapidly between the spires. A blast of magic erupted from the positioned heart as a shield containing all the colors one could imagine burst into being and spread out to envelop the entirety of the empire. Even in death, Cadence’s subjects wanted to serve and protect their beloved Empress. Both ponies looked to the sky, holding their breath as Galaxia collided with the shield. Her howls of rage could be heard even from their far distant position on the ground.

For what seemed like hours, Galaxia hammered on the shield. Both fists and magic proved useless however. The crystal heart of the citadel of harmony, either due to its larger size or from the power granted by the crystal ponies directly bonding with it, was stronger than ever. Calmly, Cadence took wing, bringing herself to face the Queen directly. “Your reign is swiftly coming to a close, Galaxia. Your allies are gone, and Jubilant and the order are coming for you next. Do you hear me? You’re next.”

Cadence managed not to shiver at the look of pure hatred leveled her way by Galaxia. The Queen sneered down at her. “Enjoy your victory, little pony. Savor these tiny insignificant triumphs. Resurrect all the dead fools you like. Send everything you have against me, that I might crush it all at once!”

With a flash of black magic, Galaxia vanished, and Cadence sank down to the ground again. Wobbling unsteadily, she was caught by a newly shrunken Shining Armor. “Hey there.”

She chuckled softly. “Hey there.”

“Is anypony going to get me out of this hole!?”

Both rulers of the Empire turned to the sound of Echo’s voice. Eyes wide, Cadence raced to the crater Sombra had created when he fell. She could just barely make out Echo’s faintly glowing eyes peering up at them from a mass of destroyed wood and crystal. “E— Echo? Did you… Fall into a basement when he landed!?”

“What’s it look like!? The stupid house collapsed on top of me as I fell down here! Get me out!”

Laughing now, Cadence levitated the debris away, allowing a bruised and battered but very much alive Echo to climb out. “Is he gone? Did we get him?”

“We did. Thanks to you. If it weren’t for that wound you made, I’d have never been able to break his shell. Thank you Echo. You’re a hero to the Empire.”

Blushing heavily, Echo just snorted. “Wh— whatever. Can we get back to the crappy old castle now? I want to see Jenny.”

A woozy Discord soon joined them. “I’ll teleport us back. We should let them know what happened as soon as we can.”

The sound of cheering reached the group’s ears as the former crystal pony slaves began to pour from the mines in droves. The survivors of the Empire celebrated long into the night at their beloved Cadence’s return, and at their newly emancipated status.

Shining offered his wife a smile. “You have to stay here. We’ll head back to the others. Just get our city back into shape alright?”

She was clearly unhappy with the decision, but Cadence knew they couldn’t abandon the Empire now. “You’re right. Go and be safe. Hurry back.”

They shared a kiss before he backed away, then turned and raced off to join the others waiting for him. Cadence watched him go silently before looking out over her city. Her Empire. With a small huff of annoyance, she blew a lock of her fluttering mane out of her eyes.

She frowned slightly at that. There was no breeze. Why was her mane blowing like there was one?

Chapter 18: The Calm Before

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Chapter 18: The Calm Before

Shining Armor rejoined the ponies waiting to depart the Empire. They’d spent the night resting after the battle and were as refreshed as they were likely to become. Poor Applejack still looked rather haggard. According to everypony in the mines, her heroism saved not only Prince Spinner’s life, but more than a few crystal ponies. Everypony insisted she join them for a drink, and the poor mare was more than a little hung over this morning.

Grumbling all the while and waving away and sympathetic hooves, she just tugged her hat lower over her eyes. “Just get us back in one piece, wouldja? Wanna see if Ah can still get forty more winks ‘fore we head t’Canterlot.”

While Shining Armor stood with Discord and Echo, Fancy leaned in closer to Applejack. “I know a bang up hangover cure. I’ll see if I can’t throw the thing together with what they have at the Citadel.”

Offering a smile to the dapper gentlecolt, she nodded. “Be much appreciated, that’s for sure. Would uh… Everypony mind keepin’ this on the downlow from Bloom? She don’t exactly approve of ponies dippin’ into the drink.”

A round of good natured laughter greeted her request, as well as assurances that her drunken evening would be kept between all those present. The newly christened Crystal Empress arrived to see them off, looking rather striking with her mane and tail constantly flowing like her aunt’s. “Be safe everypony. I’ll be here cheering you all on.”

Shining shared a long embrace with his wife before rejoining the others. “We’ll be back before you know, Cadence. Just get the Empire back into shape, hm?”

Smiling to her husband, she waved goodbye. Once Discord had whisked the group away, her smile fell. She knew the danger they’d be facing soon was far greater than Sombra.

Rainbow Dash stood on the highest tower of the Citadel, gazing down at the courtyard below with an unusually serious expression on her face. “Bit for your thoughts?”

The pegasus’ ear flicked toward the sound of her young friend’s voice. “Hey kid. Pretty nice place ya got. I mean, aside from all the bug goop.”

Jubilant smiled a little and sat next to Dash on the tower’s edge. “You doin’ ok, Rainbow? You look kinda crappy.”

“I can’t stop thinking about all the things I did. You know, when my head was all… messed up. I did a lot of bad stuff, kid. And then Ponyville. I still can’t believe my home’s just... gone. And so many faces I’ll… I’ll never see again. This isn’t how it’s supposed to happen. We’re the heroes. Bad guys show up, me and the girls shoot em with a friendship rainbow, and boom. Party at Sugarcube Corner, maybe a new window in the castle, and we’re back to business as usual.”

Dash could hear the pain in the young alicorn’s response. “It was my fault. I should have gotten to Ponyville quicker. If I’d gone back right away… Gone to get mom and Aunt Fluttershy like I should have, I’d have been there when the dragons showed up.”

Rainbow Dash chuckled softly. “Guess we’re both a couple’a screw ups, huh?”

Jubilant rested her head on her hooves, lying down with a sigh. “Guess so.”

“So hey, uh… Who got my element? Y’know, when they rainbow’d you back?”

“Lyra. She— She’s gone too. Lead this big monster away and off a cliff. I tried to save her, but I’m… I’m not a fast flyer, y’know?”

“Well hey. When uh… When this is all done. Me and you, we can… Do some more lessons. If you wanna. Maybe get you some speed, huh?”

Jubilant smiled just a little. “That’d be nice, Dash.” Her smile faded soon. “Have you talked to your friends? Twilight said you just zipped up here and didn’t say a word to anypony.”

Dash tucked her wings in close. “What am I supposed to say, kid? I’m the element of loyalty. Or I was, I guess. Lyra had my element when she went over, huh? I betrayed everypony and everything I cared about most. That’s the opposite of who I’m supposed to be. It’s even worse than when Discord did that whatever to us. I hurt ponies, kid. I was gonna hurt Applejack, my best friend. Till you beaned me in the face with your birthday cake. Heh.”

Jubilant Surprise frowned. She wasn’t good at this. She was a doer, not a talker. “I dunno what you’re going through right now, Rainbow. I can’t. But I do know the girls are your friends, and they care about you more than anything in the world. You guys all love each other so much. Mom and Aunt Fluttershy used to tell me stories all the time about you girls. Nopony blames you for what happened. I know I don’t. I know Miss Applejack doesn’t. We’ll all be here for you when you’re ready. Okay?”

Rainbow Dash looked down at the young mare. She remembered her as the scrawny human, who turned into a scrawny pegasus. Now she was an adult alicorn. Her long legs were sleek and strong. Her body well-toned. Her wings were strong too. The kid had potential to be a great flyer if she had a little more confidence. “Thanks. I’ll come down and talk to everypony soon, alright?”

“Alright, Dash. I should go do… Y’know, Commandery stuff. Make sure Flim and Flam aren’t going to blow up my castle or something.”

“Heh. Alright, kid. I’ll talk atcha later.”

With a nod, Jubilant vaulted from the tower, opening her wings and allowing herself to drift lazily toward the ground. “How we doin’ fellas?”

The twin stallions looked up from their work. “Going much quicker thanks to Miss Sparkle here. She’s a real genius, no doubt about it.”

Twilight scoffed and waved a hoof. “Nonsense. Your design is amazing. I’d have never thought to blend magic with machinery like this. We’ll be ready within the hour, Commander.” She giggled a little at using Jubilant’s title.

The Commander in question winced. “Just Jubilant Surprise is fine, Twilight. Really, I’d be happy if nopony called me Commander. It feels wrong.”

Twilight’s smile softened. “Of course, Jubilant. Don’t worry. You might be an alicorn, and commander of an ancient and storied order of knights, but you’re still Pinkie’s silly little filly in her eyes. You’re still the shy, gentle girl we’ve all come to care for. Nopony’s going to treat you differently.”

Flim cleared his throat. “I’m sorry to interrupt ladies, but we really should get cracking on this. It’s time to bring our vision to life.”

“Right! I’ll catch up with you soon, Jubilant.” Twilight trotted over to the waiting brothers as they began the work of preparing Jubilant’s request.

The changelings were nearly finished reconstructing the outer walls of the Citadel. It looked like a blend of their hive, and a grimier Canterlot castle. If she lived through all this, making this place shine was a high priority. Hopefully the Princess had some kind of fancy super clean spell she’d loan to the task.

A loud *pop* heralded the return of her uncle, with everypony sans Cadence in tow. Jubilant raced over, looking concerned. “Where’s the Princess?”

Shining Armor lifted a hoof to calm her. “Back in the Empire. Everything went perfectly. Sombra is gone and the crystal heart from the Citadel is protecting the capital. Have you heard from Moon Dancer’s group yet?”

Jubilant shook her head with a frown. “Not yet. I was about to see if Trixie was up to following them. Scrying them at the very least.”

Her frown vanished as Echo trotted out, though the heavy bandages around her head and barrel brought it out again. “What happened to you!?”

The night pony shrugged casually. “Giant golem smushed me. No biggie.”

“N— no biggie!? You look like a mummy! Again! Come on, we’re getting you taken care of. Is anypony else hurt, or just her?”

Ignoring Echo’s protests, the others of the Crystal Empire team shook their heads. Fancy was soon off to find Rarity while Applejack set out in search of her friends. Shining Armor looked form Jubilant to Echo quietly. “I’ll go talk to Trixie about the others. You two can have some alone time.”

Both mares blushed a little, but said nothing as he left. Jubilant smiled a little to Echo. “Come on. Let me and Mercy fix you up.”

Echo huffed, but followed. “I don’t like it. You getting hurt for me.”

Jubilant shrugged. “It hurts for like five minutes, then it’s gone. You heal all slow and normal.”

“There’s nothing wrong with being normal! Hey by the way, these daggers rock. I carved that Sombra chump like a turkey.”

Jubilant flashed a grin. “Come on, hotshot. You can tell me all about it in my room.”

This suited Echo just fine.

“Excuse the intrusion, oh great and powerful one, but our intrepid commander wanted a favor.” Shining Armor grinned cheekily from the doorway to the lab Trixie had commandeered as her own.

The showmare turned sorceress rolled her eyes. “Yes, yes, poke fun at the disgraced performer. What does Jubilant want that she can’t ask me herself?”

Shining’s smile eased somewhat as he stepped into the lab. His eyes roamed about, taking in the half-finished items and bubbling potions. “Sorry. Things have been a little tense, just trying to keep the mood light.”

Lifting her gaze from the assorted herbs and liquids spread on the table in front of her, Trixie offered a wan smile of her own. “They have at that. Getting into a magical duel with your little sister wasn’t terribly high on my to-do list.”

Shining’s eyes widened. “What? You got into a fight with Twilight!?”

Now it was Trixie’s turn to look surprised. “Oh, of course, you were in the Empire. Rarity and I went to ambush Twilight when she came for our weekly study session. She’s in her right mind again down in the courtyard, working on whatever Jubilant has them doing.”

It was all he could do to stop from racing off to find his beloved little sister, but Shining Armor was a stallion accustomed to receiving and following orders. New royal standing or no. “Jubilant Surprise asked if you could check on Umbra and Moon Dancer.”

“And Tak.” She added in a little testily. “… Sorry. I’m a bit sensitive about my husband. As a matter of fact, yes, I can check on them. Give me just a moment.” She stepped away from her work table.

Shining eyed it all curiously. “What is all this?”

Trixie glanced back. “A recipe for a potion that a zebra gave Jubilant. It should make the attack on Canterlot significantly easier.”

Shining nodded and quieted down, allowing Trixie to concentrate. He was no magical prodigy like his sister, but he’d studied basic combat spells and knew how much focus they required. The amateur sorceress’ horn shone brightly before she straightened up suddenly. “Umbra? It’s Trixie. Is everything going well?”

Trixie tilted her head, listening to a half of the conversation Shining couldn’t hear. “It did? Well good! And everypony’s safe and fine? Good! Good. That’s a relief.” She was nodding now. “You will? Well according to the Commander, we’ll be ready to launch our assault on Canterlot within the next two days. I’ll pass along what you told me. Stay safe, all of you.”

She blinked as she ended her spell. “She said Whiteskull is destroyed and they freed a number of prisoners. They’re going to camp out in the outskirts of the Everfree near Canterlot and meet us there.”

