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Our Chaotic Serenity

by Eden Eclipse

Chapters

Prologue: Rising


CHAPTER 1: RISING

There was that familiar irritation again, that feeling of warmth on her face, causing her to awake from her peaceful slumber. Cheerilee slowly opened her eyes, laying in her bed and just spending the next moment staring up at the ceiling, gathering her thoughts. It felt like the same usual day for her, and for the time being all she wanted to do was stay focused on the idea of reaching the weekend. Her mane was erratic and wild, not baring the usual puffy appearance it often had. But as she leaned up, thinking about what'd transpire for her this time, her thoughts had actually drifted somewhere unexpected, it was quite lonely here today.

There used to be a time, when things were different.

There used to be a time she had somepony waiting for her. Somepony who'd wanted to keep her company, somepony who'd been dedicated to remain by her side, somepony who'd loved her with all her heart, she used to have a daughter. A daughter not of pony blood, but one whom she loved all the same.

But she was gone now.

It felt like so long ago since she'd seen her. Cheerilee shook her head as her brows furrowed, she didn't want to dwell on such things anymore, it wasn't healthy and it only caused her to sink into a state of melancholy.

So she went about her usual routine, heading into the bathroom to wash her face, followed by brushing her teeth, then combing her mane. She proceeded by fixing her bed, it was cold today so she took the extra task of grabbing her scarf from one the drawers. It all felt so robotic, so lifeless, and she moved as if she were programmed to just repeat these actions for the daily routine. She had to do something, something to keep her mind off the memories of the past. And this something, was better than nothing.

It was soon time to head on downstairs, and as she took each trot down her upper level hallway, further towards the staircase, she ran her hoof along the wooden walls. She was now recalling the time she'd first heard the sound of clanking pots and shifting plates down in the kitchen, it caused her to smile. She'd had an intruder that night, but she would've never guessed that home invasion would be one of her most cherished memories at the time.

She made her way down, now feeling unable to resist thinking back to a time she missed dearly, that overwhelming sense of nostalgia overcoming her every second she continued to make her way through her now lonesome home. She stopped by the entrance to the kitchen, looking at the cabinets, and the organized cupboards. Everything was in order, everything was neat. It was all the same, these days it never changed, and somewhere deep down, she wished it did.

"I'll make you more sweets! A-And I can listen really good, I'm a really good listener! I promise I'll be good from now on, t-then we can talk right? We can talk like in the pony classroom?"

The school mare turned absently away from the kitchen, now heading into the living room. She looked to the TV, grabbing the remote off the couch and clicking it on. Equestria Daily News, not like she cared much about what was going on outside Ponyville these days, she had her students to teach, that was all that mattered now. School didn't start for another hour or so, so she definitely had some time to kill. She looked at the TV wearily, a careless look on her face as her eyes were halfway shut, almost as if she were still half asleep. Why couldn't she just forget? There was no point in hoping things would change, things had already gotten too bad, too out of hoof, everything was beyond her at this point.

There was nothing she could do. There was nothing more to be done, it was over, it'd been over for awhile now.

And as Cheerilee sat there, her pupils dilated due to the sudden shock of something hitting her forehoof as she held the remote, laying on her side. She glanced down, still with that baffled expression, as what she saw caused her features to scrunch up, and define a look of agony. This pain in her heart, it was all too apparent now. That small wet spot on her hoof, it was a tear, she hadn't even realized she was crying.

Her cheeks were moist, as the transparent droplets only continued to trickle down at this point, like small, thin, facial streams coming from her eyes. The mare couldn't make them stop, so she only let the emotional wave pass through her.

Memories had such a strange way of hitting you right when you're most vulnerable. Of breaking you down when you least expected it, and leaving you feeling like no more than an empty shell, even when you'd thought you were whole once more.

"Momma, will you leave with me?"

"Uhm, what do you mean sweetie? Leave with you? Leave where?"

"Anywhere, anywhere but here. Will you come with me?"

"Sweetie, you're not going to lose me, don't worry about those types of things okay? Me and you, we're going to end up just fine. No matter what happens, I'll look out for you."

Yea right, those words felt so idiotic now. She'd failed, that's all that was apparent to her now. She tried telling herself everything was fine now, that everything happens for a reason, that she didn't have the right to judge the situation from her perspective, that she had to move on. But it all felt so unfair, so torturous, why did things turn out this way? What had she missed, just what'd happened to cause such chaos and heartache to ensue almost immediately after everything was going so well. She hated herself for it, for being such a coward back then, for hiding her away like some beast. Maybe if she'd just had the the courage to face Twilight with her thoughts, taken the time to prove to them Eve was no more than a harmless child at the time, then things could've been different. But it all felt too late now, everything felt too late.

She was too late. And she could only look down in shame, lost in this pathetic state of sorrow, and cry.

As she left her home, closing the door behind her, she took some time to admire the beautiful snow that still graced the small town of Ponyville, relishing in it until the winter wrap up. She shivered as she tugged at her scarf, before making her way down the path towards the schoolhouse. Along the way there were guards trotting up and down the streets, and stationed at different areas in Ponyville, they'd become a common sight for awhile now. Since Twilight Sparkle had chosen to stay here in Ponyville rather than running her own personal empire, guards were stationed here to protect their princess. They all even wore colors that'd look like they were representing the alicorn of friendship. Rumors had it they were trained elites from a country off the borders of Equestria, they wore purple plated armor with an insignia of magic etched into their breast plates. One of the guards saluted Cheerilee with a smile, as she nodded back to him with a smile of her own, then continuing onto the schoolhouse, actually taking some appreciation out of the distractions along the way.

Turns out that even the school day turned out the same, although she couldn't deny that the cheer in her student's voices, the happiness in their faces, comforted her a little. She felt tranquil looking at them, and she managed to wear a smile when it came to being in their presence. But even at school, the thoughts of those days still managed to creep their way into her mind, occupying it like a plaque, and what she thought next caused her to feel an overbearing sense of regret. Although looking at her student's happiness made her glad, it also frustrated her. She was frustrated due to the fact they all had it so well, that they, not even her, had a care in the world. That they lived these privileged lives, away from any danger, from any ridicule, and she could only wonder what her past daughter was doing with her life at this point.

She was now a fugitive, on the run at a banishment level status. How would a child cope with such things? It was agonizing, to think of what her world was now, she'd barely gotten a chance to speak with her, and although she felt she couldn't lay the blame solely on Twilight Sparkle, she still grieved for her daughter silently within herself. Her amazing powers kept her safe, that she was sure of, but what of her mind, that fragile baby draconequus she'd seen, was she still there? Was she still suffering? And if so, was she now alone? Alone to live with the guilt, the grief, and the pain of having the status of such a monster? So many negative outcomes raced through the mare's mind as she crossed her forehooves over her desk, and just buried her head in them. This was just too much, too stressful to be distracted by.

Scootaloo looked to her teacher in worry, before nudging Sweetie Belle as the rest of the class continued to giggle and talk amongst themselves. "Hey Sweetie Belle, is Miss.Cheerilee okay? She's lookin a little down."

Sweetie Belle, who'd been talking to Apple Bloom, then looked to Miss.Cheerilee curiously, eyes wide with worry a moment afterwords. Miss.Cheerilee certainly didn't look to be doing too good today, she looked miserable with her head buried in her hooves. "Miss.Cheerilee, are you okay?"

Some of the other students took notice of Sweetie Belle's question, looking to Miss.Cheerilee.

Cheerilee didn't answer however, she just kept her head lowered on the desk, her face buried in her hooves.

The students all began exchanging concerned glances with one another.

But at that moment, Cheerilee raised one of her hooves, waving at her students absently as she kept her head lowered. "I'm fine everypony, just didn't get enough sleep last night. Go on, today will just be a free day."

The students reassured, all burst into cheer as Apple Bloom shouted, climbing atop her desk. "FREE DAAAY!!!"

And with that, the class erupted into chaos, as they all started playing, talking, and just doing whatever they wanted.

Cheerilee didn't care though, she just kept her head buried, what did it matter anyway.

At the end of the day, after the students had already gone, the schoolmare still remained at her desk, dwelling on the past. Why is it things always turned up in this manner when she thought back to Eve, maybe a visit to Zecora would help, Zecora always managed to know just the right things to say during times like these. She could use some sagely advice right about now, living life like this wasn't what she wanted. What would she give right now for another chance, a clean slate to begin with, would there ever be a way things could return to those days? She was lost in the idea.

But then, there was an interruption.

Another, new beginning.

"Uhm, Cheerilee?"

Cheerilee's brows raised, as she was stacking papers at her desk, but thrown off by her recognition in that voice. She looked towards the door, to see a rainbow maned pegasi, accompanied by a timid yellow one. Rainbow Dash and Fluttershy? What were the two of them doing here at the schoolhouse? She could only wonder.

Her expression died down once more as she just continued stacking her papers absently, "Rainbow, Fluttershy? What brings you two over here?" She was fairly curious, there was no reason they should be coming to see her.

Rainbow sighed, before crossing her hooves while fluttering, glancing down at Fluttershy. She looked frustrated, and appeared almost desperate to find the words she was searching for, looking as if she'd hoped the pale yellow pegasus would have some idea of what those words were. "Well,...it's just-" she paused, unable to continue as she took in a deep breath, closing her eyes and shaking her head. It was rare to see Rainbow Dash flustered like this, and she groaned, looking up soon afterwords. What had her so bothered? But she then looked back to Cheerilee. "It's about Twilight."

Cheerilee just stopped stacking her papers as she froze, her face darkened. Bringing up Twilight at times like this was never good for her, especially when Eve was the occupation on her mind. Cheerilee kept her cool however, she'd chosen to end the drama between Twilight and her a long time ago, she couldn't allow these dwellings on the past get in the way of their thin relationship, especially if they were going to be living in the same town. She just replied to Rainbow flatly, almost with disinterest. "Oh, Twilight? That's unexpected, what about her?"

Fluttershy's expression changed at that moment, as she looked almost frightened by Cheerilee's question. She could only let off a soft whimper as she twirled her hoof against the ground in a circular motion.

Cheerilee didn't fail to notice this either, as her expression was only growing more curiously annoyed, wincing a little at the two mares as she waited for at least one of them to say something.

Rainbow began scratching the back of her own main with a worried look herself, before raising the other hoof in the form of a gesture. "It's just that, well,...Twilight has been staying cooped up in the library again."

Cheerilee just sighed, obviously annoyed as she continued stacking her papers. "What's that have to do with me girls? If Twilight wants to stay cooped up in the library, that's her decision. Why're we even discussing this?"

Neither of them were surprised by Cheerilee's reaction, which was another reason Fluttershy refused to join in on the conversation for the time being. Because she felt, things would only progressively worsen from here.

Rainbow continued, "It's about that baby draconequus."

Cheerilee's eyes widened as she fell still again. What, did she just say?

Rainbow only drew on the conversation, not really taking notice of Cheerilee as she did so. "Recently Twilight's been digging into this whole business involving that draconequus again, and we know you two had your differences, and I-" Rainbow's eyes fastened on Fluttershy as her expression sunk, and she looked almost angry with herself. "-I wasn't at Canterlot, so I didn't see what happened. But I do know that you know more about it and the draconequus than the rest of us Cheerilee, we all just want Twilight to be able to move on from this. You've been able to, we know you have different views, but please, she really needs help. And we don't really know what else to say to her at this point."

Help huh? Where was the help for Eve when she needed it? She didn't have the support of friends or family, and now she was seen as nothing more than a villain. Either way, Cheerilee could agree with them on the matter of Twilight moving on from this, the last thing she wanted for her past daughter was to have the alicorn at her throat again, wherever she may be. "Alright girls, I understand. I'll join you then." Cheerilee scooted back from her seat, rising, then heading on over to accompany the mares. She regarded them both with simple nods, before making her way out of the schoolhouse herself. She knew where Twilight lived, there was no need for them to act like escorts.

Rainbow looked to Fluttershy as they both had similar expressions, almost as if they were thinking the same thing.

Fluttershy knew that putting Twilight and Cheerilee in the same room, and the topic concerning Eve, probably wasn't a very good idea. But she didn't want to go against her friends either, nor was she sure if making this decision was entirely illogical. She had heard Twilight and Cheerilee did make up ever since that experience in Canterlot, they all saw the same thing, what Eve had become, what she did. How could Cheerilee say Twilight was wrong for wanting something better than that? No matter the circumstances, Eve shouldn't have felt compelled to threaten so many lives. Maybe Cheerilee could see that, maybe she could understand, and maybe she could help Twilight get over this strange obsession with Eve, no matter how conflicting things were. No matter how unfair things seemed, perhaps they could both accept that sometimes it's just the way things happen, and they could all just attempt moving on, together.

But sadly, those sorts of things never seemed to occur. One thing always lead to another, and this conflict never seemed to end. And there was that sharp sting in her heart, since she felt she knew that the pain was inescapable. Was there any way everypony could just come out happy? It's as if they were in a game, or attempting to solve a puzzle, and solving the puzzle would lead everypony to a just and satisfying end, but at this point they were all just giving up. Everypony except Twilight, who would do anything to reach her just end. Absolutely anything.

As the three ponies reached Twilight's home, Rainbow Dash and Fluttershy only sighed, as Cheerilee wore a look of indifference, not really looking forward to the meeting, and with good sense. There were even two guards blocking the door right outside Golden Oak's, they didn't fail to notice the new mare. "Who's she?" One asked in a strict and direct tone.

Rainbow got in his face, pressing her nose against his and placing her hooves on her hips, before exclaiming, "She's with us, so back off alright?"

The guard certainly didn't put up any further resistance, nor question the element of loyalty. They both simply nodded and then removed themselves from the path blocking the door, allowing the mares access to Princess Twilight.

Rainbow Dash pushed the door open, "Jeez, I wish Twilight would just ditch these goons already."

Immediately facing the three new mares upon entry were the familiar faces of Applejack, Pinkie Pie, and Rarity, looks like the whole cast of them was present.

Cheerilee's eyes shifted to each of them momentarily, before fastening on the mare of the hour, Twilight Sparkle.

Twilight was focused on the pages of a particular book, unsurprisingly, as she spoke in an expectant tone, "Who is it this time?" She flipped  through some of the pages with her magic as it was revealed she looked weary herself, almost in complete relation to Cheerilee. The mare didn't look herself, more like a zombie, like she hadn't gotten any good sleep for days, which was probably the case. "Rainbow Dash maybe? Fluttershy?"

Applejack gulped as she, Rarity, and Pinkie Pie hurried over to the other three mares by the door.

Applejack raised a hoof as she nudged the school mare, whispering in her ear. "T-Thanks for comin Cheerilee, we thought it might help us if ya tagged along in this little, erhm...issue. She's been like that all week, maybe even longer if we didn't catch on."

Pinkie Pie nodded, before lowering her head and whimpering softly like a shriveled puppy, her lower lip trembled as such. She looked drained of her usual energetic demeanor, spiritually crushed and defeated. "Mhm, and I tried everything but she won't put on a smile, not even for me! I mean, is there something wrong with me? My jokes are funny, right, right? I gave her funny performances, baked her cupcakes, gave massages, even cleaned the library and sung her songs and she still doesn't smile! All she does is read read read read read!" Pinkie then began tearing at her mane in frustration.

Rarity looked to the party pony with a worried glance. "Read would be an understatement darling. These books have once again become her main priority, she's just shutting everypony else out. I must say, it really is quite frustrating."

Rainbow crossed her forehooves as she groaned rolling her eyes. "Well she did almost get killed in Canterlot! I swear if I was there I would've rainboomed that stinkin dracone-" she was then cut off by a sudden hoof that covered her mouth. She looked to find Fluttershy, finding the mare shaking her head in disappointment before eyeing Cheerilee. Rainbow took the hint and remained silent as Fluttershy steadily lowered her hoof.

Cheerilee just continued to look at Twilight, as she took a few trots forward, practically ignoring the presence of all the others as she put on a smile. "Twilight, are you able to talk for a second?" She leaned forward a bit.

Twilight's eyes widened due the familiarity in the voice, she actually turned away from her book for the moment catching sight of Cheerilee. Her eyes saddened as she then went back to focusing on the pages, "L-Listen, I'm sorry Cheerilee but like I told all the others, I simply can't have my focus on anything else for the time being. I'm so close, I can feel it, there's still so many questions, and I feel I'm getting closer to the answers we need to finally put this all to rest. I know Eve means something to you, and I know we were supposed to move on from this, but those families deserve justice."

Cheerilee's brow twitched as she attempted to not get annoyed. "I see, listen Twilight, I know that you're very passionate about bringing a permanent end to this, to correcting everything, but maybe it's just best for you to move on. We can't find all the answers, sometimes it's just meant to be that way. Nopony is getting hurt anymore, nopony is suffering, can't we just be grateful everything is at peace for the time being? Can't we enjoy that peace?" She closed her eyes and tilted her head to the left, still wearing that same smile. "Come on Twilight, just close the book and let this go. We both saw the same things in Canterlot, we can both move on from it just the same."

Spike who'd been sitting halfway up the stairs with his arms crossed and a worried look nodded in agreement, before muttering, "Y-Yea, please Twilight, let's just forget about this. There's no point sticking your nose in this business anymore, you've done all that you can, please, just let it sort itself out."

Cheerilee nodded, "Yes Twilight, nopony blames you for what happened."

The others nodded to one another.

Applejack added in her opinion, "Yea Twi, come on, it ain't worth all this."

Twilight's face darkened, as she was growing awfully tired of this pointless performance. She winced at the pages of her book, unable to hold herself back from stating her true opinion, "Listen Cheerilee, I'm happy we've become friends again and all, but, please don't talk as if you know what I'm going through. I doubt you even believe your own words. How can you all just sit there and run away from all of this? We need to stop living in denial. Sitting around acting like everything is right doesn't change the fact that it's wrong!" Twilight now looked to have a seething, passive anger about herself, as she'd raised her voice, causing the others to actually back away in fear somewhat.

The response caused Cheerilee's eyes to widen in surprise, as her brow raised, and she'd looked offended. "What?...."

Twilight continued, "You know, I've been thinking for some time now. While studying up on draconequus, I couldn't help but wonder how everything got this bad. All I wanted was for everything to just go right, for everypony to be safe," tears were now rolling down Twilight's cheeks as the small pellets sunk into the thin pages of her book, she'd looked horribly frustrated. "But no matter what I do! All any of you can think of is new ways to pin the blame on me! New ways to tell me that I'm wrong for wanting what's just and fair!" She turned to her friends, revealing her guilt and confliction, "You think I wanted to do any of those things!? She should've just followed the rules and left! But no, she just had to constantly put everypony in danger! How can you all tell me that I should move on from this when there are families out there that she's taken loved ones from? I'm their Princess and I failed to protect them! And you expect me to let her off the hook, to just leave everything to Princess Celestia without lending my help!? No, that's not good enough!" Twilight tossed the book across the library violently, with her head lowered as she glared at all six of them by the door. "This isn't something you can just sweep under the rug and forget about! But you know, what doesn't make sense to me is the fact that Eve managed to come back. I thought about this long and hard as well...."

Cheerilee's body trembled as she glared straight back towards the newly crowned alicorn, attempting to hold herself back from charging her, infuriated. She thought she had the right to outburst!? To feel upset!? Even after everything she'd done? Cheerilee didn't care about what ridiculous reasons Twilight claimed to have for taking her daughter away at this point, Eve had done a horrible wrong in Canterlot, yes, but only because bigoted ponies rejected her in the first place! How was the child expected to cope?! And what things was Twilight even talking about? What did she do to her exactly? The feeling of not knowing the details only caused the mare to grit her teeth more as she just lowered her head as well, struggling to stay in place, to stay calm. "Twilight,......just calm down,....and listen to us."

Applejack nodded, as the mane six all began to approach their friend worriedly. "Twilight, l-listen, just calm down for a minute and think about what yer doin here Sugarcube. Nopony is callin ya a villain or anything like that alright?"

Rainbow nodded as she shook her head, "Yea Twilight! We're your friends, we trust you! Don't you trust us?"

Spike then ran in and hugged Twilight's hind leg. "Twilight! Please, just stop this alright!"

Twilight glanced back at her baby dragon before her eyes saddened herself, but she stomped a forehoof, and shook her head, remaining focused on the matter, and then looking to Fluttershy. "I was wondering what Zecora was doing in Canterlot, but then I started to connect the pieces. There's no way Eve would've been able to recover from what'd happened without help, and there's no way Zecora could've found her without knowing what had transpired. That leaves open one obvious possibility." She scowled, "Fluttershy....you thought I wouldn't find out?"

Fluttershy took a few trots back as her heart raced. "T-Twilight I....I..."

"You betrayed my trust Fluttershy! I told you to just leave her there! What were you thinking? Did you see what she did in Canterlot, how many ponies she killed!? Was she really that worth saving that you'd risk all our lives!?" Twilight took a few trots forward, eyes blazing with rage as she practically snarled at the timid mare.

Fluttershy's eyes swelled with tears as she backed up against the wall and started to curl up, "I...I..."

Even the others looked shocked to this news, as Applejack glanced down at Fluttershy, "F-Fluttershy you?..."

Rainbow Dash cut in, raising her hooves to the air in an angered tone, "Fluttershy you should've told us!"

Rarity then moved between Fluttershy and the other two mares before proclaiming, "Now hold on a second everypony! You can't blame Fluttershy for all this, she was just doing what she felt was right! She wasn't the one who attacked Canterlot, yet here we are acting like that's the case!"

Fluttershy whimpered, crying as she covered her ears, wanting to block out all the fighting. "I just wanted everypony to be alright. I didn't want anypony to get hurt...."

Twilight now looked quite guilty herself as she shook her head, and sighed, "We know Fluttershy, but you still should've told us. Of course, you aren't at fault here, afterall-" she took the next moment to glare back at Cheerilee, unable to hold herself back during the heat of the moment, no longer feeling the need to not be blunt about her honest feelings. "You aren't the one who raised it."

Cheerilee burst forth from her hooves immediately, charging the alicorn princess.

Applejack, Rarity, Pinkie Pie, and Rainbow Dash gasped as they'd witnessed the action.

Pinkie Pie called out to the mare, "Cheerilee wait!"

SLAM!!!

Cheerilee tackled the mare as Twilight put up no resistance, just looking Cheerilee in the eyes.

The school mare's hoof trembled as she pulled it back, preparing to sock the alicorn in the face, "TWILIGHT!!!!"

"What makes a monster Cheerilee?" Twilight tilted her head up at the fellow mare with a look of curiosity, a look of anger, as she'd just continued to stare into Cheerilee's eyes with a definite pain of her own. "Is it me, is that what you think?"

Cheerilee found herself unable to react, lost in the mare's words as her hoof continued to tremble.

Twilight continued, "Did I ever murder anypony? Did I ever attack Canterlot? Did I ever attempt bringing back Nightmare Moon? Tell me Cheerilee, what did I do that was so wrong? I followed the rules, I did what was best for Ponyville. Who's the selfish one here Cheerilee? I want you to give me an honest answer. Because, what do you really know? What do you really know besides the fact that that thing you call a daughter attacked every single one of us, and ultimately got away with it."

Tears swelled in Cheerilee's eyes as she screamed at Twilight, "SHE'S ONLY A LITTLE GIRL!!! WHY CAN'T YOU SEE THAT TWILIGHT SPARKLE!? ANY CHILD WOULD BREAK, ANY CHILD WOULD LOSE HOPE!!!!" And she didn't hesitate connecting one of her hooves with Twilight's face in a swift and devastating punch, yet Twilight still didn't put up any resistance. "ANY CHILD WOULD FEEL ALONE, SCARED, DESPERATE!!! WHAT DO YOU KNOW TWILIGHT SPARKLE!? WHAT DO YOU KNOW ABOUT ANYTHING!!? WHAT DO YOU KNOW, TELL ME!!!" And Cheerilee continued to punch the mare, left and right as she went off in a flurry of emotional rage.

"WHAT DO YOU KNOW ABOUT HER?!"

Eve's face popped in her mind, the baby draconequus attempting to make her food to win her favor on the night they'd first met. Her attempting to hold back her tears as she'd been rejected once again.

"WHAT DO YOU KNOW ABOUT EVE!?"

The baby draconequus played in the fields outside Ponyville, looking to Luna's beautiful night sky, lost in the sea of stars.

"WHAT DO YOU KNOW ABOUT MY DAUGHTER!?"

And Eve laid curled next to her on the couch, sleeping beside her, the last peaceful day they'd lived together.

"TELL ME WHAT YOU KNOW!!!!" And before Cheerilee could land another blow, her hoof stopped in place as she'd froze, forcibly held still by Twilight's overbearing telekinetic magic.

Twilight's face was bruised, bloody, and she just looked at Cheerilee with her own seething rage, obviously holding herself back from returning the damage to the mare tenfold. "I now know you're a lost cause Cheerilee, you always were. All you see is a pretty face, a deceitful personality, YOU'RE BLIND! And you just can't see how wrong you are, no matter how many reasons I give! YOU'RE HOPELESS! You make all these claims!" Twilight then rose to her hooves, her face darkening dramatically as her violet eyes and piercing stare never left Cheerilee's. "Yet all Eve has managed to prove is that she's a monster through and through! And you know what, I'm tired of it!!!" She looked to all her friends, "I'M TIRED OF ALL OF THIS!!!" Then back to Cheerilee, glaring, "You wanna know what's going to happen here Cheerilee? I'm done playing nice, I'm done attempting to convince you what needs to be done. I'm going to capture Eve myself, I'm going to ensure nopony interferes with her incarceration, there is no help coming to her this time. And when I'm done with her, she'll be lost, alone, and left to ponder for the rest of eternity the selfish decisions she's made all her life! I'll leave her on the most barren cosmic rock I can find! I'm done arguing with somepony who refuses to see something for what it is! She has you fooled! And if you wanna remain ignorant to all of it, fine." She then tossed Cheerilee aside into one of the bookcases, as the books tumbled and stacked atop the mare. "Just don't get in my way, or I'll have you punished for your crimes as well." She then put on a mask of fierce determination, before looking to the door and trotting towards it. She made her way past her friends, as Spike and the rest of them only watched in shock. "We'll sort this out once I'm done everypony, there's no point discussing this matter anymore. As one of the newly crowned Princesses of Equestria, I will do what I have to, in order to preserve the peace and happiness that's kept us safe for all these years. I will deliver justice, one way or another." Twilight made her way outside her home, before spreading her wings and looking to the skies.

Cheerilee cried out to the alicorn, rising from the stack of books. "TWILIGHT!!!!"

Twilight glanced back at the mare as her guards looked at her in disbelief.

One of them shook his head in utter shock, "M-My Princess! Your face!"

Twilight brushed herself off, "It's fine, just make sure that mare doesn't interfere, I'm going to Canterlot."

Cheerilee attempted to leave the library, still trying to reach Twilight, "Just let it be Twilight!"

Twilight just ignored her, remaining silent as she flapped her wings and made way for Canterlot.

Pinkie Pie started patting Fluttershy's cheek, as she looked at her worriedly. "F-Fluttershy?"

Fluttershy was silent, solemn, just sitting with a guilt ridden look to her face.

Rainbow gritted her teeth angrily, "Guys, I'm going to go catch up with Twilight!"

Applejack tended to Cheerilee, as did Rarity before nodding to Rainbow, "Alright Rainbow, we'll be right behind ya."

Rainbow nodded, frowning slightly, "Yea...." Before bursting out of the library herself and making way for the skies in pursuit of Twilight.

Spike just sat in the library, his head buried in his knees. "Twilight....."

And Cheerilee, still being held back by the guards as she was tended to, could only scowl in regards to the alicorn. And she couldn't deny, Twilight's resolve in this matter did send a shiver down her spine. She felt so powerless, but she couldn't just give up, not again, she'd only hoped that she could manage to make a difference. A storm's coming sweetie......

In a land far beyond Equestria, in a society that ponies could only dream of, troubles regarding a similar matter only stirred. Massive platforms made of varying materials stretched across the beautiful open skies. Upon each platform, were cities of their own, grand scale cities that could easily be compared to ones the size of Canterlot, if not bigger. The architecture, much like the platforms, varied in construction material. Large gold spires reached past the cotton candy clouds, as bridges made of pillows and stone connected one massive platform to the next. While houses and other smaller structures ranged from being made of dark chocolate, to wood, and even to steel or graham crackers. And upon further inspection of the individuals who inhabited each of these titanic cities, to one's shock, they'd find a race of chaotic creatures, they'd find a vast society of draconequus. This was the home to the draconequus race.

Draconequus adults walked about the streets, male and female alike, as most were holding umbrellas to shade themselves from the chocolate rain which poured over each of the cities. It was a murky day, and everything was moving along with the atmospheric cycle that kept things in order, even though they were embodiment's of disorder itself. However many of these individuals, unlike Discord, only had such mastery over one certain aspect of their chaotic magic. Some ranging from being able to construct a vast amount of different construction materials, to others being able to make a variety of different foods. Society was divided, and each of them had their roles to play in their lives. Draconequus children trained in large fields of grass, with instructors attempting to teach them to master individual aspects of their powers. Many draconequus trained learning their roles in society from birth, their destinies not focusing on freedom of choice, whereas ponies were free to discover their destinies themselves. It's what kept everything together, in the past they'd attempted to go about their lives freely, only to be faced with mass exile and defeat, this method they'd learned over time, kept things in check, it kept all draconequus in check. Most draconequus were able to make it here, and thrive, but there were some special cases.

There were sometimes parents who'd given birth to such disappointingly unbalanced children, that they'd denied them access into the city of draconequus, leaving them to learn to live on their own, there were cases like Eve's. But as they'd soon learn, sometimes those special cases blossomed into something even more astounding, for talk around the three cities involved news of a failure draconequus child, one who'd not only attacked Canterlot, but managed to escape in the process. Although in the background, many draconequus were proud to hear that one of their own, especially a failure who'd been abandoned, had managed to make so much out of her life. But they were also furious, for whoever this terrorist of a child was, she not only threatened the stability that they'd worked so hard to achieve, she threatened the reputation of their race which they were delicately attempting to rebuild as well. The council was in uproar, and there was now no doubt that they'd need to become involved in solving this issue, in correcting it and defending the name of their race. The equestrian draconequus, and legendary child to Eris, Discord, had already caused them enough trouble, and was a good example of what could become of draconequus rebels if left alone, especially children.

Solutions were already being discussed in the council chambers.

The council tower, the tallest spire in the middle platform, looked to be a vacant place currently from the outside. The empty stone tiled streets were currently being pelted with chocolate rain, the delicious sugary substance sinking between the cracks and down into the sewer system of the makeshift floating island. But inside, the tower was bustling with life, draconequus were going about their duties in the marble halls, organizing files, digging through documents, as there were even draconequus secretaries going about their duties and taking calls made from crystal phones. But at the highest level of the tower, in a restricted area which overlooked all three cities, six individuals sat, six very powerful figures.

They each had their own seat, and practically area of the room as they had circular thrones with soft comforters, and they even wore robes, some of them having unique weapons and features which related to their power's. They looked to one another in worry as some were scowling, obviously frustrated about the topic they were currently discussing.

"Who is this blasted child they speak of!? What sort of child would rush head first into Canterlot and attempt assassinating each of the Princesses, is she insane!?" One of them spouted angrily, crossing his arms and looking towards the ground afterwords, puffing smoke from his nostrils, his brown hair parting to the side as he did so.

"Not only that, they say she'd even attempted to interfere with the Crystal Empire's festival, it's as if she has some vendetta against the ponies, which I find hard to believe considering the fact there hasn't been an equestrian born draconequus in over a millenia. What would one of our own, let alone a child, have against the ponies of today? They were not around to see the war, there should be no reason for any of them to want to attack Celestia and Luna." Another exclaimed as he leaned back in his throne, then running his claw through his scruffy black goatee as he pondered on the idea.

The council member from before leaned forward angrily, slamming his clenched paw on his knee before stating, "You fool, connect the pieces! Of course this means one of our own gave birth to a child in Equestria in recent times!"

This time a draconequus with blue hair cut into the conversation, he had green bangs and golden eyes as he seemed to possess a wise, calm demeanor about himself. He just eyed his angered fellow in contemplation, "Hm, I find that quite strange as well though, considering that Equestria is practically two worlds from here. What reason would any couple, or let alone a lone pregnant female, travel that far to give birth? And not only that, but leave her child there of all places, a country where we are shunned, when she could've just brought her here."

The angered one cut in once again, flicking his paw, "Tch! It's obvious, she just didn't want the kid! So they got rid of it! She must've mistook the child for a failure, foolish woman!"

The blue haired draconequus shook his head once again. "No, that's still too complicated. If she wanted to get rid of it, she could've just tossed it over the edge of the city and that would be the end of it. Perhaps she's worried we would find out about the act and have her incarcerated? Still, it seems strange to just leave it in Equestria and have nothing more to do with it, guilt ridden maybe? I wonder, I'm fairly curious to who this baby draconequus is."

One of the older draconequus, one who bore ashen hair and a long beard as well as a staff, leaned forward in his throne, before sighing heavily. "It matters not how she came to be or what her reasons are, let alone who her parents are. The fact of the matter is, that we've got a dangerous criminal on our hands and she's of draconequus blood, and a child at that. If word of this spreads, we may very well be having another war on our doorstep, and I'd rather not deal with such a matter, especially with the ponies of Equestria. We must be intimately involved in her apprehension if we're to preserve the society we've managed to build. So that is why, I'm sending one of you to Equestria to assist the pony princesses in capturing this criminal, where she will receive a fitting punishment as they see fit."

The rest of the council, all except two, burst into gasps. "WHAT!?"

The brown hair draconequus sunk in his chair, shaking his head. "Not me, I won't be dealing with those ponies."

Suddenly one who'd remained silent, and ultimately not surprised by the proclamation, spoke out. He was a draconequus with red and yellow hair, and he wore plate gauntlets and steel sleeves, each etched with elaborate dragon markings. He, much like Discord, had a small scruff of hair beneath his chin, except it was red. He looked young, confident, almost cocky as he'd stated, "I'll go."

Majority of the council looked to him curiously.

