Echoed Beat is a simple watchmaker from Canterlot. On a business trip to Ponyville to sell his wares, he would never expect to meet any of the heroic mares known as the Elements of Harmony. In fact, he'd never met any of them in his life, and never had any real plans to.

When he arrives in Ponyville, however, he discovers that the Mane Six appear to already know everything about him. His past, his craft, what he carried in his cart and what he carries on his soul.

Echoed Beat never expected to be friends with the Elements of Harmony.
He certainly didn't expect them to be crying at his funeral.

The Elements of Harmony have a problem.
In the past they'd saved thousands of lives without breaking a sweat.
Why, then, can't they save a single stallion?

And worse, why does the same day keep repeating itself?
Why must they watch him die?

Celestia would do almost anything to ensure the safety of her beloved younger sister, even if it meant giving in to the demands of a group of scoundrels and thieves.

Luna? Luna doesn't worry about her sister's safety. After all, nopony had dared to kidnap the Solar Princess for hundreds of years.

The only thing this latest group needed was a reminder why.

A quick short story that popped into my head while doing research for other works. Fair warning, I'm my own editor so if anything slipped through the cracks, that's why. Enjoy!

Technically a crossover, if only barely.

Featured 11/18/17 - Wow, that was quick.