“Well that’s great news! I’ll let Jubilant know. Thanks Trixie. I’ll let you get back to work.” Leaving the mare to her work Shining Armor turned from the lab. His first stop was Jubilant’s room. Knocking softly on the door he waited patiently. Echo was the one to answer, her wounds gone.

“Yeah? What is it?”

Shining heaved a sigh. “I’m never going to get a shred of respect from you again, am I?”

“Hey, all you did was get knocked on your flank. It was my daring attack that set up Sombra for your wife to take him out. Gotta work to impress me, Captain.”

Rolling his eyes, Shining tried to peer around Echo. “Is Jubilant in there?”

“She is. She’s healing up the wounds she took from me. So whaddya want?”

“Just tell her Moon Dancer and the rest are fine, and will be waiting to link up with us at the edge of the Everfree.”

“Will do! Thanks Captain. You should go take a nap or somethin’. You old timers need plenty of rest.” She slammed the door in his face, cutting off any retort.

Shining stood stock still for a minute, before breaking into a wide grin. Shaking his head he turned from the room trotting toward the courtyard. “At least she has a good mare taking care of her.”

“How’s the head?” Echo moved to Jubilant’s bedside, peeling the cloth back to view the garish gash rapidly knitting closed.

“Sore. But not as bad as a minute ago. You’re good as new at least.”

Tossing the bloodied cloths to a corner of the room, Echo lazily made her way to the washroom off the side. “We need to get real plumbing in here. Think you can magic me a hot bath?”

Jubilant rolled her eyes. “I can heat the water if you fill the tub. Conjuration is hard, and I didn’t learn any of it.”

Echo snorted softly as she looked around the antique bathroom. “Guess I’ll live without a shower. Hey! Turn into a human for me.”

The other mare tilted her head in confusion. “Why?”

Echo shrugged, smiling softly. “I want to see your face. The way I got to know you. I know you spent plenty of time as a pony, but your human self is an important part of you, y’know? And I… Well I love all of you.”

Cheeks burning at her fillyfriend’s words, Jubilant sighed. “Fine, fine. You’ll get to see me human plenty soon. I can’t fight as well as a pony.” Her horn glowed brightly as she grew from her alicorn body to the winged, horned young woman. Blowing a bright pink curl out of her face, she smiled. “Happy?”

“Mmhm.” Echo minced back into the washroom, Jubilant watching curiously. The young woman blinked at the sudden silvery flash coming from inside. The wounds she’d taken from Echo were nearly fully healed, and she sat upright in a hurry at the slim, dark skinned hand that gripped the door frame tightly.

Slowly, a short, leanly muscled human woman tottered out unsteadily on two legs. Nearly a head shorter than Jubilant, Echo the human grinned at the astounded woman in the bed. Her hair looked much like her mane— wild, uncontrollable, and a deep purple hue. Bright yellow eyes dancing with amusement gazed back at her. “Whaddya think?”

“Wuh… Buh… How?”

Echo lifted her free hand, displaying a silver charm bracelet. “I asked Cadence if I could borrow it.”

“Why?”

Echo’s smile turned coy for about three seconds before she stumbled and almost fell flat on her face. Only by furiously beating her wings did she manage not to smash her face into the floor. Jubilant seemed more than content to simply sit and watch as Echo tottered and staggered her way to the bed. Lunging quickly, the former night pony got her hands on the bedpost and heaved herself onto the mattress.

Taking a few seconds to compose herself, she looked up at Jubilant through half-lidded eyes. “I wanted to… Well… Our first time to be like this. Sort of… an homage to the old you.”

The other woman in the bed’s eyes widened as she realized what Echo was implying. “Wh— what? F— first time? now?”

Echo’s smile faded. “Why not now? When else? We’re going to be throwing ourselves against the entire military of Equestria in the next couple days. We’re strong, but c’mon Jenny. Galaxia flicked the Princesses away like they were nothing.”

“Only because she has some sort of bond or link with them since they’re her daughters. Echo, you can’t start talking like that now. We have to be strong. Not just for ourselves and each other, all of Equestria is counting on us. The whole world is. It’s not just the ponies who are involved.” Eyes burning with fierce determination, Jubilant sat up straighter. “We’re going to win, Echo. You have to believe that. We have to win. There’s no other choice.”

Echo was grinning again, shaking her head slowly. “How do you do that?”

Jubilant frowned. “Do what?”

Echo slowly crawled her way along the bed toward the other woman. “Be so amazing. So optimistic and so sure of yourself when everything else is going to Tartarus around us?”

Jubilant didn’t move away as Echo crawled over her body. “If I’m not, who will be?”

Brushing her lips across Jubilant’s neck, Echo leaned across the larger woman towards the low burning candles illuminating the room. “For the rest of tonight? Somepony else.” Gently, she blew out the candles, cloaking the room in darkness.

Jubilant felt the warm body of the mare she loved slide under the covers with her, Echo’s yellow eyes glittering brightly in the dark. And for at least a short time in the past few days, she allowed herself to forget her worries and doubts. She just enjoyed her first night with her lover.

The first of many, she hoped.

The sound of happy conversation filled the lower halls of the Citadel of Harmony. Five mares gathered together in the dilapidated common room enjoying an impromptu late night picnic. “So then th’ little whipper snapper’s got her head stuck in the knot in the tree, right?” Applejack paused in her story as her friends howled with laughter.

She chuckled mightily herself. “So her head’s stuck in this hole in one of my biggest apple trees. She’s flailin’ around, screamin’ like th’ hounds a’ Tartarus themselves were bearin’ down on her. Now Ah’d dealt with Bloom when she was a filly an’ such, but nothin’ was workin’. Then all of a sudden who comes gallopin’ up the path, but her mama. Pinkie was kickin’ up a whole dust storm, she was chargin’ our way so fast.”

Pinkie Pie blushed heavily and buried her face in her hooves at the chorus of ‘aww’s coming from her friends. “So Pinkie’s all puffed up lookin’ for whatever musta’ been attackin’ her filly. Then she sees little Surprise’s backside stickin’ outta that tree. She gave her a good hard stare before she says, ‘Gee whiz, I have all these cupcakes and nopony to help me eat them!’. Then th’ little filly quits her squirmin’, disappears in a flash, and pops right in front of her ma, hooves held out wide. ‘I’ll help you eat them, mama!’”

The laughter roared from the room again at the end of Applejack’s story. Twilight was the first to calm down of course. “It’s just so amazing. That Discord manage to do what he did. Reincarnation magic is unheard of! To take part of somepony’s soul and create a new being from it? I have to pick his brain!”

Rarity delicately wiped a tear from her cheek. “Oh but I so wish we could have been there, darling. I feel like we missed out on so much! I only cared for the little dear for a short time but she managed to make her way into my and Fancy’s hearts in mere moments.”

Now it was Pinkie’s turn to look sly. “So about Fancy Pants…”

The other girls had perked up now. “Wh— what about him?” Rarity’s cheeks were beet red.

Ponyville’s premiere party planner grinned ear to ear. “You know what about him! Are you guys gonna stay together, or what!?”

Still blushing, Rarity slowly regained her composure. “We’ve discussed it, and decided we’re going to date once all this nonsense is over with. So yes, we’re staying together. Though we’ll be taking it slow.”

Fluttershy stepped out of the kitchen bearing a tray laden with a steaming teapot and some small fruit slices. Silently, she set the tray in the center of her friends and retreated toward the kitchen again. A soft blue glow enveloped the timid mare, drawing an alarmed ‘eep’ from her as Rarity scooted her to the circle. “And what of you, Fluttershy? Do you intend to keep living in that dreadful forest?”

Her ears splayed back at being the sudden center of attention. For the past few years, the only ponies she’d really interacted with had been Pinkie and her god-niece. “O— oh um… Maybe? I don’t know if I want to go back to Ponyville after… Well after what happened.” She looked down, scuffing the floor with a hoof.

This sobered the mood a good deal as everypony’s thoughts turned to the ruin that had become of their beloved hometown. Frowning faintly, Twilight stomped a hoof. “Well I’m not giving up on Ponyville. It’s our home. We can’t just turn our backs on the town we all know and love, can we? We’ll rescue Princess Celestia, dethrone Queen Galaxia, and get our town back and better than ever!”

Applejack nodded along firmly with everything Twilight said. “Ah’m with ya, Twi. No way ahm Ah just abandonin’ Sweet Apple Acres. Mah family founded that town, and ain’t no way are we abandonin’ it.”

Now Rarity smiled, adding her own words of encouragement. “Well said, darling. Of course we’re not going to abandon Ponyville. All the mansions in Canterlot can’t equal the charm of our wonderful little town. I learned that the hard way. Canterlot and high society life has its charm, but everypony there is so concerned with getting ahead. They don’t take the time to get to know their neighbors. It’s a very cold city; I suspect it was even before Galaxia took power.”

Pinkie sat up now. “I know I’m not going anywhere! I’ve got a super-huge mansion to rebuild!”

This brought another round of laughter from the group; even Fluttershy seemed to be more confident and upbeat. She frowned suddenly though. “Has anypony seen Rainbow Dash?”

High above the keep, a cyan pegasus flew for the gaping holes in the ceiling of the cavern the Citadel of Harmony was housed in. Shafts of moonlight filtered in, illuminating her path to freedom. Back into the sky, up and away from the shame she feared she’d never be able to fly fast enough to escape.

Morning came, rousing the drowsy occupants of the citadel. Jubilant looked over at Echo’s sleeping face. The normally brash and active mare looked unusually calm and peaceful, head nestled against her chest. Brushing her lips across the still slumbering woman’s forehead, the Commander of Harmony slipped from the bed and left the room quietly. Mercy secure on her arm, she stepped into the hallway leading to the courtyard. “Morning, Heart.”

‘And a good morning to you, Commander Jubilant. Plenty of rest last night, I hope. Leading your fellows into battle is a strenuous undertaking.’

Cheeks darkening now, the woman innocently averted her gaze from her sword. “Oh yeah. Tons of sleep. Never had more.”

‘… Indeed. Might I suggest you tour the grounds? See that everything has progressed satisfactorily?

“Sure. I wanna grab a bite to eat first though.” She made her way to the common room, a little surprised to see her mother and her friends sprawled about, sleeping on the floor. Rolling her eyes at the way Pinkie’s legs kicked and twitched in her sleep, Jubilant smiled and slipped a pillow beneath her head. Gummy and her dog Izzy were curled up with the pony. The beagle cheerfully disentangling herself to trot after her master, tail wagging furiously.

With a fond scratch between the ears of her dog, she made her way into the kitchen. A bit of rummaging turned up some magically preserved apples, so she made a quick breakfast of them. Finally heading for the courtyard, she had to do a double take to make sure she was in the right place. No speck of rubble remained. Nor were there any signs of wear and tear along the now pristine walls. Pristine if one didn’t mind the green goo-like substance binding it all together. And Jubilant Surprise certainly did not.

An exhausted looking Applebloom lifted a hoof in greeting. “Mornin’, Surprise. These critters did a pretty bang up job, don’tcha think?”

Jubilant could only nod. “They sure did.” Spying their leader, she offered him a smile. “It’s looks amazing Cutter.”

The changeling harrumphed. “That mare kept forcing us to redo every tiny thing! It took us the entire day to finish!”

Applebloom just snorted. “If ya can’t do the job right the first time, y’shouldn’t be doin’ it at all.”

Smiling at the outbreak of bickering between the mare and changeling, Jubilant spread her wings to survey the citadel from the air. It was a… Unique sight. The beautifully crafted Citadel being bound together by changeling… Whatever the stuff was. Thinking about it, she decided she probably didn’t want to know where it came from. A sparkling green flash of light beneath the citadel caught her eye.

Folding her wings, she allowed herself to drop before fanning them open and catching herself in the air. She was surprised to find the cliff the Citadel sat upon had very little in the way of support beneath it. A deep chasm yawned beneath the bit of stone the Citadel rested upon. A twinkling bridge seemingly composed of solid magic wrapped around the bottom of the Citadel. Curious, Jubilant tested it with a foot. Finding it solid, she settled her weight on it.

“It’s ready.”

“It’s not ready.”

“Brother, if it were anymore ready, we’d have already activated it!”

Smiling to herself, Jubilant followed the walkway around to find the Flim Flam Brothers bickering beneath her castle. The stallions’ horns glowed brightly, giving her a good idea of where the walkway came from. “Is it ready?”

Flim shot a dirty glance his brother’s way. “The construction is sound, and with Miss Sparkle’s help we have the magical conduits up and running.”

Flam stepped in front of his fellow stallion. “But we haven’t tested it! And it’s going to need A lot more energy than the Super Cider Squeezy did to get moving.”

Jubilant’s own horn began to glow now as she illuminated the area more brightly. Thin tubing ran the length of the bottom of the Citadel, going through the rock and up into the keep itself. “Don’t worry about that, we have enough magic packed in there to get this thing moving. Where do we charge it?”