The brown haired draconequus's nose wrinkled in annoyance, "Hmph, awfully eager, aren't you, Havoc?"

The red and yellow haired draconequus, revealed simply as one by the name of Havoc, sneered at his fellow before leaning forward, snickering softly to himself. "Hah, sounds fun, I could use a change of scenery. We don't get out enough as it is seeing that we're members of the council. Pass up a chance to get out there and polish my skills? Why? Plus I want to see what all the fuss is about this kid. After all, once this is over we'll likely never get a chance to see her again. I'd rather not miss out on a chance like that, know what I'm saying? Muddle."

The older draconequus with the staff looked to Havoc, his unreadable gaze fastened on the eager council member as he just remained in that position for some time, before nodding plainly. "Very well Havoc, you may go. Princess Celestia will be pleased to see that we've sent you in for the job."

The brown haired draconequus groaned in irritation at the sound of that name. "Ugh, how come I'm not surprised?"

Suddenly, the final council member, who bore a hood and a very slender figure, spoke out. "I will go as well."

Havoc smirked.

The older draconequus looked to the cowled council member in confusion. "Rift? Are you sure about this?"

The cowled draconequus revealed as one who went by the name, Rift, lowered her hood. She looked to the older draconequus member as her violet eyes locked with his gaze. Her hair was a gradient mix of purple and black, as she'd looked to be the very representation of the void, the infinite unknown. She nodded assuredly, "Yes, I would like to assist Havoc on this mission. I believe it will be quite the beneficial experience."

Although she was the only female on the council, none of the others questioned her, almost as if out of utter respect.

The older draconequus nodded, "Very well, then let's waste no time. Rift."

Rift rose from her throne, before lifting her paw and nodding, and she ran it down slowly in a vertical line. The air following that line shimmered, and slowly began to distort and crack, as eventually, a tear in the very dimension appeared. Within, there was nothing but purple and black swirls, as if leading into an endless abyss. Rift was unafraid, she then looked to Havoc as she spoke plainly, "Coming?"

Havoc now rose from his throne as he nodded, "Of course." And made his way beside the female draconequus.

The two of them then looked to the rest of the council before nodding, and bowing slightly. Departing into the makeshift rift not long afterwords, and as Rift and Havoc disappeared into that strange void, it closed up afterwords, leaving no trace, as if it were never there to begin with.

The blue haired draconequus smiled softly, tilting his head to the left. "If Rift's interested, it must mean something."

The one with the black goatee sighed, "Eh whatever, always feels easier to breathe when she ain't around."

The older draconequus seemed distracted by something, as he just looked towards the ground. Rift and Havoc..hmmm

In another part of the city, standing on a balcony was a draconequus couple, both of them baring similar appearances as well as white hair. They each had worried looks as their eyes were fastened on one spire in particular, the council tower.

The female kept close in her mate's arms, as she muttered, "Do you think they'll be alright?"

The male nodded, as he ran his paw through her white hair, before speaking himself. "Havoc knows what he's doing, as does Rift. They said they'd help us take care of it, afterall, it was them who sent us on that mission in the first place."

The female's expression worsened as she glanced back, into their home. And playing in the living room were three baby draconequus, around the same age as Eve, as they tossed and tumbled on the ground, pretending to use their magic. This scene caused a smile to spread across the female's face as she nodded back to her lover. "Of course, it's just," She looked back down once again, over the edge of their balcony overlooking the entire city. As she also looked off to the other massive platformed cities off in the clouds. "I just can't imagine, how she managed to become so..so-" And she thought back to the daughter, the one they'd left back in that cave in Equestria. "So....."

The male pulled his love closer in his affectionate embrace, comforting her. "We may never know, but it's best not to think about it alright? We've got to keep a low profile, and try not to draw too much attention to ourselves. Like Rift and Havoc said, they'd take care of it, we just have to be patient alright?"

The female's eyes saddened as she trembled a bit, before grabbing hold of her lover's paw. "Yea...you're right."

But why did she still feel reluctant about the matter, why did she feel worried?

Havoc and Rift were currently travelling through what appeared to be a dimensional stream, or hyperspace of the sort. The world around them was vertical and meshed, constantly moving, as it looked as if they were being accelerated forward at an incomprehensible speed. But the two draconequus didn't mind it, they reacted as if it were just an everyday thing, especially Rift, who looked more concentrated on the idea of arriving in Equestria.

Havoc spoke with amusement, "I was starting to think you weren't going to come with. Change of heart?"

Rift glanced at him, before looking ahead once again, "Hmph, no, it's just that you're horrible at reading others. I was always planning to come along, I just wanted you to volunteer first, I would've been too suspicious considering the fact it's my sister's daughter who's the culprit yes? And even now, it seems suspicious. The rest of the council won't react kindly if we take too long with this, especially Elder. So we have to be at our best, do you understand Havoc? I won't let Rave's life be compromised due to some little failure she'd given birth to."

Havoc looked to Rave with a snicker. "Hah! Don't take me for a fool Rift, I don't follow orders from you. And I know you're smart enough to realize that if this little failure, managed to best Princess Celestia, that means she's far more powerful than me and you, which is something you just can't seem to accept. Considering the fact that you, a natural born genius, have never come across something such as this, I wouldn't be surprised if you kept your true motives hidden."

Rift winced at the fellow draconequus, remaining silent.

Havoc sneered, looking ahead once more. "Aaaaah, there it is. Hah, what is it you have planned then? Hm, Rift?"

Rift didn't say another word, as she just looked ahead, and they were nearing the end of the jump.

A bright light appeared, as if they were exiting a tunnel, as the two of them flew straight into it.

Rainbow Dash and Twilight Sparkle landed in Canterlot, near the castle as Twilight, obviously still grumpy from her recent encounter, just continued to trot forward, "Let's go."

It was night by this point, as the blanket of infinite stars decorated the night sky, alongside Luna's beautiful full moon.

Rainbow sighed as she wanted to say something, but she knew nothing she could say would stop Twilight from heading down this road once more. Not that she didn't have the right, I mean, it really wasn't a good idea to just leave a murderer like Eve out on the loose. Paranoia was still certainly present here in Canterlot, and as Rainbow glanced around, she didn't fail to notice the wide variety of guards now present. Celestial Knights were making double shifts, as were the Lunar Guards, now accompanied by the Magic Guard, otherwise dubbed the Twilight Guard, as they all just stood in place like statues. Rainbow just lowered her head, as she kept her distance from Twilight, but still accompanied her nonetheless.

Around them one could see the magical reconstruction of the destroyed buildings still going on, and Rainbow couldn't believe the fight had been so fierce by the looks of it. So much destruction, that little baby draconequus caused all this? And how did she manage to escape from Princess Celestia anyhow? Either way, hopefully the worst part of this was over, and all that was left would be to lay out a solid more reliable plan to help capture her. Rainbow looked back to Twilight, who still had a somewhat bruised face and bloody lip, but didn't react as such. Twilight......

Princess Celestia and Princess Luna were in the throne room, looking towards the porch as if waiting for something.

Princess Celestia looked to her little sister with a reassuring smile, "Worry not Luna, the draconequus nation has differed much since we'd last seen them. They can take care of the situation from here, as they feel is their responsibility."

Princess Luna glanced up at Princess Celestia, nodding to her. "As you wish dearest sister. Although I must say I feel I've had enough draconequus for a lifetime, to be honest."

The both of them chuckled at that moment.

Suddenly bursting forth into the throne room was a most unwelcome sight.

"Aaaaaah!" Discord snickered as he held in his paw a bowl of icecream with sprinkles, he was levitating and wearing what looked like a pair of pajamas. He sucked on his spoon before looking to Princess Celestia and Luna, "So when's the party arrive!? I'm ever so looking forward to seeing who the council decided to send! Oh by the way Celestia, you might wanna clean up your kitchen after this!" He snapped his claws as he reappeared behind Celestia and Luna, patting their heads before puckering his lower lip and looking up towards the ceiling. "Oh girls! You two just don't know how glad I am you invited me to your slumber party! Fluttershy will be lonely for the next day or so but, OH, she can wait!" He lowered his head next to Luna's, "Hey night owl, I heard you like videogames! I'm going to go dig through your collection!"

Princess Luna gasped as she winced at him. "Don't you dare!"

Discord snickered as he rose, about to dart off, "Watch me!"

And before Princess Luna could chase after him in pursuit, Princess Celestia interrupted. "Hush now you two."

And as the three of them stood in the throne room, there was soon a bright light which appeared on the porch.

Exiting from that light would be two robed figures, one cowled, the other not, as they just looked to the three with interest.

Discord landed on his feet as he sneered widely, crossing his arms as he regarded the two, muttering. "Oh, now this will be fun." And he looked particularly looked to Havoc, who he'd recognized fully, as did Havoc who'd raised a brow at the legendary draconequus, before his expression sunk dramatically in annoyance. But this other one, with the purple hair, Discord didn't recognize, who was she? And why did she seem so cold, and dangerous? No matter, there'd be plenty of time for introductions, afterall, the game was only just beginning. "Havoc..."

Princess Celestia took a few trots forward before bowing her head, as the two visiting draconequus did the same. Princess Celestia spoke courteously, "Welcome to the City of Canterlot you two." She smiled at Havoc, whom like Discord, she recognized, but the second, who was this? And as Celestia looked into those piercing violet eyes, it sent a shiver down her spine although the female draconequus didn't appear as much a threat, just standing there, devoid of any emotion. She kept her curiosity to herself for the moment, looking back to Havoc in particular. "We have much to discuss."

Further from the beautiful lands of Equestria, there was yet another mysterious plot of land, one that'd emerged seemingly out of nowhere in recent times, home to a wide assortment of creatures. It bore forests of candy, rivers of chocolate, and mountains of icecream. Although the island had gone through numerous changes since it'd last been seen. It now had a barrier surrounding its borders, one made of stone as if to prevent unauthorized entry into its depths, perhaps for the own good of non-citizens. Standing on posts were guards of humanoid komodo dragon creatures, all wearing very peculiar armor as well as purple tabards with what appeared to be a panther in the center.

The guards however were quite carefree with their duties, talking amongst each other freely and ultimately having a good time, it didn't seem like such a bad position to be in if one were to simply observe from afar. Further on the island, there were even small towns, many built in a fashion to adapt to their areas, and keep wild creatures at bay, perhaps even use them to their advantage. And in the distance, overlooking the entire island, much like Canterlot located on one of the highest points of a mountain, stood another castle city, as if a symbol for the rest of the land.

This massive kingdom, had many diverse citizens travelling it's streets, most of them wearing very thick cloth material in order to keep warm, seeing as this place was located deep within the icecream mountains. There were griffons, minotaur, strange upright dragon creatures, tusked diamond dog creatures, and even some ponies. And although this place was a land filled with creatures often unheard of or shunned upon, they all reacted as if they were used to one anothers presence. The island although dangerous, was actually becoming quite the attraction across different parts of the world. It was obvious this city was modeled after the beautiful pony empires of Equestria. And as all the diverse creatures continued to walk through the streets, there were two figures in particular overlooking the entire city from a balcony of the main castle. One appeared to be a humanoid panther, she stood on her hind legs, her fur was ebon black as she wore a zebra pendant necklace. At the moment she was wearing very fancy clothing, which based on her expression, she detested quite a bit. She looked to her companion standing next to her, which appeared to be a strange dragon creature, who also stood upright much like Spike, but also seemed to be fullgrown although he was a smaller version of a dragon.

The panther woman just sighed as she shook her head, placing a paw on her hip. "I do wish the lady would just come out here herself and show all of them that she's the creator, not me. I don't deserve credit for all this, she does, I'm sure they'd all love her just the same."

The dragon creature crossed his arms, "I agree with you, but it's the lady's decision Ms.Prowl, if she believes this is for the best then let her do as she wishes."

The panther woman, revealed as one known as Ms.Prowl, just looked to her companion as she puckered her lower lip in annoyance before exclaiming, "Sigh, all you ever do is just let her do what she wants Talon! That little girl is exactly that, just a little girl, we can't keep expecting her to make all these big decisions." She glanced back down towards the city streets, "I worry for her, have you seen her as of late? She hasn't been herself, sluggish, distant, weak."

Mr.Talon shrugged, "Creating an entire island and empire with just magic will do that to you."

Ms.Prowl looked back to him in worry, "Where is she now? I'm going to go see if she's alright."

Mr.Talon now looked to Ms.Prowl himself, staring into her eyes before closing his own and groaning, "She's in the gardens, I suggest you wait however, I believe she wants to be alone for now."

Ms.Prowl turned, entering the throne room of the unique castle, with some stomp in her step. "Tch! I don't care what she claims to want, I'm going to go see her this instant!"

Mr.Talon smirked a little in regards to her attitude.

Knelt in a small circular garden, located in a different part of the castle, was a baby draconequus wearing a worn crimson cloak. Surrounding the garden was a transparent dome, revealing that this was one of the few places shaded from the falling snow. Upon closer inspection, it wasn't hard to notice she bore quite a sickly appearance. Deep bags underlined her eyes as the color from her face looked drained. As she remained on her knees, she revealed a bandaged arm, which she'd used to pick one of the flowers, inspecting it. The flower was a light purple shade, which caused her to smile softly. "I feel old....."

Really now, and why's that? A smug voice replied in her head.

The baby draconequus then just began coughing into her paw, unable to hold herself back as she looked pained in doing so. Upon looking down at her paw afterwords, she wasn't surprised to find a large amount of blood, some of it dripping from the stem of the flower she'd just picked up. She then looked up solemnly, finding some form of comfort in the freshly fallen snow, in the beauty of the petals of pure white. "I'm so tired......."

Chapter 1: Prisoners


CHAPTER 1: PRISONERS

The world surrounding the two particular individuals was black, just an inconspicuous black void, the darkness going on for miles on end, as if they were just sitting on a blank midnight canvas. There was one source of light however, and they were sitting by it. It was only a tiny circular orb, but the luminescent blue shine it gave off was well worth it, and the two looked down at it solemnly. While one seemed to not have a care in the world, the other seemed irritated, bored, as she rolled her eyes in annoyance. The other looked to her with a soft smile.

It was a baby draconequus, accompanied by a beautiful lunar mare.

The baby draconequus looked to the mare curiously, "Have you gotten bored?..."

The mare, her mane like that of the evening sky, while her coat was a pure black, looked to the draconequus with a twitch in her nose before she just groaned and looked away. "Hah, bored? What do you think you stupid little girl? Everyday I am here, and everyday is the same. Ever since my influence was torn away from Luna, this blasted realm has served as my new home, and I don't nearly have enough visitors as I'd like. Well besides you, and you're not half as entertaining as you used to be."

The baby draconequus looked down absently, poking at the small orb with half closed eyes. "Perhaps you should stop being mean then, maybe good things will come back to you."

The mare snickered, as she'd suddenly looked highly amused. "Hah! You're one to talk, look at you, if I'm not mistaken you'd costed me Twilight Sparkle and her friends, and what did it get you? You are such a stupid stupid little girl, there is no karma here. There is only the moment, and what you do in the moment that matters, everything else is just drawback. Now here you are, stuck with me, doomed to rarely dream peacefully ever again! Lost to my nightmares."

The baby draconequus looked to the mare in thought, before looking back down at the orb with that same expression. "Maybe you're right, but I guess it doesn't matter anymore." She paused, "Nothing matters really."

The mare scoffed, lowering her head before eyeing the draconequus plainly with disinterest. "Hmph, see, this is what I'm talking about. You used to have such emotion, such drive to escape. I must admit, I was surprised you managed to escape in the first place." She glared a bit, "But now look at you, you're nothing more than a walking corpse."

The baby draconequus smiled once more, softly but assuredly, "Because I understand now. I was selfish to think I could change their society. I can't fight it, it was made that way for a reason. I realized that too late." She looked to the mare, chuckling softly, "But are you telling me we're not the same? That we both haven't accepted our own ends?"

The mare's eyes widened, before she'd looked frustrated, turning away "Shut your mouth, our situations are different."

The baby draconequus crossed her small arms before smirking a little. "Not really, we're both trapped, and we know it."

The mare rolled her eyes before groaning again, "If I recall, somepony here is able to wake and trot around the open world."

The baby draconequus giggled with a sneer, before lowering her head and looking solemn once more. "It's not as great as you'd think to be honest. Sometimes I feel happier in here, in the dark." She looked down at her paw, which had returned to being normal in this desolate realm. "I'm a prisoner in my own ways Ms.Moon, just like you." She curled her paw in, "It's funny, everypony was scared of me, they knew how dangerous I can be." She squinted her eyes a little, "So how come I feel so powerless?" Her expression saddened as she buried her head in her knees, "Why couldn't I make a difference?"

The mare, revealed as the infamous mare of the moon, Nightmare Moon, sighed. "Because you care too much." Now just feeling compelled to engage in some form of conversation, she spoke honestly, simply. "You're just a stupid little girl with pony ideals, when you could've been ruthless, powerful, unstoppable. Each and every decision you made was gut wrenching to say the least, such pathetic foolery, such timidness and hesitation, such weakness."

The baby draconequus looked to her plainly, before leaning her head back. "Well I guess that's something I just can't change about myself. Whether it helps me or not."

Nightmare Moon's nose wrinkled a bit in annoyance, "Well you've certainly changed since you first came here."

The baby draconequus replied sharply, in a humored tone, leaning back. "Hehe, so have you."

This caused the mare's cheeks to turn crimson somewhat, "Bah!" She looked away, "Children."

The baby draconequus could only smile at the mare, before rising to her feet and taking notice of a bright yellow light in the black sky, like a makeshift sun. "Ms.Moon, you know I never got to thank you."

Nightmare Moon raised a brow, glancing back, "Thank me for what? And stop calling me that...it's absurd!"

The baby draconequus just continued, ignoring her request completely, "For teaching me more about how to survive. Although your influence was...a little harsh to say the least, it really helped me while I was in Canterlot. That and Princess Celestia's methods, well, I learned more than enough to help me escape at the time." She looked back at the mare with a smirk, "I want to return the favor someday."

Nightmare Moon's eyes widened with curiosity, she now looked amused herself. "And why would you go and do that? You do know who you're talking to don't you?"

The baby draconequus turned to her before nodding simply, now with a serious demeanor. "Because I trust you, you're honest, a little mean, but I think you can change to." She paused, eyeing the ground, "I think you can also understand, just how hard dealing with such loneliness can be." She looked back to the mare with a smile, "And I think you'd be grateful to escape that sort of lifestyle forever."

Nightmare Moon scoffed again, before looking away and closing her eyes, "Hah! You truly are a fool then. How would you manage to accomplish this anyhow? I know the strain you're putting yourself through Eve, and I know just how much you're pushing your limits. Do not overestimate yourself little girl, even you can't create some things, especially me."

Eve tapped the side of her head with her claw humorously before stating, "I study, duuuh, did you forget?" She snickered, "My Mom was a teacher, I know there's knowledge to be found in books. And I know there's plenty of possibilities." She then looked back up towards that makeshift sun with a smile, before her expression worsened as if she'd come to a painful realization. "But you're right, I need to hurry. I have a feeling I won't be here much longer..."

This actually caused Nightmare Moon's expression to worsen a little herself, and she'd felt surprised by her own feelings regarding those words, and the situation. She spoke softly, closing her eyes, "Don't waste your time worrying about others stupid little girl, just worry about yourself. You've already made enough mistakes as is."

Eve shrugged, smiling "I want to cross you off my list though, hmhm."

At that moment, the world around them started to grow brighter, the darkness dissipating around them with each passing second. They'd both reacted as if it were an expected occurrence.

Eve just continued to look up solemnly. "What do you think is waiting for me at the end of this Nightmare?"

Nightmare Moon eyes squinted a bit, remaining silent as she'd kept her eyes off the draconequus, refusing to look at her.

Eve smiled, taking notice of her silence before just turning away herself, looking down at her paw. And at that moment the two of them began to disappear, crumbling away like freshly fallen ash. "I guess we should go now, huh?..."

.......And they were gone.

Eve awoke from her passive slumber, just looking up towards her ceiling as she'd been laying in her bed with her bandaged paw over her forehead. She felt recovered, as sleep was supposed to do, and felt maybe she could manage to experiment more with using her powers to accomplish her goals today as well. She leaned up with a sigh, just gazing down at her blankets with a tired look, before turning to glance around her room.

It was quite massive, probably due to the fact they were her chambers, and in the middle of this room there was a large marble statue, a twisted accumulation of all she'd learned. Forever a reminder of the truth about this world, and the mistakes she'd committed, her irredeemable past. Her expression worsened as she'd looked at it, each of it's legs bore a different color, as it had the body of Princess Celestia, the tail of a draconequus, the head of Cheerilee, and the crown of Twilight Sparkle. As creepy as it was, she felt it gave her some sense of motivation to continue on her path to making up for her wasted life, and if she had these powers, using them for others was the least she could do. Her eyes fastened on Cheerilee's stone face for a moment before she put on a smile, muttering, "I miss you."

Eve climbed out of her bed, before making her way over to a desk located in the corner of her room sluggishly. She lowered herself into a small wooden seat before manifesting a piece of parchment and a pen. She looked down at the paper as if pondering what to write, unsure of how to put her thoughts into words, concentrating on the task. She tapped the pen against her lower lip, biting on the tip of her tongue softly before sighing, then just starting to write steadily. She was writing in equestrian, and beside her letter one could see stacked books of equestrian literature and history, which she'd obviously been studying. Taking such interest in your mother who used to teach a school of fillies had its perks, and she had more than enough resources to get a paw on these excellent resources which she'd cherished greatly.

What're you writing? Interrupted a sharp voice in her head.

"A letter," replied Eve curtly.

Well of course I know that, I mean what's it about? Continued the voice.

Eve paused, her pen stopping in its tracks atop the paper as she just remained still for a moment, glaring down at the wet ink. She sighed as she just shook her head and continued writing, refusing to answer through her lips.

As she continued to write, the voice in her head also remained silent for some time before speaking up once more. Ah, now I see. I'm curious, why is it that you acknowledge my faint existence, do tell me, Eve?

Eve replied sharply this time, "Why not?"

One could easily find a hint of sarcasm in Nightmare Moon's voice. Well, let's see, I don't know, if you take away the fact that I'm one of the most infamous, dangerous, legendary equines in the history of Equestria, one might see my point.

"You're not the one who trapped me there," Eve stated as she just continued to write.

Nightmare Moon chuckled as she'd continued. Ah, so even you hold some grudges, that's interesting. Still, I'm responsible for your constant nightmares, that zebra truly didn't think my influence could be done away with so easily now, did she? Once trapped in my realm for such a lengthy amount of time, to permanently recover is, well, I think you get the picture hmhmhm.

Eve tilted her head to the left as she'd continued to writing, before glancing upward. "I don't know if you're real or not, and I don't know if I'm just crazy, but," she looked back down blankly, spinning her pen between her claws, "I don't care." She leaned back in her chair before just smiling, "I like talking to you. You weren't lucky enough to escape Princess Twilight either, for reasons I don't know. But I want to be able to save you from that lonely place you're stuck in, nopony deserves that. But I want to know that you'll act responsibly as well."

In the realm of nightmares, although Eve couldn't see it, Nightmare Moon was a seething red, furious! She gritted her teeth as her brow twitched as she'd just continued to look up. Surrounding her was a full circular view of Eve's perspective, almost as if she were there herself but ultimately weren't, just a faint connection from a unfortunate past experience. She stomped her hoof, "Now, don't you DARE lecture me little girl! You're a child compared to me, nothing more! Don't get too friendly, because I swear to you if I do get out of here, my goals will be my own, I will bathe this world in eternal night, and not you, or anypony shall get in my way a second time."

Eve's expression saddened playfully as she whimpered, "Well, who knows."

Nightmare Moon scoffed as she'd looked to the lower right, "Tch!"

Suddenly the doors to the room burst open as Eve's eyes snapped wide, and she immediately reacted by manifesting a crystal candy cane and pointing it towards the sudden intruder with an intense glare.

But all she found was a familiar humanoid panther adorned in royal clothing, with her sharp claws in the air as she snickered a little with her eyes closed. "It's me my lady, nothing to fear."

Eve's expression sunk as she just sighed, shaking her head and closing her eyes before looking to the panther woman with slight annoyance. "Ms.Prowl! You need to knock first, what would happen if I'd accidentally hurt you!?" She then turned over the letter which she'd been writing.

Ms.Prowl, the humanoid panther who had the ability to walk upright like most of the strange creatures on this island, shook her head before making her way over to the baby draconequus. "I know you'd never do such a thing."

Eve's eyes saddened as her brows furrowed. "You have to be careful, please, just, have a little more caution next time."

Ms.Prowl only continued to smile amusingly as she'd wrapped her arms around Eve from behind, raising a brow, she'd leaned her head down next to her's. "But you're such a sweet little creature, I know you wouldn't hurt me."

Eve's expression sunk as she'd flipped over her letter, hiding it absently as she'd just continued to look down. "I'm thankful for the compliments Ms.Prowl but, you can never let your guard down around me." She sighed, "Bad things tend to happen when one does." She paused before continuing, smiling softly, "So what do you need? I hope you're enjoying the idea of ruling, I want you to be as comfortable as possible, but don't worry, everypony is nice to each other, and everything is fashioned after equestrian society, it's perfect." Eve then flicked her finger as she'd began scrambling through her books, flipping through the pages, getting lost in her own words and fascination. "So where shall we start?"

Ms.Prowl didn't fail to notice this, to notice the baby draconequus's undying obsession with the equestrian way of life, the ponies of Equestria. Her eyes saddened as she'd listened to the excitement in Eve's voice, her love for the subject in general, and the fact that although she was speaking about how she was supposed to rule, that it also sounded as if she were describing her own dreams, and she couldn't take that. So as Eve only continued to talk, she interrupted her abruptly. "I was thinking, my lady, perhaps you could introduce yourself to everyone, I'm sure they'd love you."

And as Eve continued to talk, the moment Ms.Prowl had said those words, she'd immediately stopped. She just looked down at the opened books as her smile slowly faded away, her features soon distorting into a pained scowl, as she'd looked depressed at the same time. She slammed the book shut, as the color from her eyes dimmed slightly. "Ms.Prowl, we've already talked about this, you know that's not possible."

Ms.Prowl took a few steps back before she crossed her arms and she looked down at the baby draconequus in annoyance. "No, no, to be honest my lady, I don't!" She stomped, swiping her arm angrily, "I don't see why you can't just go out there, and take credit for everything you've created! Just what're you hiding yourself from? Do you not trust us to protect you? Do you question our abilities, is that it!? I'm not the one who should be out there receiving all the love and praise from everyone that lives here, that should be you! Talon, Sham, Komo, Tusk, Me...we're not the ones to be thanking here, you are!"

Ms.Prowl gritted her teeth angrily as her ears lowered, and her expression saddened. "My lady, I've seen you. Even when I first met you, even during that shameful first encounter, I saw it." Ms.Prowl drifted into her own past memories, recalling the time when she'd first encountered the draconequus, and failed miserably in her assassination, and although she'd failed at her shot in taking her life, Eve had barely reacted, almost as if she wasn't offended at all by the attempt.

The two figures stood together in a dark room at sunset, the pale orange light shining through a dust covered window, it looked almost as if they were in an attic or basement of some sort.

The baby draconequus just took a step forward towards the panther woman.

In which she'd reacted hastily, but due to her own paranoia, slipped and fell to her rear. Then scurrying back and pressing back against a wall. She unsheathed a small tribal dagger, her paw trembling as she'd looked up at the twisted child she'd been sent to kill. As her heart raced, beating rapidly beneath her chest, she clenched her zebra pendant with a free paw, gulping a bit as prepared to defend herself from whatever was to come.

The baby draconequus just looked down at her with an almost hurt expression as she shook her head. "I'm sorry Ms, I can't allow myself to die yet, I still have things I have to make up for." She cocked her head to the left playfully, followed by a giggle. "You don't have to tell me, but may I know who sent you?"

The panther woman, thrown off by the child's politeness, found herself speechless as she'd just looked up at her with a raised brow, before lowering her own dagger, feeling the fear drift from her body. She didn't hesitate in giving up the information of who'd sent her, not out of fear, but almost out of simple trust, there was something about this girl. "An official in the land of zebra's, he was eager to pay me a decent some of gems for the head of the famed creature who'd actually attempted to attack equestrian royalty. It seems he wasn't wrong about this being my toughest job." The panther woman just closed her eyes, lowering her head preparing herself for the end. "Please, be quick about it, that's all I know."

The baby draconequus blinked, looking down towards her before smiling, almost in amusement. "It's alright, you can go."

The panther woman's eyes snapped wide as she just looked up towards her in disbelief. "What?...."

The baby draconequus didn't say anything, she simply turned towards the dusty staircase, leading back up towards the upper level of wherever they were. She walked sluggishly, coughing into her paw some before grabbing a hold of the railing, as if tired, before recovering and looking back towards the assassin. "I'm not mad at you, I was just wondering if any of the equestrian ponies sent you. Thank you for cooperating though." She shrugged a little, before giving her a slight wave, "Well, see ya I guess...." She then began making her way up the steps.

Something struck from within the panther at that moment, her heart ached for the mysterious creature. Why was it that she'd been sent to kill this creature? Her whole life, every job seemed to add up, every story seemed to make sense. Either it was some scumbag, or some manipulative jerk, one way or another, she could find some sense of understanding in why she'd been sent, and how it'd come down to that fatal point in her target's life, but not with this one. And most importantly, before this, she'd never failed before. All she saw was a little girl, one who'd treated an attempt on her life like it was just another average day, one who looked sick, uncaring for her own life, and with a hint of sadness in her departure, and a deep sense of depression in her crimson eyes. Who was she, and why did she even feel compelled to know? "W-Wait!"

The baby draconequus stopped dead in her tracks as she'd already made it near the top of the staircase, reaching the door that lead out of this place. "Hm?" She looked wide eyed, curiously, down at the panther woman.

The panther woman stood to her feet before asking almost pleadingly, "W-What's your name little girl?"

The baby draconequus raised a brow at her before snickering a little, smiling with her eyes closed. "It's Eve, your's?"

The panther woman gulped a little, before nodding. "I-It's Prowl, Panthera Prowl...b-but most call me Prowl."

Eve nodded back to her, "It's nice to meet you Ms.Prowl....can't really say that I hope to see you around, but please try to get a new job. Hurting others for a living is not only dangerous, but too tragic as well, there are no happy endings in such a job." She chuckled before snapping her claws and revealing a stack of documents with the zebra emblem stamped into the corner. "Well, if you don't mind, I really gotta go now, just had to grab these. You know, I've been reading and there's actually potions that allows one to have temporary recovery from dementia, amazing isn't it? Zebras are so smart hmhm! Momma would've loved this." She then placed a claw on her lower lip glancing up, "Wait, Momma probably already knows this, she is a teacher, eh." She shrugged before waving at Ms.Prowl and making her way through the doors. "Bye again Ms.Prowl! Hope you find something new to do with your time!"

And Ms.Prowl found herself just looked up towards that open doorway for some time in silence. "Something new huh?...."

As Ms.Prowl drifted back to the present, she still stood in anger, looking down towards the baby draconequus, unable to hold herself back. "I noticed it even back then, that although you wore such a kind mask, possessed such a sweet heart, you were still in pain, still feeling that you owe somebody something, even going so far as to risk your own life doing whatever it is that you're STILL doing. What is it you're preparing for!? Why can't you just go out there and-"

Eve snapped, "I CAN'T MS.PROWL!!! I won't lose anypony else, I just can't. Okay?"

Ms.Prowl's eyes saddened as she leaned forward a little, "Anypony else?"

Eve looked shocked, as her eyes were wide as she'd realized she actually spoke out, revealing the feelings she'd managed to keep sheltered for so long. She quickly recovered however, her trembling dying down as she just exhaled before speaking in a calm tone once again. "I'm already taking too much of a risk just by being here Ms.Prowl, going out there would only put all of you in danger, so please, trust that I know what I'm doing."

Ms.Prowl looked at Eve, speechless herself for a moment before looking angry once more and shaking her head. "No, I can't trust you Eve!" She disregarded her title purposely, as if making a statement. "You think you can carry all these burdens, that you can just hide them away and continue doing whatever it is that you're so dedicated to! But the fact of the matter is, you're still just a little girl!" Her expression worsened tremendously, "Have you ever had a birthday? Have you ever had a slumber party with friends? Have you ever went on a field trip with classmates!? I've seen many things, but I've never seen a kid who feels the need to punish herself with obviously overwhelming responsibilities! You're tired, trying to use all these amazing powers of your's to create all this, and I just don't get it!" She paused before snapping back, "And it breaks my heart! Why do you feel the need to do all these things!? Who is it that's making you feel that it's your....your duty to go about living your life this way, just tell me where they are and I'll-"

Eve's voice shook, as she spoke hesitantly. "Nopony is making me do anything Ms.Prowl!....I'm...I'm doing it myself alright. I've done really dumb things. I had a chance to live normally and I threw it away! Now all that I have left is this, all that there's left to do is this." She glared down at her flipped letter. "There is nothing else, not anymore, that's just the way it is." She scooted back from her seat before turning towards the window, and flapping her wings, trembling. "I'm, I'm going to go out now, so please, just remember the stuff I told you about r-ruling and everything..." And with a mighty push, she flapped towards that window and phased through it, escaping the castle.

Ms.Prowl called out to her in a desperation, "E-Eve wait!.....Ugh! Can't she just listen to an adult for once in her life!? Why's she so stubborn!?...." She then sighed heavily before turning back towards the door, and making her way out Eve's private chambers, slamming the door shut behind her as she did so.

Eve had only continued to fly, feeling ashamed she was just ignoring this argument as best she could. She zipped through the clouds, over the vast landscape of the island, making her way further and further from the kingdom she now possessed. She wiped her tears away, as she came to a large open green pasture, an area of privacy she'd often escaped to in times she wanted to be alone. While flying she could see the many races that now trekked across her crafted lands, settlements they'd created, openly without worries, and it brought a smile to her face. As much as she wanted to take responsibility and watch over them, to let them know she'd do whatever she could to help protect them and ensure nopony had to go through the limitations she had to back on Equestria.