She stepped aside, allowing the brothers to lead her back up and around to the main keep. “We set up mana batteries in the basement where the old crystal heart went. If we charge them fully, it should keep you airborne for weeks! If our calculations are correct.”

Flam frowned at his brother. “Yes, but the amount of magic needed even to fill one of these halfway is immense.”

Jubilant looked around the basement at the mess of wires and tubes leading into four massive glass containers. “Well let me go get our battery.”

Flim and Flam looked at each other with raised eyebrows. Jubilant called on her trusty Find It spell, heading unerringly to Trixie’s lab. It seemed she wasn’t the only one skipping on sleep. Trixie was browbeating a group of earth ponies that were working furiously over a dozen huge cauldrons. “Oh! Commander Jubilant. What do you want?”

Laughing a little at the testiness in Trixie’s voice, the woman shrugged. “I need you to come down and charge up the engines for our castle.”

Snorting softly and giving her ‘assistants’ a warning look, she slung her staff across her back and trotted after her Commander. “How much of my magic am I committing to this? I don’t want to be left out of the battle. Especially knowing that my husband and Umbra are going to be running around in the thick of it.”

Jubilant frowned. She hadn’t thought of that. “Well just give it what you feel is safe to commit. You can stop if you start to feel drained, alright?”

The two mares descended back into the depths of the castle. Trixie ran a critical eye over the strange mechanisms filling the basement. Looking to the brothers, she arched a brow. “So I’m to what? Shoot raw magic into these big containers?”

“More or less miss, yes. Just direct the flow to the antennae on top. The mechanism will process the mana into a useable fuel.”

“Rather clever design actually.” The brothers puffed with a bit of pride at that. “Right! Time for the Great and Powerful Trixie to be great and powerful.” Clutching her staff firmly in her magical aura, she focused her energy through it before sending it to the machine. The two stallions yelped in shock as the tank went from empty to full in a matter of seconds. Without breaking her stride, the mare turned to the next, and the next, and finally the fourth, filling them all seemingly without effort.

“Am I done? Can I get back to my own work? I have a lot to do, and would like to sleep a little before we hurl ourselves at the armies of Equestria.”

Smiling brightly, Jubilant nodded, and Trixie took her leave. The two brothers looked from the tanks full of swirling pink mana to the young woman in shock. She simply shrugged. “She is the Great and Powerful Trixie.”

Jubilant was intercepted by Shining Armor on her way back to her room. “Commander! Can I have a quick word?”

She smiled. “You can have a few, Emperor.”

He snorted at that. “Emperor. Prince was bad enough. I think Shining Armor is fine.”

Arching an eyebrow, Jubilant crossed her arms. “And I told you not to call me ‘Commander’.”

The stallion laughed now. “Ha! Fair enough. No titles for either of us then.” He turned serious. “What’s the plan for the civilians in the citadel? We can’t drag them along into battle with us.”

“Jeez, I hadn’t even thought of that. Is Appleloosa still occupied?”

Shining shook his head. “No. Word from…” He sighed. “Word from Chrysalis is, Galaxia has recalled her soldiers from all across the country. She knows we’re coming, and she’s getting ready.”

This news wasn’t totally unexpected. “We’ll get anypony not wanting to fight out to Appleloosa then. I’m sure Uncle D can teleport everypony to safety. Speaking of my uncle, have you seen him?”

“No ma’am.” At her cross look, he cleared his throat. “No Jubilant, I haven’t seen him. I’d guess he’s outside watching the sunrise. It was something of a ritual of his when he’d be in resistance HQ. He never missed it.”

Nodding, she glanced to the jewel dangling from Mercy. Using her Find It to home in on her uncle, she tapped into the jewel to teleport up to him. She appeared in the sand with a flash of light, drawing not even a peep of surprise from the purple-suited pony. “Tsk, tsk. Your mother doesn’t like you doing that.”

“She doesn’t like me doing a lot of stuff I do, I’m sure.” Brushing off a bit of sand from the rock her uncle was sitting on, she lowered herself next to him.

“Ha! That’s true. Even when you were a little tyke you’d drive poor Pinkie Pie insane.” Smiling wistfully, he shook his head slowly. “You got your head stuck in so many holes…”

Huffing, Jubilant punched him in the shoulder, drawing a grin from the older pony. “Not that many holes!”

Eyebrows raised, he turned from watching the horizon to regard her. “It was a lot of holes, Jubilant Surprise. More than most fillies get their heads stuck in.”

“Hmph.” The woman pulled her knees to her chest, resting her chin on them. “I was naturally curious.”

“About how much stuff you could stick your big head into, yes.”

Now she laughed. “You spent a lot of time with mom, didn’t you?”

Shifting to look back at the coming sun, he nodded. “I did. We grew very close.” Seeing her wrinkle her nose, he laughed again. “Not like that. Get your mind out of the gutter. We’re just friends. My heart belongs to somepony else.”

Seeing the look of longing on his face as the sun began to rise, Jubilant blinked. “The Princess!? Really!?”

Rolling his eyes, Discord watched the sunrise quietly. “Yes. We became very good friends when I first came to Equestria. When she showed me that she was human too, we got a bit… Involved with one another. That is until her lunatic mother, well, you know. Went crazy. Then I went crazy. There was a lot of insanity going around back then. But for those few weeks I was absolutely head over heels in love. I haven’t forgotten either. I hope she hasn’t.”

“How could she forget a handsome fellow like you, Uncle D? Especially if you wore that god awful suit back then too.”

Snorting, he smoothed the sleeves around his forelegs a bit. “Purple is a regal color, young lady. You’d know that if you had any taste whatsoever. I certainly don’t need fashion advice from a filly who runs around in pink armor all the time.”

Huffing softly, she fell into a companionable silence. They watched the sun rise together until it became too bright to look upon anymore. “Did I ever properly thank you?”

She blinked over at him. “For what?”

“’For what?’ She says.” He looked up at her earnestly. “For caring about a crazy monster like me. Helping me with the burden of the chaos magic. You didn’t have to do that, you know? You could have just let me totter off.”

Flushing in embarrassment, she looked away. “Like I could just let you roam around causing more trouble. That’s all it was.”

“Mmhm. Even so, thank you Jubilant Surprise.”

Lifting her eyes to meet her adopted uncle’s look, she just smiled. “Well you’re Welcome Uncle D. Thank you for uh… Bringing me back to life.”

Laughing now, he stood. “Come on. You have an army to whip into shape. Need to give that big inspirational speech beforehand, huh?”

Blanching, she scrambled to her feet, following after him. “I don’t really have to give a speech, do I!?”

“Of course you have to give a speech, Jubilant! It’s… It’s required in situations like this!”

The once-more alicorn mare frowned at Twilight Sparkle. “Says who?”

“Everypony! It’s in all the books. Don’t you read anything? Just before the big battle, the leader rallies his or her troops with an inspiring speech!”

“This isn’t a storybook, Twilight.”

To Jubilant’s dismay, Rarity took her fellow unicorn’s side. “I’m afraid I have to agree with Twilight, darling. Maybe not with the literary comparison, but everypony here is here because of you and your efforts. When Discord went about seeing who was going and who was staying, the only ponies to leave were the foals. Every citizen of Ponyville you saved, and every member of Cadence’s resistance is here for you. At the very least you owe them a few words.”

Jubilant’s ears splayed back as she leaned over the balcony. In the courtyard below, ponies were racing about, making preparations under the watchful eye of Shining Armor. The former guard captain had by far the most military experience of anypony present. “I guess I could like… Give a little pep talk?”

Pinkie Pie bounded up between her unicorn friends. “Surprise! Wear your armor! It’s all shiny and official looking!”

“O— oh good idea. Thanks mom.” She turned back to the crowd, calling up her armor.
Twilight smiled a little at the grin on Pinkie’s face. “You’re never going to stop loving her calling you that, are you?”

“Hey sister. You try carrying one of those things in you for the better part of a year and you’ll love it too.”

Rarity blushed a little at the imagery, but said nothing. Twilight looked from the obviously adult Jubilant back to Pinkie. “Is it hard? Seeing her grow up so quickly?”

“No. I’ll miss the fun times we had together, but she’s still my little Surprise. Just bigger. So now she’s my big Surprise? Hmm, I need to think about this…”

Twilight shared a look with Rarity, and both mares rolled their eyes. It was nice to see that Pinkie would always be Pinkie.

A nervous Jubilant paced to the edge of the balcony, clearing her throat softly. “Uh… excuse me everypony?”

It took a moment, but word began to spread around the courtyard, and soon every set of eyes was looking up at her. Instantly regretting this move, she started to back away, only to find a wall of magenta light leaving her trapped on the balcony. Shooting the sweetly smiling Twilight Sparkle a scathing glare, she looked back to the crowd. Momentarily considering just flying from the balcony, she was sure Twilight would just drag her back and make her look like an idiot.

“I know we’re all working hard to get ready for um… For the coming fight. I just wanted to say I’m proud to see everypony from Ponyville sticking together like this. It’s going to be dangerous, but we’re Equestria’s only chance at freedom. Galaxia has dethroned our Princesses and imprisoned them in the sun and the moon. She’s ruined our country and our homes. She’s even ruined the bond we all used to share with one another.”

Many angry faces were nodding in the crowd now. “Well.. Well that’s over. We’re going to take Equestria back. For ourselves, and for our friends and family. For our Princesses. We’re not going to let some bully come into our home and push us around, right?”

A deafening chorus of ‘NO!’ rose up from the courtyard. “Everypony knows who I am. I’m Jubilant Surprise Pie. Starswirl the Bearded himself named me Commander of the Order of Harmony. A group of knights who were dedicated not to enforcing the crown, but to enforcing the will of the Equestrian people. To protecting everypony, whether earth pony farmer or unicorn aristocrat. Galaxia destroyed the order out of fear during her first reign. Now I think it’s time we showed her why she should have been afraid of us.”

Jubilant was feeling bolder as Echo flitted down overhead to land beside her. Fancy Pants and Trixie gently removed Twilight’s wall, taking their places behind her as well. “This is going to be dangerous, we all know that. But we won’t lose. We can’t lose! Once we finish preparations here, we move for Canterlot. I spent the last few days travelling, finding friends who would help us in our struggle. We won’t be alone in the coming fight. Queen Chrysalis and her changeling swarm will fight with us.”

The young mare was heartened to hear the cheering for the changelings erupt from the crowd of ponies. The look of shock on Cutter and the rest’s faces was pretty priceless too. “Emperor Steel Talon of the griffon empire has promised to lend his support. Once we engage Equestria’s forces, he and his griffons will be there to help us against the flying threats.”

More cheers met this announcement. “Queen Neela of the spiderkin has loaned us many of her strong warriors, including her sister Umbra, and brother Spinner. The former has already defeated Lord Whiteskull, and the latter freed the crystal pony slaves while Empress Cadence dealt with King Sombra. Galaxia has no allies. No friends to turn to. She doesn’t understand that this is our strength. That together, we can overcome anything! Together, we’ll take back Equestria, and return its rightful ruler to the throne!”

The cheering was absolutely thunderous at this point, and for a fleeting moment Jubilant was worried they’d bring the whole cavern caving in on their heads. It didn’t fall of course. As she stepped away from the balcony, she was surprised to find her heart hammering heavily in her chest. “H— how was that?”

Her friends all laughed aloud at her suddenly timid question. Twilight Sparkle just smiled softly. “I think that will do just fine, Commander Jubilant Surprise.”

Chapter 19: The Battle for Canterlot

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Chapter 19: The Battle for Canterlot

Trixie, and Twilight Sparkle took their places at the highest point of the citadel, gazing up at the cavern ceiling above. “Alright Trixie! Nice and careful cutting. I’ve made very clear markers where we need to remove the stone. Ready?”

Trixie nodded firmly at Twilight’s words and the two unicorns each sent a focused line of magic into the air, punching through the stone and out into the sky above. Fancy Pants, Shining Armor, and Discord were waiting up top. Once the lines began to draw closer together the three stallions enveloped the massive chunk of stone in their own magic, grunting under the strain of supporting it. Once the lines had finished cutting, a purple and pink aura mingled with their own and began to push. Gritting their teeth the three stallions started to heave. Slowly the massive ton of rock began to rise from the ground. Once it was high enough the three knights and former chaos lord heaved the stone to the side, creating a thunderous crash.

Twilight squinted up at the now clear hole leading to the sky. “Everypony ok?!”

Her brother poked his head into the hole and offered a wave. “We’re fine! Give us a sec to rest and we’ll be down!”

Twilight had to take a bit of a break herself, breathing heavily she turned a weary smile Trixie’s way. She felt a little flutter of surprise at the seeming lack of strain on her fellow unicorn’s part. “Wow Trixie you don’t look tired at all!”

Affecting a grand pose Trixie flashed a toothy smile. “The Great and Powerful Trixie, heir to Starswirl the Bearded would never be tired from such a paltry ex-mmph!” The rest of her speech was cut off as Twilight magically tugged the other mares bell-bedecked hat down over her face.

“Honestly Trixie.” Twilight sighed with an amused chuckle and started for the stairs down to the keep. Making straight for the basement she glimpsed Jubilant and Echo standing side by side on the balcony overlooking the courtyard. Below the volunteers from Ponyville and the remnants of her sister-in-laws resistance were undergoing last minute drills with Shining Armor in the armor they liberated from the Citadel’s armory. The brash night pony seemed oblivious to the worry etched on the young human woman’s face. “Jubilant I’m going downstairs, would you walk with me for a minute?”

The woman exchanged a few quick words with Echo before starting toward Twilight. The unicorn couldn’t help but notice the change that had come over her armor. The glossy metal was a rich forest green embossed in gold, the same color as the woman’s coat when she was in her pony shape. The new emblem of the Order of Harmony, depicting all five pony tribes emblazoned proudly on her chest. It was the billowing crimson cape that tended to draw the eye however. If she looked at it from another angle, or if Jubilant passed by a light source it seemed to shift from red, to blue, violet, indigo, yellow, green, and orange. “What’s wrong? Did something go wrong?”

Twilight wore a patient smile at the woman’s nervous tone. She had to remind herself that although she looked like an adult, she really was still a filly at heart. “No, nothing’s wrong. The ceiling was cleared away successfully. You just looked like you needed a little breather is all.”

Jubilant wore a thin smile. “I appreciate it, but I don’t think all the breathers in the world are going to help me calm down. We’re about to head to war Twilight. The first war in who knows how long in Equestrian history…”

“In fourteen hundred and thirty-two years. The last true war in Equestria was the civil war between Princess Celestia and Princess Luna’s forces. It only lasted a year and a half but if the history books are to be believed it was very brutal.”

Eyes wide Jubilant regarded Twilight in shock. “They went to WAR with each other? I didn’t know that.”

“Well it’s not the cheeriest topic of conversation. Princess Luna didn’t become Nightmare Moon all at once. It was a gradual build-up and there were several contributing factors. After Discord’s brief reign Equestria was in poor shape and required a lot of work to get back in working order. Princess Luna wanted to use the Elements of Harmony to restore the land, but Princess Celestia refused. She said if they used the elements to fix every problem that could be handled with a little hard work then ponykind would come to rely on them too heavily. The tribes were just as divided on the matter. I’m sure Princess Luna or um… Moon Dancer could tell you more if you’re curious.”

Jubilant WAS curious but she had more important things to handle for now. “The more I learn about politics the more I’m glad Luna didn’t try and slap a crown on my head.”

This brought a faint giggle from Twilight. “I don’t know, Princess Jubilant Surprise has a nice ring to it.”

Twilight was actually a little alarmed by how pale the woman went. “That’s not even a LITTLE funny Twilight! COMMANDER is bad enough, and I absolutely am handing that over to the first pony who’ll take it off my hands. Once Princess Celestia is back where she belongs I’m doing what I planned in the first place.”

“Exploring the lands outside of Equestria? That may be just as dangerous if not more so than charging into battle you know?”

Jubilant shrugged as they began to descend to the basement. “Maybe. But the only one in danger is me, not a hundred other ponies, tons of changelings and a few wings of griffons.”

“Well. When you ARE ready to set out on this big journey of discovery and exploration I hope you know it won’t be alone. I know I’ve always been curious about the world outside our little kingdom. I guess I’ve always just been so engrossed with my studies. But after the last five years of doing nothing BUT studying I’m more than a little ready to get out and put some of what I’ve learned to use.”

“Maybe. I guess we’ll see how this goes huh? In a few hours none of us might have to worry about anything ever again.”

Twilight stopped before the door to the basement area the brothers’ had commandeered. “You can’t start thinking like that Jubilant. We’re going to succeed. It’s not a matter of wanting to, we HAVE to. All of Equestria, and possibly the entire world is counting on us. Don’t start to doubt yourself now. You’ve brought the changelings, griffons, and ponies together in cooperation. Not even Princess Celestia managed to do that.”

Jubilant gave the unicorn a faint smile. “Thanks. That means a lot to hear.” Her smile didn’t last long. “Doesn’t mean I’m eager to lead so many good folks to war.”

“I can’t say from personal experience of course, but it’s my understanding war is never easy and it’s never desirable. If you started to think it were, THEN I’d be worried. Now come on, let’s see if your insane idea works.”

The woman had to smile along with Twilight at that. The two stepped into the basement watching with mild amusement as Flim and Flam raced between various consoles monitoring lights, gauges and temperatures. “How we lookin’ guys?”

Both whipped their heads toward her at the same time.

“Great!”

“Awful!”

Jubilant nodded firmly. “I’ll add those together and make an ‘alright’ then. Fire it up. We’re heading out in twenty.”

Flim looked elated while Flam looked dismayed. “Stay here and keep an eye on things would you Twilight?” At the pony’s nod Jubilant ascended the stairs once more. Stealing a look up and down the corridor she ducked around a corner to a shadowy alcove far from anypony’s voice. She closed her eyes taking deep breaths. “I can do this. I can do this.”

“I certainly hope you can. Else I, my sisters, and all the warriors I lead will pay the price along side your own people Commander.”

Jubilant leaped nearly a foot in the air, wings beating frantically and holding her aloft as Prince Spinner emerged from the darkness overhead. “O—oh… d—didn’t know you were lurking around…”

The strange spiderkin prince tilted his head regarding her silently a moment. “I have come for clarification on our role in the coming battle. It is my understanding the enemy army is made up not only of ponykind but many others as well. Obviously the enthralled ponies are not to be slain if it can be avoided, but what of the others who march beneath Galaxia’s banner? Are they acting under their own volition or are they victims as well?”

“My uncle says the minotaur, dragons, and giants are hired mercenaries. No magic involved so I guess they’re acting of their own free will.”

Spinner nodded once. “You do not protest their deaths then?”

Jubilant paled a little. “Wh—what? Why are you asking me?”

Gradually Spinner settled himself on the floor. Jubilant was still hovering aloft so they saw eye to eye. “This is your campaign Commander Jubilant. You have accepted the responsibility of seeing your men safely through to the end. You have also accepted the responsibility of the loss of life, on BOTH sides. Ally and enemy will fall this day. That is unavoidable. If you prefer my warriors to focus on incapacitation rather than kill strikes I will relay this, though casualties will be infinitely higher not just to my people but yours and our other allies as well.”

The massive spiderkin paced slow circles around the hovering woman. “Our bites can paralyze or kill at our discretion. The common warrior’s legs are sharp enough to shear through solid stone. We are adept at either manner of combat though incapacitation requires more care, more focus.”

Jubilant stopped beating her wings allowing herself to land on the floor. She’d had similar conversations with Queen Chrysalis and Emperor Steeltalon already. With a deep breath she opened her eyes, jaw set firmly. “Incapacitation for ponies. The rest…. Deal with as you prefer. Keep our casualties to a minimum.”

“A difficult order to give, but if it brings any consolation I believe it is the right one Commander Jubilant. Fight well, and try not to die. It would be unfortunate for the world to lose a warrior of your caliber.”

Walking to the window to watch the Prince scurry across the walls and into the darkness Jubilant sighed softly. “You too Prince Spinner.”

Remaining where she was for several long minutes, she finally sighed when she heard her name being called. Pushing herself away from the window she trudged back toward the main courtyard of the keep.

***

Even knowing their Princess of the Night was an ordinary pony like the rest of them, those assembled in the Citadel of Harmony gazing up at the gaping hole in the cavern above still thought of the bright silver orb in the sky as Luna’s moon. It seemed to be shining extra bright tonight to aid the ponies in their coming night time battle. Most had questioned the wisdom of the Commander’s choice when she announced they would begin the assault after sunset. Until she explained the griffons, changelings, and spiderkin would all operate far better than the ponies in the dark. And since the bulk of Galaxia’s army was ponyfolk this was a major advantage.

Jubilant stood atop the highest point in the Citadel staring intently upward. Echo was close at her side while Shining Armor, Fancy Pants, and Trixie flanked her from behind. Rarity, Applejack, her mother and uncle were with the other knights. Her aunt was with the other medical volunteers ready and waiting to tend the injured.

Noting how tightly Jubilant’s hands were clenched at her sides Echo gave her an affectionate nudge. The woman smiled down at her lover with renewed confidence. “Get ready! We’re about to move!”

Her voice carried to the waiting ponies and changelings in the courtyard below. No sooner had her command been given than the Citadel shuddered violently. A bright flash from the main gates preceeded a tremendous CRACK as the stone ledge the Citadel rested upon broke away. There was a terrifying moment as the Citadel began to drop into the abyss below, then a vivid green glow emanated from beneath the structure. With agonizing slowness, but gradually picking up speed it began to rise.

A great cheer rose up from the gathered resistance force as the Citadel of Harmony soared smoothly up from the depths of the underground and into the cool night air. Most breathed sighs of relief and seemed much cheerier at the seemingly impossible thought of a flying castle coming to life. Those standing with their Commander who could see her face, saw only concern and trepidation there.

"Shining I'll leave coordinating the ground forces to you. I want our unicorn spell slingers to stay up at the Citadel. Try to help the griffons in the air or toss some magic at the ground for the rest of us." The serious look never leaving her face, Jubilant regarded Echo quietly. "It's time for you to get going. Wait for the right moment before striking alright. And... please be safe."

Echo wore a confident smirk as she hopped into the air, pausing only to steal a kiss from her mare before darting off into the night. "Where's she going?"

Jubilant glanced at the questioning Shining Armor. "Last minute preparations. How long until we reach Canterlot?"

Discord squinted into the distance. "We're moving pretty fast. Much quicker than by train. Maybe twenty, thirty minutes tops."

Blowing out a heavy breath the young Commander of Harmony nodded. "Alright then everypony, let's get ready."

***

The assembled forces of Galaxia's army milled about listlessly. Their Queen had called them to Canterlot from every corner of Equestria apparently to repel an incoming attack from the resistance. For most it was a chance to reunite with old acquaintances. Service in the military was required for every earth pony stallion of a certain age, and the service was for life. A few family reunions took place as well, mares, fillies and colts from the towns closer to Canterlot came to see their returning stallions. It was frowned upon as they were supposed to be in a state of readiness but after a week of quiet, ponies were growing restless.

Even the border to the Griffon Empire, typically a source of constant combat was all but silent. Pegasus scouts reported the very rare sighting of a griffon but for the most part it remained quiet. The discomfort of the pony forces only grew as the mercenary forces began to arrive. Large bands of minotaurs marched beside packs of snarling diamond dogs. As if that weren't enough dragons began to arrive in trickles until there were a few dozen of the massive beasts stomping about.

All that could be handled by the well trained troops of Queen Galaxia, but then the giants freed from Tartarus lumbered into view. There were only two of the colossal titans but that was enough to cause a small panic until the Queen herself appeared and quelled everypony's fear. Resplendant in her armor that gleamed with the pitch black of the night sky Galaxia stood upon the highest hill gazing hard toward the western horizon. The Queen hadn't moved from the spot for the last four days, she simply stood and stared.

Overhead the occasional dragon would wing in-between the mighty floating fortress of Cloudsdale where the legions of pegasus soldiers waited to rain destruction upon the heads of their Queen's enemies. Commander Spitfire herself stood at their head prepared to lead the charge. She loosed a derisive snort at the undisciplined earth pony forces milling about below. Her attention was drawn from the ground forces as Fleetfoot, her swiftest scout after Rainbow Dash came to a halt before her breathing hard. "Commander!"

Eyebrows drawing together in a frown Spitfire gave the scout her full attention. "You have something to report?"

"A fortress! A flying fortress is headed here and fast!"

Now the Commander regarded her subordinate in confusion. "Las Pegasus? They weren't ordered to report here. What are they thinking?"

Fleetfoot shook her head rapidly. "No Commander! It's... It's unknown! I think it's the resistance!"

"Well what are you standing around here for! Alert the Queen then get to your post!" Not waiting for Fleetfoot's reply, Spitfire rounded on her waiting forces. "This is it! The enemy has somehow commandeered a cloud fortress and is nearly upon us! Wing Commanders get read to launch your troops!"

Fleetfoot left a streak of cloudstuff in her wake as she rocketed to the Queen, who barely acknowledged her approach. "My Queen! The enemy is here! They'll be upon us any minute!"

Galaxia flicked her eyes over to the panting mare, the faintest hint of a frown upon her face. "A night time attack? Interesting." She looked to the sky, focusing on the new brightly glowing green star overhead. "Perhaps she fancies her forces will have some sort of advantage?"

Against her better judgment Fleetfoot had to ask. "She, divine majesty?"

"A matter you needn't concern yourself with. Return to your Commander and prepare for battle. I suspect their new leader has a surprise or two in store for us."

Fleetfoot was more than happy to comply with her Queen's order and flew as fast as she could back for Cloudsdale.

With a casual gesture toward her waiting commanders, Galaxia didn't so much as glance their way as they approached. "Ready your troops. The time for battle is upon us." Almost as an after thought she added, "Ensure the runes have my juggernaut and personal mount under proper control. Any mistake will mean each of your lives."