But she knew she couldn't.

She wouldn't risk it, badluck followed her and she had to stay dedicated to the idea of why she'd created this island in the first place. Not so she could rule and be a wannabe princess, so she could manage to create a home for creatures such as herself, a place where all sorts of creatures could gather and feel satisfied. But she also forgot, none of them were draconequus either. Was her dream an impossible one? For draconequus were feared everywhere not for their hideous looks, but their powers in general. Would any society allow such creatures to walk amongst them openly?

Would any parents allow their children play around with a full grown dragon? Eve just didn't know anymore, and felt herself losing her drive and conviction, and she'd rather leave before she let any of that happen. It was nearing the time for her to go either way, she couldn't allow herself to be convinced all of this was for nothing, she'd done her best, and she wouldn't risk it for her own selfish desires. Draconequus were different, she was a different breed of monster. She'd grown to accept that by this point in her life, she did her best.

Stop running. Nightmare Moon stated.

And almost immediately Eve responded by stopping, she was breathing heavily, her paw and claw clenched tightly as she'd gritted her teeth in frustration. She didn't know what to say, how to feel, as she flapped her wings and lowered herself onto the open green fields, she stomped one of her feet, stating back, "I'm trying my best okay!"

Nightmare Moon from within her realm remained silent as she kept her head lowered, she was looking up towards the view of Eve's world with a bored look as she just laid on the black floor with one hoof crossed over the other.

Eve continued, "I'm doing my best to protect everypony! I'm doing all that I can to pay for what I've done, isn't that enough!? Doesn't she understand that this is the way it has to be!? Doesn't she understand that by doing those things, that I'd be putting their lives in danger, everypony who now lives here in danger!? I wish things were different but they just can't be, I can't let go of what I did...I just can't." She lowered her head, whimpering, "Why does it all have to be so hard.."

Nightmare Moon replied curtly, closing her eyes, "You can't expect to go around showing kindness to others, and then expect them to just sit back and watch you torture yourself, stupid little girl."

Eve snapped at the mare, "I never asked them to grow attached to me!"

Her eyes widened as she'd looked ashamed by her own words.

How could she say such a thing? She wasn't ungrateful for their presence here, she loved each and every one of them, they gave her acceptance and kindness, and she could only wish she'd found them sooner before everything had gotten so bad, but now it was too late, everything was too late. "I just, wish they,...I don't know...I just don't know what to do anymore, I don't know what I'd do if anything happened." She teared up slightly, looking up towards the stars, praying for a shooting star like the night she'd spent with Cheerilee, even now, she still resorted to wishful thinking. "I make too many wishes. You're right, I'm just a stupid little girl, with stupid dreams."

Nightmare Moon sighed before shaking her head, "You weren't built for this type of lifestyle." And for once, she actually found herself speaking with a hint of sincerity in her voice, pity, and she was disgusted by it, but being forced to live through this little creature's world, was all that she knew for now. "You need to listen to what I tell you and stop being an absolute moron, forget about all this stupidity involving whatever convictions you feel you have. Children listen to their elders for a reason, and believe me when I tell you, you are no leader. You were never meant to bare such responsibilities, and to be honest, watching you try is getting quite irritating to say the least."

The baby draconequus shook her head, "You and I both know, the ponies will never forgive me for what I did..."

Nightmare Moon scoffed, "Hah, after what you did? They don't have to forgive you, but I doubt they'd humiliate themselves a second time. They have no choice but to forget!"

Eve replied curtly, "Twilight Sparkle would never forget."

Nightmare Moon fell silent for the moment, looking a little annoyed by those words, and especially that name.

Eve sat, looking off towards the distant sunset, wrapping her arms around her knees. "What makes a monster, Ms.Moon"

Nightmare Moon replied swiftly, almost as if she knew her answer was definite. "Certainly not you."

Those words actually brought a slight smile to the baby draconequus's face, as she remained silent for a moment before just burying her head in her knees. "Thanks..."

And Nightmare Moon found herself smirking, before rolling her eyes. "Hah, as if I need thanks for pointing out the obvious, don't insult me little girl." Then closing them, unable to erase that smile from her face.

She felt surprised, she didn't want to either.

Meanwhile in Canterlot, the five prestigous figures were gathered around a large banquet table in a private room. There was a looming silence between them as they'd all just sat there, staring at one another. Princess Celestia however wore a smile as she just continued to look towards Havoc, finally deciding to break the silence herself. "So, shall we cease the quiet game and finally discuss the matter at hoof everypony?"

Havoc with his arms cross gave a simple nod, before shrugging. "Well, for starters Celestia, my partner and I are having a bit of trouble piecing this all together." He raised a brow, "The issue is that we've heard there's been a child who not only managed to infiltrate your kingdom, but defeat all of you single-handedly and escape. And as you can imagine, we're finding that a little hard to believe, so care to explain a little about that."

Princess Celestia's expression sunk as she levitated a steaming cup of coffee, sipping from it. Probably due to the fact she wasn't used to staying up this late at night, but before they all retreated to their quarters, this was certainly an issue they needed to discuss with one another, at least a little before tomorrow.

Princess Luna nudged her sister worriedly, "Dearest sister, please, go rest. I can cover for you here."

Princess Celestia shook her head. "Absolutely not Luna, as you know..." Her brows furrowed "There are some details of the occurrence that only I can describe." She looked back to Havoc and Rift who sat at opposite sides of the table. "May I ask you, what is it that the draconequus council plans to have done with the child?"

This caused Rift to glare momentarily at the alicorn Princess.

Havoc raised a gauntlet before Rift, then looking to Princess Celestia and Luna. "We've been tasked with just assisting you in her apprehension, her punishment is left entirely up to you."

Princess Celestia spoke questionably, "I..I see. Well then, let's go onto the matter of what we're dealing with here then, so you two have some idea." Princess Celestia flicked her hoof, as suddenly appearing over her would be what appeared to be a faint shimmering magical index, which when opened, showed pages of equestrian criminals. The index appeared before her as well as if it were a book, and she just flipped through the pages using her telekinesis, as all eyes were fastened on the one overhead. They all didn't fail to notice some familiar faces, such as Chrysalis and Sombra, Sombra whose portrait had been crossed out with a thick red X. They'd obviously been redirected to the banishment section of the log. And to one's dismay, there'd even been unfamiliar faces in this log, but those faces weren't important at the moment, for she'd finally reached the one everypony was waiting for. She stopped on a perfect image of the baby draconequus. "Eve..."

This caused both Havoc and Rift's eyes to widen at the sight of it, she was just a child!?

Rift scowled at the picture, her pride feeling utterly crushed by the fact a mere child had earned such an infamous yet prestigious reputation, was she really that dangerous to have deserved such a spot in the criminal index. Could this baby, this supposed trash, really accomplish the impossible?

Havoc could only stare in disbelief for some time as he'd looked to Discord. "D-Discord! You can't be serious, this child before us was the one who'd bested you?" He stood to his feet, "I refuse to accept it!"

Discord cackled a bit, leaning back in his chair before snapping his claw, "Sit down you whiner! The discussion isn't over yet is it? Yea yea yea, gotta give the kid some credit, she was smarter than we thought! But there's more to this one than meets the eye, and as we all know, nopony's invincible. We just ran into some complications during her, development."

Rift's eyes now widened as she burst to her feet, raising her voice for the first time since she'd arrived. "Development!?"

Princess Celestia's brow furrowed as she'd interrupted. "Yes, you see, what this girl has become, the blame cannot be solely placed on her, I had my role to play in it as well." She looked back to Havoc before lowering her head with a saddened expression, "As you may recall Havoc, we've learned by now many draconequus children require to be molded, guided, in order to prevent their emotions from rampantly spiraling out of control. They are bombs waiting to set off. This task usually should not be so difficult for one with my experience, for the most part, most draconequus youth do not possess the mindset to be able to guide themselves. I'm not sure how you manage to deal with them over in your nation, but over here, as you can imagine, I have taken precautions to educate my subjects in the matter of how dangerous they can be. When I'd heard that a draconequus child managed to find herself drifting through my lands, I trusted my student in dealing with the situation, which yielded unexpected results to say the least. Afterwords I became personally involved in the matter myself, where to my surprise I found that I wasn't dealing with a simple draconequus. Her sense of morale was strong, and she was quite talented for one her age, even going so far as to reject open acceptance to stay true to her beliefs." Princess Celestia paused, followed by a sigh, "Either way, due to the circumstances of her situation and out of her own sheer desperation, she managed to discover her aspect."

Rift snarled, "What!?"

Havoc raised his gauntlet again before shaking his head, "Impossible, hahaha." He looked back up towards the portrait of Eve from the log book, but squinting a little. "So you're saying that whatever her representation is, it was effective enough to defeat all of you? The draconequus council couldn't even accomplish such a thing most likely. So what're you suggesting?"

Discord then cut in, his tone now serious as he seemed contemplative. "That whatever it is we're dealing with her ladies and gents, is something which has obviously never been seen before."

Havoc went into an immediate outburst, as he stood, slamming a clenched fist on the table. "I'm tired of your nonsense Discord! You and I both know that the imagination is a double edged sword! There's always a flaw in every form of magic, especially in chaos, I don't care what you say about this girl, the way you all are talking about her suggests otherwise!"

Discord replied in a humored tone, "It's been months since we've seen the condition she's in, calm down. Jeez, all you uptight individuals in here is really ruining the mood!"

Rift, still obviously upset based on her demeanor crossed her arms. "What's her style?"

Discord snickered as he cocked his head, and scratched his cheek a little. "Not sure if you wanna know."

Rift's nose wrinkled in annoyance, not amused. "What's, her, style?"

Discord shrugged, closing his eyes. "Well, if you really wanna know..." He snapped his claws, manifesting a piece of chocolate before smirking, "It's candy."

Rift now slammed her paw and claw on the table angrily much like Havoc, "DO YOU TAKE US FOR FOOLS!?"

Princess Celestia arose as she raised a hoof, "Please please, calm down everypony, we're all a little taken back by this entire situation." She sighed, "Alright, it's obviously quite late as is, let is return to our quarters for now, we'll continue further discussion on this matter tomorrow when we're all a bit more rest-"

"Excuse me, Princess Luna." A deep male voice cut in by the entrance of the banquet room.

Princess Luna turned at this moment to catch sight of a violet guard decked in gorgeous plate armor. "Captain Noteworthy? I thought I told you that this was a private mee-"

The Captain revealed as one known commonly as Noteworthy, bowed his head in an apologetic fashion. "Forgive me, but I couldn't deny Princess Twilight entry into these quarters, you yourselves stated she had just as much authority as you."

Princess Celestia's eyes widened, "Twilight?"

"PRINCESS CELESTIA!" And not a moment after, Twilight Sparkle made her way into the banquet room. Although she was alone, and Rainbow was nowhere to be seen, not that any of them knew she'd been with her anyway. Twilight just made her way further into the room, not failing to notice Discord, as well as Princess Luna. She took a moment to take everything in, as she just glanced around the room, her pupil's dilating in horror and realization over the topic that was obviously being discussed. Over Princess Celestia was what appeared to be a magical hologram or flickering image of the draconequus criminal, and the fact her face wasn't covered with the thick red X which marked Sombra's portrait only angered her more. So she was right in coming here, seeing that they were still discussing the situation.

Princess Celestia backed away from the table before attempting to hurry over to Twilight. "T-Twilight, I thought I told you that you needed to stay home and recover, what're you doing here?"

Twilight shook her head as she just continued further into the room. "Princess Celestia, I feel I have just as much responsibility to help deal with this situation if not more, you all don't need to treat me like such a-" Twilight's brows raised as she'd caught sight of the two draconequus sitting at the table as well, as they'd only eyed her back curiously.

Havoc raised a brow at the violet alicorn, "So this is Princess Twilight eh? What happened to your face?"

Twilight snarled, as she'd glared at Princess Celestia, "P-Princess Celestia! Who're these draconequus!?" As her confusion only continued to rise, the last thing she needed right now was new draconequus faces to add more to her stress. But she also attempted to keep an open mind, if Princess Celestia had them here, it must've meant something. Plus, they weren't Eve, Eve was the one she wanted, not these two noponies.

Princess Celestia was a little caught off by Havoc's words, just staring at Twilight's face which'd been bruised and bloody in some areas, she shook her head as she knew for Twilight in particular, this would've looked quite bad. "Twilight, please, calm down, these two are friends. They are representatives of the draconequus nation who've come to provide aid in dealing with the Eve situation, hopefully without anymore violence. And what did happen to your face?"

Twilight's nose wrinkled as she looked to the two representatives suspiciously, "Mind telling us what a draconequus like Eve was doing in Equestria anyway!? How did she manage to even get here, obviously it wasn't Discord, so what're you two, her real parents or something? As Princess I demand an explanation, and to know your involvement in this-"

Princess Celestia aghast, stomped a hoof in protest. "Twilight! That's enough!" Her eyes saddened as she'd looked the mare up and down. "You're obviously not feeling well, please, you've been far too obsessive with this entire situation, and you need to rest, and time to recover. I worry about you my student, you may be a Princess but you've still got a lot to learn when it comes to being a ruler, I know you care for your subjects and worry for their safety, but you need to consider what's best for yourself as well." She paused, hesitantly speaking, "There is also quite a bit you don't know about the situation Twilight, please, your place isn't here, it's with your friends. Just look at you, what's happened these last few hours?"

Twilight looked back to the Princess shocked, as she shook her head while having it lowered it. "B-But Princess Celestia, all I want to do is help! Why should I have to stay in Ponyville and live a carefree life while you and Princess Luna are stuck dealing with,....with all of this!? I won't just leave this all to you, you said that we'd learn from one another didn't you? Then stay true to your word and allow me to help you capture that murdering-"

Princess Celestia cut her off again, "Twilight." She nudged her head towards a door to the left, "I want you to go get some rest, we'll talk about this later, this meeting is about to end anyhow. Obviously you are fairly passionate about this, and I can't expect you to listen to me it seems. If you truly want to play a part in this matter then you leave me little choice, I only hope you're prepared to see the world in a different light my student." Her eyes saddened as she'd sighed, not wanting to deal with the eager alicorn at this time, "Now go, please, just do this one thing for the moment and go clean yourself up, now's not the time to be having this discussion."

Twilight looked speechless, before angrily turning and stomping away, going through the door, slamming it shut behind her.

Princess Celestia just closed her eyes, shaking her head and placing a hoof over her face. "Oh Twilight.." This whole mess with Eve and the attack on Canterlot had obviously been getting to her more than she expected. Princess Celestia had never seen her student act in such a manner, and hopefully, this whole mess wasn't risking her connection to the elements. Twilight wasn't the one to hold such a personal vendetta, but this whole situation had already rapidly spiraled out of control, and the drawback was much greater than any of them ever expected.

Thankfully Twilight shouldn't have been as affected however, although she'd seen those horrible things, she hadn't seen everything. But still, did Princess Celestia have a right to keep Twilight out of this entire matter, Twilight did have a right as a Princess, especially being born in Canterlot, to be equally involved in such political matters. Well this was almost far too much to take in for Princess Celestia as well, she just huffed before looking back to the others, "You must forgive me you all, we'll need to put this off for now, as you can imagine, a lot of us are still a little on edge about the whole situation."

Rift didn't complain, she actually looked as if she'd wanted to leave as she just stood from her chair, making way for the same door as Twilight Sparkle.

Princess Luna raised a hoof, "Two of my guards will escort you to your quarters my lady."

Rift nodded to Princess Luna plainly, "Thank you." And with that, she left the meeting room, saying nothing more.

Havoc sighed, while sluggishly raising himself from his seat as well. "Alright, even though we just got here, I admit we came at an unexpected time. Guess we'll continue this later then."

Princess Celestia nodded, "Thank you Havoc, we're sorry for the inconvenience, but, we'll have more to discuss at a later time. For now, rest would do us all good, and I must have a word with that student of mine."

Havoc just nodded as he made way for the door, but was suddenly blocked as Discord reappeared in front of him.

Havoc raised a brow, looking fairly annoyed, "What do you want Discord?"

Discord snickered as he wrapped his arm around the fellow draconequus, whispering in his ear. "Aw come on now, don't be like that Havoc! You and I, we've got a lot of catchin up to do! Heh, come on, let ol'Discord get an ear in on the whole draconequus council's business, I'll tell you all about Eris!"

Havoc's eyes widened as he turned light red for a moment, gritting his teeth. "Shut it..." And Havoc, doing the best he could to just ignore the fellow draconequus's presence, made his way outside the room as Discord only continued to pester and follow him.

Discord glanced back at Princess Celestia and Luna for a moment before sneering and winking.

Princess Celestia flashed him a nod, as the two left the room.

Princess Luna sighed heavily as she shook her head. "It seems we'll have a lot to contend with in future days sister, I thought you wanted to leave this Eve alone, she certainly seems like she's far more trouble than she's worth."

Princess Celestia replied in suit, "I wish we could simply let this all slip away dear sister, the last thing I wanted was to involve the draconequus nation themselves. But things like this aren't easily forgotten, and word spreads fast apparently, our subjects are worried, ponies are questioning our ability to keep them safe, one way or another they require closure from all of this, and we must provide it." She glanced to the lower right, "And I can't deny, I wouldn't mind another chance to speak with that little draconequus in the future. Everything with due time it seems." She fell silent for a moment, before looking back to Luna. "Also sister, if I may, what of Herald's progress?"

Princess Luna's eyes widened before she recovered and nodded to her sister, now dwelling on the answer to her question. "Ah yes, I believe they had news of a possible location sister, an island located far off the coast of Horseshoe Bay, although I have yet to question them why they believe this information to be reliable, and what land they speak of."

Princess Celestia peered down at her sister curiously before they both made their way for the door as well. "An island hm? I have heard rumors of a strange new land in recent times, have you been able to locate her through her dreams sister?"

Princess Luna shook her head as she'd made her way through the door. "Sadly not, it's almost as if she no longer dreams, as if something or somepony is blocking me out."

Princess Celestia raised a brow, "Blocking you out?"

Princess Luna nodded in disappointment, "Yes...."

Princess Celestia's expression sunk as she sighed heavily, "Things only continue to become more complicated, but everything shall fall into place with progress sister, we just must be patient, we can make this work, together."

Meanwhile in another part of the castle, a high ranking official of the Lunar Guard, as well as a disguised bat pony, or more specifically, a changeling known only as Silver Shade, had her own insidious business to attend to. Her quarters were locked, as she stood towards the back of the room, looking only into a tall standing mirror. She wore a serious expression as if preparing to keep her baring for another high ranking official she knew. She took in a deep breath, before tapping the mirror's glass with a raised hoof, and soon her reflection began to shimmer and distort into something else entirely.

Appearing within the mirror would be none other than the queen of changelings, Queen Chrysalis.

The Queen sneered at her loyal subject, before getting straight to the point of this discussion. "Silver Shade, a pleasure to see you're still active, Luna really is quite careless to overlook you so easily."

Silver Shade smirked, "Dedication and rank-building has its perks my Queen, your praise pleases me."

Queen Chrysalis snickered as she began trotting back and forth in her own quarters, back at the grand hive where all the changelings resided. "As it should my loyal subject, now tell me, what of the child? Have you gotten word on her location yet? My patience wears thin, and I have no doubt those meddlesome ponies won't cease in their own pursuit."

Silver Shade nodded contently, "Of course my Queen, although Twilight Sparkle has been put on a leash by Princess Celestia as of now, her sole priority is to recover rather than focus on apprehending the draconequus child. The situation as it is now, leaves the kingdom, and Equestria as a whole, quite vulnerable to attack. Mainly due to the fact that their greatest weapons are now wrapped in bandages. Two of the six elements are worse for wear, and new faces are appearing left and right in Equestria, the ponies live in fear of another attack, and the Princesses are doing all that they can to keep the peace, and the level of panic to a minimum."

Queen Chrysalis smiled, "I see, then everything is heading in a fairly positive direction." She snickered looking up towards the ceiling of her quarters, licking her lips. "How does it feel Celestia, to be backed into a corner as all the pressure weighs you down? How does it feel to struggle for the care of your subjects? You've sat on your comfy throne for far too long, it's time you learned what it's like outside the comfort of your or certainty. Can't say I won't enjoy this." She smirked.

Silver Shade, pleased to see her Queens satisfaction, only continued. "And regarding the creature's location my Queen, Herald has been assigned along with support from Magistrum to search far and wide for any hints to the whereabouts of the mysterious child, rumor has it she has taken shelter in a new kingdom further southwest from the shores of Equestria. But they are only rumors, for the ruling body there is a Panthera Queen, although sightings of her have been reported, by ponies no less, if we're to start somewhere, there would be our best bet."

Queen Chrysalis paced back and forth, "Excellent, what better than to have the infamous monster of Equestria on our side as we take over, I have many ways of convincing her to join our cause, all we must do is find her, and you are doing an excellent job at that. This is something I may have to become intimately involved in soon as well."

Silver Shade's expression sunk worriedly, "If I may my Queen, are you still certain that this plan of your's will still work, I worry for you. This creature, by your recollection of the situation, was quite powerful, please be careful."

Queen Chrysalis smirked, "Have faith Silver Shade, all forms of magic have a weakness, and children are what they are, children. She's already trapped, we've just got to make her fully aware of how trapped she is." She cackled wildly, eagerly and trembling in her own anxiousness. "So many things to do, so little time, best to get this out of the way however." She turned, glancing back towards a levitating black tome over a stone pillar. "And plenty of new faces, to join us along the way indeed." And from the tome, tired red eyes stared right back at her.

It was the dead of night in Candyland, and as Eve walked along a beaten dirt path, straight out of the Candy Cane forests, she looked towards the high stone walls of her fortified island. She had her hood raised of course, it'd become habit, and although it was her island she couldn't walk openly amongst her own any longer, whether it was out of her own fear or paranoia she wasn't certain, but she was always cautious, and she always felt somepony may be watching. She couldn't risk their safety, everything was perfect here, her time creating such a place was coming to an end, but, there were things she had to check up on first. She looked up, eyeing two arguing figures in particular.

They both wore similar uniforms, wearing what appeared to be kimonos. One of them was a tusked fox-like creature, her fur white like snow and orange like that of the sunset skies. She had a large curved sword attached to her backside as she was pointing a sharp finger at the second individual.

He bore the appearance of a humanoid komodo dragon, standing upright much like Ms.Prowl and Mr.Talon, he had the face of the fierce lizard, as well as the slithery tongue. But he bore a large, thick, scaly physique, as well as the large meaty tail which slithered from side to side, thumping every and then absently. Whatever they were arguing about must've been quite important, for them not to take notice of their own duties, for Eve could've been anypony, even one who meant to do them harm.

Eve only smiled however, "Mr.Komo, Ms.Tusk...."

They seem to be in high spirits, strange creatures those two. Although everything you adopt is quite strange. Added in Nightmare Moon in a bored manner.

The komodo dragon creature, Mr.Komo, hissed as he pointed his claw at the tusked fox. "No! I take the Night Shift alone! I'm tired of you trying to take all the glory from me, night is what I'm most adapted to anyway, you'd just get in my way! Go back to the castle this instant Tusk, I have no time for your games!"

Ms.Tusk snarled, placing her curled paws on her hips. "Why you selfish slimy goon! I'm going to stand here all night and there's nothing you can do to stop me! My people are indebted to the lady, and we will show her just how grateful we are for taking us in, and there's nothing you can say or do to change that! You wanna be a greedy little lizard? That's your problem! But don't think your selfish thinking is going to get in the way of my duty! We may serve under the banners of Prowl, but never forget, our loyalties always lie with our promise to the lady, we will protect this home she's created."

Mr.Komo shook his head as he hissed once again, "Tch! Fine! Do what you will, blasted fox. The lady should've just left you in the desert where the griffons could pick you off."

Ms.Tusk gasped as she'd raised a paw, slapping the komodo dragon across the face. "You scum komo! Now that's too far, say something like that again and I'll take that sickening tongue of yours as a trophy!"

Suddenly landing between them would be a small cowled figure.

The two of them gasped in unison with instant recognition, "M-My lady!"

Eve took a look around, as the guards were all stationed quite far apart, it was good Komo and Tusk often chose to argue in private about these matters, and it was quite humorous to Eve how they always liked to argue in the same place during the night shift. She preferred if they didn't stay out here almost 24/7, but, she had little control over their own convictions, like they over her's. She glanced up at them with a soft smile, "Why must you two always fight?"

Ms.Tusk bowed almost immediately, "Forgive us my lady! W-We were foolish."

Eve's eyes saddened as she shook her head, "Please don't talk to me like that Ms.Tusk, or you Mr.Komo, neither of you owe me anything. I'm just happy this place was able to be of use to you. Hopefully it stays this way."

Mr.Komo smiled as he nodded to her, "Of course my lady, you showed us this beautiful land, and we will do all that we can to protect it. You don't have to worry about anything we've got guards setup on almost every corner of the island, we're establishing identification and security measures, and with Mr.Talon and Ms.Prowl constantly on the job, Candyland may become an official spot on the world atlas someday."

Ms.Tusk raised herself before nodding to Mr.Komo, the two of them actually agreeing upon something. "Hah, that wouldn't be a surprise, most definitely." She looked down to the baby draconequus with a smirk, "With everything we've accomplished here my lady, this land will be put to good use, and we'll ensure that everyone is welcome, as long as were certain they plan to do no harm to the inhabitants of the island. The midland scouts are also doing fairly well of keeping the wildlife at bay, and even instilling in them the habit of staying clear of the civilized areas. My race is accustomed to such things, we'll have that mastered in no time."

Eve could only chuckle with a smile, closing her eyes. "That's so great to hear. I'm eager for the future." She looked off the wall, towards the distant, black, neverending tides of the inifinite sea. "It's quiet tonight, isn't it?"

Be careful not to let your guard down, as you said, they never forget hm?

Eve smiled, nodding to herself. I know, there is such thing as too much of heaven. It's...too bad.

Back in Canterlot, Havoc and Discord sat in seperate thrones in quite a roomy, and spacy, chamber. They both had their arms crossed as Havoc stared Discord down with a look of annoyance, while Discord only continued to smirk at him.

Havoc's features twisted into a scowl, "Now, what do you know about Eris that I already don't Discord?"

Discord manifested a table for them with two cups of tea, before levitating his own over to him. "Now now, there's no rush Havoc, let's take some time to catch up! You still haven't answered all my questions either. Trust me, I'd rather be playing games with Night Owl rather than partying with you, you're just too uptight with me!"

Havoc scowled before looking away for a moment, then glaring back at the draconequus. "Tch! Fine, what is it you want to know Discord? But make it quick, not like anything I tell you will make any difference. Not much has changed since our retreat, we've just setup shop in a place far away from all these troublesome races. You certainly haven't changed, even after being defeated and imprisoned in stone for centuries, you're still just as annoying. Manage to make a friend yet?"

Discord smirked, sipping on his cup before sneering with interest. "Let's start with your friend. She's a new face, meaning she's fairly young to be on the council." He now looked quite serious, as he spoke in a cold tone. "Who is she, and what is her representation?....."

This question actually brought a smile to Havoc's face as he snickered a bit, looking highly amused, before cocking his head to the left. "Rift was a genius from birth, her talents exceeded that of most draconequus, it was no trouble for her to rise to earn her place amongst the council. If you recall, Rave's baby sister, she was no more than an infant at the time."

Discord's eyes widened as he raised a brow. "That little squirt?..."

Havoc grinned, "And as for her representation."

Rift was standing with her arms spread out in her chamber as she'd looked highly concentrated with her eyes closed. Surrounding the female draconequus was a multitude of tiny black portals, small representations of the infinite void which she'd manipulated at her will, the darkness that was her home. Her chamber room was black, and as she willed it with a slight twitch of her claw, within each portal, appeared an ominous purple eye, as her own eyes snapped wide.

It's fear.

"Where are you hiding,.....little genius?"

Chapter 2: Perceptions


CHAPTER 2: PERCEPTIONS

Twilight had barely gotten any sleep that night, and spent majority it laying awake, lost in her own thoughts. As morning came, she remained in a leaned up position, just looking down towards her blankets with an annoyed look. She took a moment to look over at Rainbow Dash who'd slept at her bedside, almost as if she were bedridden. Rainbow Dash of course was worried for her like all the others were, and Twilight almost found it insulting how worried they were, as if they thought she were crazy, but she also loved them for caring so much. She put on a smile, and nudged the rainbow maned mare gently. "Rainbow Dash, come on, wake up; we've gotta be at the meeting soon."

Rainbow groaned a little bit before lifting her head with a confused look, and then looking up at Twilight with that same puzzled expression before muttering, "Wait what? What meeting?"

Twilight's expression got more tense as she rose from her bed, stretching out her wings a little bit and climbing out from beneath the blankets onto the hard tiled floor, and stretching her legs a bit as well. "The one about Eve, we're finally discussing a plan regarding her capture, and I don't want to miss a single second of it."

Rainbow's eyes widened as she looked shocked, "Wait! So Princess Celestia let you get involved again!?"

Twilight smiled expectantly, as she nodded with confidence. "Yep! Now all that's left is to find the location of where Eve's run off to, and then we capture her." Twilight made her way over to her mirror, before levitating a comb and beginning to brush through her mane thoroughly, talking to Rainbow while doing so. "She may be dangerous, but she's only one draconequus as well, and now we've got two visiting draconequus which gives us three. So add that all up, and we've got four princesses, the elements of harmony, and three draconequus, plus all the forces of Canterlot, the Crystal Empire and even the country of Magistrum to support our cause." Twilight smirked, "Eve thinks she's won Rainbow, but soon she'll understand that in the end, that good always prevails." Twilight sighed, shaking her head, lowering it, "I only wish she could've understood that before she decided to take innocent lives, and I wish Cheerilee could to...."

Rainbow looked skeptical, as she flapped her wings slightly, then sitting beside Twilight. "W-Well congrats Twilight, I guess we're going a little overkill here." Rainbow herself couldn't understand why she felt so hesitant about all this, minus her worry for Twilight, this literally did seem a little like overkill. She detested the draconequus just as much as anypony else would reasonably, but it was still so hard to imagine that that same draconequus they defeated so long ago was causing them this much trouble. It was as if each time they thought she was defeated, she'd only come back stronger and more experienced than before, she only hoped if they were to go for a third run they'd finish it, for real, this time. "Hard to think such a squirt could do all this huh? Guess it shows some kids are just born scary." The rainbow maned mare crossed her hooves, her brows furrowing some. "Can you imagine if Scootaloo were this dangerous? This is one creepy kid."

"Eve is no ordinary child, don't mistake her for one Rainbow." Twilight placed her comb down, before making her way towards the door, but stopping midway and glancing back at her friend. "It's a common misconception, which is understandable. But over the course of this entire ordeal, I've learned so much. I wish Eve were just a simple child, one who could listen, who could have some form of compassion, of sense, but she doesn't work like that. She's manipulative, conniving, and she's smarter than she looks, I couldn't believe it myself at first either, but it's the truth. I only wish we saw it sooner." Twilight began pacing back and forth in her room, "This has easily been one of our most trialing experiences, but I won't give up, not anymore. Eve almost won, she almost broke each and every one of us down, and when you think about it, could you imagine if she'd attacked us when we were most vulnerable? It was a perfect plan, but she underestimated us, underestimated me, and now she's doing it again. Now she thinks us defeated, broken, that she's made an example out of us, and is treating our lives like her own amusing child's game. She possesses the face of a child, but her mind's sadistic, maddening, she's insane, and she's easily one of the most dangerous enemies we've ever faced."

Rainbow Dash couldn't really describe how she felt about Twilight's intense passion and angst involving the situation, but there was something bothering her deep down as well, and it caused the mare's eyes to sadden as she'd looked worried. "I'm sorry Twilight..."

Twilight felt as if she'd lost her train of thought due to the sudden apology, "Sorry? Sorry about what Rainbow?"

Rainbow just looked down, exhaling softly, nervously, before looking back up to her close friend and shaking her head in an apologetic manner, she needed to get this out. "I'm sorry I wasn't there Twilight, I'm sorry I wasn't there to help you all when she attacked, when she...she killed all those innocent ponies. It's obviously really affected you, and I only wish I could've been there to, to help you and Fluttershy, I let you guys down." She closed her eyes lowering her head.

Twilight's eyes widened as she almost teared up due to her friend's worry, and made her way back over to Rainbow slowly, before embracing her in a soft hug. "It's not your fault Rainbow, don't you ever think something like that. We're just dealing with a lot here, which is why I want to bring an end to this myself, which is why I'm so personally involved as it is, this is something I will do for all of us, to bring us back together again." She leaned back, looking the mare in the eyes, "Eve has threatened to tear us apart time and again, she has thrown all that she can at us, guilt, nightmares, manipulation, violence,..even murder, just so she could achieve her own goals. But our friendship," she squeezed Rainbow's hoof with a soft smile, "Our loyalty, to one another is too strong, stronger than anything she could ever comprehend. Just like all the other enemies we've faced, we'll deal with this one, together. I won't let her trick anypony else, I won't let her play and skew our emotions any longer, she thinks she's gotten away with it? She's got another thing coming." She then bopped the rainbow maned mare in the forehead softly, followed by a chuckle. "We're the elements of harmony afterall."

Rainbow Dash gave a confident smirk back at Twilight, before they both looked to the door, basking in newfound motivation as they nodded to one another. "Heck yea," Rainbow raised a brow at Twilight, amused, "You know Twilight, when you're in the mood, even you can manage to give a pretty motivating speech."

Twilight snickered, before mimicking Rainbow's expression, "I try, hmhm."

Then they both made their way out of Twilight's bedroom chambers.

Princess Luna raised a hoof before all the attendees of the room, which consisted of Twilight Sparkle, Rainbow Dash, Havoc, Rift, Discord, and most importantly, Princess Celestia, as well as a hefty amount of guards, most likely higher ups considering the topic they'd be discussing. "As you all know, in recent times, our kingdom has been attacked and ransacked by an enemy that still continues to elude us, a child of her race no less."

Many expressions in the room changed at that moment, twisting into frowns.

Princess Luna sighed, as her expression saddened. "As tragic as it is my faithful subjects, we can't simply be expected to forgive and forget. We all require closure from such a traumatic ordeal, not even a child's actions may be excused when its broken so many innocent lives. She has threatened the feeling of sanctity within our lands, and has stepped on our laws, spit on our rules and regulations, and made a mockery of our way of life, and it is time we received justice."

The crowd of guard ponies erupt into cheers, while a few select individuals remained silent.

With a flick of her hoof, Princess Luna brought up a shimmering magical screen which overtook the whole backside of the room, with a portrait of the baby draconequus, Eve the Insane. "Our mission is simple, thanks to a group of commendable operatives, we have tipped the scales in our favor. The draconequus child, Eve the Insane, hides herself somewhere outside our borders, a smart move on her part. But she has underestimated our abilities to deduce her location, in recent times, a mysterious kingdom I'm sure many of you have likely heard of, has risen out in the southeastern seas. It is mildly populated by many diverse creatures, many of which a lot of you wouldn't be familiar with, which is understandable." She then swiped her hoof, bringing the screen to a different image, which was that of the Kingdom of Candyland. "These creatures pose no threat to us, and are not to be held accountable for our target's actions. But as you can imagine, we believe the target has retreated here for a reason. It is a land which supports much racial diversity, leading us to believe the draconequus believes she is out of our reach here, blended in with a new form of society, one that would risk its very subjects for unnecessary reasons."

Princess Luna paused, before continuing "We cannot risk discussions with the ruler, to do so would risk alerting the target, which is why we will make this quick and simple, a snatch and grab if you will. We have very high hopes of our target being situated somewhere on this island, which is why I will personally be involved in this assignment. I will be taking majority of you with me, in where we will render the islands inhabitants incapable of becoming intimately involved in the matter without them even realizing it." And with a flick of her hoof again, Princess Luna shot a spell towards an unsuspecting member of the Celestial Guard as he immediately went into a deep passive sleep. "And hopefully our target as well, whereas we'll search the island thoroughly in the window of time we will possess, and apprehend our little terrorist to bring her back for future incarceration. Swift, silent, effective, is our priority."

Havoc didn't hesitate to interrupt, "What else do we know about the target? Priority information of course."

Discord snapped his claws before taking center stage with a smile. "I think I'll be taking the spotlight for now Little Luna! Go on now, scoot scoot, on over to your sister!" He brushed Luna away in a humorous hand gesture as Princess Luna snarled at him frustratingly, but everypony was already used to Discord's antics by this point in time. "Let's get down to business then shall we?!" He snapped his claws once again as the image on Luna's screen distorted into one of Eve holding a candy cane. "It's obvious from those of us who were there, we know the kid favors candy, and funnily enough, fighting with a candy cane no doubt! Bahahahaha!" He burst into laughter before he winked at Rift, "Hilaaarious, isn't it? Either way, I guess you could say she got a hint of genius from the one and only...ahem. Either way, let's get into the specifics shall we?" Discord manifested his throne, slithering atop of it and crossing his legs and putting on a pair of nerdy reading glasses. "Her invulnerability to pain, as you can imagine, can pose quite of a problem, if thrown into unexpected circumstances. Little menace is like a adaptation powerhouse, she feels, she sees, she learns, she recreates, she copies! As you can see-" Discord changed the image once more, this time into one of Eve with key aspects of her features outlined, such as her makeshift horn and newfound wings. "-She has taken a liking to our dearest Twilight Sparkle, and for some reason....her multi-colored friend over there."

Rainbow's eyes widened as she'd gasped, rising up and then peering at the screen. "T-That's...Hey, how did she manage to get? W-What?" Rainbow of course was referring to the fact Eve now wore wings remarkably identical to her own, as well as Twilight's, almost as if they were stolen off them. "S-So creepy...." She sulked, lowering herself back down beside Twilight, a shiver running down her spine a little.

Discord closed his eyes with a simple nod. "So take in those facts as well as her little horn there, courtesy of our darling Princess Celestia." He opened his eyes once again focusing on the screen. "We've got a very efficient copycat who is quite effective at throwing what we already know, right back at us tenfold. Although, we're also dealing with a double edged sword persay, for the imagination is a gateway to things, both good and bad. There is always a way to pierce through the armor, no matter how impenetrable it looks, we only have to be unpredictable in our own way of playing the game."

Princess Celestia cut in, "This is no game Discord."

Discord snickered, "The kid'll treat it like a game whether she likes it or not Celestia. She's ahead of us because we're being far too simple, we've gotta change rhythms, keep it interesting, and throw something at her she doesn't understand! That is the key, and if it isn't." He shrugged with disinterest, "Guess we've gotta go with plan B, which isn't good mind you! Well, you all have to, think I'll just enjoy the show!" He whispered a bit, "By the way....there is no plan B..."

Princess Luna scoffed, "Wasn't planning on taking you along anyway. As talented as you might be Discord, your mouth could use some work, and some manners." She looked back towards the crowd, clapping her hooves as the screen portraying Eve disappeared. "Now, about who shall be actually partaking in the operation is another mat-"

Suddenly an anonymous mare from the crowd raised a hoof, "Excuse me Princess! I'm sorry to say but this is a little much for me to take in here. I don't really understand the situation at all! I've got a pretty good idea of what we're dealing with here, but I still don't understand who?" She raised a brow, looking to Princess Luna, "What's this little creature have against us, I mean, what did we ever do to her to provoke such attacks? The draconequus protocol has been ongoing for centuries and never before have we been assaulted like this. Is this really how all draconequus children become? If so, then how come Mr.Discord, or Ms.Rift or Havoc aren't attacking us? It just doesn't make any sense."

Twilight Sparkle suddenly reappeared beside Princess Luna in a poof of violet smoke. "That, is why we have books everypony, we all need to educate ourselves in these issues, which is why this has been one of most frustrating situations I've ever dealt with. I'd be more than willing to explain, Eve is what you'd call a textbook case of a draconequus rebel." Princess Twilight began trotting back and forth around the room, as she caught eyes with Princess Celestia for a moment, and she looked a little confused due to how conflicted the Princess looked about Twilight taking the center stage. Twilight shook her head and continued, "As majority of us know, to let a draconequus child live amongst us is almost no different from allowing little fillies and colts to play with Ursa Minors, it's horribly risky, and dangerous. To be honest with all of you, I never expected to ever encounter a case like this in my entire life, draconequus children are obviously not often seen, and when they are, they often have a good sense of understanding to why they're stuck in the situations their in. Draconequus society takes harsh, but much needed measures, in raising their young. Especially when they have no grasp on how to use or control their powers, just one spark, one burst of the imagination, one outburst, can result in the harm of many good citizens. I don't know about Eve's past, I don't know what she's been through, but no matter the reason, it doesn't give her the right to change the rules to her liking, rules that have kept our society, our loved ones safe for countless generations. If she had her way, we'd be having all forms of chaos living in our homes as if they were household pets."

Another anonymous guard raised his hoof, "B-But Princess, don't you have a dragon for an assistant?"

Twilight winced at this pony specifically, before her expression darkened and there was a quiet fury in her eyes. "What? Tell me, are dragons capable of changing the very landscape in the blink of an eye? Are they capable of turning your loved ones against you with a touch to the forehead? Are they capable of disrupting the very cycle of life for their own amusement? Don't ever compare Spike to this rebellious monster. He'd never do such a thing, he knows better than that. Unlike a certain draconequus, Spike doesn't have a superiority complex, nor is he willing to hurt others or attack an entire city to get what he wants."

The guard lowered his head, then speaking in an apologetic tone. "F-Forgive me Princess Twilight...my sincerest apologies."

Princess Twilight smiled before closing her eyes, "It's fine, you're only stating your opinion." She then looked serious once again, looking to the rest of the crowd. "Don't be fooled, trust me, I know how skeptical some ponies can be regarding the fact Eve is so young, but she has proven she is willing to go to any lengths to make an example of us, to disrupt the peace of our society, to endanger our families. I saw it in Ponyville, you all saw it at the Crystal Empire, and now we've seen it here, in Canterlot. She's assaulted Princess Cadence, Princess Celestia, and Princess Luna, attacked our guards, destroyed our homes, so are we just going to let her get away with it? Are we just going to let her go, just because she's decided to go against the message of friendship, love, and harmony at an earlier age!? Her choices reflect that of one no different from another King Sombra, are we just going to sit around and watch her rise to become one? We've ignored her catastrophic behavior long enough everypony, and only by working together can we succeed! She must be punished!"

Suddenly the room burst into stomping hooves and cheers of admiration for their most recent Princess, Twilight Sparkle.

Princess Celestia suddenly cut in, raising a hoof as she'd seemed highly upset by the spectacle. "Now now, hold on a second everypony! We're going about this all wrong." She looked to Twilight almost disappointingly, "Twilight, you can't go into this thinking about revenge. That is the LAST thing I want occupying your mind, we're only doing what we must at this point in time. In order to restore the feeling of peace & security and happiness of Equestria, are we bringing Eve in, and even then, I will ensure she receives a proper punishment based on the circumstances of her situation." And Princess Celestia actually shuddered a little due to her own words, seeing as she'd gotten herself into this situation due to her ill feelings regarding the changelings, things had certainly gotten out of hoof since the beginning. But still, she could sense it, Twilight's true feelings regarding why she really wanted the draconequus.

Ponies were a little curious about Princess Celestia's perspective, but didn't really question it either.

Twilight however, started to protest, "Circumstances!? CIRCUMSTANCES!? B-But Princess Celestia, we can't just-"

Princess Celestia revealed a flash of fury in a fleet second, as she'd snapped at the mare impatiently, and in a saddened tone. "No buts Twilight! You're an amazing student, you're smart, dedicated, and you mean well, but you're far too vindicated about this, you need to take a moment to think about the entirety of the situation, and why is it you truly want to become involved. I don't want you to lose yourself in all of this my dearest student."

Twilight's expression sunk as she just lowered her head in silence, keeping her thoughts to herself.

Princess Celestia just looked back to the crowd, before sighing. "Now, let us return to the point of this gathering, the mission itself. Dear sister would you please continue, and please everypony, no further disruptions."

Princess Luna nodded plainly, "Of course sister." She then looked back to the crowd before swiping her hoof across the air one more, and bringing up a faint floating image of the island from bird's eye view.

Everypony's eyes were on the image, and Rift and Havoc in particular were fairly glad to get past the pony drama. They just remained silent with their arms crossed in the background.

Rainbow however had her focus on Twilight, as she'd looked worried herself, before tapping her hooves softly on the ground almost in a paranoid manner. Come on guys, where are you? You should've been here by now.

It was certainly a beautiful day in the small town of Ponyville, although at this point in time sunset was preparing to dawn over the lands, and following close behind it would be the night of course. But for the rest of the mane six, it didn't matter what the time was, they were already far enough behind schedule as it was.

Rarity, Pinkie Pie, Fluttershy, and Applejack were on their way to Golden Oaks Library in order to pick up Spike, each of them wearing small backpacks. They certainly wouldn't be leaving him behind, especially since Twilight's outburst.

However, none of them seemed happy, well, all except Pinkie Pie who bounced with joy with every second. "Oh boy oh boy! I can't wait to see how Twilight's doing, seriously! It feels like it's been weeks! I wonder what Rainbow and her have been up to! Oh I'm so jealous, I just wanna hurry up and get to there already! They're probably partying and having pillow fights and watching movies and eating popcorn and playing boardgames and doing pranks and-"

Applejack, frustrated, just went into an outburst of her own, "PINKIE! This ain't no game alright?...."

Pinkie immediately slumped, going into an automatic depression due to Applejack's reaction. "I'm sorry, I, I..." She puckered her lower lip, her eyes wide and watery as she held back her tears.

Applejack just sighed as she looked to Pinkie with a reassuring smile. "Listen sugarcube, we're just all a little exhausted from this whole mess as is, it's hard to imagine you're still all bouncy and whatnot." She lowered her head, "Hard to imagine anypony can be in such a cheery mood after everything's that's happened, I just hope Twi can get this whole mess situated before anything worse happens."

Rarity looked to Applejack with a soft smile herself, "Well she's got Rainbow Dash with her darling, she has to be able to lighten the mood, at least a little." Rarity paused as they just continued to trot, and she spoke a little hesitantly at first. "But, listen you all, I wanted to ask you, what's your thoughts on this whole Eve situation? I mean, T-Twilight's right, well, isn't she? I mean of cooourse I'm not saying she's wrong but, well, I just, well I've been a little, skeptical is all. It's not wrong to want to understand both sides of the issue is it?"

Applejack suddenly looked a little annoyed. "What're ya suggestin' Rarity? That Twilight wants to go justifying what'd happened back then? Is that the type of mare ya think she is?"

Rarity stopped, snapping at her fellow mare. "N-No! Of course not! How could you even suggest such a thing? I mean, it's just..." Her eyes saddened as she looked down, and looked particularly at Fluttershy who just remained silent, keeping out of the conversation, then back at Applejack with a reaffirmed and serious look. "It's just, maybe we're thinking too much. I mean come now, you know Twilight just as much as any of us! You know there's times when she overthinks things!"

Applejack raised a brow, almost amused but with a straight face. "You're one ta talk sugarcube."

Rarity rolled her eyes, groaning. "Well that's not the point! All I'm saying is that, it's just...I mean, you saw Cheerilee, you heard what she said Applejack! We all saw that dracooo-whateveritis! When it first came here, it was absolutely harmless! Cheerilee obviously was quite passionate in its defense, even went as far as to claim it was her daughter for pony's sake." She shook her head almost in disbelief and shock, closing her eyes and raising a hoof. "I mean, I would never have guessed back then anypony could grow so attached to what appeared to be another Discord. And wasn't one of the biggest points in Twilight coming here, was learning that not all answers could be found in books?"

Applejack just sighed, and kept trotting. "Ya heard Twi to Rarity, and she told us how manipulative that draconequus was. Remember what she did to Apple Bloom and Spike? Is that something a harmless creature does? And ya saw what she did with that whole Nightmare Moon fiasco as well, I know ya want to look on the bright side of things sugarcube but, it just doesn't add up when you're considerin Eve bein all rainbows and sunshine, just don't make any sense."

They just continued to trot as at that point, Fluttershy suddenly cut into the conversation.

"She was no monster..." The mare looked as if she were about to sob, as she had her eyes closed and her expression looked pained, unable to hold herself back any longer. "I...I know I saved her, I know I hid that from all of you, and I know I shouldn't have, and I'm sorry...I'm so sorry, but I, I-"

Cheerilee was sitting concentrated in her own home, flipping through the pages of a familiar book. A certain recounting, a collaboration between Princess Celestia and the famed wizard, Starswirl the Bearded. She flipped through the pages one by one, her eyes scrolling over the text quickly, followed by another page turn.

I saw it to. I can't explain how, but I just know that deep down inside, we were wrong. It wasn't right, none of it was right, she was scared, she was sad, I saw it, there was no way she could've been as mean as Twilight said.

Spike was currently looking at a picture of him and Twilight sitting beside one another on a starry night in the fields right outside Ponyville, as he also recalled the draconequus he'd only encountered for a brief moment. He recalled the fear in her eyes during their encounter, and although he couldn't deny she attacked, he also couldn't deny his feelings of regret revolving around the situation.

And even now, I can't say I would take back what I did, but I'm still so sorry. I only wish things were different, I only wish we could've just found a way to all be happy by the end of this, I just, I just didn't want the poor baby to be hurt anymore.

And Rarity and Applejack, even Pinkie, looked almost speechless due to Fluttershy suddenly stating her opinion. Their own expressions worsened afterwords, as they all just stood there on the beaten dirt path towards Golden Oaks, lost in their own thoughts. But unaware of it, they were all thinking of quite similar things. Rarity, of her own family, of Sweetie Belle, while Applejack of Apple Bloom and Big Macintosh, Granny Smith, her entire family, and Pinkie Pie of her own two sisters, and her mother and father who still resided at their rock farm.

How far would anypony go to keep their loved ones close?

Princess Luna referred back to the image of the island. "We will be consisting of three main squads, the majority of you, will be lead by the one and only." And with a clap of her hooves, suddenly entering into the room from behind the crowd, would be a group of familiar celebrities, but very talented specialists as well, dawned in blue flight uniforms. It was none other than the talented fliers themselves. "Wonderbolts."

Rainbow practically burst from her hooves, as she'd gasped, screaming at the top of her lungs. "AAAAAAAAAH!!!! The Wonderbolts!? AWESOME AWESOME AWESOME! THIS IS SO AWESOOOOOME!!!!" And with a mighty flap of her wings she made her way swiftly over to Spitfire, Soarin, and the other members, practically bouncing on her hind legs as she trembled anxiously, just relishing in their very presence, waiting for them to say something.

Spitfire smiled as she raised a brow at the familiar rainbow maned pony. "Hey Rainbow Dash, nice to see you again. You always seem to turn up at the most interesting times, you a part of this operation to?"

Rainbow cheered, raising her forehooves to the air. "PSH! NOW I AM!"

Princess Luna smiled, as if she'd known that would happen. "I'm happy to see that you're more than willing to oblige Rainbow, we could use your speed as well in surveying the island, we'll need the fastest pegasi we can get to ensure the target is apprehended as quickly as possible, especially depending on the amount of time my spell will affect her, which is unknown." She then continued, referring to a point A on the island's image, which had the Icecream Mountains encircled. "The Wonderbolts team will be in charge of not only scouting the outskirts of the island, but the main castle as well. We doubt the target will be situated there due to it being a place of royalty, but, we must take in all possibilities." She then looked to Rift and Havoc who stood towards the back. "Rift, you shall be assisting me, I know fairly well of your abilities."

Rift raised a brow with her arms crossed, a little puzzled. "Eh?"

Havoc spoke to her softly, "Remember Rift, this is their castle, not that hard to grasp they know what's going on inside."

Rift closed her eyes, shrugging. "Ah, right."

Princess Luna continued, "While I enclose the island from above, you shall be our eyes, I may inform the others of our overall progress through spells of the dream. With your talents, I'm sure we'll pull this off flawlessly." She smirked as she nodded to the draconequus pair.

Rift just kept that same expression, "Thank you Princess, your compliments honor me."

Princess Luna then looked to Twilight Sparkle, "Twilight Sparkle, you, Havoc, and a fair amount of the guard shall be scouting the small settlements spread about the island. I cannot stress to the two of you just how important this part of the operation is. Unlike the Wonderbolts, you will be scouting through where we believe our target may be hiding, it will be your job to ensure that every nook and cranny is searched, you must be absolutely certain she is nowhere to be found, only then will we be able to abandon our mission and return to Canterlot. I would send the fastest through these areas, but from our drop point, and the mysterious weather conditions of the island, the castle will be quite some distance away, and we musn't miss our chance, for we may only get one depending on our luck."

Princess Twilight nodded firmly, "Of course Princess Luna! You can count on us."

Princess Luna nodded, "Overall everypony, if our target is captured, we will regroup at the most centerpoint of the island, which appears to be a forest of candy canes, another reason we believe our target has chosen this as her home location, if one neglects the rumors regarding the target's whereabouts as well." She then looked to Princess Celestia, "Sister, I'm happy you have chosen to stay behind on this mission, I'm well aware your involvement would have been far too risky, worry not, for we are more than enough to put an end to this, please have faith."

Princess Celestia's eyes saddened as she nodded to her sister firmly. "Please, just be careful Luna, and please take care of Twilight and the others. If anything goes wrong, anything at all, I want you to take everypony and order a hasty retreat, don't do anything more than you have to, and don't forget who we're dealing with here. Eve may just be a child, but she is highly dangerous, I must stay here in Canterlot to ensure at least one of us is present, but I trust you can handle this just as well by yourself. Whatever happens, we will be with you every step of the way, and we will be watching."

Princess Luna closed her eyes, giving her sister a reaffirming smile. "Worry not sister, we will succeed. I'll bring an end to the burdens that trouble you, and by the time I return, we'll have Eve in custody. You just relax."

Princess Celestia sighed, "You just be careful, please Luna."

Princess Luna chuckled, "I shall sister, don't worry too much." She looked back to the gathered ponies in the room. "Now, return to your quarters until nightfall everypony, you'll require much needed rest to ensure everything goes off as planned."

Many ponies responded with silent salutes, just turning and making their way out of the meeting quarters.

Havoc and Rift kept their whispers to one another, as they to left with everypony else.

Rainbow Dash however, bouncing with every step stayed close to The Wonderbolts, practically stalking Spitfire as the lead Wonderbolt could only wear an amused smile as she trotted out of the room herself.

Twilight Sparkle, although a little frustrated due to Princess Celestia's earlier interruption, which was common to her at this point, also couldn't help but smile due to the feeling of the coming end. She smirked, watching Rainbow Dash leave the room, as she began making her way out herself, and Princess Celestia as well as Luna watched her from behind, both with contemplative looks. Twilight Sparkle didn't mind though, because now it was definite, they were close, Eve would soon be apprehended, she'd soon be their prisoner again, and soon, everything would be back to normal. Just you wait Eve, soon you'll be forced to answer for the crimes you've committed, soon everypony will see that in the end, no matter how strong, how manipulative, how heartless you are, alone, it's never enough to prevail over the power of friendship. You won't break me, I won't let you, and once you see are resolve, then you'll realize, just how wrong you are, and maybe, just maybe, you might learn something from all this, maybe even you can understand just how many ponies you've hurt, I hope so. Either way, we're bringing this to an end, wait for me Eve, justice, is on its way.

In Candyland, Eve, although never letting her guard down, still didn't mind spending this day, a little more lenient than usual. It was sunset, and she'd been standing with her arms folded over a stone railing, located near her private gardens. The view was gorgeous to say the least, allowing one to gaze across the distant rolling mountains, the forests of candy and rivers of chocolate, and down below, she could hear the festivities of her kingdom's events going on. So much progress had been made since the beginning, and she couldn't deny a sense of pride swelled within her due to the fact she'd created it all, although the creation process had been costly, it was worth it. It was funny, unintentionally, while repaying her debt to the world, she'd managed to gain things she'd been looking for her entire life. She took a moment to relish in the thought, in this comfort, she looked up towards the sky, "Isn't it nice Ms.Moon?"

Nightmare Moon scoffed, "Hah, how dull. Why don't you actually go down and do something interesting, instead of standing here staring at nothing, you really have the most boring interests for a child."

Eve frowned, "You're always so grumpy, don't you like the view Ms.Moon?"

Nightmare Moon groaned heavily, "I said don't call me that! And no, no I don't!"

Eve snickered raising a claw, wiggling it, "Well, I'm sure it's better than what you're used to, and if I can't call you Ms.Moon, then what am I supposed to call you?" She shrugged, looking clueless, "Moon, Night, Nighty Moony, Ms.Grump?"

Nightmare Moon snarled furiously, "Rrrrrrrrr! I am the infamous mare of the moon! Nightmare Moon! That is my name for a reason, use it! By Celestia if I could detach myself from your psyche this instant,..."

Eve's expression sunk as she leaned over the railing, kicking her hoof up some. "Don't say things like that."

Nightmare Moon paused, as her brow twitched. "What, did you just say to me?"

Eve looked off towards the distant mountains once again, with an almost solemn look, lost in thought. "Sorry, I'm not trying to order you Nightmare Moon." She chuckled, "It's just we're living in a peaceful time right now. I know you don't like me, but, it's almost your favorite time isn't it?." She smirked a little, crossing her arms while looking down towards the festive streets and glowing lanterns. "We probably won't be together that much longer anyway, so let's just try to enjoy this." She paused looking serious for a moment, "Let's try to enjoy this one night."

Chapter 3: Consequences


CHAPTER 3: CONSEQUENCES

Nightmare Moon sat within her realm, her stone throne worn and cracked, looking as if it would crumble over at any moment. She was bored, so very bored, nothing in her own realm entertained her in such days. She would just remain idle in her own quiet fury, wallowing in her failed attempt at taking over Equestria. The memories burned her mind, scorched her very soul at the thought of how she'd been so humiliatingly defeated by Twilight Sparkle; a mare not even a fraction of her age, with a simple teleportation spell no less! And just when she got the perfect chance for revenge, here comes a little creature willing to ruin her attempts for nothing, only losing her consciousness, her only connection to the living world in the process. Nightmare Moon was not amused, nor did she pity the pathetic creature, it paid the consequences for its actions.

Or had it?

Nightmare Moon saw everything within her realm, like a god overlooking its entire world with ease. But there was never anything interesting to look at usually. Ponies had nightmares yes, but not even she could influence them as much these days, not with Luna up and about at least. So all she had were the manifestations of the nightmares themselves, here in her own realm. They were mindless creatures, beasts, that didn't know what to do with themselves majority of the time besides fight one another. Then there were the darker individuals, ones who'd been personally created by their dreamers, and their sole purpose being their creators; they kept to themselves, in the darkest corners of this place. Still, ultimately, this realm held nothing of interest, nothing but a land of savagery and twisted doppelgangers waiting for days that never came. It was almost depressing even to Nightmare Moon herself.

But in recent times however, there was still that persistent little creature. How come it hadn't been killed off entirely yet? Its soul should've been consumed long ago. Yet somehow it still drifted through her lands, she'd never have expected it to make it far, yet it had. She hated to admit the idea of being impressed, but she couldn't deny that she was ever so slightly. She just sat upon her throne, a bored look on her face as she'd raised her brow, looking ahead in her barren empty throne room, almost as if whatever she was looking at was on display in front of her at the moment. No, there was nothing but her within her broken palace, but she was very much watching an entire scene take place.

It was far-off from her castle, a couple of miles, towards a land of toppled ruins and a bottomless lake of black water. Broken towers and submerged houses strewn about the area. it was almost as if the lake were once the location of an entire city or fortress, and somehow that settlement had crumbled and sunk deep into the black depths. Nightmare Moon closed her eyes halfway as she sighed, "Do you truly expect to make it here, foolish little soul?"

At the lake, sitting within the second level of one of the numerous broken towers, was the baby draconequus. For obvious reasons, she looked transparent, almost like a ghost; in this realm, she had no real body. She was spiritual, wandering in a place ones like herself often didn't see. It wasn't often anything other than a creature from actual nightmares had arrived in this realm, the once living, beings who'd once possessed actual bodies of their own, weren't meant to tread in these lands. This world was practically the accumulation of all the ill will in existence, the place where bad dreams & memories were dumped. I guess one could say the little creature did fit in somewhat, seeing as she looked like something that'd come from a nightmare. With such a twisted appearance, it wouldn't be surprising if some manifestations actually ignored her.

The baby draconequus just sat upon the dusty stone floor, and it was fascinating; although she was astral, although she was spiritual, much like every other creature here, she could touch and feel things as if she were solid. She was currently leaned over, sketching something on the ground with a rock, lines of gray outlining her drawings. She didn't really know what she was drawing, she didn't even know how she'd come to arrive in this place. It was all so strange to her, she felt as if she were incomplete, as if a big piece of her life were missing, and she couldn't make any sense of it.

All she could remember was she'd woken up here, depressingly enough she still had a pretty good idea around the aspects of death, which she'd assumed what'd happened. She was dead, and in the afterlife most likely. She kept her head covered in a tattered gray banner, she'd been here long enough to already know the importance of blending in with the environment. Something that she found peculiar, and that same something which'd irked Nightmare Moon, was her survival capabilities.

Nightmare Moon couldn't pertain whether it was just stupid luck, or she actually knew how to survive even in such impossibly hazardous terrain. Who exactly was this draconequus? Nightmare Moon could only wonder, and she told herself she wasn't interested in finding out,  that this draconequus didn't deserve the honor of seeing her a second time. But she also didn't expect the draconequus to survive this long, especially without her powers. She had to give her some credit though, this was the same creature that Twilight Sparkle was so desperate to be rid of that she'd bucked her off her only means of escape, which meant she must've been quite a threat in her previous life, and she was certainly proving to be such. Even now, Nightmare Moon couldn't help but feel a little amused in the creature's plan. She knew it, the creature was on her way to her very palace, her empty hollow castle; for safety reasons. This creature had already journeyed so far just to make it here, Nightmare Moon couldn't deny her castle certainly looked like the most secure area in this entire realm.

It was almost insulting how far the little creature had made it, funny.

The baby draconequus was drawing pictures of books, school materials in particular, poorly sketched desks, and even ponies. She looked at each of them, with a blank and clueless expression, she wanted to make sense of these things, but she just couldn't. She felt as if she should be able to, but nothing ever came to mind. She just sulked as she'd looked angry, frustrated, tossing the rock at the stone wall with a groan, as it bounced and tumbled out and over the edge, into the black abyssal lake. She wasn't cold, but for safety precautions she'd wrapped herself around in the gray banner, hiding herself completely. At least she could get a moments peace, for now.

Outside the towers, one could see large grotesque tentacles flailing about wildly at the far edges, one eyed canines tearing at each other hungrily as some were dragged into the dark seas if they'd drifted too close towards one of the slithery tentacles. In the distance further behind them, were mountains of blue flame, followed by beaten trails of purple stones, paths paved at the sides with broken bones. The wastes of the land was home to many assortment of creatures, wandering aimlessly, lacking any destination unlike the small creature who felt that was her only motivation. As the inhabitants of the nightmare continued to fight, killing one another, crying out in pain and roaring with ferocity, while others laughed and some sobbed, the baby draconequus covered her ears, attempting to block out all the faintly disturbing ambiance. She'd looked frustrated by the noise, but as she just laid on her side staring at nothing, her expression sunk, and she just turned to the opposite side. Although sleeping here was pointless, she found comfort in keeping her eyes closed.

As if denying the existence of the world around her, she remained in that position, silent and still.

"Loyal subjects! Tonight, we shalt bring an end to the nightmare!" Princess Luna raised a hoof in the form of a cheering gesture, speaking in her royal canterlot voice. She spoke with fierce determination, as spread about on the opposite side of the room would be four dark portals. Rifts in the very dimension they were standing in, complex magic in the category of time, and nearly impossible to achieve. The draconequus Rift, awaited beside them with her arms crossed. Princess Luna glanced over the entire guard, everypony all lined up and ready to go. She took notice of Rainbow Dash as well, who'd been standing in a stationary position with a military baring beside the Wonderbolts. It brought a smile to the alicorn's face as she smirked, continuing. "Tonight, we shalt mark the end of yet another dark chapter of our lives my loyal subjects. Tonight shalt be a night to remember, it will be the night we show the world the pony resolve, and our tenacity to protect and ensure the safety, the overall happiness, of our subjects! Tonight, we bring back with us, closure!"

The ponies each cheered at that moment, stomping their hooves in confident roars.

Princess Celestia made her way beside Princess Luna, ensuring to keep her voice down. "Sister, why must you feel the need to give such a speech? You know how I feel about this, must you make matters worse?"

Princess Luna frowned, whispering back, "Oh quiet now big sister, I won't let this Eve tarnish your reputation, whether you like it or not. You have spent countless ages protecting these lands, raising the sun for everypony to bask in its warmth and radiance, doing whatever you could to ensure harmony would be everlasting. Do you really expect me to let you throw yourself away for some creature who'd passed up a chance to protect these lands just like you have? Eve made her choice, and now she shall pay the consequences for her actions. I pity her yes, but rules are instilled for a reason, she broke those rules, attacked our home, and for what? She is now on the run." Princess Luna smiled, "But not for much longer, I assure you. Worry not sister, we shalt retrieve her alive for you, but just this once, allow me to protect you also."

Princess Celestia's expression sunk as she looked down with regretful eyes.

Princess Luna scanned the room, "Wheeeere has Twilight Sparkle gone off to?"

Twilight Sparkle was outside of the castle, going down her own personal trip of memory lane. Re-instilling the sense of conviction she had within herself, convincing herself that these crimes couldn't go unanswered for. She was accompanied by some of her personal guard, trained ponies from the country of Magistrum. It was really fortunate of their leaders to lend them such dedicated soldiers, especially one of Twilight's personal escorts, and another's recommendation, one known as Captain Noteworthy. His coat was a pale yellow shade, like the grains of sand from that of Saddle Arabia, as his mane almost mimicked Twilight's in the sense it had two completely different colors, parted, them a dark shade of blue and yellow, while his tail was a possessed an extra, lighter shade of blue. He stood next to Princess Twilight as she'd just continued to sit, looking up towards the destroyed buildings which were still under reconstruction. Her eyes saddened.

The rest of the guard of Magistrum remained silent, as did Captain Noteworthy.

The area looked abandoned, the only individuals being Twilight and her guard, it was almost foreboding how silent it was. Before the attack on Canterlot, this area used to be bustling with such life, an area no different from any other, one that'd consisted of stores, homes, adults and children, but now it'd been reduced to this. Only a place which reminded ponies of tragic memories, unsuspecting ponies who'd been attacked in their homes, ones who'd most likely never forget the horror they'd witnessed that day. The horror that was still out there, unpunished. "This isn't the way Equestria is supposed to be."

Captain Noteworthy raised a brow at Princess Twilight, "These times will pass Princess Twilight, don't lose faith."

Princess Twilight nodded, closing her eyes before looking back towards Captain Noteworthy. "I assure you Captain, that's the exact opposite of what I'm doing. I do have faith, and I know deep down inside, that tonight, we'll succeed. I can't thank the country of Magistrum enough for their support." She turned, smiling at the Captain, "I grew up only hearing stories of your home, Princess Celestia always gave me hint to how big the world truly was, how many possibilities were out there, Magistrum only being one of them. It's good to know that there are friends outside these borders, rather than monsters." She looked to the lower left, "Monsters like Eve." Twilight's expression only got worse, her angry steadily boiling within her, rising. "Ever since she came into our lives, things have become so conflicting, so confusing, so disastrous."

Captain Noteworthy then looked up towards one of the toppled buildings himself, lost in his own thoughts regarding the situation. It was as Princess Twilight said, the world was huge, and it did hold so many possibilities. It was only natural one couldn't find themselves caring about every single little thing, and every individual who'd had bad things happen to them. Even now, although he didn't want to admit it, Captain Noteworthy found this situation a little distracting from his own personal concerns, but he certainly admired Princess Twilight's resolve in protecting her home;it reminded him of himself.