Alone again Galaxia focused hard on the western horizon, smiling now as she spotted a dark speck rapidly approaching. "Come then little girl, I will make sure none are left alive to resurrect you a second time."

***

With brisk strides Jubilant made her way through the Citadel toward the main gates. Her knights hot on her heels, soon each rushing off to their own duties. Alone again she veered down a dark hallway to a small side chamber. Three mares sat within talking quietly amongst themselves. Rarity, Pinkie Pie, and Fluttershy. Gently closing the door behind herself Jubilant removed her helm revealing the shiny black chitin she had grown in place of her skin. Her vivid green eyes flicked from face to face. "Ready?"

Not a one looked surprised at her changeling aspect being dominant. "Of course! Can't have my little filly rushing out out of batteries now can I?"

With a small smile for her mother Jubilant knelt down before the three. "No one cared more about Jubilant Surprise than you three. So... I know it's a lot to ask but I don't think I can do much with the level of magic I have now."

Rarity rested a hoof against the kneeling woman's shoulder. "No explanation needed darling. Take as much as you need. We're tougher than we look you know?"

Even Fluttershy looked more strong and determined than usual. "We're very proud of you Surprise. And we love you so very much."

Jubilant's twisted horn began to glow brightly, bathing the room in an acrid green light. "I know. I love you too mom, Aunt Fluttershy, Miss Rarity. I'll try to be gentle."

Pegasus, unicorn, and earth pony mare braced themselves and leaned in toward the glowing horn, allowing Jubilant to replenish her magic as best she could on the massive amount of love the three felt for the filly. Even restored to her true self their feelings for Surprise remained just as powerful, only now the love was mingled with healthy doses of pride too.

Gingerly Jubilant ensured the three were sleeping comfortably in the chamber. Rising to her feet she replaced her helm once more and strode back to the courtyard.

"My, my, someone was a bit of a glutton hm?"

Not bothering to look back Jubilant stopped at the edge of the Citadel looking toward the approaching Canterlot. From this distance she could see the floating city of Cloudsdale, the occasional dragon and the massive form of the giants. "Are your changelings ready, Chrysalis?"

"So very familiar already. I didn't think you liked me that much."

"I don't think anyone likes you that much, but if we pull this off that might change hm?"

This brought a laugh from the changeling Queen standing at the woman's side. "Queen Chrysalis, hero of Canterlot. Do you think I'll get one of those lovely windows in the throne room?"

Jubilant quirked a smile looking to the insectoid queen at her side. "If Princess Celestia doesn't give you a window I can give you a statue in my Citadel."

The mirth faded from the Queen's eyes as she stared at the woman quietly. "You really mean that don't you?"

Now she turned to meet the changeling's eyes, her own a greener reflection of Chrysalis'. "I really do."

"Hm. Well I certainly approve of you going into battle like that. If you grow tired of studying under Luna I'd not mind taking you under my wing. You'd make an excellent changeling."

"Once Equestria is back to normal I think I'd like to spend some time in your hive, if you don't mind. When I first decided to stay in Equestria I wanted to explore places off the map. Your hive is as good a place to start as any."

Chrysalis inclined her head politely. "Commander Jubilant if you return Celestia to her throne it would be my genuine honor to play host to you. So long as you don't light my face on fire a second time."

"I won't if you won't."

"Agreed. Now I must take my leave. I've my own role to play I suppose. Good luck Commander."

Jubilant watched the Queen vanished in a flash of green flame. "Good luck to us all Chrysalis."

***

When it began, it began quickly. The pegasi launched themselves at the Citadel en masse hoping to finish the battle before it even began. They obviously hadn't counted on the combined magical might of Trixie, Twilight Sparkle, and Discord. The trio of unicorns buffeted the winged ponies with gale force winds at first. Discord whipped up some kind of strange spell that made the air heavier around the attacking ponies slowing them a great deal.

The few pegasus ponies present in the resistance were kept in reserve as message runners between the ground forces and those stationed on the Citadel itself. That meant the Citadel's air force consisted of exactly one pony, or person to be specific. Commander Jubilant herself launched into the air, wings beating furiously. Her mages were careful to bend and warp their spells around her giving her some much needed aerial mobility over the much better trained fliers of Cloudsdale.

She made for an easy target and soon found herself drawing more than a little attention from the fliers. Most marked her as an easy target despite her fine armor and obvious unicorn horn. Her clumsy flying seemed to indicate inexperience with aerial combat. Which was very true, fortunately for Jubilant she didn't have to rely solely on her wings. Her horn blazed to life as she turned her magic inward strengthening muscle and increasing her speed. As the first pegasus soldiers closed on her they were left gaping in confusion as the clumsy woman suddenly lurched into the air above them leaving naught but air for them to strike.

Bringing themselves around for a second strike, they never got the chance. Mercy's blade gleamed brightly as Jubilant streaked down through the company of pegasi, the newest rune flashing brightly and engulfing them in a warm green hue. The dazed pegasi's wings stopped beating and they began to fall, only to be caught by a keenly watching Fancy Pants whose sole duty was to do just what he was doing. Snatching the flying ponies and bringing them safely into the Citadel after Jubilant's rune freed them of Galaxia's control.

Drawing in on the fear, nerves, and excitement of the soldiers around herself Jubilant was constantly replenishing the magic she was draining to keep herself moving as fast as she was. Group after group of the flying attackers fell as she freed more and more from Galaxia's spell. Her actions hadn't gone unnoticed by the forces of Canterlot however. It was becoming readily apparent the resistance leader had some method for neutralizing ponies. Realizing this now, the dragons were sent into the air. Most went for the Citadel itself but three of the monsters focused solely on Jubilant.

Narrowly evading blast after blast of dragon fire, Jubilant's wings were beginning to tire. As worry began to edge toward panic, a high keening cry split the air. All eyes turned toward Cloudsdale in time to see wings of griffons diving from the night sky above, unerringly plucking dozens of the less night sensitive pegasus ponies from the air. The avian predators talons' were coated in a toxin given to Jubilant by Zecora, rendering any pony they scratched the skin of unconscious in seconds.

They were considerably less gentle when dealing with the dragons. Numerous griffons would focus on one dragon at a time, rending and tearing at the scales. More than a few bodies plummeted to the ground trailing flames, but the arrival of the griffon forces was making a signifigant difference.

Gradually the Citadel had been descending toward the ground. Galaxia's ground forces were already charging forward as the meager resistance forces poured from the entrance and rushed the oncoming horde with shocking bravery. No doubt inspired heavily by Shining Armor at their lead. Just as the armies were about to clash, dozens of green flashes lit up through Galaxia's army as the disguised changelings revealed themselves. At first confused by the appearance of who they assumed were allies, Galaxia's army was thrown into disarray as lances of green magic struck down soldier after soldier.

The non-pony mercenary bands began to wade into the melee swinging clubs, axes, and claws through both changeling and ponies with abandon seemingly not caring at all who they struck down. Shouts of confusion and dismay arose from the back of their force as the ground beneath them simply gave way. Confused cries changed to those of fear as huge monstrous spiders appeared from more and more revealed tunnels. Pouncing upon minotaur or diamond dog with quick precision the arachnid force seemed almost a wave of scuttling blackness engulfing the monsters.

Jubilant felt a surge of hope as everything seemed to be going their way. Hope that grew as a pony streaked by her leaving a blazing trail of crimson magic in her wake. "Have at you monster!"

Umbra's impressive arrival only grew more so as she swung both morning-stars into the nearest dragon's head sending it spiraling to the ground trailing flames as it went. The pony-Princess of the Spiderkin regarded Jubilant with a ferocious smile. "Is this not your war Commander Jubilant? Should you not be fighting as well?"

Shaking her head Jubilant sighed and flew at Umbra's side. "Is everypony alright?"

"Those that accompanied me and then some, yes."

Curious about what she meant, Jubilant didn't have time to voice her question as a pair of dragons split from the main group making for herself and Umbra. The two separated each leading one of the lizards off in pursuit.

The Commander wove back and forth doing her best to stay ahead of the constant gouts of dragon fire threatening to scorch her. Her wild flight came to a confused halt as the flames suddenly stopped. Looking over her shoulder she was alarmed to find she couldn't see the dragon chasing her. Where had something so big-

Her thoughts were interrupted by an ear piercing roar above her. Not looking up she tried to frantically fly to the side, too late. The next jet of flame engulfed her totally rapidly heating her armor and burning her feathers badly, with a cry of anguish she plummeted from the sky streaking toward the ground. Before she could hit a midnight blue aura slowed her descent before easing her to the ground.

Smoke rose from her body in thick plumes, but she still cracked an eye looking up at a fiercely scowling Moon Dancer. "Attend to Jubilant! I will deal with the dragon!"

Wondering just who was going to 'attend' to her Jubilant flinched as an armored set of legs stepped into her field of vision. Gleaming teal and silver armor shined under the warm glow of a unicorn's horn. "I'll have you up in just a sec boss."

The voice was so familiar but... it couldn't be. Then Lyra began to sing softly. Hymn glowing brightly at her side as warm healing magic flooded Jubilant's burns healing them almost completely. With a faint grown she rose to a sitting position. "Lyra?"

"Were you expecting somepony else?" Jubilant could see Lyra grinning madly from behind the shining helmet of a Knight of Harmony.

"You're alive! Lyra what happened?!"

The musician tilted her head and shrugged. "Fell down a hole. Saved some mushroom people, met Umbra's sister, helped kill a lich. Saved Bonny by the way. Pretty awesome few days all in all. So shouldn't you be getting back to winning this war?"

Heart soaring again Jubilant scrambled to her feet. "Right! I'm gonna want the whole story when we're done!"

"Deal! Try not to get barbecued again, I have other stuff to do then heal your smoking butt!"

"I'll do my best." Moon Dancer was nimbly skipping and rolling about the increasingly angry dragon. Jubilant barely slowed in her flight as she flashed by overhead, Mercy digging deep into the dragon's back and leaving a long trail of gleaming blood as she soared toward the ground forces.

Cries of alarm rose up from the united resistance forces. Looking toward the battle Jubilant could see spider, pony, and changeling bodies being flung through the air seemingly without effort. She recognized Shining Armor's magical aegis flash into being around whatever was attacking, but with a gasp she watched it shatter almost instantly. Banking toward the newest menace Jubilant soared over the battle. Below was what she assumed was an earth pony, though it was covered nose to tail in massive plates of armor. Brightly glowing magical runes stood out here and there along its armor as the behemoth charged again, kicking up great gouts of dirt and grass as it barreled into the resistance ponies. One unfortunate mare was tripped by the rumbling ground and crushed instantly by the creature's hooves.

Eyes blazing with fury now Jubilant descended upon the armored pony. The huge pony looked up in time for Jubilant to see it's vivid green eyes widen in surprise, before she was upon it. Mercy flashed out in a bright arc striking against the titan's armored shoulder. The rune there flared brighter and she was flung back by a magical shield, slamming hard into the ground.

Shaking her head violently to clear the cobwebs, Jubilant narrowly evaded a charge from the juggernaut as it surged forward. Rolling frantically to the side she got back to her feet only to be forced to spring to the side as it came around for another pass. Throwing a hand out she tried to seize it in her magic but it slipped away like oil and water. Eyes wide and not having time to dodge she raised Mercy's shield and hoped it would be enough.

A rope shot out from behind the charging pony and snared its hind leg, instantly snapping taut and eliciting a yelp of alarm from the mare on the other end of it. Applejack dug in as hard as she could, and while the armored pony barely slowed, he slowed just enough to give Jubilant a chance to move. "She's got the right idea! No magic! Get ropes!"

A number of earth ponies rushed off to follow Jubilant's orders as she vaulted over the charging pony and landed at Applejack's side. The poor apple farmer was trying gamely to hold onto her lasso but it was a losing battle. Sheathing Mercy Jubilant took the rope in both hands and dug her feet in. Her strength combined with Applejack's was enough to get the juggernaut's hoof off the ground and trip it up. It fell with a tremendous crash, but was already on the rise.

Both mare and woman were jerked forward as it took hold of the rope and began reeling them in. Frantically they pulled back for all they were worth but it was only a matter of time now. Another rope, magically commanded by Shining Armor whipped around the pony's other hind leg. The unicorn Emperor was joined by no less than six earth ponies all hauling back and tugging the armored ponies other leg out from under him. Again he toppled.

Jubilant took firm hold of the rope from Applejack and started hauling it directly UP with her magic. Shining Armor took the cue and both had their ropes going higher and higher into the air. The juggernaut thrashed and flailed madly, but the armor was far too big and bulky for it to twist about and reach the ropes around its hind legs. Spreading her wings the woman took to the air, gripping both ends of the rope physically with her hands while she kept hauling them upward in her magic. Once she felt she was high enough off the ground she began to spin, whirling faster and faster in the air until she and the juggernaut looked like a whirling blur. With a shout she released the ropes sending the huge armored pony soaring through the air, and well out of sight into the Everfree Forest.

Panting heavily from the exertion Jubilant Surprise landed shakily back on the ground. "Got some good distance y'think?"