But Magistrum had its own problems, and if he hadn't heard of a certain individual having been attacked, one he cared about greatly, by this Eve, then he'd have been home dealing with those issues. But there was somepony here he couldn't let go of, not even with his steadfast dedication to the rulers of Magistrum, there was one pony to him, that rose above all the rest. Though, that was a story for another time, for the world being as big as it was, there was a time for every story, and now was not the time for his. He looked back towards Princess Twilight, ensuring her she had his full attention.

But he'd sure as hay ensure this Eve didn't get a chance at attacking the one he'd cared about most a second time.

Twilight sighed tiredly, "I wonder if this will follow me me forever sometimes. You'd think after dealing with these sort of things for so long, they'd get any easier, at least, I thought they would." Princess Twilight raised her hoof, looking down at it questioningly. "My friends and I, we defeated the infamous Mare of the Moon. We prevented Equestria from falling into disharmony from the embodiment of chaos himself. We helped push back the changelings during their invasion of Canterlot. We helped prevent the destruction of the Crystal Empire from the tyranny of King Sombra." She paused, as her face darkened. "Even I, journeyed across to an entirely different world, shortly after my coronation to retrieve my crown. Everything I've done, everywhere I've been, things would always go bad, but we always managed to pull through in the end. Then, this happened." She looked back up towards the destruction Eve had caused. "I failed, failed to protect my closest friends, the home I grew up in, and my subjects. I failed them all," she closed her eyes lowering her head. "Was I so wrong in wanting to just to keep everypony safe? It's funny, I tried so hard to keep everypony out of harm's way, and in the end this happened anyway."

She looked ahead, a fierce determination burning in her eyes. "Eve has shown me just how cruel this world can be, how heartless somepony can be when chasing after their own ideals. Eve could've gone about this in a different way, she could've attempted pursuing the gifts of friendship, instead she attacked my family, hurt those I cared most about. She's taught me that not everything can be solved through ordinary means, sometimes things will get tough beyond anything we've experienced, that sometimes we'll fail. She's taught me the true meaning of consequence, and maybe if I didn't expect her to just walk away the first time, trust that she'd understand the reasons why she couldn't come to Ponyville, then things could've been different. Now she's still out there," Twilight paused once again, her anger only becoming more definite. "But tonight, we'll teach her the definition of consequence as well. Tonight, she'll suffer just as much as we've suffered in dealing with her, of trying to reason with her. Tonight, with everything I've learned, with my friends by my side, I'll put an end to this nightmare; tonight, we'll show her the true power of harmony."

"Princess Twilight?"

Twilight's eyes widened, as she'd turned to look at the barer of that unfamiliar voice, as did some of her guard. What she saw was a little filly holding a bouquet of flowers, accompanied by a larger mare, which she'd assumed was a close family member? Maybe her mother. Twilight looked shocked for a second, before putting on a smile, and immediately trotting on over to the little filly, lowering her frame somewhat. "O-Oh, hello there little pony, y-yep, Princess Twilight, that's me. Eheh, uuuhm..." Twilight nervously began twirling her hoof around in circles on the concrete, a little embarrassed about introducing herself in such a manner. She then looked to both the older mare and the filly, "So, what're you two doing out here so late? You should probably head on home."

The little filly's eyes saddened as she shook her head, tightening her grip on the flowers. "N-No, it's okay. I didn't want to go to sleep tonight, I wanted to come pay my respects to my big brother."

Twilight's eyes widened, as she backed away some, "Y-Your brother?"

The filly nodded, "Mhm, Momma and I wanted to come out and pay respects our to him, he's gone now. He always wanted to be a part of the guard, Momma always told him it was too dangerous but he didn't listen, so now he's gone." She paused, as she made her way past Twilight, lowering the flowers onto the ground near the building. "They wouldn't let me look at him when they buried him, so I just wanted to come say goodbye one last time."

The mother surprisingly remained silent, as she looked the same as her daughter, in pain, distraught.

Twilight made her way over to the little filly once again, placing a hoof atop her head. "I'm...I'm so sorry to hear that, for the both of you. It breaks my heart to think you've had to go through such a thing. I also have a brother, he's busy with other duties now, but he used to be in the Canterlot Guard. If he hadn't gotten married, he probably would've been hurt to, so I have a very deep connection to those in the guard. You must be very upset little one, at the one who did this." Twilight lowered her head, looking the filly in the eyes with concern.

The little filly was silent for a moment, before glancing down at the ground, then back up at Twilight hesitantly. The little filly then shook her head, "I....I thought I would be, but, no...Not really."

Twilight's eyes then widened, as she looked dumbfounded, clueless. "W-What!?" She'd actually raised her voice and her frame angrily, as she peered down at the filly. "What do you mean you aren't upset!? That makes no sense! She hurt your brother, took away your family! That doesn't make any sense! Don't you care?"

The filly looked up at Princess Twilight wide eyed, before looking down solemnly once more. "I-I do care! But Big Brother always told me though that there might be a day when something like this happened, he told me the guard was a dangerous job, but he also told me that it was an honor to die in the service of protecting Princesses like you, in protecting everypony, in protecting us." She shook her head, "I'm sometimes scared that the monster will come back to get us, but, I just feel so confused after seeing the monster look so sad. I wish I could know why it did such mean things."

Twilight was speechless, what was this nonsense? This filly couldn't be serious.

The filly's mother then made her way next to her daughter, before rubbing the top of her head, a soft smile creeping onto her face before she herself looked to Princess Twilight in a caring demeanor. "Forgive us Princess Twilight, we,...we're not saying that we agree with what happened back then, we were furious at the time. I was so angry, I'd wanted to strangle that draconequus myself, to see her beg for mercy, to afflict the same pain to her that she'd afflicted on me, on my family,....but..." The mare's expression washed away momentarily, as she looked lost in remembrance. "Then we saw something..."

The baby draconequus stood in the Canterlot Courtyard, shortly after her frightening metamorphosis, her eyes fastened on the concrete, decorated with the blood of her enemies.

She'd paused, "I saw pain in those crimson eyes that night. Pain I felt I could never fully understand. I struggled with finding the answers, with understanding why I'd felt pity for a creature that'd done such horrible things. Who'd took my precious son away from me. But it wasn't long after that, we saw something else as well."

The baby draconequus walked, her cheek a pale purple color from a slap she'd just received from that puffy maned mare. She stopped however, looking towards the frightened crowd, as they all looked at her in fear. Even the mother and daughter, close to one another in a tight embrace as dirt and grime decorated their coats and they trembled, looking at the monster who'd attacked their home. Then they all saw something they never expected to see.

They all saw tears, definite tears coursing down the creature's face as she looked at each and every one of them. She looked hurt, pained, full of regret and shame, sorrow for what she'd done. It was only a fleeting moment, but it was all they needed, the creature spread her wings soon after, taking flight and disappearing off into the distant night sky with haste.

That fleeting moment, that one periodic stare, was enough to leave an imprint on their minds. An unforgettable memory.

The mare continued, "I saw a broken heart, sincerity. I saw one who'd obviously felt torn apart by what she'd done, many of us saw it that night. Although I won't say we all share the same opinion, I myself feel I can't judge this draconequus, not until I know for certain why she did what she did. I cannot bring myself to forgive her at this point, but I cannot bring myself to hate her either; as for my daughter, I guess it's only obvious just how much she takes after her mother." The mare chuckled, "Forgive us Princess, it's just-" She paused, glancing down once again. "After seeing such a thing, nothing seemed to make sense. That draconequus, it attacked our city, only to let us all go in the end? Only to shed tears and sob in her departure? Why would she do this?" The mare winced a bit as she kept her eyes fastened on the ground, "Unless there was some other reason. Something we don't know, that we don't understand. I only wish I could hear it from her myself...at least once." She looked down towards her own daughter, remaining silent, but finding some sense of comparison between the two. "Maybe it's just the fact I have a daughter that causes this old mare to reconsider so much hmhm..."

Twilight was furious, as she'd just stomped past the two angrily. "TCH!!!" She couldn't believe it! Now even her own subjects were considering these sorts of things!? Making her absently think about these sorts of things!? She was doing this for them, she was doing this for everypony! Has Eve truly twisted their way of thinking so much that they'd even forgive her for attacking their home!? Was she truly that appealing to them!? She was a monster! She'd attacked everypony! Attacked them all! She was wrong, wrong, wrong! And she herself wasn't wrong for leaving her in the realm of nightmares!

Twilight stopped. Her eyes wide.

Why did she suddenly drift back to that? Why did her mind suddenly draw back to the moment where she'd bucked Eve off, left her to perish in that realm? No! She wasn't wrong for doing that! She wasn't wrong! She couldn't harbor any feelings of doubt, she felt no doubt! No, she wouldn't let Eve get to her to. Twilight looked frustrated, her eyes saddened as she gritted her teeth angrily, before snapping, "Let's go!!" She then continued on her way back towards the castle.

The mother glanced back worriedly at the departing Princess Twilight before looking to Captain Noteworthy. "P-Please, forgive us, we didn't mean to offend the Princess, we were only saying what we felt."

Captain Noteworthy smiled at them before shaking his head. "It's fine ma'am, she just has quite a bit of pressure on her at the time being; please, after your done paying your respects, head on home for your own safety." He nodded before looking to the remaining guard who still hadn't gone with a smile, "Let's go everypony." Then along with the Captain, they all began trotting their way over to Princess Twilight, ensuring not to create too much distance with her.

Twilight practically snarled at this point, unable to let go of what those two had just said. Why, why, why, why was she apparently the only sane one amongst them!? Well, it made sense, they hadn't seen what she seen, what Eve had done since the moment her twisted little self had stepped into Ponyville. Since she'd threatened Spike and Apple Bloom, since she'd nearly trapped them all in the realm of nightmares with Nightmare Moon. They saw her at the Crystal Empire however, they saw her insanity, what she'd done! She attacked, threatened everypony alike! Yet here these two were, acting just as ignorant as Cheerilee. They were ponies living in denial, ponies still living in the pretty perfect world of happiness and endless harmony!

Well the world wasn't working in that way at this moment! It was a mean and nasty place! It was threatening to tear her apart from her friends, her loved ones, now even her own subjects! Eve was causing chaos even when she wasn't around apparently. Twilight couldn't take this anymore, she would put an end to this, she'd capture Eve, show the world the monster for what she was! Show them that they wouldn't be wrong in seeing her for the kidnapping, murdering, assaulting criminal she was! Twilight knew she was right. She, was, not, wrong! She didn't do something horrible that day, she didn't hurt an innocent child, she didn't tear that child from the only family she had left. She wasn't in the wrong.

Twilight's expression suddenly looked pained. She just couldn't have been wrong....

Then that would mean......No, she could feel it deep down within herself, she'd done what she had to...didn't she?

Princess Luna looked grumpy to say the least, "Twilight Sparkle! There you are, we've been waiting for you!"

As Twilight made it back to the departure room, it also being the same room they held the meeting in earlier, she'd looked surprised to see that everypony had been waiting for her. She sighed, to think out of all ponies they'd be waiting for her in the end, how could she let herself get distracted like that?

Twilight frowned some. "Forgive me Princess Luna, we ran into a small distraction along the way here."

Princess Luna sighed herself as she then looked back towards the portals, ready to depart. "It's fine, just don't let it happen again if the occasion were to ever occur. Now," She looked ahead towards the portals, as did everypony else. Everypony was ready, and as Twilight accompanied by her guards made her way over beside the draconequus Havoc, she looked over by Rainbow Dash and the Wonderbolts as Rainbow took notice of her glance and nodded back to her. Princess Luna continued, "Remember everypony! Have courage, have faith, and trust in one another, and know we cannot fail. Together we are strong, the enemy, no matter how powerful she is, does not understand the ideals that connect us here in Equestria. We will succeed! Swiftly, silently, effectively! She shall be caught off guard, this, is our moment, of triumph!" Princess Luna raised a hoof, as did the rest of the ponies in salute. "Now let us be off!" And with that, Princess Luna spread her wings, as she and Rift made their way into their portal, disappearing into the violet abyss from within.

Princess Celestia who stood towards the back with Discord, muttered. "Goodluck dear sister, please be careful."

Many of the other ponies followed in suit, proceeding into their portals.

The Wonderbolts fastened on their goggles, as Spitfire nudged Rainbow Dash. "Ready for this Rainbow Dash!?"

Rainbow gulped, in all honesty she wasn't. She was a nervous wreck, but she didn't let it show. Was this really all such a big deal, just to deal with one kid draconequus!? It was crazy. Rainbow could only wonder where the others were. It'd been nearly two days, yet they still weren't here! Well, she didn't give them enough credit, considering the fact her and Twilight had wings. Well, Fluttershy had wings also, but she also wasn't very motivated to come after that encounter with Twilight she could imagine. Nonetheless she fastened on a pair of goggles herself, nodding to Spitfire. "Y-Yea!"

She spread out her wings, mentally preparing herself. Then with a swift and powerful flap, Spitfire shot into their portal, as did Soarin and the rest of the flight-suited pegasi, alongside some guard pegasi. Rainbow sighed heavily as she spoke softly to herself, "Well, here we go...." She looked to Twilight, as Twilight looked back at her, then nodding simply, plainly, almost absently to the mare.

Rainbow looked ahead, flapping her wings and shooting straight into her portal as she disappeared along with the rest.

Twilight took one last look at Princess Celestia almost in annoyance, as if she felt betrayed.

Princess Celestia trotted towards the mare hesitantly, "Twilight please recon-"

Twilight looked ahead, proceeding towards her portal. "Let's go, we can't afford to waste another second." Then Twilight, utterly ignoring her teacher's words for the time being, proceeded into the portal. But she took a second to glance back at Princess Celestia with a piercing stare. Which sent a shiver down the sun alicorn's spine. Havoc didn't fail to notice Twilight's look either, as he raised a brow somewhat, before proceeding with Twilight into the portal, as did Captain Noteworthy, their rift closing behind them.

It felt so fleeting, one moment everypony was there, and now they were gone. Gone off to some distant land to apprehend one of the most dangerous criminals Equestria has ever seen.

Princess Celestia's eyes saddened as she quietly spoke beneath her breath. "Twilight..."

Discord with his arms crossed had actually looked at Celestia worriedly for a moment, then back ahead, lost in thought. He raised his paw, before muttering, "Well then, on with the show," and snapped.

Eve.

I guess one couldn't accurately describe Eve's reaction to the sudden happenings on her island, for it came absolutely out of nowhere. Swift, silent, unexpected, mysterious. Everything seemed to be going along perfectly, it'd been an ordinary night, one she'd made warm for her subjects through her powers, even with her new toll. It was as if one moment, the stars were displayed overhead, and in the next, a blue impenetrable mist started to spread high above the landscape, covering the very clouds and over; it was strange, and she just couldn't explain what she was feeling. It felt ominous, yet it looked beautiful; and unaware, she wasn't the only one who'd noticed it. She just looked up to the sky with wide observing eyes from within her garden, staring silently upward, as even Nightmare Moon seemed skeptical from within. "What is that?"

Nightmare Moon remained silent, observing from within her own realm with a raised brow.

Princess Luna remained stationary above the clouds, as she'd closed her eyes and spread her forehooves. "Let us all begin everypony, I shall relay any dire information any of you come across, I shall be your voice. Rift will also be able to assist us, she shall be our eyes, this is no game everypony, this is the real thing. Let's ensure they realize that."

Rift remained stationary beside Princess Luna, her arms crossed as she'd looked down towards the vast island. "Hmm..."

Mr.Talon and Ms.Prowl looked up from the throne room balcony as they were also silent. Citizens who walked in the streets, children who played, paused to take a moment to look skyward as they stopped and informed one another of the happening. Was it a rare weather condition, something that only came every once in awhile? Nopony could tell. Even the guards found themselves mesmerized by the beautiful sighting, as the mist only continued to spread, steadily reaching towards each end of the island.

Mr Komo and Ms Tusk took this moment to stop arguing as did the rest of the guard as they joined the rest of the island, looking up with fascination. Mr Sham, and Rex, who'd been patrolling through a more tropical area, also looked up. If one could take notice of every single individual on the island, one would see well over majority of them couldn't turn away from the mist, couldn't deny it's starry gloomy supernatural appearance. Not even the wild creatures that'd inhabited the land, the parasprites, the cockatrice, timberwolves, just what was going on? What could possibly create such a sighting?

Not even Eve.

Nightmare Moon however from within her realm, only continued to stare as she froze, coming to realize what exactly was happening on the island. "Eve!" She'd spoken hurriedly.

Eve raised a brow, a little thrown off by the fact Nightmare Moon had actually said her name in such a manner. She stuttered a bit as she looked a little frightened due to the tone of voice the mare had used. "Y-Yes? What's wrong?"

Nightmare Moon rose to all fours from within her realm, "This is a lunar spell!"

Eve was silent as she looked down towards her flowers, listening intently to the mare's words.

"There is only one mare I know capable of performing one such as this, this is no lights show child!" There was only one capable of this, but that'd mean Eve was right, that'd mean they really hadn't forgotten what the draconequus had done? What had she'd done that'd compel Luna herself to jump into the frey in such a manner, to use such a massive spell on an entire colony of creatures? Was this girl really such a threat? "The only one I know of that could succeed with such a spell is, myself."

A look of shock came over the baby draconequus as the realization was only more definite, "P-Princess Luna? Then the equestrians are..they're-" she paused as her heart raced, that would mean they had finally arrived.

Nightmare Moon snapped, "What're you just sitting there for!? Run stupid girl! Once its engulfed this land whole, there'll be nowhere for you to go without her taking notice of your position! And I'm fairly certain she didn't come alone!" The mare stomped a hoof, "Up, now, this instant! Up up up!" Whatever was happening, Princess Luna wasn't playing any games, that much was obvious, she was meaning to put the whole island in a possibly permanent sleep with such a spell! They were practically assaulting an entirely different land for the sake of one enemy? Were they insane!? This wasn't Luna nor Celestia's style, only a criminal of banishment level or higher could compel them to do such a thing.

Eve rose to feet hurriedly, "O-Okay!" They'd talked about this day, she knew this day would be coming eventually, but now that it was actually here, it all felt so overwhelming. It was time for her to say goodbye to everything she'd created, it was now time for her to go, and there would be no time for sentimental farewells. At this moment, she thought back to the letter that she'd left in her drawer. Her eyes saddened, as Nightmare Moon cut into her thoughts.

"They will find it! Now stop dawdling and get moving!" Nightmare Moon didn't even notice her own sudden rise in emotion, what were these feelings coursing through her? Yet she felt she couldn't deny them, not one bit. Her eyes never left the view of the blue mist, spreading over the landscape, its progress only rapidly increasing. The moment caused her to think back to the strange draconequus who'd entered her realm, a moment that felt like so long ago. That creature, one who'd humored her with her own defeat, her soul left to perish in the realm of nightmares. She didn't care for the foolish creature, she was an idiot and a fool, one who'd deserved what she got for aiding the mane six.

She was only a sliver of entertainment in this black torturous eternity she'd been forced to dwell in, that was it, yet now here she was, actually attempting to aid in her escape, warning her. Nightmare Moon wanted to think on it, to define these feelings she had within herself but she couldn't now wasn't the time. Why did she even care about this draconequus's well being? She felt pathetic, just cause this creature decided to keep her company, meant she now felt compelled to help her? What sort of reasoning was that, she wasn't a weak lonely mare, she was Nightmare Moon! Yet, still....

I'm a prisoner in my own ways Ms Moon, just like you.

Eve left her private gardens hurriedly as she stood on a upper level of her castle, but at that moment a blue flash of light had shot across the entire landscape in an instant, and it was no ordinary flash. Another indescribable feeling, one that'd come out of nowhere, her eyes felt heavy as she fell to one knee, getting dizzy. She felt the weight crushing down on her as she wanted to do nothing more than to sleep in that moment, so this really was happening. How clever of them, to have attacked during such a time, if Princess Luna was here, did that mean Twilight Sparkle was as well? Did they already know where she was? Was she already surrounded? Destiny would be the answer to that. Eve raised her claw as she'd snapped  her sharp fingers, but to no avail as she felt herself slouching over, wanting to curl into a ball and drift off. But out of nowhere, her eyes had snapped wide as she felt renewed with energy once again, awake, unable to sleep.

Nightmare Moon snapped again, "THERE, NOW GO!!!"

Eve nodded plainly as she'd raised her cowl, and snapped her claw, her crystal candy cane appearing strapped to her back as she'd hurried towards the castle door, "Will the others be alright?"

Nightmare Moon placed a hoof over her face, "Yes! But now's not the time to be worrying about others."

Mr Talon and Ms Prowl laid back to back, unconscious, as did many of the citizens in the streets, face down on the concrete.

Nightmare Moon continued, "Worry about yourself!"

Eve had actually looked somewhat worried, frightened, for all her powers why did this all still seem so overwhelming, so paralyzing. Her fears would only be more confirmed as she'd looked to the sky to see it was now fully covered in blue mist, only in a matter of seconds was it able to stretch so far and spread so fast, this was Princess Luna they were dealing with of course. They must've taken in the possibility that more physically harmful spells would do no good, but like at the Crystal Empire, sleeper spells tended to have a more productive effect. And suddenly, something even more frightening had made its appearance overhead in the sky, actually, multiple ones. Which sent a shiver down the baby draconequus's spine, causing her to feel stuck, frozen in place. A multitude of yellow serpent's eyes, wide and all seeing, appeared all over the skies, followed by a feminine voice, which Eve couldn't recognize.

Phase 1 complete, all inhabitants neutralized.

Eve blinked, what was this? "N-Nightmare?.....Is this Luna as well?"

Nightmare Moon felt the pressure rising, as she snarled angrily. Why did she feel so furious, so angry, what were these own fears she had? Everything was happening so fast, even the things she never even knew she had, these strange emotions. She shook her head, her expression worsening with dread, "No...."

Phase 2 initiated. Group 1, rapidly closing in on their destination.

The eyes shifted, scanning over the island observantly, searchingly. The sky now an impenetrable deep blue, as if they were trapped in an entirely different realm of their own. These eyes, as if they belonged to some all knowing god, a god looking for something, and Eve knew exactly who it was that they were looking for, the answer was only obvious.

Group 2, in position, moving to their destination.

They certainly were making it interesting. Eve expression saddened, she didn't know why she felt sad, this was to be expected of course, she'd attacked the perfect society. Her punishment was only fitting, the least she could do was face the coming end with some courage, so she put on a determined expression, as she made way for the castle. Phasing through the wooden doors on her level, and breaking off into a sprint. Nightmare, is there any vulnerabilities in this spell? Is there a way out?

Nightmare Moon squinted a bit, noticing Eve was making her way through the now darkened halls of her castle. Her hoof and clawed foot trekking upon the tiled marble floors, as she turned hallways, "The spell begins from the center point, from both the top and bottom, meaning it will start at one of the highest points in the sky, and one of the deepest points in the ocean, beneath the island itself. It works its way around, until the target location is encased entirely in a sphere of lunar mist, your time is certainly limited child. If Luna remains stationary, she shall have no trouble preparing the entire area." Her expression sunk some.

Eve, although attempting to catch her breath a little, chuckled.

Nightmare Moon winced, "Now's not the time to be giggling! What're you doing!?"

Eve smiled, "I'm sorry, I'm just happy we're actually not fighting or arguing."

CRASH!

And suddenly bursting through a window would be a lone figure, a goggled pony as his lenses were glowing a bright yellow color, a light to penetrate the darkness. He looked in Eve's direction as his blue jumpsuit masked his expression, he just stood there, staring at Eve for a moment in silence. As the draconequus looked at him with a piercing stare of her own, her face expressing nothing in itself, as she slowly unsheathed her crystal candy cane.

The pony then raised a hoof to his head, "P-Princess! The target is awake! I repeat, the target is awake!"

The baby draconequus lunged at the lone figure, swinging her candy cane and not to the pony's surprise, the force of the blow to his face was effective to say the least, knocking him out instantly. Eve raised her candy cane, revealing that in a mere instant she'd manifested a large jolly rancher at the end, having manipulated the gravitational force of her weapon, and the weight of her candy cane itself increasing the overall damage of the blow. The pony slouched down lifelessly as she just looked at him, that familiar equestrian crest marked upon his suit. She just stared solemnly at the crest in silence.

Nightmare Moon snapped once again, "You can't waste anymore time!"

Eve now spoke plainly, clenching her candy cane. "It appears they didn't count on me being awake, but, there is no escape for me anyhow. Can't you hear them Nightmare? And now they know where I am." She got in a defensive stance, raising her candy cane in front of her torso as she just stood in the hallway. "The ponies know what I'm capable of, even if I were to attempt to make it to the opening of the island Nightmare Moon, those eyes will find me." She smiled softly to herself, "Those are the hoofsteps of determination."

And suddenly appearing at the end of the hallway would be even more guards, wearing goggles as they'd caught sight of the draconequus.

Eve winced at the group of them before frowning some. If I have to run, then I'll have to defend myself as well. As I always have.

A mass proportion of guards all flew and shot backwards, their bodies flying about the halls as they'd each groaned upon the cold marble floor, some male, some female, saying nothing ultimately, motionless.

Eve made her way past them slowly, scanning every new area she stepped into intently. Just how many guards had they brought with them? Probably enough to topple an army she could imagine. I will make my way towards the fields, perhaps if I stop Princess Luna, this spell will end. She turned making her way into the the banquet room, at the opposite end seeing an open door which lead to another hallway, as well as the large wooden table still with all sorts of food spread about the top. Eve's eyes widened a bit as suddenly appearing at the opposite doorway would be more guards, eyes locking onto her almost immediately as they shouted.

"Target sighted! We only have to distract her a little while longer everypony!" And without hesitation, they lunged their spears towards the draconequus, as Eve reacted absently, the wooden table rising with powerful telekinetic magic and blocking her path as well as the spears. She then tossed the table straight towards the masked guards as she leaped upward, her candy cane attaching to the ceiling as she phased onto the upper level of that floor.

It looks like they've got the entire castle filled at this point. She was now in another hallway as she'd noticed a window at the far end, she broke off into a sprint towards it.

Nightmare Moon just continued to look up with a worried look. "Eve, think about what it is you're doing! You're willingly going up against my former self, I don't care how powerful you think you are! Luna is not one to fall for the same tricks twice. You're being idiotic, don't do this! You may still be able to escape if you just have a little more faith stupid girl!"

Eve lowered her head, just attempting to make idle conversation as she raced for the window. "Tell me, Nightmare Moon, is it lonely where you are? Will you be alright?" She'd looked worried, "Maybe, even in this short window of time, I can manage something for you, maybe there's still a chance."

Nightmare Moon's expression worsened once more as she shook her head. "Stop worrying about things that don't matter! THAT, is your biggest fault! Don't you realize what's at stake here? For once, stop making idiotic decisions! How does one like you manage to end up in these sort of situations!? I'll tell you why, because that sincerity, that childish behavior, it's your own downfall! It shall be the death of you! To invade my realm, and actually stay to save that blasted Twilight Sparkle and her friends!? What did it get you, tell me! What was the point of making such a decision!?" She snarled.

Eve cut in, preparing to leap, "Well, I met you all." She then leaped through the window, phasing through the glass itself as she'd immediately manifested a large graham cracker beneath her feet, propelling into a spin and breaking off into an air surf as she'd lowered her frame somewhat, balancing herself. "A lot of bad things happened, but, it's as if for every bad thing that's happened." At that moment, many individuals flashed through her mind, so many precious memories as she made her way through the misty blue skies. "At least something came of it."

Lema Lime, Zecora, Fluttershy, Kelax, Trixie, Talon, Prowl, Nightmare Moon,.....Cheerilee.

She smiled. "My life wasn't so bad I guess."

Appearing behind her, at both her sides would be two ponies, wearing blue flight suits in similarity to the guards, but these two seemed different. Eve looked up, noticing a large yellow eye was locked onto her.

So,....This is what you look like, Eve.

She glanced back at the two individuals following her with suspicion.

One of the pursuing pegasi nodded to the other, "Soarin, she's making her way straight towards Rainbow's position. Looks like lucks on our side, the priority is the Princess's orders."

Soarin nodded to Spitfire, "Rainbow's more than ready Spitfire! Let's just not ruin this chance!"

Eve continued to surge forward on her graham cracker, before diving, straight into a candy cane forest.

Spitfire and Soarin followed in their pursuit, as even more flight suited ponies joined them.

Eve maneuvered through the trees with precision, dodging each and every candy cane that came in front of her, and phasing through every other one that she couldn't dodge. Blood trickled from her lips as she coughed a little, breathing heavily as she glanced back at her pursuers, which to her surprise, were just as skilled at flying. Were they professionals? They were pegasi after all. Eve was heading towards the more open fields, the ones she'd retreated to for privacy, if Nightmare Moon was correct, it would be the most likely place Luna would use for her center-point as well. As Eve made her way through the candy cane forests, she then rose upward once again, heading back into the clouds. "Okay, I'm close."

Nightmare Moon just watched intently from within her realm.

Suddenly Spitfire smirked, "She's in position, let's go!"

Soarin nodded,  "Right behind ya Spitfire! Let's go everypony!"

And at that moment, the two surged forward, picking up their speed, showing their true potential as the fastest fliers in Equestria. Potential they'd purposely kept hidden from their draconequus target.

Spitfire yelled, "QUICK AND FAST SOARIN! WE ONLY GOT ONE SHOT AT THIS!"

Soarin yelled right back, "YOU DON'T HAVE TO TELL ME TWICE!"

Eve glanced back curiously, "What?"

Nightmare Moon looked just as puzzled as she raised her brow.

In that next instant, the two pegasi were at the draconequus's sides, then going into a spinning motion like that of a tornado, as the rest of the pegasi joined them in the unexpected process. A tornado of swirling sapphire and rings of fire, as they went at unparalleled speeds, even becoming indistinguishable in a moment as they'd continued their motions. The draconequus herself attempted to fly through them only to get knocked back and even flung from her graham cracker, being forced to move in motion with them as she'd been flailed forcibly through this makeshift tornado.

Had they intended to lead her here all along? Perhaps after finding out her whereabouts, she considered who exactly they had on their side, Princess Luna had a pretty large grasp on how her abilities worked, as did Princess Celestia and Twilight Sparkle, but where was Twilight Sparkle, had she decided to come as well? Eve couldn't really focus on her thoughts, seeing as she was being spun in circles, and upon them stopping was flung wildly across the skies as she'd stopped herself, dizzy and disoriented as she remained in place.

Eve covered her mouth, feeling as if she were about to hurl, before wheezing heavily, coughing. She remained there in the sky as she'd breathed heavily, "N-Not yet, you can still keep going." Suddenly, she heard the sound of shaking, as if the very island were going into a violent rhythm, but the air was shimmering as well. She'd looked left and right to confirm her suspicions, and to her surprise, she found that the two pegasi that were pursuing her were now nowhere to be seen. What was going on? But as she got a ominous feeling, she felt compelled to look upward as she remained there in the air, using her wings to keep herself aloft which she didn't prefer.

Further up in the sky, was something quite unfamiliar, she couldn't really pertain what it was from such a distance away, but it certainly wasn't Luna. Eve just looked up with wide eyes, her eyes never leaving the strange figure, which appeared to be a tiny light cerulean dot, which progressively got bigger. Eve continued to just look up towards that figure, which she made out to be a pony, one which she faintly recognized. "Huh?"

And as that figure only rapidly closed in on the draconequus's position. Soon, she disappeared with a crackling explosion, producing a magnificent rainbow ring as she'd done so, now becoming an unseen flash.

Eve just remained in place as she'd looked awestruck, then smiling fiercely, chuckling. "Wow hahaha!"

Nightmare Moon screamed, "EVE!!!"

Eve's fascination died down as she glanced down, listening. "Huh?"

The mare continued desperately, "DODGE IT!"

Eve looked up once again, as she didn't even have time to react to the sudden collision. Only for a moment seeing the rainbow maned mare, catching sight with her cerise eyes, and that fiercely determined expression, before she'd slammed into her with catastrophic force, sending one flying into the ground, creating a cloud of dirt and debris as the area rained down with mud. The collision having caused a break in the sound barrier, and as the cloud of dirt began to settle, clearing, it was revealed there was now a massive crater within those fields.

There was only silence as the rainbow maned mare was breathing heavily, now aloft in the spot the draconequus was once in, she kept her eyes focused on the crater below. "That was for all my friends you hurt."

A yellow eye focused on the crater as well.

Squad 1, successful. Squad 2, moving into position. Target's status-

And the baby draconequus was face down at the bottom of the crater, her cloak in tatters, and her candy cane shattered, as she hung over a large toppled pile of debris.

Unknown.

Chapter 4: Differences


CHAPTER 4: DIFFERENCES

"What're you drawing Scootaloo?" Apple Bloom inquired curiously as she peeked over the filly's shoulder.

Scootaloo was currently laying on a velvet carpeted floor, on her belly with the tip of her tongue sticking out as she scribbled upon a piece of paper. She remained silent for some time before looking back at Apple Bloom and Sweetie Belle in confusion, due to the fact they didn't recognize what was on the paper on sight. She raised a brow at them before looking back down towards the paper. "Only the coolest thing ever! You guys can't tell?" She looked a little offended.

Sweetie Belle and Apple Bloom looked to one another in equal puzzlement, before looking back over Scootaloo's shoulder and staring at her drawing; remaining silent as they did so.

Apple Bloom began tapping her lower lip with a hoof, before muttering, "Daaah,......R-Rainbow Dash..uhm..uuugh-"

Scootaloo's eyes widened before she glanced back at Apple Bloom grumpily again. "Rrrrrrrrrr......"

Apple Bloom raised her hooves in defense, "W-Wha!? I'm doin my best alright?"

Sweetie Belle bounced on her hooves, "Oh oh Rainbow Dash racing uhm...rainbows!?"

Scootaloo groaned as she grabbed the picture and held it up in front of their faces. "Really guys!? It's not that hard you know! Do I really stink that bad at drawing, if so you could just say it! I can't afford to show Rainbow Dash something that isn't top notch in her glory levels! She only deserves the best!" She crossed her forehooves.