Applejack chuckled and tilted her hat back, regarding the very distant plume of smoke. "Reckon so. Mighty fine toss there Surprise."

"Thanks for the save Applejack. And good work everypony! Things are going well, let's keep this momentum going. Has there been any sign of Galaxia yet?"

Shining Armor cantered up to Jubilant after giving orders to see the wounded back to the Citadel. "Not yet. Somepony thought they saw her at the beginning of the battle but she disappeared soon after."

With a frown the Commander cast her gaze back out to the battlefield. Overhead the griffons were holding their own against the united dragon and pegasus forces, while the ground battle was swinging heavily in their favor. A tremendous rumbling drew the attention of all present, as the pair of giants finally began to thunder their way into the fray. Neither even bothered to watch where they stepped sending Galaxia's forces and the resistance scattering with reckless abandon. Unerringly both stomped toward the Citadel.

The fortress of the Order of Harmony was already rising back into the air, but any watching could tell it wouldn't get out of the titans reach in time. "Look there!"

All eyes near the pony shouting looked toward Canterlot. A dark cloud was rising from the city, blotting out the moon as it soared into the air. Once it drew closer some of the more keen-eyed ponies could pick out multiple shapes in the swarm. "It's the night tribe!"

Flying at the head of the entire tribe of night ponies, Echo grinned madly as she flew unerringly for the nearest giant. With an enormous amount of restraint she withheld her sonic wails until she was actually within the ear of the titan. Absolutely certain this was by far the grossest thing she'd ever done she wove through the ear canal like some sort of giant, wax covered tunnel. Once she'd decided she was far enough in she started to shriek for all she was worth.

The effect was immediate. The giant's eyes bulged in pain and shock as it clapped one hand over its ear. The other arm flailed wildly as it staggered away bellowing in pain all the while. The rest of the night ponies focused on the other giant. While they lacked Echo's unique brand of attack they had their own fangs and weapons they used to devil the face and eyes of the still functioning titan.

Shining watched it all wide-eyed. "Where did THEY come from?!"

Jubilant couldn't help but smirk. "Under the city. We haven't seen any night ponies since Galaxia took over. Luna found them in the shadow realm and brought them to Equestria, AFTER her mother was sealed away. I figured she might not have known they even existed and assumed Echo was some kind of freak pegasus. No doubt they've been in hiding all this time waiting for the right moment to strike."

A number of the night ponies were joining the griffons in battle, turning the tides rapidly in their favor. A cheer went up from the ponies and changelings of the ground force as it looked like the battle was well in hand.

Cheers that were drowned out by a sudden roar that forced many to their knees in fright. Rising up from below Canterlot was yet another dragon, this one far larger than any currently in the fight. His scales were a deep purple while wickedly sharp green spines rose from his back. Clad in gleaming black armor the newest threat rose into the sky lighting the battlefield with a huge plume of green dragon fire. Astride its back was none other than Galaxia, gazing out coolly at the battle seemingly entirely unconcerned for the direction it was taking.

Even thought it was impossible to tell from so far away, Jubilant knew Galaxia's eyes were locked squarely on her. Just as Galaxia knew Jubilant had eyes only for she. Her mount's eyes were covered in a oscillating haze of magic as he flew for the Citadel, fangs bared and flames already leaking from his maw.

***

"We have incoming ladies! We might want to let the fliers handle the other dragons, it looks like the Queen's got a special one coming just for us!"

Twilight and Trixie both abandoned the spells they were in the middle of conjuring to rush to Discord's side. "Oh no... no it can't be..."

Trixie looked from the horror stricken Twilight to the rapidly approaching monster that as far as she could tell was death incarnate on wings. "It's just another dragon. Albeit a very... big... ferocious looking one...but the Great and Powerful Trixie will strike it out of the sky in one blow!"

"No!" Both Trixie and Discord jumped at the anguish in Twilight's voice. "That's not just some rampaging dragon, it's Spike!"

Looking from Twilight to the rapidly closing dragon Trixie frowned. "Your little assistant? He's certainly gotten bigger. But I'm not sure what we're supposed to do. He IS about to crush us all to death."

Twilight started to pace, thinking quickly. "He's only so big because of a spell I used to artificially age him. Though he was still in his right mind, dragon's are notoriously resistant to spells when they want to be. Galaxia must be using an immense amount of power to keep him under control. We just need to distract them long enough for Spike to regain his senses."

"Can't you just cancel the spell on him then?!"

Twilight shook her head. "No. The armor Galaxia has fitted him with repels magic. If we could get one of those plates off then maybe..."

A silver flash drew the sorceress' attention to Discord. Shedding his pony shape and assuming his draconequus form again. "Sounds like a job for me. Ladies if you'll excuse me, I have to go try not to die horrible." Quirking a little bow to the pair Discord vanished in another flash.

Chewing her lip fretfully Twilight squinted as another flash appeared right before Spike's snout bringing the dragon up short. Charging the necessary spell all she could do now was wait.

***

"Did you REALLY think you would even so much as slow me down you incompetent buffoon?"

Discord flashed Galaxia a cheeky smile as he wove and twisted his way around the Queen's dark magics and Spike's occasional flames. "Well I'd hoped so! I'd be doing a pretty poor job otherwise!" Ducking another flung bolt of magic he rapidly snaked his way toward Spike's underbelly scowling at the conjured saw that was cutting through the armor there with agonizing slowness. "Oh come on!"

He didn't have time to add a second cutting tool as Spike's claws came up very nearly swiping Discord's head from his shoulders. "Is that the best you two can do?!" His taunts were brought up short as Galaxia herself teleported before him, snaking out a hand and gripping him tightly around the throat.

Drawing him in closer she sneered. "No. It isn't." Her magic was pouring into Discord's squirming form sending lances of frigid cold stabbing all over his body. His thrashing was growing fainter and fainter by the second.

A faint hum was the only warning Galaxia had to the oncoming threat. Throwing Discord aside she drifted away as a rapidly spinning blade cut through the air she'd occupied seconds before. Mercy spun in the air and blazed by Discord's magical saw, slicing cleanly through the straps holding the plate of armor around Spike's underside together. It fell to the ground and out of sight as the woman reclaimed her magically controlled sword.

No sooner had the armor been cut away then a bright magenta aura flared from the Citadel punching into the dragon's unprotected stomach. All at once he collapsed in on himself until a confused looking adolescent dragon hung in the air, then he began to fall only to be snared by Twilight. Likewise Discord was caught in Trixie's magic as both began to drift toward the Citadel.

All this went unnoticed by the Queen and the Commander. The winged women face one another with perhaps ten feet separating them as they hung in the air. Jubilant's wings pumping to keep her aloft while Galaxia relied on her magic to do the same. "Quite the impressive showing little girl. Much better than last time."

Gripping Mercy's hilt tightly, Jubilant only frowned. "Surrender Galaxia! It's over! There's no reason for us to fight!"

The black clad Queen only smirked at the earnest young woman's words. "Surrender? To your army of bugs and horses? I think not girl. Once I toss your broken body at their hooves any who don't surrender will be killed. You can best my minions all you like but you will NEVER be my equal!"

Jubilant braced herself as Galaxia streaked forward, a pair of blades black as pitch appeared in her hands. The Commander blocked one with her shield and parried the other with Mercy, moving into a quick lunge and nearly scoring a cut on the Queen. The older woman drifted back eyeing the younger speculatively. "You've improved much little girl. Perhaps this will..." She frowned as a keening wail overhead interrupted her.

Both combatants looked up in time to see Echo diving wildly for the dueling pair, the blades of Stinger ready to strike. Galaxia looked back to Jubilant quirking a smile once more. "It's growing rather crowded out here. You have very rude companions Commander. Let us move our little...disagreement to a more quiet locale?" Before Jubilant could raise a defense Galaxia's magic engulfed them both, swallowing the pair up leaving Echo slicing only air.

***

The numbing chill wormed its way to her very core as Jubilant staggered away from Galaxia when they reappeared. They were in Canterlot Castle's throne room. "There now, this is so much more... intimate don't you think?"

Now Heart!

Jubilant's sword flared to life as the spectral knight within leaped toward the Queen. Galaxia flinched away mildly surprised as she began to parry Bleeding Heart's rapid fire thrusts and lunges. Not letting the opportunity go to waste Jubilant herself soon joined her ghostly companion in assaulting the powerful woman. Slowly but surely Galaxia was backing away from their furious onslaught of attacks.

Just as the young Commander felt she had a chance, Galaxia's blades vanished with a puff of magic and the Queen threw her hands out, sending her power flowing from her horn and into her attackers. Bleeding Heart vanished with an anguished cry as Jubilant herself was thrown from her feet and forced to the ground under the magical attack. Every time she tried to pull herself to her feet another wave would hit her and force her back down. "Did you really think you would defeat me girl?"

Mercy clattered to the floor, her fingers too numb to maintain a grip on it against the magical cold worming its way down to her very bones. Teeth chattering wildly she tugged her arms in close hugging herself tight. "I'm afraid you won't ward off the chill of the void that easily."

Throwing the occasional wave of magic at the cowering young woman, Galaxia strode passed her to gaze out the window at the distant battle. Sighing softly she shook her head. "So senseless. I am curious how you talked all those fools into following you. Especially that insect Chrysalis."

"I--it's something y--y--you'll never und-d-derstand Guh...Galaxia."

Galaxia turned on her heel marching back toward the writhing Jubilant. "Ah. The magic of friendship yes?" The Queen managed to hold her composure for nearly ten seconds after saying that before she began to laugh uproariously. "Oh you little girls running about thinking you have the world figured out. You're just like Celestine. A little mirror image of her when she was your age. So full of fire. So sure she was right about every little thing. That HER way was the best and nothing else could possibly work."

Against her will Jubilant let out an unwilling shriek of pain as Galaxia seized her firmly in her magical aura and hefted her into the air. "And what has Celestine's way brought this country? Stagnation. Comfort. No drive, no ambition. They just drift through their day to day lives content with their stations. None of them looking to be better than their neighbors. Their idea of competition is settling disputes with a friendly game of some sort or another. No society can function like this for long!"

Gritting her teeth against the pain Jubilant scowled. "Except it has... f--for over a thousand years there's been peace and p--prosp--p--perity."

"Bah! It was only a matter of time before the griffons or some other predator swooped in! Now the nation will be strong, ready to fight. I'll lead these witless horses from Equestria and seize control of every country in the world!"

"You're a lunatic Galaxia... and I'm going to stop you."

"Are you? ARE you going to stop me Jennifer 'Jubilant Surprise'? You're soft and weak just like my daughters, just like the little horses you try to emulate so much." Thrusting her hand away from herself Galaxia flung Jubilant into one of the austere pillars in the throne room, cracking the solid marble and sending the groaning woman to the floor.

Marching calmly up to the downed Jubilant, Galaxia flipped her onto her back contemptuously. The elder of the two cocked her head curiously at whatever Jubilant had gripped tightly in her hands. "What have you got there hm? A memento from your pony mother? Or that freakish bat creature you bed down with?" Prying Jubilant's hands apart, Galaxia delicately retrieved the small ordinary little wooden box. Ignoring the younger woman's feeble protests Galaxia gently opened the lid.

A bright flash lit the room causing the Queen to drop the box in shock. "Was that your secret weapon girl? A little burst of light? I hope you enjoyed that because now you..." Galaxia thrust her hand toward Jubilant frowning. "...you... what did you do?"

Galaxia took a step back from the alicorn mare as she shakily rose to her hooves. Jubilant looked just as confused as the human woman did, looking over herself with a faint frown. Until she focused on Galaxia again. "You're human..."

"Of course I'm human you ridiculous little half-wit! I..." Eyes widening in alarm Galaxia frantically spun about trying to see her back clearly. Her wingless back. The long horn that had parted her hair was gone as well.

"Star Swirl's gift." Gingerly the mare nudged the box upright. A small stone that even as she watched dwindled to ash sat on the floor. She could feel it draining all the magic from the room. It had forced them both back into their natural states. Since Jennifer was resurrected as a pony, this was her proper body now. Whereas Galaxia's state of normalcy was an entirely ordinary human woman.

Mercy lay where Jubilant had dropped it, and both pairs of eyes went to the suddenly mundane blade laying between them. As one both sprang into action rushing for the sword. Hooves and boots pounded the marble as Jubilant and Galaxia each tried to outrun the other. Realizing the pony was far faster on four legs than she was on two, Galaxia cried out in fury and tackled her opponent. Jubilant yelped in alarm as she was dragged to the ground off her hooves.

Rolling with the Queen grappling her tightly Jubilant snapped her hind legs into the woman's gut sending her vaulting away through the air, to land heavily on the other side of the room. Scrambling back to her hooves she seized Mercy's hilt in her mouth and charged after the fleeing Queen.

Galaxia was running as fast as she could but the four legged alicorn mare was galloping much faster than she could run. Only her finely honed survival instinct saved her life. The second she heard Jubilant vault into the air behind her she dove through the window and out into the gardens below. Mercy's blade sliced the air where her head had been seconds before.

The woman was slower to rise now, after the pair of heavy falls she was beginning to feel fatigued and pained. Sensations she hadn't experience in several centuries of time. She didn't have long to recover as Jubilant vaulted from the window after her. The mare had no magic at the moment so she couldn't fly, and she didn't have the augmented earth pony strength and stamina but she was young and well muscled, two things Galaxia was not.

Landing on her hooves with a grunt Jubilant took off like a shot after the fleeing Queen. Already she could feel a prickling sensation along her horn, signifying the return of her magic. Spurred on by sudden panic Jubilant vaulted forward smashing through one of the well trimmed hedges and colliding solidly with Galaxia's back. Wrapping her forelegs around the woman's waist the mare bore her to the ground, and delivered a powerful stomp to the small of her back.

Galaxia arched her back and howled with pain, feebly trying to crawl away. She didn't get far before stopping short as Jubilant stepped in front of her. Weakly the older woman raised her eyes to meet the younger mare's, the brilliant blue orbs blazing. Mercy's hilt clenched tightly in her teeth Jubilant raised her head to strike.

Holding the pose for a moment, and then another... Jubilant could only stare down at the cringing woman. Gone was the imperious, unflappable Queen. Now Galaxia just looked... old. Old and defenseless. Could she really murder her like this? Besting her in fair combat was one thing but this... this felt wrong.

Slowly she lowered her sword with a frown. Almost not believing her look Galaxia dared to raise her head. "You're not going to kill me?"

Clearly conflicted Jubilant slowly shook her head. "I... no. I can't. Not like this." The tingles of her returning magic were growing stronger, strong enough that Galaxia was beginning to look rejuvenated.

"How very noble of you girl. I'll remember your honor and nobility for all time if it brings some comfort to what comes next." The woman's wings and horn slowly reformed as she rose to her feet languidly.

Jubilant likewise shifted to her humanoid shape, holding the once more shining Mercy in her sword hand. Taking a ready stance she prepared for Galaxia to resummon her weapons. Thinking back, she couldn't believe how naive she'd been. With no hesitation Galaxia flung a wave of magic toward the Commander of Harmony once more striking her down with waves of impossible cold.

"Honor. Mercy. Nobility. Friendship. A leader must be above such things. It's why Celestine and Lucinda couldn't best me. It's why that ridiculous, sparkling so-called Empress won't best me. And it's why you most certainly couldn't do what needed to be done to best me." Clenching her fist tightly Galaxia lifted Jubilant off her feet, pulling her in closer. "And now you've failed. You've failed all the little ponies, and bugs, and cat-birds fighting in your name out there. Once you're dead... again... I'll recast my control spell stronger than ever and bring Equestria back into order."

Galaxia tightened her magical grip, drawing several pops and cracks from the trapped woman and eliciting a long keening wail of pain from her as the older woman squeezed the life from her. A keening wail that wasn't fading despite Jubilalnt's mouth being closed. Recognition dawned in the Queen's eyes just as Echo burst into view wailing loud enough to draw blood from Galaxia's ears and mouth. With a gasp of pain she flung Jubilant aside turning to face the newest threat.

"Not again! Do you hear me?! You won't take her from me again!" Stinger's blades snapped open in the borrowed pegasus blade carriers Echo had strapped to her forelegs as she cut through the air mercilessly trying to gouge Galaxia's face or throat.

Caught unawares by the sonic attack Galaxia was momentarily disoriented, but not so much that she couldn't defend herself. A dome of black magic appeared around her, repelling the incensed night pony and sending her careening wildly away. She had no time to rest as two lines of angry sparks flared from her shield as some unseen assailant began to assault it. Gasping in fatigue and fury Galaxia released a pulse of magic into the surrounding area. With a yelp Moon Dancer snapped into view and was flung to the ground, the blades of Nightsinger clattering beside her.

"You... you DARE?! You dare to come before me after what you've done?! You are no daughter of mine Lucinda! Even before you willingly gave up what made you better than these beasts! You've always been a little traitor, whispering poison into your sister's ear! Turning her against me!"

Moon Dancer frantically tried to get back to her hooves as Galaxia approached, the woman summoning her sword as she neared. Gasping in agony she was forced into the air by her mother's magic. "With you gone perhaps Celestine will finally come to her senses. It pains me less than I would have expected to do this. Goodbye Lucinda."

The sound of a blade tearing through flesh and armor ripped through the gardens. With a yelp Moon Dancer hit the ground and bounced, rolling to her hooves. Slowly, not sure of what happened Moon Dancer opened her eyes and looked upon the woman who gave her life. Galaxia was staring down at her chest unbelieving, Mercy pressed all the way to the hilt against her back, the shining pink blade dimmed by the dark blood staining it.

Looking passed her dumbfounded mother Moon Dancer could see Jubilant Surprise behind the older woman, her face a twisted mixture of rage, fear, and anguish. As Galaxia's strength failed her Jubilant gently withdrew Mercy, laying the blade beside her as she eased Galaxia to the ground. Tears were welling in the young woman's eyes as she looked down upon the woman who;d killed her five years ago. "I'm sorry. I'm... I'm so sorry."

A small trickle of blood ran from Galaxia's lips down her cheek. "Do not apologize girl... history... history is written by the victor. You will be remembered... hnn... as the hero who returned Princess Celestia to her... to her insipid little ponies." The woman turned darkening eyes toward her pony daughter. "While I will be remembered as the tyrant who..." She paused as a brief coughing fit overtook her. "...who tried to kill her youngest daughter..."

"I... I can heal you! With Mercy...if you'll just... just promise to... to be nice... I guess..."

With a derisive snort Galaxia weakly shoved Jubilant away. "Fool girl. You're... far too soft for this..." She looked as though she may have wanted to say more, but the light fled her eyes in that moment. Galaxia's chest grew still. Gingerly Jubilant reached out, gently closing her eyes.

Jubilant remained where she was, kneeling over the body and staring at the still face, her own an expressionless mask. Echo and Moon Dancer both limped their way to stand at either side of her. "I'm sorry you were forced to do that Jubilant Surprise. It is not a burden I wanted you to carry."

Echo laid a hoof on Jubilant's leg. "C'mon Jenny. It's over, finally. Let's just... go let everypony know alright?"

Closing her eyes and taking a deep breath Jubilant nodded. Slowly she rose to her feet, staring at her sword for a long moment before cleaning it in the grass and returning it to its sheath.

"What do we do about her?" Jubilant nodded toward the body.

"I will see to my mothers remains. I believe you've done quite enough this evening."

All three whirled to the castle to see Celestia, in human shape but without her sword and armor walking toward them slowly. Her face was a stony mask as she approached. "Princess I..."

Celestia cut Jubilant off by sharply raising her hand. "You've killed my mother tonight Jennifer Allen. While I can't help but agree that she was evil and wicked she was still my mother. I still loved her and... and you killed her. I think it best if you left Canterlot. Now. Return to your Citadel, or Ponyville or... or back to your own world where you belong. I don't wish to see you in my Castle, or in my city for that matter again."

Moon Dancer bristled at her sister's words stepping forward. "Celestia how can you say such things?! Without Jubilant, Equestria would still be in Galaxia's grip! Our people were suffering, dying!"

Celestia's mask finally broke. "Don't you think I know that?! Of course I know what she's done Luna! Of course I felt every one of my little ponies as they were ripped away from their lives, their families, far too soon! For all that she did... all that she was she was still our mother! How can you feel nothing?!"

The midnight blue unicorn shook her head firmly. "I haven't considered her my mother in centuries. My mother was a kind, generous unicorn who looked after us, sheltered us, and kept us safe until we could protect ourselves after Galaxia abandoned us. This... CREATURE... may have given birth to me, but she was not my mother."

Celestia's face hardened once more. "Fine. Go then, go with our mother's killer and celebrate her death. I will mourn her alone if need be. But mark me Jennifer, you are never to set foot in Canterlot again. Do you understand?"

Mutely the younger woman could only nod. With some alarm she saw Echo about to launch herself at the Princess of the Sun, and laid a restraining hand on her back. "...c'mon. We need to let them know it's over."

Casting a brief glance toward Celestia as she kneeled over Galaxia's body Jubilant spoke softly. "...I'm sorry for your loss." Then she, Echo, and Moon Dancer left the daytime Princess to mourn.

Chapter 20: Home Again

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Chapter 20: Home Again

Outside her throne room the sound of her subjects celebrating could still be heard. It'd gone on all through the night and well into the morning. It was now approaching early afternoon. Still, Princess Celestia allowed them their chance for revelry. With her mother's death, Galaxia's spell on their minds had lifted freeing everypony from her control. Celestia knew very well that once the celebrations had ended, once the rebuilding was finished her little ponies' thoughts would start to turn inward. To the dark deeds some had comitted. She was not looking forward to that time.

She, and she alone had seen to her mother's remains. Knowing full well any pony would assist her if ordered to, but also knowing they would HAVE to be ordered to assist brought an unpleasant taste to her mouth. Despite all Galaxia had done, she was still her mother. How could Luna have said the things she did last night? To not even shed a single tear over the death of the woman who'd given them life.

Fists clenched tightly at her sides Celestia rose and strode briskly to the balcony overlooking Canterlot and much of the land beyond. There not too far in the distance she could see it. The Citadel of Harmony, floating merrily in the air above Ponyville. No doubt Jubilant Surprise was having the party of a lifetime over her mother's demise.

***

"She won't come out. She won't let anypony in either." Pinkie Pie fretted outside her daughter's door in the Citadel, looking with worry to her filly's closest friends. Lyra, Echo, and Moon Dancer all regarded the sealed door frowning.

"She is using Mercy's shield to hold it shut. None of our Arms are its match Pinkie Pie, we cannot force the shield down and the door open." Moon Dancer gently ran a hoof along the shimmering pink door.

Echo growled audibly glaring out the window toward distant Canterlot. "It's all that... puffed up Princess' fault! She said such awful things to her! I still think I should give her a piece of my mind!"

Frowning reproachfully Moon Dancer cleared her throat firmly. "While my sister's words were out of line, try to recall she is grieving for her mother Echo. She will come around given time. Celestia is not the sort to hold a grudge. When the rawness of the wound heals some I am confident she will come to Jubilant and apologize."

Lyra gave the shield a tap herself. "I think that's what she needs too. Time. We should all give her a little space."

"Sounds advice Miss Heartstrings. Come everypony, let us see where we can make ourselves useful hm? There are plenty of wounded who could benefit from our assistance."

Lyra followed after Moon Dancer, Echo soon doing so reluctantly. Only Pinkie Pie remained, slowly slumping to the floor and laying outside Jubilant's door. "I'm right here for you Surprise. Whenever you want to come out."

***

Jubilant Surprise sat at the edge of the enchanted porcelain tub within her chambers in the Citadel, hot water running non stop as she took a scouring pad to Mercy's blade, scrubbing vigorously. As she had been doing from the moment she entered the chambers hours ago.

I believe the blade is as clean as mortal hands can get it Jubilant. Or immortal in your case I suppose.

Scowling at the unseen spectre of her blade, Jubilant shook her head firmly. "I still see some stains. There... and there. It's not clean yet."

There was a pause as Bleeding Heart considered her next words. Jubilant perhaps you should speak with somepony hm? Your mother is just outside the door.

The woman's frantic motions slowed as she turned her head to regard the glowing pink doorway, held sealed shut by her blade's magic. "I... no. I can't see her. Not yet. Not like this."

Like what, Jubilant?

Holding both hands up to the blade's surface Jubilant was a touch wild-eyed. "Like this! Look at them they're...they're covered in..."

Soap and hot water is what they are covered in Jubilant Surprise. What you are feeling is unfortunately natural for a young knight in your position. Taking the life of a fellow pony or human in this case is never easy. Nor should it be. If you feel nothing after such an action then one has cause to worry.

For just a moment Jubilant stopped her frantic scrubbing, and stared down at her reflection in the water. Closing her eyes she took a deep breath and stood, sliding Mercy back into its sheath. "Thank you Heart."

I am here to aid and guide you Jubilant Surprise, never hesitate to call upon me.

"All done with your incredibly vigorous scrub I hope?" Discord quipped cheerfully from the bed of Jubilant's chamber.

The woman's eyes widened as her head whipped from him to the door. "How did you get in here?!"

"Magic. Just because the door is sealed doesn't mean I can't walk through the walls or ceiling. Try to keep up hm?"

Eyes narrowing slightly at her flippant uncle Jubilant marched passed him toward the window. He was reclining in his human guise, hideous suit in place while his cane was leaning against the bed. "Did you need something?"

The joking tone was gone as he sat up and moved to stand beside her. "Not particularly. I just wanted to be here for you, like you were for me those years ago."

They stood in silence for a time, as they looked down upon Ponyville, the surviving inhabitants busily cleaning and rebuilding. Much of the cheer felt around Equestria was muted here. Everypony was happy to be free, but their home was destroyed and many friends were lost.

Gently the man laid his hand over her shoulder. "You did the right thing Surprise. You did what I, or Luna would have done in the same situation. Even Celestia would have struck her down. She left you no choice."