Apple Bloom and Sweetie Belle rolled their eyes at one another, not surprised by Scootaloo's familiar obsession.

Sweetie Belle just sighed, "F-Fine, we don't recognize it. Will you just tell us what it is then?"

Scootaloo puckered her lower lip, before exclaiming in an irritated tone, "The Sonic Rainboom, duuuuuh!" She ran a hoof in a circular motion over her picture, outlining the poorly scribbled rainbow ring. "Only the most amazing thing in pony history!"

Apple Bloom squinted at the picture observantly, "Ooooh now I see it!"

Sweetie Belle squinted just as much before nodding in agreement, "Oh yea, me to, mmmmmmm..."

Scootaloo chuckled, "Yea guys, not even the Wonderbolts can pull off something as amazing as Rainbow Dash's Sonic Rainboom! One of these days, I'm going to get a front row seat to her greatest performance of the move. Apparently she goes sooooo fast, that she can break the sound barrier itself, not just anypony can just do that you know."

Sweetie Belle nodded before heading on over to the bathroom, "Speaking of Rainbow Dash, where is she?"

Apple Bloom cut in before climbing atop a couch near the corner of the room. "Yea I haven't seen her around, and I don't think she went with Applejack and Rarity to Canterlot."

Scootaloo went back to laying down and scribbling on her picture. "Actually; about that, why's everypony heading on over to Canterlot anyway?" Scootaloo raised a brow at Sweetie Belle, "I was surprised that Rarity just let us all stay here at the boutique all by ourselves anyway. Talk about Slumber Party privileges haha."

Sweetie Belle was washing over her face with running water before grabbing a towel and patting her face down. "I don't know, but it seemed like they were all in a pretty big hurry. I think it has something to do with Twilight, and of course she did Scootaloo! It's not like we're a bunch of babies! We can take care of ourselves every now and then!" She placed a hoof on her chest in their own defense, as if proclaiming they were all practically adults.

Apple Bloom's eyes shifted left and right questioningly before she spoke out. "Actually ya'll, I think I have a preeeetty good idea of what's going on."  She suddenly looked paranoid as she hopped from the couch, "B-But ya can't tell anypony else okay? Only reason I know is because I accidentally overheard Applejack and Rarity talking about it over by the farmhouse."

Suddenly the three fillies huddled up in the center room, as if they actually considered the possibility somepony was listening in on their conversation. Sweetie Belle and Scootaloo nodded to Apple Bloom in unison, before the little red headed filly continued with a gulp. "Y-Ya'll remember that scary creature that ponynapped me and Spike?"

Scootaloo's brow raised as she backed away a bit, a little more curious now. "Wait, you mean that little Discord that came and attacked the classroom? Yea I remember, what about her?"

Sweetie Belle trembled a bit, "J-Jeez it's about her again? I couldn't believe she attacked the festival. N-Now something else?"

Apple Bloom nodded, raising a hoof, "Y-Yea, by the sounds of it. I think whatever's going on, it has to deal with putting a stop to her once and for all. She's still out there, with a chance of attacking other ponies, it's scary to think she hasn't been caught already."

Scootaloo cut in with a smirk, "Hah! Well if Rainbow Dash and the others are going after her, then I guarantee you she's already quaking in her boots...or uhm...claws..or..hooves...or, WHATEVER! Anyways she may be strong, but she definitely isn't strong enough to take on Rainbow Dash and the others, they stopped her once when they saved you and Spike, they'll do it again. I already know it."

Apple Bloom gulped as she lowered her head with a worried look. "I hope so. I...I remember sometimes, those red eyes, and that scary laughing at the festival. I-I knew she was dangerous, but I never would've imagined she'd end up this scary."

Sweetie Belle shook her head, "I don't think anypony did Apple Bloom."

Scootaloo stood on her hind legs as she crossed her forehooves once again, looking down at them grumpily. "All villains seem scary at first guys, but that's why there's ponies like Rainbow Dash to put a stop to them. Good always prevails over evil, and I don't care how strong she thinks she is! There's no way she can beat Rainbow Dash and the others, she may get lucky but, in the end there's just no way. So how about we stop being doubtful and remember just what that little Discord is dealing with! Also, she's still only about our age anyway right?"

Apple Bloom sighed, "I guess every generation has its bad apples, even ours."

Sweetie Belle's eyes widened, "Reeeeally bad apples you mean. She attacked the princesses!"

Scootaloo suddenly grabbed some of Rarity's red fabric and wrapped it around her kneck, before placing her forehooves on her hips. "Hah! Well with every villain, there's a couple of heroes to help put them in their place. Heroes liiiiike," she paused with a snicker "The Cutie Mark Crusaders!" She cheered, doing a pumping motion with her hoof.

Sweetie Belle shoved Scootaloo softly, "I don't know about you Scootaloo, but I don't plan on searching for my cutie mark all the way up to being a grown up."

Scootaloo chuckled as she nodded, "Yea, right on with that one." She blinked a bit as her stomach grumbled and she blushed a little "A-Anyway, race you guys to the kitchen? I'm starving!"

Apple Bloom raced past Scootaloo, "Already waaaay ahead of ya!"

Scootaloo followed Apple Bloom out of the room hurriedly as Sweetie Belle chased after them. "W-Wait up guys! This is my sister's house, she'll get mad if you mess up anything!"

Opal climbed onto Rarity's bed as she just watched the three fillies depart from the room. "Mrooow?...."

While Scootaloo left her picture of Rainbow's Sonic Rainboom on the ground, face up.

Twilight Sparkle looked off in the distance of the island of Candyland with awe, as did the rest of her group as they all just stared at the beautiful magnificent rainbow ring, which Twilight recognized easily. Although it was a beautiful sighting, it was also a sighting that filled the alicorn with dread. Why was Rainbow Dash using the Sonic Rainboom? She'd gotten word of the situation, and although they were told they were in a reliable position that had their end of the island covered, Twilight couldn't stand the idea of her friend being forced to content with the draconequus. Her nose wrinkled in annoyance as the flashing multi-colored lights in the distance revealed her angst. Twilight glanced back at the rest of her comrades. She particularly looked at Havoc, who stood; looking just as fascinated as the rest of the group at the Sonic Rainboom. Twilight snapped impatiently, "What're we doing!? We need to go, you're not even trying to hurry."

Havoc sighed as he looked over to Twilight. "Sorry to burst your bubble Princess Twilight, but not everyone is as fast as we are, and we're only so limited with numbers. We'll be at our best with every soldier present. I'm sure if your superiors rely on these fellow ponies of yours, then they'll be able to hold off until we get there."

Twilight groaned looking ahead once again, "This is stupid, of course Eve would've been at the castle. They should've sent us there!" Twilight then disappeared in a flash of violet smoke, teleporting away and some distance ahead of the rest of the group with her magic as she was obviously in a hurry to go provide further aid to Rainbow Dash. "I'm moving on ahead! You guys just catch up, I'll make sure not to leave you behind too far."

Havoc had a look of displeasure before he sighed once more and covered his face with his gauntlet.

Captain Noteworthy made his way beside the draconequus as he nudged his head. "You don't lose sight of the Princess, I'll ensure the soldiers are able to keep up as best they can, but I definitely won't be leaving any of them back here."

The rest of the ponies with Twilight's group which consisted of many unicorn guards then picked up their pace, as they made their way through their current location, which was a small settlement. Sleeping on the ground, were many of the diverse citizens which took refuge on the island, lost in Luna's spell as the equestrian ponies made sure not to trample over them.

Twilight raced through the settlement with ease, glancing back at the rest of them every few seconds, as her eyes saddened when she looked ahead. Please be careful Rainbow Dash, we're on our way.

It was raining again? Just like that time in Canterlot,.....Just like that time at the Ruins of Everfree.

Rain? Of course, rain was always created when she'd arrived at these moments, back then she just didn't know how influential her chaotic magic was on the world. it seems even from within Princess Luna's spell, there was still some form of influence to be had. The tiny transparent pellets started to buildup rapidly, touching upon the ground and into the crater she laid in. Eve was slouched over but she was awake, although she didn't want to waste these few seconds she had before she'd climb back into the fray once more.

What was the point anyway? Why did some of us live our lives if we constantly told ourselves we no longer had a purpose to remain in the world? Perhaps it was the fear, the fear of finding nothing or finding something even worse beyond this lifetime. Perhaps it was our own hypocrisy, that deep down inside we felt there was something worth living for we just didn't want to admit to its existence, in fear we'd have to pursue it, or create our own excuses not to. Or maybe it was the hope, that simple feeling of hope that someday things would change somehow, even if it was just wishful thinking.

Eve had no idea.

Get up this instant. Nightmare Moon demanded from within her realm, and she wasn't attempting to sugarcoat it either, she was ordering the draconequus to stand to her feet, to stop laying down in this pitiful state. This is no pity party, this is life, these are the trials of your existence. Face this world with courage, we all must deal with our own unfortunate events while we live, and if I'm going to be forced to watch you live, then I won't be forced to witness such a pathetic display.

Eve however just glanced up, almost as if she were signaling the mare she were listening, responding to her in slight annoyance. "Why should I?" She muttered.

This angered the mare greatly, as she bared her teeth. Her glare fastened as she stomped a hoof, sending a large shock-wave throughout her entire realm in that instant. "I said, get up! Now stop being a brat and listen to what I have to tell you! No more theatrics, no more idiocy, from this moment on, you listen to everything I have to say before you screw it up anymore than you already have!" She trembled somewhat, "Do you understand?"

Eve nodded plainly, as she placed her paw and claw against the rock she hung over, sluggishly pushing herself off as she plopped and fell down into the mud that'd been created as a result of her rain. She turned over, looking up at the blue misty sky, and wondering just where her rain was coming from seeing as there were no clouds as usual. It was strange, almost as fascinating as Luna's spell itself, but there was something even stranger. Eve couldn't see it herself, but if she could, she'd see the lower left portion of her face was cracked like glass, but she was able to feel the results of that catastrophic blow dealt by Rainbow Dash. Such an impressive attack, such speed and force, enough to damage her supposedly invulnerable self, it brought a smile to the draconequus's face. This at least meant she still had some feeling in those regards, she just wasn't some hollow shell. The pony nation only continued to impress, so many talented individuals. She obviously wouldn't be escaping easily, actually; she'd be lucky to escape at all, and she knew that. "I understand..."

Eve rose to her feet, looking up towards the edge of the crater and seeing the rainbow maned mare herself, looking down at her from atop. Suddenly touching upon the ground next to the mare would be the two pegasi wearing flight suits. One had a orange mane while the other had a dark blue one. She kept a smile on her face as she looked at them.

Rainbow Dash looked down at the draconequus, seeing the damage she'd done as she sighed. "Stay down squirt! There's no way you're going to continue after taking on a sonic rainboom."

Eve blinked, a little fascinated by the mare's words. The sonic rainboom huh? So the attack had a name? Such a clever name at that, it certainly was a boom. But Eve wasn't done yet, she simply flapped her wings, rising up and out of the crater as she'd crossed her arms, stopping the moment she was eye level with the group of ponies. She looked at Rainbow Dash in particular. "I never expected to see you again Rainbow Dash, that was a really beautiful attack. It's too bad that I had to witness it under such circumstances." She cocked her head to the left, raising a brow at Rainbow. "If you're here, it must mean that Twilight Sparkle is here as well yes? Is she on her way here now?"

Nightmare Moon sighed heavily, Why do you feel the need to interview this one? What good will come of it?

Some of the Wonderbolts were actually trembling as they stood before the deadly criminal.

Rainbow Dash, Spitfire, and Soarin on the other hoof were absolutely fine, they weren't afraid.

Spitfire glanced back to notice some of her Wonderbolts were afraid, which was understandable. They were dealing with a banishment level criminal, this was certainly no game; this was real. She made sure to keep her voice down as she spoke, as she looked at Eve in the distance. The baby draconequus's arms crossed as she just kept her crimson eyes fastened on the rainbow headed mare. "Calm yourself everypony, keep a clear head and we'll make it out of this alright?"

The suspense was killing one pony in particular. "W-What're we doing?! Let's just get her already then!"

Spitfire groaned, "We're buying our time, you don't rush in and take on somepony of such infamy without a reason alright?" She then glanced to Rainbow Dash, who couldn't take her eyes off Eve.

Rainbow looked Eve right back in her eyes, at the head of the group as Eve waited for a response from her. "You've come a long way from kidnapping fillies and baby dragons kid."

This caused Eve's eyes to sadden for a fleeting moment, before she nodded. "Regrettable actions, yes..."

Rainbow sighed herself, closing her eyes. "Listen squirt, you've got talent, and that's good, but it doesn't mean you should go around using and abusing it like you're doing. I had pretty good parents who taught me the right way to use my talent, they were supportive, and I wouldn't be where I am today without their guidance. What you've done is pretty bad, but even now there might be a chance to correct your mistakes if you just turn yourself in."

Eve sighed as she glanced downward. "I wish it were that simple, sadly I cannot just return with you. I doubt any good would come out of me going back to the city of Canterlot."

At this point Spitfire took a few trots forward. "So that's the way it's gonna be huh? Then what're you gonna do?" Her annoyance only became more apparent as she continued "But remember before you answer, you're going up against the fastest fliers in Equestria, and you don't want us on your bad side."

Nightmare Moon chuckled from within, Was there ever the possibility of you being on their good side?

Rainbow's eyes saddened herself, Scootaloo flashed in her mind, the little orange filly and her smiling as they hung out, sitting on a bench near Sugarcube Corner. Is this what'd become of them, of being resorted to bring armies to deal with children? Although no child had ever built such a reputation. She spoke to Eve with a hint of sincerity, "Don't do this."

Eve smiled as she looked to the rainbow maned mare, "I'm sorry Rainbow Dash." She spread her arms as she rose further into the skies, and in that instant a transparent pink barrier surrounded her body, encasing the draconequus in a large orb. "Let's not delay the inevitable ponies of Equestria, but fear not, we all know this only ends in one of two ways." She closed her eyes with a smile, before looking at Rainbow Dash, "The time has arrived......" And she pointed her claw towards the group of them, as the group of ponies reacted in suit, quickly dispersing as fast as they could. Good....

The group of pegasi spread about the skies, rising and surrounding the baby draconequus's perimeter. Spitfire yelled to Rainbow Dash, "Rainbow! If the reports are correct, there's no way we're going to be able to topple her without you pulling off another one of those sonic rainbooms of yours, you think you can do it again!?"

Rainbow looked to Spitfire with a simple salute, before rising further up into the skies. "M-Maybe, I'm not sure! Just give me a few minutes to try, I'll do my best!" She looked to Eve, who remained enclosed within her barrier, never losing sight of the rainbow maned pegasi. "Sorry squirt, maybe things could've been different in some other time." Rainbow shot for the covered clouds, further into Luna's blue mist.

Eve muttered herself as she looked at Rainbow venture off into the sky, "Maybe....."

Spitfire nodded to her fellow pegasi as they were also circling the baby draconequus, never taking their eyes off her as they all just remained focused, preparing themselves for the attack. Everypony knew the priority wasn't to win, but simply to stall for time for some support to arrive. If they were meant to hold the enemy off here, then so be it, they'd accomplish their mission no matter what. "WONDERBOLTS! SHATTER IT!" And with that, the fiery maned pegasi shot forward like a bullet, accompanied by a few of her fellow pegasi as others shot in the same fashion from all directions, closing in on the pink barrier that was protecting Eve externally.

Eve kept her arms spread from within her barrier as she'd eyed from all around, her eyes barely being able to keep up with the speed of the equestrian fliers. She smiled however, "I'm sorry to say, it won't be that easy." Then with a snap, the air surrounding her grew heavy, something nopony could commonly expect. As if she'd created an invisible trap.

At that instant Spitfire's eyes shot wide as she'd halted in her tracks, feeling the sudden shift in the air. "STOP!"

But not everypony heeded her orders, as some of her fliers continued flying straight towards the draconequus, attempting to shatter her circular barrier. But upon entry into her gravity zone, they found themselves plummeting immediately towards the ground at rapid succession against their wills, unable to escape. A field of manipulated gravity? Was such a thing even possible? They couldn't wrap their minds around it as the victims of the attack slammed hard against the muddy ground, unable to move as they squirmed and writhed upon the grassy surface, letting off similar grunts.

Eve smirked as she glanced down at them, "Remain still for some time, there's quite a few of you."

Spitfire was furious, as she looked up towards Rainbow Dash who was still up in the sky remaining stationary, looking down at the draconequus. She then fastened her goggles on once more as she glanced across the field to catch sight of Soarin, who'd expectantly caught wind of the trap as well. They nodded to one another, as if they understood with they had to do. The two pegasi shot up further into the sky themselves, as they made their way to one another.

Eve looked up towards them, "What're you two up to?" She noticed even more pegasi were attempting to reach up towards Spitfire and Soarin as well. Eve raised her paw and claw cautiously, "Sorry about this, I'll make sure to only use enough to put you to stop you all from interfering with my escape." She then pointed her claw in their general direction, as suddenly descending from the sky would be a violent bang of lightning.

The group of pegasi turned, and they somehow suspected it just wasn't any ordinary lightning. They all got a similar gut feeling that things couldn't be that simple, not in this place, and they found they were correct.

The flash of lightning paused, and slowly morphed into the shape of a mighty dragon, which Eve roared in its own crackling and frightening tone. Almost no different from a living creature in itself, as it even shimmered like an elemental embodiment, a being beyond their capabilities. Eve kept her eyes fastened on the makeshift dragon, and then moving her claw in slow precise movements, she ensured the dragon was going in the direction she was moving it. "Okay, slowly I guess..."

Spitfire's eyes were wide as she felt stunned. "You've gotta be kidding me."

Soarin gulped, "What is this kid!? A god or somethin! Everypony get out of its way!"

One of the accompanying Wonderbolts replied in suit, "Well duh! We're not gonna just stay here and let it hit us!"

Spitfire found a shiver run down her spine. If this child was able to do things such as this while they we're out here in the rain, it's no wonder this was classified as such a dangerous assignment. She looked down towards the baby draconequus who just remained stationary within her barrier. This child is truly a limitless monster. With that however, Spitfire went back into concentrating as she flapped her wings, leading her group further away from the dragon, as they all followed her in suit as they were used to. Soarin was by her side however when the orange maned pony did something quite unexpected, as they were preparing their temporary retreat, Spitfire turned and dived, heading straight for the pursuing elemental manifestation.

Eve's eyes widened for a moment as she looked confused. "Huh?" She swiped her claw, then flicked it upward. "Are you attempting to distract me? If so it won't work." As expected, Spitfire looked to be acting as a lure for the puppet beast, as Eve played along, making her lightning dragon follow Spitfire as if she were fooled. But were things as linear as they seemed? The baby draconequus had a feeling this Wonderbolt was far too experienced for such a trick.

Soarin halted in his tracks, looking down towards Spitfire, "S-Spitfire! What're you doin!? Are you crazy!?"

Rainbow, as she remained still even further up, even her heart was aching with worry as she watched her idle from above attempt to outrun a dragon made of lightning. She then went back into rejuvenating herself as she was catching her breath, and stretching her wings; regaining her composure. "Come on Rainbow! You've gotta focus!"

Spitfire smiled as she glanced back, "You may be able to create such dangerous things kid, but can they keep up?"

Eve smirked as she raised her paw. "Hmhm, it's not over yet ms." She then curled in her paw and proceeded in doing a tearing motion with her arm, as if ripping off a piece of something. In that moment, the dragon made of lightning, split apart into two winged serpents as the serpents let off screeching cries, speeding up their pursuit of the pegasi.

Soarin raised his hooves to his head, "A-Ah buck! Spitfire! Watch your back!"

Spitfire's eyes snapped wide once again as she winced. "Well, that's unfortunate." Then picked up her pace as she shot forward once again, then went further up as the serpents followed her. "That's right, just keep coming, let's see how you like it when you're own magic is used against you." She proceeded by going into a backwards dive, propelling herself in the opposite direction with masterful precision, maneuvering her way between then past the electric serpents as they continued their pursuit after her.

Eve obviously looked a little frustrated, "Mmmmmm, will you stay still? Maybe I should've made them into electric birds, or flying bunnies, those things do look a little scary." She chuckled as she continued to make them chase after the pegasi through the skies. Eve looked to Rainbow Dash in that moment, who she didn't fail to notice was still preparing for that move once again; yet still the baby draconequus ignored it, almost as if she were simply waiting for it to happen. She raised a brow with a slight smirk at the rest of them as well, as they just continued to observe Spitfire dodge and delay the pursuing lightning serpents. Eve then flicked her claw as she wiggled one sharp appendage, "No no no,..that's no good you all, you can't just sit back there and let her do all the work." She made one of the lightning serpents pursue the second group of pegasi, as she frowned "I just need to make sure they don't try to get involved later...." Her eyes widened a little, as she sighed. "Will you calm down Nightmare? I swear I swear, I'm not playing around,....." She paused, listening before looking highly embarrassed, turning red; "I-I AM taking this serious, ok?.......But I won't just go around killing ponies again!"

Nightmare Moon was horribly frustrated herself, Eve was being such a child in a life and death scenario, and the mare knew she was doing it on purpose. How could she manage to convince this baby draconequus that sacrifices had to be made in such cases? Obviously being straightforward wasn't working, then...how? As the mare thought about it, she felt a blush creeping onto her face as she refused the idea that'd popped into her mind, snarling and looking down, shaking her head. No! There had to be another way to go about this situation, a more reliable way where she could still just be herself.

As Spitfire glanced back, she noticed one of the serpents diverged its course to pursue her fellows. "Guys! Heads up!"

Soarin gulped as did the other Wonderbolts as they all nodded. "W-We see it!" Then they shot to the left, making their way out of the serpents way as they shot through the open sky, ensuring not to be caught by it.

Spitfire however was leading her lightning serpent in a certain direction, but she couldn't make it too obvious, as she glanced down at the fields below, taking notice of her fellow fliers who'd been caught in the gravitational shift. Spitfire then turned to the left, straight in Eve's direction, only difference was she was already quite some distance above the draconequus. Spitfire took one last look at the serpent pursuing her, then back down at Eve. "Let's see just how powerful that zone of yours is, shall we?" The pegasi snarled as in an instant she picked up her speed with a mighty flap of her wings once again, but this time straight into Eve's gravity zone as the serpent entered it with her, and the pegasi and serpent were forcibly pulled straight down, while Spitfire purposely only continued to flap her wings as fast as she could, heading straight towards the pink barrier Eve had trapped herself in.

Eve looked up, obviously fascinated by the pegasi's actions. "Oh wow...That's cool..."

Spitfire continued to self motivate herself as she yelled with ferocity, diving straight into Eve's barrier in a mighty trail of flame, as she continued to descend straight down towards the baby draconequus. Then with a push of her own and with the assistance of the very gravity field Eve had created, the pegasi was able to break the sound barrier herself as she spun in an instant, and propelled herself off the pink barrier with a shattering buck, cracking it, and being flung out of the zone in the direction she'd pushed herself. While Eve's pursuing serpent, was forcibly shot down straight towards her in her own gravitational zone and onto her barrier, further damaging then breaking it itself, as a violent storm of electricity surged through the baby draconequus in a mere quaking instant.

Spitfire smirked as sweat poured down the side of her head and she watched, time seemed to slow down in that moment for her as she'd witnessed the enemy's defense shatter before her very eyes. "Hah......"

As the electricity coursed through Eve, the baby draconequus was stunned, her eyes wide as her body was forcibly shook violently in reaction to the lightning. Then in a violent combustion with her own creation, the baby draconequus was shot upward, further into the sky, pushed in all directions in a jagged line of flashing blue energy, followed by an even greater explosion, as everypony couldn't take their eyes off the sighting, having lost sight of the target as they looked up towards the misty blue sky.

At that moment the serpent pursuing Soarin and his fellow group of pegasi disappeared, as they glanced back. "W-Whoa..."

Soarin looked down at Spitfire with a grin plastered on his face. "Hah!"

The rest of the Wonderbolts cheered in unison at their amazing leader as they pumped their hooves and danced in the air.

Rainbow Dash was just as amazed as she sighed with relief. "Wow...." She looked down at Spitfire before looking to the sky, still with that look of disappointment as she closed her eyes and shook her head. "Ugh..."

Spitfire was now tending to the pegasi who'd been trapped in the gravitational zone, helping them to their hooves. It looked like they managed to buy themselves more time than they expected, for the criminal was temporarily lost in the infinite blue mist, maybe she was actually done for? It was her own attack, perhaps it held enough force to actually finish her off? They could only hope as Spitfire wanted to hurry and get her pegasi to safety as soon as possible. They trotted slowly, through the field of grass, up and out of the crater.

One of the pegasi looked to Spitfire tiredly, "Congrats Captain, you just cost us the mission. Remember the Princess wanted her captured A-L-I-V-E, eheh."

Spitfire slapped that pony upside the head. "Dah shutup you punk!" Followed by a smirk.

Princess Luna remained stationary in her spot further away, a relieved smile decorated her features as she felt she was speechless. "Absolutely amazing, tis no surprise they're known as the Wonderbolts." She looked to the draconequus who didn't look to care for the matter, nor find it impressive. "What's wrong Rift? Afraid to show a little hint of emotion?"

Rift had her arms crossed and her eyes closed. "I've informed you of what'd occurred Princess, but I assure you, this is far from over. I do believe it's time I go and joined them in their confrontation."

Princess Luna shook her head, "No, absolutely not! I need you here to tell me what occurs, you are my eyes, do you not remember? I am unable to leave this spot, for if I do my spell would reduce drastically, possibly allowing Eve a chance to escape, we mustn't jeopardize the mission. Twilight Sparkle, and the others are on their way still, so there is still a chance to end this. Rainbow Dash has actually managed to accomplish an impossible feat and damage her, while our ace fliers have managed to buy us precious time. I cannot say I doubt we'll succeed, the target cannot possibly last much longer."

Rift spoke simply, "I would have to disagree."

Princess Luna's brow raised as she looked to the draconequus, a little shocked. "What?"

Rift opened her eyes tiredly, as she replied, "It looks like-....."

Eve remained still in the sky, as she was glancing down herself with a piercing gaze, solemnly.

"Our target is done playing around herself."

There was another time that Eve drifted back to due to this moment, one she felt that was fitting. It happened to be her first meeting with Nightmare Moon herself, well not actually her first, but the one she felt she'd actually managed to get the time to meet the mare in a face to face confrontation. Not typically her best moment, but one she felt she needed the motivation to progress further, that motivation coming from the most unlikely of places. From within the ghostly world of the realm of Nightmares, the baby draconequus stood in a fairly large empty castle courtyard.

She'd finally made it to her destination, and she looked back at the broken drawbridge which'd prevented her pursuers from reaching her. They were one eyed beasts, dogs from the twisted realm of horrors as they snarled and barked furiously at their prey who'd gotten away. Eve was breathing heavily herself, on her knees as she couldn't really understand why the affects were so severe here, even though she was in this astral form, even though she was supposedly dead, yet she was still getting tired. Nonetheless she climbed to her feet and looked to the black sky, which'd changed in that moment.

It now looked frighteningly like a giant vortex, leading to some other realm, like a grand portal overlooking them all, spinning eternally in an infinitely vast sky. Eve didn't want to think of what was beyond that point, and she cringed at the thought of that supposed sky actually having some sort of meaning in this world, as if something were watching them here, that'd be even worse, as if having some unknown force keeping an eye on them. She looked away and looked back towards the broken stone pavement, and just relished in the idea of finding somewhere safe and quiet, somewhere in this realm that was disconnected from everything else. But as usual her peace would be short lived, as the baby draconequus lowered herself and placed her cheek flat on the ground of the castle courtyard, she was greeted by a surprisingly familiar voice.

"Well well well, so you've made it; how amusing."

Eve's eyes widened as she looked up towards the grand black castle, as high above the courtyard, looking down at her was a lone mighty figure. It was one of the creatures she'd struggled to remember, a pony. Except this pony seemed different, divine in her own sense, above her in every way, shape, and form. Frightening as she spread those ebon black wings, she even bore her own armor as she rose to the skies and didn't hesitate to make her way to the ground from her position, sending out a mighty shock-wave at the baby draconequus upon landing, which'd caused Eve to be flung back some as if showing the difference between them. Eve rose to her feet, looking at the alicorn curiously, observantly as she gulped, this land was filled with nothing but threats, and she was fairly certain she wouldn't be able to best this one if she were a threat, but didn't mean she was ready to give up either.

The mare chuckled, obviously aware of the draconequus's caution. "Now now, calm yourself, I am only here to congratulate you for making it this far, I truly expected much different. Nonetheless, that posture may be a little helpful, for the game's not over yet. Believe what you will, but you are simply a fragment of your former self, you foolishly lost your very being in aiding the ponies that're responsible for you being here, an idiotic mistake to say the least, so you've paid the price for your actions, consequences consequences. Well, I graciously welcome you to my courtyard little fool, where you will now act as my new form of entertainment." The mare then manifested a stone sword with magic, as she levitated and tossed it towards the little creature. "As you can imagine, being the ruler of such a place can be quite dull, seeing as I don't ever have any subjects beyond the thinking capability of a worm."

Eve looked down towards the stone sword, remaining silent. She didn't really understand the point of any of this as she gulped, and picked it up, just looking to the mare, listening to her contently, but refusing to speak.

Nightmare Moon smiled, "Good good, seeing as what you've costed me, I believe you're still in need of a little punishment on my part. You see little one, I know why you've sought refuge here at my castle, you see, something like you; it's a miracle you've lasted this long, astounding even. If I were to send you back out there, I guarantee you wouldn't be able to pull it off a second time hmhmhm. And as much as I despise you for the actions you've committed, I will not deny that you've brought me a fair amount of entertainment, which is much more praise worthy than anything else in this begotten place of black ash." Nightmare Moon cocked her head back with a stretch, "Now child, onto the fun part, if you wish to take refuge here in my home, then you shall attempt to strike me. I wish to see the capabilities of the creature that forced Twilight Sparkle into such a predicament with my own eyes, this place is fitting, wouldn't you agree? Plenty of space, just you and me, cut off from the rest of these mindless beasts, it shall be fairly entertaining don't you agree? One strike is all I require, and I shall grant you limited access to my home, now show me the talent that was able to reach into my very realm itself."

Eve looked at the mare puzzled, before looking down at the blade in silence and then looking back to Nightmare Moon curiously.

Nightmare Moon groaned as she seemed a little frustrated, "Hurry now child, or shall I send you back out into the fields?" As the looming silence only drew on and on, Nightmare Moon soon was able to pick up the hint as she raised a hoof to her face. "Ah of course, yes, you're nothing more than a confused mindless infant at this point. I tend to forget such things, hmhmhm, well then my plaything, I shall grant you a few perks to make this far more interesting," And with a flick of her hoof, a black aura shot towards the draconequus, as it wrapped itself around the baby draconequus and the mare smiled. "Aaaaah, there, now this will make things far more interesting. Finally, something to keep me amused. Now come child, I've seen you survive out in my realm for weeks, let us see the natural beast that hides itself within you."

Eve trembled as she looked to the powerful alicorn at the far end of the courtyard, but she put on a determined expression and gulped. She clenched the hilt of the blade firmly, before closing her eyes in hesitation as she took a step forward towards the mare, but her eyes snapped wide as she approached, and found she couldn't even control the power that was temporarily bestowed upon her by the mare. She moved at speeds she was highly unfamiliar with, unable to control or direct herself willingly as she found herself looking into a world of nothing but blur and reappearing in front of the mare as Nightmare Moon reacted absently, tripping the baby draconequus with ease and bucking her back and away as Eve tumbled across the ground.

Nightmare Moon turned, raising a brow at the draconequus child, "What was that supposed to be?"

Eve breathed heavily as she crawled on the pavement, grabbing the stone blade once again as she looked to the mare, still with that look of determination. She used both her paw and claw to clench onto the hilt of the blade once more, as she bore her fangs. She recalled what was at stake in this situation, if she lost then she'd be sent back out there, and all she had to do was land one blow on this mare, one blow was all she needed. She tried to focus, tried to take control of the black aura that'd been given to her by this mare, abuse it. She couldn't get over her hectic nerves however, couldn't get over the fact that this mare was the ruler of this place, this mare that looked so much like the pony creatures she'd been thinking about. Eve shook her head, she couldn't think about that right now, she had to concentrate on landing a hit against this mighty magic pony. She pushed up on her feet, leaping into the air and creating a mighty shock-wave of her own as she soared in the sky,over the alicorn before instantly kicking off the air as if it were a flat surface, flipping and propelling herself downwards, straight towards her as if she were a descending torpedo, her blade tip pointed straight at her target.

Nightmare Moon sneered playfully, followed by a chuckle, "That's it! But still, it's quite disappointing!" And as her horn started to glow, the mare herself manifested a transparent blue shield with a moon crest upon it as it blocked the incoming draconequus's attack with ease. They remained in place there as the baby draconequus was attempting to force her way through the mare's shield, causing sparks of black lightning to emit off their point of contact. Nightmare Moon just continued to smirk at the baby draconequus desperately trying to reach her, such futile actions. "Come now child, I'm sure you could do better than that with the handicap I've given you."

Eve found herself growing increasingly frustrated as she disappeared once again, getting a better hang of the amazing speed boost she was given. She found her world turning into a blur again, but there was only one object she had to focus on while moving at such a rapid pace. The blue standing solo figure in the courtyard, the mare, and that's exactly what she did, concentrate on Nightmare Moon as she moved. Eve stopped herself at the mare's side, reappearing in what felt like a second, as she swung at her torso, towards her exposed hip.

Nightmare Moon reacted absently again however, not even looking towards the draconequus as she simply manifested another piece of defense, this time in the form of a phantom blade as it parried with Eve's stone blade. At that point she glanced in the baby draconequus's direction smiling at her as she raised a brow. "Funny, I never thought something as small and fragile looking as you would prefer to get physical, don't you have any magical talent child? Well, not that it matters anyhow, it's not like you could hope to best me in any field no matter how hard you try." She cackled, "Now, what will you do? Come come, my patience is wearing thin, it's only one hit remember ahahahahaha!"