"I suppose Cadance would have done so too."

This brought an amused chortle from her uncle as he leaned against the window sill regarding her with amusement. "After the way she blew Sombra to pieces? I think she'd have dealt with Galaxia without hesitating."

"What about Twilight? Would she have done what I did? What you would do?"

Confusion crossed Discord's face at the seemingly random question. "Would Shining Armor have killed her? Or Rarity? Lyra? Would a pony who was truly a pony, one who was born in and belonged in Equestria be able to take a life like we could? Every threat dealt with by ponies wasn't killed, they were sealed away or imprisoned... but never killed."

A frown formed on Discord's face as he realized the point she was coming around to. "Jubilant you didn't kill Galaxia because of your human side. Everyone, human, or pony ... we all have the ability to take a life within us. There was a civil war that nearly tore the kingdom apart when Celestia and Luna split."

"Over a thousand years ago! It's been a thousand, a THOUSAND years since ponies have attacked each other. I'm sure there's the occasional lunatic now and then but a thousand years of peace? When have our people gone more than a hundred years without a war or violence that ends in death break out?"

Discord shook his head slowly. "You'd know the answer to that better than I."

"Spoiler alert! We haven't! All we do is fight... and kill... and suffer. And now we've brought that here. To these people." Her hands clenched the window sill tightly enough it began to crack. "...none of us belong here."

With a heavy sigh Discord stood beside his niece, gently rubbing her back. "Hey... hey don't say things like that. We've had our rough patches but look at what Celestia's done for Equestria? That thousand years of peace was due in large part to her."

"After her sister went insane and tried to cover the world in eternal night. After they dethroned YOU and turned you to stone. After they sealed away their insane mother. Are you seeing the pattern?"

"Equestria has it's share of unkind individuals even without our assistance Jubilant. King Sombra subjugated the Crystal Empire for decades. Queen Chrysalis tried to seize Canterlot a few years back. And there's that lich fellow, he's one hundred percent pony."

"Right. The Lich went insane trying to reproduce what was it? Alicorn immortality? Which wouldn't be here for him to lose his mind over if humans never set foot in Equestria."

"By that logic it's our fault that a heavy tome detailing Celestia's life falls off a high shelf and brains some poor pony below it."

Scowling up at him Jubilant shoved his arm away ungently. "That's a stupid comparison and you know it!"

The young woman could see her uncle was working very hard not to lose his own temper. "Jubilant you're focusing only on the negatives. We've brought plenty of good to Equestria as well. I think you need to cool off. Let's go down and help with the reconstruction hm? All your friends are down there helping out already."

Turning away from him she again looked out at the work on the town. "Has there been any sign of Rainbow Dash?"

Happy for the change in topic Discord nodded. "There has! She's staying with a friend in the griffon empire I believe. So that's a load off hm?"

Slowly she nodded. "And what about Moon Dancer? Her magic is gone for good?"

"Celestia or someone equally powerful could infuse her with enough magic to possibly jump start her alicorn genes again. But until things are calmed down she and Celestia decided to hold off just for a bit."

Another slow nod. "Uncle D, would you grab me a glass of water?"

Smiling brightly again he marched by her into the bathroom. "Happy to m'dear! Your mother's moping around outside. What say we let her in before she gets all creepy and starts talking to a pile of rocks hm?"

Frowning when she didn't answer, he sighed and stepped out of the bathroom with her water. "Jubilant just let her know you're..." He blinked realizing he was alone in the room. "Jubilant?"

The door burst inward as Pinkie Pie shoved her way into the room. "Hey silly filly! Finally took that shield down hu..." Pinkie blinked seeing only Discord in the room, cradling his cane with a deep frown. "...where's Surprise?"

Not giving a verbal response, he simply tilted the top of his cane toward Pinkie. The jewel with his half of his magic was gone.

***

Jubilant I do not believe this is a good idea! Reuniting both halves of the gem will only lead to trouble. Why did you steal it anyhow?

Not answering at first she willed herself back to Earth. The portal was easier to summon this time, what with the reuinted gem working at full strength. She emerged into her backyard with a soft sigh.

Jubilant?

"...it's Jennifer, Heart. I'm not going back to Equestria. Do you want me to I dunno, toss you back through the portal?"

...nay. You are my wielder and I am your partner until your life should end, however long that may be. Though I remind you, you cannot survive for a great length of time without Equestria restoring your mana.

"I'll... I dunno. I'll open a path back when I need to. I can recharge in the Everfree or the badlands or something."

Jennifer I realize the past few days have been extremely stressful for you, but I urge you to reconsider. If you wish time away at least inform your friends and family. Think of your mother and Echo.

"I... I left them a note. I just can't face them Bleeding Heart."

Very well Jennifer. Let us see your father hm?

"Yeah I..." Jen lifted her head looking around in confusion. "The sky is... purple."

This is not normal I presume.

"You presume right." Frowning now Jennifer turned to the house. The lights were off and she sighed realizing she didn't have a key. Trying the door out of some dim hope it was unlocked, she was surprised to find it swing open easily. "...dad never leaves the door unlocked."

Stepping inside she tried the light switch, but it was unresponsive. "Dad? Dad?! It's Jen! I'm home!"

Walking through the kitchen toward the front of the house she stopped dead, feeling her blood turn to ice. The front door was burst open and splinters were scattered all over the foyer. Eyes widening in fear she sprinted upstairs following abnormally large claw marks gouged into the wood of the walls and stairs. "Dad! Dad where are you?!"

They lead right to her father's bedroom, again the door blasted away from the frame. A powerful coppery scent filled the air as she edged closer to her father's bedroom. Already suspecting what she'd find, Jennifer pushed her way into her dad's room.

There was no sign of the creature that attacked her father, or of her father himself. Though the copious amount of blood splashed about the walls and floor told her all she needed to know. "Who... what could do this? Why would anyone..."

Jennifer you have more family in this realm do you not? They could be in danger as well. Focus on those you may be able to help.

Fighting back the tears Jennifer cast one look around her father's bedroom, before willing herself to her uncle's cabin.

***

Jennifer arrived to find near the entirety of the front wall torn away. Fearing the worst she entered slowly. Her heart soared with hope at a deep groan from beneath some of the debris. Rushing to the man buried beneath the remains of the wall she used her magic to fling it away. "Agent Samson?!"

It was indeed the huge agent from her time in government custody. He looked pretty banged up but didn't seem seriously harmed. "Holy shit kid, you actually showed up."

"Where's my uncle?! What's going on?!"

Gunshots from outside drew her attention. "He and Miller took off. The cats are after him, your dad, anyone related to you. They're looking for you."

She didn't wait to ask what the 'cats' were. Using her 'FInd It' spell she sprinted from the cabin toward the woods filling that made up the back yard. More gunfire than a blood curdling scream forced Jen to run faster, calling on her magic to speed her pace.

She burst into a clearing in time to see Agent Miller flung through the air trailing blood as the woman landed hard on the forest floor. Jen winced seeing the viscous scratches that seemed to have taken the bulk of the woman's face off. To her surprise Miller was stirring, feebly trying to rise. The loud CHOOM of a fired shotgun pulled her attention to the right.

A monstrous creature one could only vaguely call a cat only flinched back as her Uncle Derek's old hunting shotgun blew buckshot into its face. The thing was twice the size of a full grown lion, its hid bare and showing diseased scabby patches where visible. Huge spike dripping some foul ichor jutted from its body as odd angles. When it opened its mouth its jaws split into three revealing a gaping fang lined maw.

There was no hesitation for Jennifer this time. Letting all her fury flow out she grabbed the monster in her magic and hefted it into the air. It let out a yowl of surprise, that swiftly turned to pain. Jen clenched both hands tightly as if she were digging her fingers into something, then wrenched them apart with a scream of fury. The cat burst apart into gory pieces that were flung all about the forest.

Her Uncle only stared at her wide-eyed. "J... Jenny?"

Wiping some blood from her cheek she eyed her uncle. "Are you alright?"

"Yeah I'm... I'm good. But Miller got hit bad."

"She and Samson were here trying to protect you weren't they? Doing what I should have been here to do! What happened?!"

"I... the Master's been looking for you. Sending his freaks out to your school, hunting down your parents. Everyone you've come into contact with according to them." He nodded toward the moaning woman.

"The Master... who's the Master?" Jennifer moved to Miller's side, drawing Mercy slowly.

Eyeing her warily, her Uncle got to his feet approaching. "Right you've been gone for five years now huh? He showed up... three, maybe four ago? He does magic. Like crazy magic. No one could really put up a fight. He took over in maybe a week?"

Kneeling down Jennifer gently rolled Miller onto her back. The woman flinched and feebly tried to push her away. "It's alright, it's gonna be okay. Just relax." Glancing at her uncle Jen frowned. "I'm probably going to need you to carry me back to the cabin after this."

A pink glow was surrounding Miller's horrific cuts along her eyes and cheeks. A pink glow mirrored along Jen's face. Derek could only watch in horror as his niece's face began to rip and tear while Miller's healed. The last thing Jen saw before the world went dark was her Uncle rushing to catch her as she fell backwards.

***

Jennifer's face throbbed painfully, but she found she could blink her eyes open when she tried. Sitting up with a little grunt she looked around. She was in the room she always stayed in when she came to visit her Uncle on the weekends. Swinging her legs over the edge of the bed she slowly eased onto her feet. Someone had changed her clothes and dressed her in a loose shirt and baggy sweat pants. She hoped it was Miller.

Quietly making her way from the room she walked toward the kitchen, where the low murmur of voices quickly stopped. Samson, Miller, and her Uncle all looked up as she entered. "Uh... hi."

Miller chuckled and shook her head. "Hi. You grow my face back and get your own ripped off for the trouble, and you say hi. Hi Jennifer. It's really, REALLY good to see you."

Jen squinted at the female agent's eyes, she didn't remember them being that odd golden color. "Why is this Master guy trying to kill me and my family?"

It was Samson who answered. "That's what he calls himself. It's Sanders, the Doctor from the facility that got fired? Somehow he's been able to replicate the energy from that jewel on your sword there. It let him pretty much take over whatever he wanted. Made him go batshit crazy in the process."

Eyes drifting to Discord's jewel, Jennifer frowned. Yet another catastrophe that was her fault. Part of her said it was time to take action, to do something. But another, louder part of her was just... tired. Tired of constant strife and struggle.

"Kid you got no idea how glad we are you're here. With you around maybe we'll actually have a chance at turning this around."

The eagerness in the large Agent Samson's voice only forced a deeper frown from Jennifer. Walking passed the three at the table she stopped at what remained of the front door. "... I appreciate you trying to help my family. And I'm glad I was able to help you out Agent Miller but... that's it. I'm done fighting. I uh... yeah. I'm sorry but... that's it."

She didn't bother to look back at the pair of agents who sat staring at her dumbfounded. Or at her Uncle, who just had a look of profound sadness in his eyes as he regarded his niece. Her hunched posture and lowered head spoke of someone who'd endured a lifetime of suffering, and she was so young. Too young to walk and talk the way she was. He watched her step out of the cabin and start toward the woods. When Agent Samson moved to follow he laid a restraining hand on his arm. "Not now. I don't know what she's been through the last few years but... she needs time to heal. You're welcome to stay with us for the time being if you like."

Samson and Miller exchanged identical, unhappy looks. Hope had been dangled in front of their noses for such a brief time, only to have it snatched away.

***

Deep beneath Canterlot Castle lay a large smoothly carved chamber magically crafted right into the mountain itself. A pair of warmly burning enchanted torches bathed the stone chamber in a comforting orange glow. The only other thing occupying it was a large stone casket, unadorned save a single black rose atop the cover.

No guards were stationed over the body of Queen Galaxia or its resting place. And so no pony was about to see the unnatural black mist that writhed and flowed along the floor. It crept its way along the cavern and toward the stone sarcophagus, flowing up the sides and into the cracks sealing it shut.

Ever so slowly the lid began to twitch and shudder as it slid open. Galaxia's body slowly sat upright, her skin an unnaturally pallid white. When her eyes opened they were twin points of blazing red light. A smile slowly spread across her lips.

"Yes. Yes this will do just fine..."

Galaxia's Equestria

by pchn00

Prologue: The Way Things Are

Chapter 1: Jubilant Surprise Pie

Chapter 2: Tons of Fun and a Beautiful Heart

Chapter 3: Plucking Her Heartstrings

Chapter 4: Reunions

Chapter 5: A Pinch of Hope

Chapter 6: Infiltration Specialists

Chapter 7: To The Moon

Chapter 8: Small Packages

Chapter 9: A Hero Returns

Chapter 10: Harmony Reforged

A Villainous Interlude

Chapter 11: Battle for the Citadel of Harmony

Chapter 12: Ponyville Aflame, Part 1

Chapter 13: Ponyville Aflame, Part 2

Chapter 14: Music All Around Us

Chapter 15: What a Pony Does Best

Chapter 16: Preparations

Chapter 17: Love Conquers All

Chapter 18: The Calm Before

Chapter 19: The Battle for Canterlot

Chapter 20: Home Again