Eve then disappeared in a flash of dust and wind, gone from the spot she previously stood in as she began to appear in rapid instances, from all sides of the mare, swinging wildly, out of control as she was doing all that she could to strike the mare at least once, which she couldn't seem to do. Nightmare Moon was invulnerable, impervious to every single attack the baby draconequus attempted, all the mare did was remain motionless in place, summoning weapons in all forms that prevented the baby draconequus from reaching her. She was so close, yet so far away, mere inches keeping her from achieving that sanctity she craved in this realm of nightmares. Eve drew herself back and into the air, observing the mare curtly as she breathed heavily, there had to be a way to reach her, to make contact with her, she had to be creative with it.

Nightmare Moon looked up towards her with a playful smirk, "Offense, defense? Neither matters to me, for I use them both for neutral purposes. It's magic stupid little girl, use your brain, I shall be stripping you of your gifts the moment this is over so I suggest you cherish these last moments with them." She paused, "And these last moments in my castle's sanctity."

Eve gritted her teeth obviously growing more nervous, just looking down at the stone blade given to her by the mare of the moon. As she looked down at the blade, her eyes widened after a few seconds of pondering however, as if she'd hit a realization. She loosened her grip on the blade, before dropping it entirely. She then looked back to the mare before taking in a deep breath, remaining stationary in the air as she exhaled heavily, and the gift of magic that'd been bestowed upon her temporarily; wrapped around her entirely, emitting off a black hazy mist around her borders. She raised her paw and claw to the air, as a bubbling magical substance began to conjure itself within her palms. The baby draconequus slowly spread her arms as the aura spread in the form of an astral spear.

Nightmare Moon blinked curiously, before looking amused once again. "Now where did you go and learn to do that? A child's mind surprisingly makes light of one of the most perplex magic schools, but do you possess the talent to know when and when not to use such magic?" The mare was obviously enjoying herself from the looks of it as she just continued to stand there looking up towards the draconequus, before twirling her weapons absently as they surrounded her, dancing about in the air as if they possessed a mind of their own.

The baby draconequus then moved her arms back, preparing to toss the spear at the mare.

Nightmare Moon smiled curtly, "Come now, that's far too-"

Then the baby draconequus was gone, along with her spear.

Nightmare Moon's eyes widened as she continued, "Predictable?" As there was suddenly a flash of light behind her, the mare smiled confidently once again as she just closed her eyes, before she glanced back. Her weapons guarding her rear end, but Nightmare Moon raised a brow whens he found no draconequus attempting to strike her, only a lone astral spear hovering with telekinetic magic. She chuckled as she just muttered, her tone had changed in that instant. "Funny, but allow me to show you the difference between us little girl. No matter how far you go, how hard you try; you and I, are made of different things." Nightmare Moon looked ahead, taking notice of the baby draconequus lunging at her from the front. "You will never reach me."

Princess Luna didn't hesitate as she used her spell to communicate with everypony on the mission. "Group 2, positions?"

Twilight Sparkle, accompanied by Havoc, were currently making their way through the vast candy cane forest at a rapid pace. Twilight Sparkle using her teleportation spells with each mighty flap of her wings, as Havoc was simply flying, maneuvering and slithering past the trees. Twilight replied hurriedly, "Princess Luna! We're nearly there!" She glanced back impatiently at the rest of their group, attempting to stay close to them, although many of them falling behind due to not being as skilled as their leaders in such magic. Twilight Sparkle couldn't help but groan beneath her breath, but she smiled in suit, for by the sounds of it, they were winning the battle. She spoke softly, "Time to end this thing."

Havoc glanced at Twilight questioningly, then looked ahead. I'm not sure it'll be that simple, Princess Twilight....

As Eve drifted back to the present, remaining stationary in the sky, she continued to look down solemnly.

Nightmare Moon cut into her thoughts, Are you done yet?

Eve nodded plainly, "Mhm, I'm ready to go," and she let herself fall, accelerating down back towards the ground.

Soarin and his group of pegasi touched upon the grassy fields with a smile, looking at Spitfire amused.

Spitfire looked to them all with pleased smiles as they approached, aiding the wounded pegasi. "Hah, sorry; not trying to take the spotlight anything."

But the peace was short lived, as all of the ponies were interrupted by the gracious voice of their night princess. But she spoke with haste, with obvious worry as her words rang in their minds swiftly, loud and booming. "My faithful subjects of group 1! On guard, this is far from over, the enemy is rapidly closing in on your-"

SLAM!!!

Eve touched upon the ground, sending out a mighty shockwave of air which sent majority of the surrounding pegasi off their hooves, her crimson eyes fastened on Spitfire, regarding the pony in a serious manner.

Spitfire's eyes snapped wide as she looked to the baby draconequus with sudden dread. She looked to her surrounding comrades before stating her orders desperately "Everypony! Remain vigilant, s-stay calm and we cannot-"

Eve snapped her claw from her position as she spoke softly to herself. "Magic field, recreation, licorice whip." Suddenly manifesting itself around the baby draconequus would be a large grape flavored licorice whip, as it writhed and twisted on its own as if it possessed a mind of its own. Eve only continued as her sharp fingers danced about the air and she muttered, "Enhancement, crackle pop." Her licorice whip then slowly crackled and popped with lightning as it lengthened itself, then with a flick of her claw, it sent itself after the ponies which surrounded her from all sides. The whip possessed no length, and seemed to stretch infinitely as it pursued its targets, the pegasi rose to the skies in fear as many were unable to escape the whips touch, which'd shocked them upon contact, sending many unconscious, plummeting to their sides or back to the ground.

Soarin and Spitfire immediately appeared at each side of the draconequus.

Eve reacted absently, not even looking to them as she muttered, "Magic field, gravitational manipulation." Which the two pegasi didn't fail to notice as they leaped back immediately witnessing soon afterwords, the sudden surge of air rapidly moving downward in a circular perimeter around the baby draconequus. Eve kept her eyes fastened ahead as she simply stretched out her paw, pointing it in the direction of Spitfire. "Gumball Barrage." Immediately afterwords, gumballs of various colors appeared inches from the tip of her paw, shooting straight towards the orange maned pony.

Spitfire gasped, "Always something weird!" She then rose to the skies in an attempt to escape, but her targets being far too small seeing as they were the size of tiny sugary delicacies, reached her with the pegasi being unaware.

Eve muttered, "Expand and capture."

Spitfire's eyes widened as she was unable to look away from the flash of light that'd occurred from each of the gumballs that had pursued her, consumed by an imperceptible burst of light as the gumdrops had actually set off in a similar manner to flash bombs. As the brightness died down, Spitfire found herself plummeting back down towards the earth, unable to move seeing as she was wrapped in a sticky rubbery substance. She was wrapped in gum? Which'd disgusted her somewhat but she felt satisfied and surprised due to the fact it wasn't harmful. "H-Huh?"

Eve smiled softly, "Stay still for a little while." But that moment of being off her guard was all Soarin needed as he tackled the draconequus out of her gravity zone, sending her skidding across the field, before she climbed back to her feet. Eve's eyes widened as she noticed the pegasi weren't wasting any precious second as they were upon her like a swarm. Eve snapped her paw as appearing around her would be phantom shields, moving about much like her whip which'd returned, attempting to strike and put some of the assaulting pegasi out of temporary commission, but there was one who'd managed to strike inches from her, forcing her into a physical confrontation.

Soarin kept his eyes fastened on her angrily, "Hiding behind your magic!? Typical!" As he struck at the draconequus continuously, his blows swift and precise and practically unseen as he moved his hooves with nearly the same speed he was renowned for in his wings. The pegasi only continued to strike the draconequus's torso from all directions as he noticed she was taking every single hit, not even caring about the pummeling she was receiving.

Eve looked up to him as she muttered, "I'm known as a monster for a reason mister." She placed her paw beneath his chin with a soft smile before chuckling a little, "Allow me to show you." But the draconequus wouldn't have time to react as she was tackled once again, but this time by a more familiar mare, the force of the tackle sending her flying across the skies as the mare kept the draconequus embraced in her arms, carrying her with her.

Rainbow Dash looked furious as she kept her grip on the draconequus, flapping her wings voraciously as she looked Eve in the eyes. "EVE! If you think I'm going to let this go on, you've got another thing coming!" And straight into a river of strawberry milk, as their moment of impact caused them to tumble out of the river, soaked.

Rainbow rose to her hooves, huffing with each breath as she pointed at the draconequus. "Enough is enough!!! Just let this end already, and nopony else has to get hurt! Haven't you seen the pain that occurs when you do these things!? L-Listen squirt..." Rainbow's eyes saddened, "You didn't seem too bad when we first met, but you're far too dangerous now. It stinks things ended up the way they did but, that still doesn't give you an excuse to cause all of this chaos. I won't let you hurt my friends like you did last time, no matter what." She glared at the draconequus.

Eve looked to the rainbow maned pony with a sigh, the pouring rain washing them off of all the chocolate milk which'd drenched into their coats. There was a brief moment of silence between them, "I see." Eve looked down at a small puddle which'd shown her reflection, as she stared intently at it, taking notice of the half of her face which'd been cracked like glass. "I guess I was never meant for this system of normality to begin with." She looked to Rainbow Dash, almost in a daze of her own. "I've seen rivers of red, stains on my heart that refuse to disappear. I guess you could say I'm beyond the point of redemption....I guess..." She paused as she closed her eyes halfway, "Isn't that right; Twilight Sparkle?"

Rainbow Dash raised a brow as she stood there, puzzled in silence.

Twilight touched upon the ground hurriedly, appearing some distance away from the baby draconequus.

Twilight winced as her face darkened drastically, her soaked mane partially covering her eyes. "Eve!!!!......."

Princess Twilight Sparkle has made contact with the target.

Princess Luna was immediately overcome with worry and dread as she yelled from her position. "T-Twilight Sparkle!!! What're you doing!?"

Havoc was now racing through the forest himself, having left majority of their group behind. Just our luck, enough to think that Princess Twilight was in such a rush she'd leave the entire group behind, but those two were practically lit targets being launched through the air like that. Now we've got only two present there, with a banishment level criminal. I don't understand, she's just a kid, but....... His eyes fastened on the path ahead. What is this feeling?

Captain Noteworthy also looked worriedly on ahead as he stood by his fellow guards, now far behind as both Twilight Sparkle and Havoc had moved on ahead to meet head on with the target. He glanced down worriedly. "Tch..."

Eve looked up towards the sky as she spoke in a saddened tone, "But being justified isn't enough." She spread her arms as she spoke softly, regarding the two familiar mares. "Allow me to show you the difference between us."

Chapter 5: Psychosis


CHAPTER 5: PSYCHOSIS

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“Memories warm you up from the inside. But they also tear you apart.” ― Haruki Murakami

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Eve opened her eyes, as all she saw was a dull gray ceiling. She appeared to be alone, in a large chamber room which was decorated with worn items, that'd looked as if they'd been there for centuries. Ragged curtains with golden stripped edges rustled about at her side, as it didn't take long for her to find out she laid next to an open window on a beaten bed. Cracks, cobwebs, and dust bunnies were a common sighting which she'd soon find out.

"You have a truly unfortunate existence."

Eve leaned up in the bed, and looked towards the origin of the voice.

Standing at the far end of the room, half shaded by shadows was Nightmare Moon, who had an amused look on her face.

Eve first glanced around the room, as she then looked to her right, and noticed she could see outside, and actually gaze around at the vast landscape of the realm of nightmares. All she saw was a barren land, and she could hardly believe that she actually managed to make it here to this castle in one piece. Also if she'd been here, laying down, did that mean Nightmare Moon had been pleased with her efforts? Eve assumed so. She couldn't help but put on a relieved smile, as she closed her eyes and lowered her head somewhat. "Thank you miss."

Nightmare Moon ignored her petty gratitude. "I can see why Twilight Sparkle wanted to be rid of you. A creature such as yourself, seems to have a knack for creating misfortune for others. You adapted quite well to that situation, far better than I expected considering how our previous encounter ended." Nightmare Moon snickered as she smirked at the draconequus. "You even possess that twisted form, truly a definition of disharmony." It seemed Eve really had passed her test, at least from what the current scenario portrayed. They were here, in the castle, it didn't feel as if any other possibility could've been considered. Although if Nightmare Moon was lying, nopony was complaining, especially Eve.

Eve looked down at her paw, before frowning again. How come she felt so used to that already? As if she were hearing the same recited proclamation for the thousandth time. It angered her, but she ignored her own feelings, because she felt they would make no difference. There was this sense of immediate acceptance, as she just closed her eyes, and sat there solemnly on the bed, with half her body under the blankets. "I guess, that's just me." She was lost in her thoughts again for the moment, lost due to the fact although she didn't have her memories she could still get these feelings of familiarity when it came to her identity. Somehow Nightmare Moon's words weren't as frustrating as she would've imagined.

Nightmare Moon continued, and in some way, her own expression mimicked Eve's. "But, much like myself, you fell to something far greater than disharmony, or chaos." She scowled, pausing somewhat with a cringe. "Friendship."

Eve's eyes widened as she raised a brow at the alicorn, "Friendship?....." What was this so called, friendship? The word stung. The very sound of it was sweet to her ears, but like a prick to her heart. It was a treasure that'd fallen out of reach, yet she didn't even know the history behind it, or why she had a particular attachment to it.

Nightmare Moon didn't seem surprised by the fact Eve didn't have any understanding of it. Even if Eve still possessed her memories, she'd been alone at the time of her demise, so it was safe to assume before all of this happened, she still didn't have a very good grasp on the concept of friendship, let alone the power it held.

Nightmare Moon leaned back against a wall, as she sighed heavily. "Such a simple thing when you take it for face value, but so much more powerful than any ordinary form of magic. That is Twilight Sparkle's gift, one where she has all the advantages. You were a fool to go against it."

As Eve thought about it, recalling her spiritual form, the fact she had no memories, and that she was now here in this dark lonesome place, she couldn't help but agree with Nightmare Moon. She looked out the window once again, as this time her eyes grew moist with tears, yet she held them back. Her heart ached at the idea of what sort of mistakes she made. What idiotic decisions could she have possibly made to have ended up here? To end up in the darkness where the forsaken wandered, dwelling in eternal damnation. She truly felt like a fool, and gave herself a disgusted smile. "Yes...I was..."

Nightmare Moon smiled herself as she took a few trots toward the child. Surprisingly, as she arrived at Eve's bedside, she couldn't help but notice the girl's distraught face as she then peered across her own barren lands. Nightmare Moon placed a hoof atop the draconequus's head, before leaning her own head down, looking into Eve's eyes still with that amused look. "Well then, I haven't had a guest in quite some time little creature of chaos. Perhaps a tour is in order? And maybe, we can also find a way to dig into that head of your's and find the answers to my questions."

Eve looked up at Nightmare Moon curiously, obviously confused. "Questions?"

Nightmare Moon chuckled once again before turning away from the bed, "Yes, obviously there are many questions when it comes to your existence, and you truly are my only connection to the outside world as of now. I doubt you'll be leaving here anytime soon, if ever, so might as well hm? You owe me at least that much."

To this Eve was overcome with immediate worry. "But, there must be some way for you to be able to leave."

Nightmare Moon halted as she glanced back at the draconequus before turning back to face her, and getting in her face. Nightmare Moon appeared amused still, smirking, yet also annoyed by Eve's ignorance of the situation. "Little monster, there is no linear solution. Don't you realize where we are? We're at the inbetween, there is no such thing as just 'leaving'." Nightmare Moon sighed before turning away once more, "At least, not for me. My influence can only stretch so far."

Eve frowned as she gripped the edge of the blankets. "But....." She bit her lower lip, uncertain of why this bothered her so much. She felt as if somewhere down the line, she was taught some sort of principle regarding issues such as this. As expected, she couldn't recall just where she'd learned them. "T-That's wrong, your actions...should be rewarded..."

Nightmare Moon's eyes widened before she burst into chuckles. Her chuckles soon grew into wild, maniacal laughter as she couldn't contain herself. She just stood there with her eyes closed as she laughed. "Hahahahaha!!!" She leaned her head back before grinning. "What an idiotic child." She turned to Eve once again, looking her in the eyes, and spoke in a humored tone. "Your petty morale guidelines serve no purpose here, let alone anywhere. Childish innocence is all that is, and the world has taught you wrong. Kindness, love, compassion, they are awards only available to those who're befitting of the role. Monsters such as yourself? Hatred, fear, jealousy, rejection. That, is life. Chase after ideals not befitting of you, and all you will find is despair girl." Nightmare Moon sneered in disgust, "It is what landed you here. In a world of kindness, all you are, is a stain that needs to be mopped from the floor. We're now no more than gutter squalor. "

Eve snapped. "YOU'RE WRONG!"

Nightmare Moon felt struck by the girl's words, as she'd actually staggered back some, surprised. "Ah..."

Eve immediately froze up as she trembled, looking down at the top of her blanket. She didn't know why she'd spoke out so suddenly. But she couldn't take back what she said either, she could feel it inside, that somewhere down the pitch black road she traveled, she indeed found a light. She found kindness, an irreplaceable treasure. "It's not like you say!"

Nightmare Moon just sighed, shaking her head with a smile. "Fine, believe what you will. But somewhere down the line, you will also see, and then you will realize just how much you were consumed by your own stupidity." Nightmare Moon turned away for the final time before making way for the door. "Candle light's don't flicker forever little girl. There's a reason we don't live within our dreams. There are only nightmares for those such as us." She paused, "All light fades eventually, in the end there will always be an overwhelming shadow, ready to consume all that surrounds it." Her nose wrinkled a bit, "You're but a speck in the universe, going against its destined role. In the end you will see."

The words stuck with the draconequus, as she just remained still in her bed. In the end you will see. Eve frowned, as she looked overcome with worry in that moment. All you will find is despair girl.

A small bundle of parasprites quickly fluttered across the scene, as the only ambiance that could be heard would be the sound of rain droplets and crickets, as the droplets tapped the surface of the chocolate river. The world itself felt to be no more than a simple shade of gray, it'd almost felt as if everything had already ended, and for a place with so much dangerous wildlife, it was deathly quiet. Eve took another look at the chocolate river, noticing her shriveled appearance, she truly did look like no more than gutter squalor. How ignorant was she back then? To not have seen this coming.

A past full of regrets and idiotic mistakes, yet it didn't bother her as much now.

Eve remained silent, as she looked back at Twilight Sparkle.

Twilight Sparkle leaned her head back some, appearing horribly offended. "The difference between us? Eve, you talk as if I don't already know the difference between us." Twilight's eyes saddened as she, much like Eve, felt they'd been here in this situation, far too many times before. It was almost nostalgic for Twilight, to finally see the draconequus again, even on such bad circumstances. As much as she despised Eve for what she'd done, she still had pity for her in some form. Twilight had been taught to show tolerance, love, and that is why she would show the girl mercy. It was all up to Eve at this point, whether or not she accepted that mercy. This gift, of tolerance and friendship. "Eve, you're young. Unfortunately you refused to learn more about the world, before rebelling against it. You will be returning with me to pay for your crimes. But if you come quietly, your sentence could possibly be a little more lenient." Twilight gave the draconequus a piercing glare, showing she obviously had little patience for her. "I won't be repeating myself Eve. There will be no more running, do you hear me?"

Rainbow Dash glanced worriedly at Twilight, before looking back towards Eve. "L-Listen Squirt, you can still make things easy on yourself, alright?" Rainbow bit her lower lip, hoping Eve would make the right decision. She looked back at Twilight, knowing the mare wasn't her usual self, and her patience was wearing thin. Rainbow looked at Eve once again, noticing the whole situation was obviously taking a physical toll on her as well. "Do you really want to keep dragging this on!? Please, just....listen."

Eve's claw twitched, as she took a step towards Twilight.

Twilight however cut in at that moment, wearing a tired expression. "It's as if I'm reading a book."

Eve raised her brow at Twilight, as her eyes widened exponentially.

Twilight just continued. "Do you recall Eve, how things ended the first time you did something like this? Do you recall what happened in the ruins? It feels like such a long time ago, doesn't it? I was hoping we'd both have learned something important from that, because it's certainly not one of my more cherished memories." Twilight's eyes just saddened once again. "Eve, the difference between us, is not only our varying circumstances, but the choices we've made, and how those choices molded us into who we are today. We've both changed, but have you changed for the better? Tell me Eve." Twilight glanced up at the draconequus. "What have you learned?"

Eve stopped dead in her tracks as she just looked at Twilight, in silence. In some ways, Eve always feared Twilight not for her excellence in magic alone, but for her constant revelations. Twilight always appeared so wise, so blunt and straightforward. And she always knew what to say to make Eve fear for the worst, to question her own motives in an understandable way. As she was doing right now, Eve couldn't help but passively dwell on Twilight's sudden question. Her own eyes saddened as she frowned again, unable to find anything positive in her own answers.

Twilight continued. "You will never reach me Eve. There was no way you ever could. Friendship, that is my shield. It is my morale compass, my guardian, it has shaped me into the Princess I am today. The power of friendship is beyond you, and it is something you've been constantly denied, unsurprisingly. Your choices, what you've done and become, has already shown me that you just aren't worthy of those who would shower you in kindness and affection. You've shown me a world where violence, hardship, pain, and suffering are a constant concern. A world without harmony." Suddenly Twilight looked infuriated as she snapped at the draconequus. "Surrender! Show us that you have at least a little bit of understanding."

Eve shuddered, attempting to remain steady convicted. She gulped, but she still took another step towards Twilight Sparkle. Twilight's words were so familiar. Was it truly coincidence she'd made the same proclamation as Nightmare Moon did, when she'd first been tested in the realm of nightmares? Was it mere coincidence that Twilight would appear here and now, alone alongside her friend, still willing to offer her some form of mercy? Eve had a hard time believing it, no, this was no mere coincidence, it was something much more. It was as Princess Celestia said, Eve had a role to play. She wasn't willing to see there wasn't any other way. Perhaps, it was all simply denial. Yes, there was a perfect ending in store for those like her, an eye for an eye.

Twilight stomped her hoof, "There is no other way out of this. Don't be stupid!" But Twilight knew that wasn't the truth, and she just didn't want to admit it to herself. She didn't want to admit there was another way for them to end things, a more permanent solution. And she didn't want to admit that perhaps, she possibly agreed more with that solution, it was only more logical. It frustrated her to no end, wrestling with the emotions of guilt versus understanding. But what had Eve proven ever since she'd shown her face? She'd proven she was a rebellious threat, willing to do whatever it took to get what she wanted. Even now, refusing to accept her offer, simply going against her as she always has!

Twilight knew it was an endless cycle of bloodshed, hatred, sadness, tragedy, a very stain in the fabric of harmony. The world wasn't meant for this, their world wasn't one befitting of such things. Equestria was a paradise, and as long as Eve was in it, that meant there would always be something bad waiting to happen. But no, Twilight wasn't allowed to be logical, she was the Princess of Friendship, she was taught to show forgiveness and understanding no matter the situation. Twilight exhaled, she also couldn't betray Princess Celestia's trust. Yes, she had to make this decision. She-

"It's okay Twilight Sparkle, you don't need to make that decision." Eve cut in.

Twilight's eyes widened exponentially, as she looked at Eve, obviously thrown off by her sudden words.

Even Rainbow looked a little surprised by how confident Eve sounded when it came to her understanding of Twilight. More so than even she understood at the moment. Rainbow didn't like the idea of being unable to relate to Twilight's feelings, the idea of being unable to understand and help her friend, but she could see it ever since Twilight arrived on this island. No, she could see it even before that. This draconequus child, changed everything. She truly was like a walking whirlpool, birthing chaos with every step. Just what was Eve talking about when she spoke of Twilight's decision? What decision was Twilight even struggling to make? Rainbow couldn't make much sense of the child's words. They'd came here for one purpose, of capturing Eve and bringing her to justice, there was no other option? Right?

In Eve's mind, she was alone with Nightmare Moon again. They stood there together, looking at one another in perfect understanding. Nightmare Moon in particular, seemed to reveal a hint of sadness in her eyes, something unfamiliar. She looked at the draconequus girl with a sense of pity, and something a little more personal. Those feelings would remain sheltered, as she just spoke to Eve, disheartened. "Eve, if you go through with this, you will be beyond my help."

Eve nodded, her paw and claw laced behind her back. She closed her eyes and nodded. "There are a lot of things I wanted to do Nightmare Moon. But you told me yourself, we're at the inbetween, I understand that now. After I woke up from my nightmare, there was much more I learned about the world. I wanted to release you from this, but in truth it was never possible, was it? You were out of my reach, this entire time. I guess, it'll only be the same in my case. I am beyond anypony's help. I should've realized it sooner, my role."

Nightmare Moon smiled, "I'm glad you see the world in a different light now. As unfortunate as the outcome is." Why did Nightmare Moon have trouble saying that? It was as if she didn't even believe her own words. She wasn't glad for this.

Eve shook her head, chuckling a bit. "It's not unfortunate," she paused, "It is a perfect end, for those like us.."

Eve looked up, as she raised her claw to the sky. "I understand my role Twilight Sparkle." She'd even appeared angry with Twilight, frustrated by her very presence. For it was Twilight who was ignorant. "But you don't understand yours!"

Eve muttered to herself. "I have stained the world of harmony with what I did." She trembled, raising her ethereal arm to the sky as she looked up, towards Luna's impenetrable black mist herself. "Mercy won't fix anything, and it won't fix me."

She paused, "Everything I get close to shatters, breaks into pieces, hurt.......but no more." The draconequus grinned wildly in sudden happiness. Happy with the idea of closure, the idea of everything finally being normal again. She relished in the thought. She was a stain on this world. No more misery, pain, or suffering would be caused by her. She had regrets, but didn't we all? She'd convinced herself that Twilight's presence would mark the pinnacle moment, Twilight was the end of her story. So, it was time to get started. "I will fix everything myself, Twilight Sparkle."

Then finally, Eve curled her ethereal paw in. And with it, her very arm shattered along with a fragment section of the sky. Suddenly a portal opened overhead of the draconequus, as she was covered in a thick black substance which poured from her makeshift portal. Enveloping her whole, the area around her became shrouded in a black mist, much similar to Princess Luna's.

Princess Luna looked overcome with dread as she paused. "This is..."

Rift the draconequus was silent, but her mouth was slightly opened as she seemed peaked with interest. "Well...."

Princess Luna pondered what was happening, there was no denying that this form of magic was far too familiar. Actually, the more she thought about it, the more she couldn't shake the feeling that it was appallingly identical to her's. This was her magic! She gritted her teeth angrily in her own confusion, as she struggled to make sense of it. This magic although dark and corrupt, did indeed possess that familiar aura about it, but then, how did Eve manage to acquire it? That made absolutely no sense, was the child truly capable of learning her spells simply by one past experience.

Princess Luna's expression sunk as she knew the situation was steadily growing out of her control. If she didn't act fast, everything they'd prepared for would fall apart. Celestia had put her in charge of practically the entire operation, the last thing Luna would do is fail. Succeeding was their only option, but the more Eve revealed about herself the more they'd realized how unprepared they truly were. Although, they weren't grasping at straws just yet. Princess Luna simply sighed before giving the draconequus Rift a tired look. "Rift, come with me, you and I will be joining the fray."

Rift raised a brow at Princess Luna, "Princess, are you sure that is wise? Putting yourself at risk, as well as the spell? I can assure you, this girl is impressive, but I'm confident I can deal with one of my own race, especially a child. All I require is your permission, if our tactics are to change, then I'm sure Havoc and I will be more than enough."

Princess Luna nodded, just looking down in the general direction where Twilight and the others were. "It is time you stopped underestimating this child, we've done that far too many times in the past. More importantly Princess Twilight has put herself in jeopardy, and effectively risked this entire operation. Furthermore, I won't allow any harm to befall her, she's my responsibility as are you all, and I'm determined to ensure everypony returns back to Canterlot safely. With each passing second, Eve becomes more unstable, it's time I stop pretending I won't need to dirty my hooves to ensure this mission is a success." Princess Luna then shot Rift a piercing glance. "I'm well aware of your abilities Lady Rift, in hindsight they are very similar to my own. If Eve is able to adapt to practically any situation, then so can we."

Rift's expression mimicked Luna's in some ways, as she sighed. "Oh?..."

Princess Luna's eyes saddened. "But I would've preferred our methods be sheltered, especially in this case. I never feel comfortable using such powers against a child, but I'm fairly certain, there's more to the reasons why I'm here and not my sister. We've tried practical methods with Eve before, they proved fruitless. But now that we know more, I think it's safe to say," she looked at Rift with a glance of determination. "Despair works both ways."

Twilight and Rainbow Dash fell silent as they just looked for a clearing in the shroud of mist, which'd come eventually.

Twilight couldn't describe the feelings coursing through her, as she caught a glimpse of the draconequus. She wasn't certain if she should be more glad, or worried about what she was seeing. She felt ominous about the entire situation, for everything about it didn't seem to make any sense.  Twilight muttered softly to herself, "Eve?"

As the mist cleared out around her, the black substance as well as the portal was nowhere to be seen. The draconequus just stood in the same spot, yet her appearance had once again changed drastically. Yet it wasn't in a way Twilight or Rainbow had expected. Eve looked fairly 'normal' regarding what they'd just seen. In actuality, she appeared in the same way they remember her from long long ago, yet her snow white hair was still much longer, and her ethereal arm was no longer there. She flashed Twilight a soft smile, revealing her tiny fangs somewhat. Yet in that fleeting moment, her eyes flashed a tint of turqoise for a second, before reverting back to red. Eve's pupil was now also a small slit, almost like that of a serpent. Although welcoming, the draconequus child gave Twilight a slight scowl, as her brows furrowed as well. "On my own."

Princess Luna hurriedly spread her wings as she looked down once again in the direction of the candy cane forest. She was silent, yet was still able to use her magic in order to contact a few specified individuals.

Havoc, Captain Noteworthy, as well as Spitfire who was still tending to her wounds at the moment along with a few of her Wonderbolt's all paused in place for the time being, as each of their eyes widened in their respective locations. It was as if they were all listening to something in specific, before they each gave themselves a self assuring nod.

Spitfire in specific immediately stood as she looked up towards the sky, and scoffed. "Ugh! What're those two kids thinking!? We should've left them back in Canterlot. A knew a mission like this was no place for them." She spread her wings.

Princess Luna looked back towards Rift, nodding simply. "Let us finally wake from this nightmare."

Chapter 6: Skeletons


CHAPTER 6: SKELETONS

"Discord, there are certainly some things we need to discuss." Princess Celestia stated as she looked tiredly across the banquet room table. Dimly lit candles were the only source of lighting in the room, causing it to give off a yellow tint, which mellowed out the atmosphere. It was quiet, and surprisingly, even Discord wasn't saying much as of now. It was almost as if he expected those words to come out of Celestia sooner or later. Princess Celestia remained silent, as she'd simply used her levitation magic to sip from a cup of cocoa, before placing it down atop a small saucer, as the hot liquid substance could be seen steaming as it touched upon the surface of the glass. She exhaled, relieving some stress. "Do you agree? With my methods that is, Discord? You being a draconequus, and a prominent individual of your species, your opinion is quite invaluable to me."

Discord preferred to sit in his own throne, as he raised a brow at Celestia from the opposite side of the room, before a grin formed slowly from cheek to cheek. "Aaaaah! So Celestia actually cares for the wisdom of ol'Discord!? Well then!" Discord snapped his claw before poofing on a pair of reading glasses to make himself appear more intellectual than he already was. He then took in a deep breath before shrugging immediately and turning his throne away from Celestia. "Sorry no can do. Cause honestly I could care less about what you do with them, there is a reason I left afterall! They're just absolutely no fun! With all their poooolicies and ruuuules, what hogwash. A dull existence no doubt. They bring shame to what a draconequus is supposed to be!"

Princess Celestia just sighed heavily before pleading with the draconequus. "Discord, please, I realize you and I may not have the best history with one another, but your insight could prove quite helpful." Princess Celestia frowned, and looked overcome with worry herself as she thought more and more about the situation. She placed a hoof on her forehead, obviously distraught over the entire thing. "Everything I've worked to achieve with this child has quickly fallen apart. Twilight only grows more aggressive as time goes on, and I worry for her state of mind, and her tempered judgement. I cannot simply allow Twilight to banish the poor girl, but one can't just ignore Eve's crimes either. She may still prove useful to us, she may still be able to find herself a fitting role in equestrian society no matter how bad things look as of now. I only need for her to connect with me somehow, and for myself to be able to dedicate my time to guiding her as I did dear Twilight. It seems my way of handling the draconequus child has proven to backfire entirely, and yet the changeling threat still lingers." Princess Celestia groaned, showing a hint of vulnerability she didn't often reveal, if ever. She placed her head face flat atop the table with a slight moan in the form of a whine. "Must everything be so complicated...."

Discord turned back around, almost looking as if he took pity on the alicorn. "Funny, seeing you in this state almost reminds me of the days back before you and I would EVER consider sharing some cocoa over the hot topic of draconequus philosophy. Ohuhuhuhu, GOODY! Well Celestia, as much as I hate to burst your nasty little depression bubble-" he muttered to himself, "And trust me, I reeeeally do hate the idea of bursting it...." He sighed and took in a deep breath, "There are more important matters to attend to I'm sure! As in...shouldn't you be a LITTLE more concerned over the fact you sent your beloved 'student' and sister out to face the very creature that demolished half your city? And nearly us along with it? I mean sheesh!" He took a sip from his own wine glass. "You really need to set your priorities straight here, if it weren't for Fluttershy, I would've relished in seeing all your hard work crumble before you."

Princess Celestia leaned up before looking at her distorted reflection in the cocoa itself. She felt distant, and still more concentrated on other matters as she proclaimed softly. "Luna will succeed, as will Twilight. What matters is how we deal with the situation as it arrives on our doorstep Discord." She looked at the draconequus, almost as if she were a little disappointed by the fact he lacked the knowledge to foresee this. "Eve's future is still a treasure that can be preserved. "

Discord at this point seemed a little struck with disbelief at Celestia now. "Celestia, do please tell me you're JOKING! Have you gone bonkers? Is your little pony head screwed on tight enough? What makes you so confident that your 'little' filly willy of a sister and your future Sombra of a student will be able to 'succeed' so easily? We may have discussed how to go about the situation, yet it still doesn't make it any less probable how likely it is it won't happen. To be honest, I was half expecting you to lose your mind by now, and send me to help with the matter. Yet here I am, and here you are as calm as ever, worrying over things that you've already tried and FAILED to achieve might I add." He crossed his arms before grumpily leaning back and closing his eyes. "You want my advice? How about you stop attempting to control the poor girl and instead put her out of her misery! She's become far too much for you to handle as of now anyhow."

Princess Celestia slammed her hoof on the table. "IF SHE'D LISTENED TO ME, THEN SHE WOULDN'T BE LIKE SHE IS NOW!" She paused, before regaining her cool and realizing it wasn't like her to act so irrationally. Princess Celestia cleared her mind as she just exhaled once again, easing out and remaining concentrated on the topic once again. "The world we live in is shaped by destiny Discord. Even when it comes to your race apparently. Yet you've taught me that as shackled as your race appears to be, it's not as hopeless as you make seem. For even you sought to change, and changed you have. For Fluttershy you have been willing to comply with my wishes and help protect Equestria. You're the perfect example, of just how many possibilities are still out there regarding Eve's existence Discord."

Princess Celestia frowned somewhat. "The girl is special. She is a draconequus, born and abandoned in my lands for reasons of little value to me now. Although orphaned at a young age, she is still rightfully mine to give guidance and raise." Celestia still seemed on the defensive. "The draconequus policy may have been instilled, but I would've never imagined a child such as this appearing when she did, especially in such times." A soft nostalgic smirk decked Celestia's face in that moment, almost as if she were considering the irony of it all.

Princess Celestia looked down towards the table once again. "When I'd first discovered Twilight's potential, she was lost, afraid, unsure of what to do or how to go about her incredible magical power. She quite possibly, could've ended up no different from the creature she's hunting now. She doesn't see that as destructive as Eve may be, Eve's also progressively mastered her powers through mere adaptation. Alone, the child has managed to discover and become her very own draconequus representation. By all means, it's beyond impressive." Princess Celestia's eyes saddened the more she thought about it. "If only I'd been more careful, responsible, this all could've been avoided. But-" she looked to Discord, "Regardless of what has happened, I do believe that we can still salvage this Discord. You, Luna, and I, can still make it work."

Discord simply sighed before shrugging. "You call the shots your 'highness' but I have to wonder, if you don't enjoy your own policy, then why not simply remove it? It's not that hard you know, especially when you're the head honcho."

Princess Celestia winced at Discord as she scooted back from her seat. "You know it's not that simple Discord. Don't insult me."

Discord snickered as he cocked his head back, smirking as if challenging the alicorn. "Oh? Doooo enlighten me Princess."

Princess Celestia slammed her hoof on one of the armrests as she'd stood, actually speaking in her canterlot voice. "I do what I must to ensure the safety and happiness of my subjects! What do you suggest Discord, that I simply allow any remnants of the draconequus children travelling in my lands to casually roam free? They don't  belong within pony society, they should be with their own kind and if your rulers had been more responsible, then we wouldn't be having this issue. Even they see it, which is why they've sent us support." Princess Celestia scowled a little. "To abandon your own child, it is a horrendous tradition, yet I am one of the only individuals willing to accept this young draconequus. I am willing to take responsibility, where her own parents wouldn't. To establish for her, a prosperous future."

She continued, "But this is simply not something that can be handled by anypony, there must be rules Discord. Rules establish order, something I'm fairly certain you were never truly fond of. The policy must remain, draconequus as full fledged adults is a different matter, but children? They are a danger to everypony around them. A simple school fight, a small mistake, one slip up, one offensive remark, and these children are capable of erasing your very existence. They're prone to sensitivity, they have fragile minds. Such power must be contained....controlled, to ignore this would be to risk the very foundation of pony society." She glanced down, "And not to mention Eve's very existence is astounding in itself. Her development and magical capabilities vary far more than I expected of any draconequus, I know your race's powers seem to have some relation to your personal beliefs, yet still this child's capabilities are still but a mystery to me. The way things are now cannot remain the same, but they won't be easy to change either."

Discord fell silent as he seemed little interested in the matter at this point, yet still continued. "And what is it you plan to do?"

Celestia flashed Discord a soft smile. "There is one whose words and actions affected the child greatly. That certain somepony is the schoolmare of Ponyville, a certain, Cheerilee. She's kind hearted, very fond of children whether they be fillies, colts, and apparently, draconequus. If I can relate to this school teacher, then Eve would most certainly come to see my point of view, this method was obvious before, but now it's perhaps the only one available to me." Princess Celestia closed her eyes and chuckled. "I haven't given up yet Discord. Eve's existence can be so much more, if only she could see that her destiny is not limited to the grim dark world she has shown me." Princess Celestia's expression sunk once more, not failing to realize there were certainly still problems. "But Twilight's conviction...."

Discord's eyes widened before he snickered a bit, leaning back in his throne. "Speaking of which, how do you plan to handle our dear Princess of Friendship?" He muttered to himself with a sudden look of humorous worry. "Sure wouldn't want her to offer me her friendship."

Princess Celestia sighed before making way for the door. "Twilight is simply following her instructions to the letter, as well as the rules. It's not unlike her to do so, she'll be fine. She only need be sheltered from Eve's true purpose and she can go on living her life as she always has, away from all this chaos and heartbreak."

Discord burst into laughter. "BAHAHAAHAHAHAHAAHAHAHAHAAHAHAA!!!!"

Princess Celestia winced again before looking fairly irritated. "I'm happy you're amused."

Discord calmed himself before speaking in a humored tone. "No I just find it hilaaaarious!"

Princess Celestia cocked a brow at Discord.

Discord continued with a snicker. "Hilarious that you believe your special in the sense that the girl simply cannot do the same to your dear precious student, Celestia."

Princess Celestia's eyes widened exponentially.

A playful grin formed on Discord's face. "I wasn't lying when I said perhaps your worries should be elsewhere, the future isn't as certain as you make it out to be, there is only gray. Things have changed Celestia, whose to say that girl hasn't also? Do you truly believe her incapable of showing your precious student the error of her ways? She is only a child afterall. And apparently, according to you, draconequus children are quite prone to sensitivity, are they not?"

Princess Celestia seemed to reveal a hint of worry due to Discord's words but she calmed down. "That won't happen..."

Now it was Discord who'd looked surprised once again as he raised his own brow at Celestia.

Princess Celestia looked at him with uncertainty, yet she still managed to smile. "Eve would rather die before that happens."

Twilight wasn't an idiot, she looked Eve plainly, and honestly more in pitied anger, rather than detest. Her eyes saddened as she just gave Eve that tired look. She looked upon the draconequus as if she were looking at a child who'd lost its way, one that needed help despite all her judgements. Twilight knew what Eve's words meant, and as much as she wanted to focus more on the fact that Eve had changed her appearance once again to something more familiar and strangely normal, she'd felt concerned by those words. Yet she couldn't place whether that concern was out of the fact that this girl would rather off herself rather than return, due to pity or disappointment. As sad as the situation was, Eve's circumstances were still selfish, and Twilight wanted to make that clear. She closed her eyes with a sigh before stating, "So you're planning to run away again huh? Your way with words never ceases to amaze me."

At this point Eve, although she was used to Twilight by this point in her life, couldn't help but take great offense to that comment. She stood there, looking at Twilight Sparkle almost in a sense of disbelief, shock. "W-What? I'm not running from anything Twilight Sparkle! I know what I did, I'm only trying to fix that!" She felt her childish emotions stirring up within her, and she knew it wasn't good. She knew she needed to mature, especially in this pinnacle moment. Isn't this what Twilight Sparkle wanted? This is what she'd always craved for, yet there was always something. Eve was never right, she was never correct, she was always wrong! What was she supposed to do? Twilight's words only shook her conviction to the core everytime, Eve could never make sense of her world or life, and could never find her place or purpose without feeling lost when it came to Twilight. Even in the end, when she'd been planning to help Twilight Sparkle achieve her perfect ending, it wasn't satisfying. It frustrated her. She clenched her only claw in, as she gritted her teeth, her tiny fangs showing as her brows furrowed and she winced at the alicorn. "Why?......Why can't I please you Twilight Sparkle?"

Twilight was cold, callous in her tone towards Eve, almost like a mother berating her child and trying to give him/her an important lesson, a stern lecture. Twilight cocked her head back some, almost as if she were looking down on the draconequus, scolding her. "You truly believe that I'd approve of you attempting to martyr yourself Eve? No, you're no hero, you're not proving anything. You're not allowed to make those decisions. You lost that right the moment you'd decided to take the lives of others, to strip young fillies, colts, mares, and stallions of their loved ones. You lost that right when you'd decided to take the law into your own hooves, and ignore the rules established before you. You lost that right..." Twilight winced at the draconequus. "When you'd threatened my friends lives with your nonsense."

Eve immediately snapped at Twilight. Yet this didn't stir a reaction out of the mare just yet, she'd only watched Eve continue with that pained expression, almost as if reading it, attempting to find truth in it, whether or not this expression of pain and sorrow was legitimate. To Twilight's surprise, she did not find it dishonest. "WHAT DO YOU KNOW TWILIGHT SPARKLE!?" What was she doing? Eve knew she shouldn't be doing this, it was only jeopardizing everything she strove to achieve. Was that all she knew how to do these days? Ruin everything for herself? But she couldn't help it, she just couldn't, she'd hoped that at least in the end, Twilight Sparkle would at least give her some silent approval. "ALL I WANTED WAS YOUR APPROVAL TWILIGHT SPARKLE!!! ALL I WANTED WAS FOR YOU TO APPROVE OF MOMMA AND ME.....I tried Twilight Sparkle! I tried to reach you, your world of love, friendship, I wanted all of it! I'd do anything for it!" She hesitated, but soon cried out, closing her eyes. "I'M SORRY TWILIGHT SPARKLE!" Eve tore at her hair in sudden frustration. "I never wanted any of this. I-I don't want this world....I...I...I didn't know what to do..." Her eyes went wide as if she were even going senile, recalling the events which'd traumatized her. "But....I couldn't...Not even for Momma, not for you. Not for Trixie. P-Princess Celestia...her world,...it hurts, it hurts too much. I...I'm scared of it. What do you know?...What do you understand?"

Although Twilight felt a little blown back by Eve's words, those final words struck her in particular. Twilight had a habit of reading into things more so than others, and it angered her to no ends, when something in particular was mentioned. That something was something Twilight didn't understand, and that's what infuriated her the most. Eve's story, she knew all of it, she knew all the details, yet with this sudden unexpected unmentioned slip up from the draconequus, Twilight was in the dark once again. Yet Twilight's rage only continued to stir and boil as she thought about the subject of her confusion.......What did Eve know about Princess Celestia she herself didn't? "What're you talking about?........"

Eve looked at Twilight for a moment with both an expression of vulnerability and slight confusion. "H-Huh?..."

Twilight's pent up frustration only grew more severe, as her eyes widened with almost an intense craving for information, for understanding, almost to the point of insanity. "For what reason, would anypony need to fear Princess Celestia?...What're you talking about?......You monster....." It tore at her from the inside. The simple thought of being wrong when it came to Eve, no, she couldn't be wrong, it wasn't possible, even the chance possibility would send Twilight over the edge. No, Eve was a liar, she always was a liar. As legitimate as she seemed, as honest as her words sounded, those words MUST'VE been intended, they must've been some lure to deceive Twilight. Twilight's mind was slowly being thrown into shambles, she blocked the thoughts out of her mind, denied any conceivable possibility. But her mind wouldn't allow it, it wouldn't allow her to simply ignore the pieces she was given. What'd Eve been doing at the festival in the first place? Why did Princess Celestia save her? Why did Eve spare Princess Celestia? What did this beast, this monster, this deceiving trash, know of Princess Celestia? What sort of lies was she trying to stir in Twilight's mind, what sort of seeds was she attempting to plant? Twilight snapped herself, so angry with Eve's sudden hint of emotion, sudden fear and heartfelt apology, that she herself couldn't accept it. As smart as she was, she WOULDN'T allow this possibility to be conceived. No, Eve wasn't allowed to do that, not after so many things had happened. She wasn't allowed to plant the seeds of doubt. She needed a confession, she needed Eve to admit she was just lying, making things up off the top of her head to save her own hide. "WHAT'RE YOU TALKING ABOUT!? YOU KNOW NOTHING OF PRINCESS CELESTIA EVE!!!" Twilight snarled, "YOU'RE JUST SOME DRACONEQUUS WHO CAUSED HER TROUBLE, SHE HAS NOTHING TO DO WITH YOU!! NO CONNECTION, NONE!!!"

To acknowledge anything that came out of her mouth, would tear everything she ever stood for apart.

Eve looked at Twilight, unable to say anything more. She opened her mouth, but staggered before hesitating, taking a moment to understand the situation. Eve drew herself in once again, silencing herself nervously, she knew she'd talked too much. She simply wrapped her arm around herself, as her eyes saddened and avoided eye contact with Twilight Sparkle, immediately agreeing with her. She spoke in a hushed tone. "Y-You're right....I'm sorry Twilight Sparkle."

Twilight irked, as her heart felt struck again. No, that's not what she wanted either. Twilight hated it, each and every second of this moment told her things she didn't want to know. Her mind didn't stop connecting the pieces, it didn't stop her from seeing the obvious, seeing the things that just couldn't be true, yet they'd smacked her right in the face. "No Eve! Enlighten me, tell me your story, your hardships! Tell me just what I don't understand!"

Rainbow Dash in particular, who'd been listening this entire time looked at Eve with appeared to be understanding, as if somewhere inside, she couldn't convince herself that the girl wasn't lying, much like Twilight. But even so, Rainbow would never go against Twilight especially since Twilight was so personally involved with this ordeal as was she. Eve hurt her friends, made them suffer, yet to see the so called villain so broken before them, willing to silence herself for an eternity, after seeing her like this so many times before, Rainbow could help but question it all as well. But she remained silent, only looking at Eve, wanting the same answers as Twilight was demanding, but not voicing those wishes.

Eve's brows furrowed as she looked persistent, shaking her head, this time sounding far more serious. "N-No I..." Eve fell silent, as she'd just closed up. She bit her lower lip, struggling to find a way to cover herself but, she knew she had some issues regarding her emotions, and this outburst had done something terrible. Twilight couldn't be suspicious, she could never know what happened or pony society would be at risk, only more terrible things would come of it.

Eve stated without a second thought, "I lied."

"Good Girl."

Eve's eyes widened as she heard the sudden voice, within dangerously close proximity. But it wasn't that which frightened her the most, it was the familiarity of the voice. She'd recognize it anywhere, that tone, that kindness, but no matter the situation she knew it was impossible for 'her' to be here. Eve glanced back with wide, curious eyes, as her pupils dilated and they'd only grew wider with disbelief. Her mouth hung open for a long awhile as her heart raced with each passing second which felt to last an eternity, as impossible as the possibility was, she couldn't turn away. She was frozen unable to react, as she usually was in her presence. Her graceful, mesmerizing presence. "M-Momma?"

Cheerilee wore a soft smile, glancing down at her once daughter. "What're you so afraid of sweetie?"

Eve just looked upon Cheerilee still with that same expression, before it eased into something more tragic. Eve was tired of crying, but she couldn't help but sob still, softly to herself as she bit her lower lip. She raised her claw slowly before lowering her head, and refusing to look Cheerilee in the face. "Momma....."

Yes, that's all this world ever was for her, one big lie.

Chapter 7: Understanding


CHAPTER 7: UNDERSTANDING

The shade of Cheerilee soon dissipated, leaving no trace that it was ever there before.

Eve believed however, she were simply seeing things, it wouldn't be surprising to her these days.

She stood before Twilight Sparkle and Rainbow Dash with a blank stare to say the least. With her one arm at her side, she spoke in a simple, straightforward tone, in which she'd hoped they would understand almost instantly. "Twilight Sparkle, are you ready?" She lowered her head and continued, "This is all that's left, one final step." Eve raised her claw, before a candy cane appeared in her grasp, as she looked upon the two ponies with a sudden look of anticipation. Her eyes were wide with certainty of the future to come. "But I suggest you hurry."

Twilight winced at the draconequus as she'd casted a spell of her own in order to manifest transparent purple weapons at her side. They were her guardians, and she knew these spells well. Although she'd only planned to use them for self-defense, this was a moment long coming, an exception to say the least. "Looks like you're leaving me no choice again Eve." Twilight Sparkle's eyes saddened as she sighed, before closing them almost like a disappointed parent. Eve could be no more than six, yet how much her state of mind worsened was beyond disturbing. To think one so young could become so dangerous was at a time unthinkable. Twilight looked upon the draconequus with a hint of hesitation in her eyes, it seemed Eve finally accepted that her lies wouldn't get her anywhere, but instead would choose to die rather than surrender. "So, is this your last resort? Even in the end you've refused what I've been attempting to give you." Twilight's eyes were cold and dead set upon her target. "Now if I don't do what I have to, then you'll hurt everypony again." Twilight's pupils dilated. "I must save them before that happens. Isn't that right?"

Eve crouched before the mare, readying herself in a lurking position, almost as if she were planning to pounce upon the two like a wolf on its prey. The air around her began to blur creating a distorted image like steam, as she'd kept her eyes focused on them in silence. Yes, Eve was satisfied with this, and it would also enable Twilight to prove to her the gifts of friendship could overcome anything, even despair. All she'd done was bring harm to others, caused them misfortune, pain, and ruined everything, all she wanted now was to be able to do something that wouldn't bring about horrible things, that would make up for everything she'd stolen from pony society. She truly was the worst kind of individual. She gave herself a reaffirming nod. "Your words are confident, Twilight Sparkle."

Twilight knew Eve was planning to strike soon, but she found herself frozen, unable to convince herself to move forward. But it wasn't a problem of conviction, it was a problem of doubt. How could she manage to best the creature that could mold and manipulate the very definition of chaos against her will? Twilight struggled to come up with  a plan she could use, but sadly as the doubt crept further in, she began to feel it yet again, that sense of despair. Until suddenly a slight nudge helped her snap back to her senses, as she'd looked over at Rainbow Dash.

Rainbow Dash flashed her friend an amused smile, a little humored by how worried she was. Rainbow didn't appear troubled at all about the situation, her confidence was practically radiating from her, and it baffled Twilight to say the least, but it was also reassuring. Rainbow spoke with an almost smug tone, she smiled softly before placing a hoof atop Twilight's head, "Twilight! You're not alone in this alright? You'll always have us by your side." She glared at Eve somewhat, but still had some sign of sorrow, pity in her eyes. "No matter what troubles come our way, we'll always be there to help you. That's what loyalty is, a spark of friendship that will give you the confidence to find your way." Rainbow snickered a bit as she placed a hoof upon her own chest. "Hah! Never thought I could sound so poetic did ya!?"

Twilight looked at Rainbow with wide eyes, before giggling a bit and actually turning a faint shade of crimson. "Rainbow...." She fell silent for a moment, before looking back towards Eve, and then placing and grinding her hooves firmly in the dirt below her, ready for the draconequus's assault. "You're right. I guess I shouldn't be surprised hearing that from a fellow Daring Do fan huh?" Twilight was now wearing a smile, ready for whatever Eve was willing to throw at them.

Rainbow actually gasped, feeling offended. "H-Heeey! Those words were original! Hmph!" She closed her eyes before turning her head up towards the upper left. But Rainbow then mimicked Twilight's own expression before she to smirked. "You know Twilight, I never thought princesses were supposed to be on the front lines."

Eve's expression didn't change either. She still looked upon the two in a serious manner, she'd trained herself to stay true to the image she wanted to represent for when this encounter came. But inside she was certainly jealous, spiteful, and she hated it, her own feelings regarding the two mares. She wanted to blame them, to curse them, to destroy them for being able to live as they did. But she also knew that wasn't right, she also knew that it was a simple case of destiny, of them each having their own roles to play. As Twilight Sparkle had been trained and taught to follow the example of friendship and the preservation and representation of harmony, Eve knew she was no more than a creature of chaos.

As of those who're born in nobility, granted the rights to enter schools of prestige and taught the values of life while experiencing the gifts of paradise at their leisure as they matured into dependable, intellectual, moralistic mares and stallions, there were those who were far different. There were those who were born into the depths of hardship, a bottomless pit, all consuming and ultimately maddening. Those who were born into a world of struggling and survival, a world which typically resulted in hatred and spite towards everything else, a world which bred villains. Villains who bred negativity due to the hardship they experienced, villains who wanted no more than to force such hardships on others to give rise to true equality in their eyes. But perhaps they were misinformed, perhaps their idea of a fair world was simply their own selfishness. Eve had only convinced herself of her own selfishness after she'd committed atrocities. She'd denied Princess Celestia out of her own fear, not for the greater good of Equestria.

Eve's eyes saddened before she flicked her claw. She told herself, no more fears. That's the message she tried to tell herself at least, from this point forward until her end, no more fear. She couldn't be scared.

But such things were easier said than done.

With the flick of her claw, came a massive rumbling from beneath the earth as behind her up came a geyser explosion, massive and steaming, and when inspected further seemed to be actually hot chocolate. The sweet brown liquid surged up towards the very skies almost as if it were a titanic being attempting to grasp at the clouds, catching the mares off guard and confused.

Eve enjoyed the idea of giving them an opening surprise, she had to ensure she was the first one to make such a move, she had to begin the assault. To her it was all about presentation.

Rainbow Dash and Twilight remained composed, in place, trying to assess the situation together. But in that moment the long upright stream of chocolate, immediately twisted and turned as if it were actually alive, heading straight down towards them. Twilight's eyes went wide, obviously not expecting to be attacked by hot chocolate of all things. Twilight's eyes closed halfway, because she couldn't help but think about Pinkie Pie in this situation. A thought ran through her mind, Pinkie would be the absolutely perfect pony to have here under these circumstances, Eve probably wouldn't stand a chance humorously. But now wasn't the time to be thinking about what would be fortunate, it was time to act. Twilight looked up towards the coming wave of hot chocolate as she'd immediately stated, "Get closer to me Rainbow!"

Rainbow nodded to her friend before huddling up next to Twilight, as the alicorn cast a spell in that moment, her horn radiating a beautiful violet shade. Suddenly surrounding them would be a barrier, a shield against the coming scorching sugary liquid, which'd engulfed their area whole mere seconds later.

Eve looked upon the scene with a blank stare as she was simply waiting for something to happen.

Then bursting forth from the stream and splashing chocolate would be both mares, unharmed as they'd charged the draconequus side by side. Rainbow however made her way forward much quicker than Twilight.

Eve's eyes widened a bit as she felt a little nostalgic about this scene, it all felt particularly familiar to her. Oh yes that's right, this was a similar retake of what'd happened in the Ruins of Everfree. Eve lowered her head, the time that'd been the pinnacle moment of her life and perhaps her biggest regret in all the choices she'd made. But there was no going back now, there was no point in regretting it now. Well, Twilight Sparkle and Rainbow would have to mature if they were planning to use such familiar stratagems. Because if this truly was going to end up being similar to last time, Eve knew what was coming next. She simply snapped her claw, as emerging from the pool of leftover chocolate behind Twilight would come a pack of hard chocolate timber-wolves, which'd growled ferociously in regards to their enemies.

Eve smiled speaking faintly. "When I was younger, before I could fly, I once ran from these puppies before." She paused for a moment before continuing, "What will you do Twilight Sparkle?"

Twilight glanced back as she appeared shocked, to little surprise. "What? She shouldn't have the power to be able to create living creatures...." Twilight fell silent for a few seconds before realizing, "Ah, so they're not alive, she's simply manipulating the chocolate passively to give off that impression?...Perhaps, even so, it's far too convincing." The mare immediately turned on her hooves to face the coming timber-wolves as she'd cast another spell to manifest more weapons to aid her as they danced about the air and then surged forward towards the pack of false wolves. The weapons sliced through their hard chocolate coating like butter, with little to no effort, which'd pleased Twilight no doubt.

Twilight began to move about the area, precise accurate movements helped her maneuver through the pack of wolves. She didn't run, she wasn't afraid of such a comedic spell, despite how dangerous these false wolves may have been. Her weapons spun about, flying straight at their enemies and spinning to dismember them piece by piece. Using a manifested mace, Twilight had actually knocked one of the chocolate timber-wolves into the air and pieces to follow. Its fragments descended downward as she caught a piece of  it in her mouth before munching down heartily. "Hmph!"

Rainbow Dash however kept going forward, as with a mighty flap of her wings she shot towards her target with remarkable speed. She was at the draconequus's side in no time, before halting in the air and going about a graceful spin, attempting to give Eve a devastating roundhouse kick.

Eve's cold stare met with Rainbow's eyes and without even the slightest reaction, she'd summoned a barrier of hard candy mixed in with dirt and grime to shield her from that kick. She then flicked her claw which'd sent a sudden lasso of gum at the rainbow maned mare, which'd snatched Rainbow's leg before flinging her into one of the candy cane trees.

Rainbow coughed before slumping down against the tree "OOF!" She then glanced down at her trapped hooves.

Twilight dispatched the rest of the timber wolves with ease however, as she was covered somewhat in chocolate. She'd gritted her teeth before looking back at Rainbow Dash worriedly. "Rainbow?! Are you alright!"

Rainbow leaned up from the candy cane tree as she'd grunted. "Ugh! Y-Yea I'm good!..."

Twilight glanced around making sure there were no more wolves, but her concern was still Rainbow Dash. "Please, be careful Rainbow!"

Rainbow immediately snapped back at her friend in dismay. "Twilight!!.....EVE!"

Twilight snapped back to attention as she'd immediately looked over towards Eve's position to see the draconequus had disappeared from sight. But she wasn't gone, no she was simply now deathly close to Twilight, as the mare couldn't help but notice her now. Twilight met eyes with the enemy she'd wanted to so desperately face, and surprisingly, as she met with those eyes, her heart ran cold. What was with that look? Eve looked no different from a doll, lifeless in every aspect of the word as they looked at one another. Twilight hadn't felt this before, this sense of fear, as a chill ran down her spine in this brief moment. Why did she now suddenly feel a hesitation to react as well?

It was such a long moment coming, it was actually hard for her to recall or fathom the idea of Eve actually attempting to kill her. And deep inside, hadn't Eve always hinted at the idea of 'not' wanting her to die, so what was this? Twilight felt irked, she sounded pathetic and she knew it, no, this is how things were supposed to be! It only made the draconequus's guilt more certain, she was a manipulative liar and full of deceit, and now was only making those eyes simply because this was what she truly wanted, Twilight dead on the floor. But still, if that was the case, why did it feel so wrong?

Eve raised her claw with her candy cane still in her grasp as she swung it upward. She didn't appear afraid, hesitant, concerned, or angry, she lacked any emotion whatsoever. The cold expression she had before was now lacking and basically non-existent, she now appeared no different from a machine attempting to accomplish a final programming goal. Like a puppet moving elegantly along its strings. Her body danced with her cane with deadly grace, and with that first swing, she'd removed strands of Twilight's bangs. Eve kept telling it to herself over and over again in her head, this had to be absolutely perfect, no more hesitation or fear, she could not falter. If she did, then everything would be a waste, no, not even in the heat of a battle with Twilight, friendship would prevail for Twilight, it always would. The possibility of it failing wasn't there, Twilight Sparkle, was not allowed to fail. Eve ran the steps through her head, as she kept both eyes focused on the alicorn. Twilight was still fine, which was good. "Careful,....Princess."

Twilight Sparkle stumbled back, as she'd felt as if by some stroke of luck or perhaps premeditation, she managed to not get hit by that first swing. The mare was now at her wits end, as she was doing all she could to not be harmed by the oncoming blows one after another. By each fraction of a second she had to dodge or move her manifested weapons in such a way that they'd only save her by mere inches, guarding her sides. Twilight winced as she noticed she'd been forced to move backwards due to the draconequus's movements, and she felt as if she were being guided step by step.

Rainbow's heart ached painfully at the sight of Twilight being forced to contest with such a girl. She looked on, still forced into a stationary position from the gum which stuck to her. Rainbow began to tear at it desperately, but like quicksand, her reactions only gave off the opposite effect and made the situation progressively worsen. But she couldn't help it, her emotions were now whirling as she'd desperately wanted to get out, no she needed to. She couldn't watch any longer, as Twilight was constantly forced on the defensive, forced to repel the draconequus's blows.

Rainbow thought back on what she'd seen as they were facing off against Eve earlier. The draconequus was far more capable than this, so why was she opposing Twilight in such a way? And why did she even revert back to such a simplistic form as well? Rainbow didn't like any of it. She snarled fiercely as she started to tremble, only getting more wrapped in the gum. "COME ON!! Why won't it come off!?" She was now practically fully covered in the pink sticky substance as she'd continued to twist and turn fiercely, as if she had an infinite pool of stamina stored.

"Calm down Rainbow Dash!" And suddenly somepony flew past the rainbow mare's position at incredible speed, leaving a trail of flame in her wake as it'd made contact with the gum. Spitfire returned with confidence, but she still wore a expression far from anything playful, as she'd glared at the mare. "You're only making things worse on yourself." As her flame slowly spread about the gum and began to wrap around it, it'd actually loosened up the gum's grasp on Rainbow Dash before sliding off entirely. Spitfire then made her way over to the mare. "You think you're up for continuing?"

Rainbow Dash didn't even react, actually she felt a bit offended by Spitfire's question. "Of course! Now let's go!" Rainbow then immediately burst off into a trot, as she began to flap her wings to pick up the speed.

Spitfire smiled as she closed her eyes and smiled softly to herself in amusement, but also admiration for the aspiring trainee.

Twilight looked exhausted to say the least as her movements started to become more sluggish. Her world started to slow as she felt out of it, and her body started to heat up. Was she really that tired already? She never took her eyes off Eve, who still had those same eyes, uncaring, unmoving, unreadable, simply a lifeless stare. Was she always so relentless? Twilight knew she was older, and should've been more physically capable. So how is it Eve wasn't tired at all? Maybe it had something to do with her magic, that'd make the most sense. As Twilight continued to sidestep Eve and look upon her, many thoughts and memories began to creep into her mind. She recalled Eve once making expressions filled with such emotion, but that was all but absent now, and before she knew it, her thoughts caused her to stumble.

Eve's own eyes widened as she immediately showed a look of reluctance, her first sign of emotion since engaging the mare in this physical bout. Eve immediately retracted her blade in a swift movement, pulling it back some.

Twilight didn't fail to notice this as it'd only left her more confused.

Eve then raised her candy cane again and swung it towards Twilight as immediately appearing beneath the draconequus in a sudden flash would be Rainbow Dash who'd bucked Eve's arm upward, causing a crack to echo. With that shattering crack, Eve's candy cane flew upward as it caused the draconequus to react with a wince of discomfort before smirking softly to herself, and then immediately grabbing hold of Rainbow's head, getting a firm grasp on it before looking into the mare's rosy eyes with a sad expression. "Got you hmhm...." She said faintly as she'd sighed.

And in that moment, Rainbow felt an overwhelming swarm of confusing emotions overcome her.

As Twilight fell to her side, her vision started to blur, before she caught sight of her friend in the grasp of Eve.

Now even Twilight felt as if she'd suddenly been injected with a burst of infinite energy. She was infuriated as she'd looked upon the scene in horror. "GET YOUR HOOVES OFF HER!" Twilight moved with ferocity as her horn's color never faded as she sneered fiercely at the draconequus. With her weapons at her side she charged, and all the blades surged straight towards Eve as the alicorn let off a piercing angered cry.

But for Eve, those reactions were much slower than they appeared to be. No, for the moment she had a time of privacy.

Rainbow even felt as if she were in an entirely different world, as these feelings of enlightenment overcame her. She couldn't make sense of what she was seeing, but it caused her to feel as if her very soul was being massacred, her sense of remorse and guilt only continued to rise. What exactly was she seeing? A world entirely different from the one they lived in, but it was a world built from tragedy. A paradise built from bones? Then in the very next second, Rainbow's world had gone black, as if she'd fallen into a deep permanent sleep. Although that feeling wouldn't last long.

Rainbow awoke in a world of white, as she glanced around for a few seconds before she noticed standing not far in the distance, was the draconequus herself. Rainbow immediately reacted with anger as she'd lowered her frame, preparing to knock the girl's lights out, but restrained herself. "Hey! Where am I!? What is this!?"

Eve glanced over at the mare, before chuckling with a sad smile. "You're in a very private place right now."

Rainbow only looked more puzzled as she continued. "Well...What's the point of bringing me here?!"

Eve blinked a bit before she to appeared a little ignorant on how to answer that question. "I don't know really. I guess, without even realizing it, I just went with what I thought would be best." She lowered her head before closing her eyes with a sigh, then flashing the mare a playful smile. "I guess I'm just a little nervous is all. Maybe I'm trying to make too many decisions at once. I didn't want anypony else to see this but,...I guess I just don't know what's right and wrong anymore. I guess I don't know anything anymore eheh." She turned a bit red, before scratching her cheek.

Rainbow's caution steadily melted away, as she glanced around again before lowering her hind legs, but still looking fairly upset with the draconequus. "Well, how long is this going to last? If you don't recall, I was in the middle of stopping you from hurting Twilight. What're you trying to prove by sticking me in here?" Rainbow stomped a hoof, snapping at her. "No matter what tricks you pull now Eve, it's too late! No more tricks or head games will save you! And if you're planning to trap me in whatever this place is, Twilight and the others will stop you!"

Eve turned to the mare, looking a little surprised again. She then smiled, before that smile became a smirk which'd revealed each of her tiny fangs as she slowly began to chuckle, before laughing heartily. "Eheh...hahahahaha!"

Rainbow raised a brow, a bit offended by the girl's reaction.

Eve didn't even bother to answer the question. "Did you just realize that now?" Eve sat now to, as she wrapped her one arm around her knees before giggling a bit. "I'm more than convinced of the element's capabilities, especially you and Princess Twilight's." Eve's expression saddened, as her frown returned. "I'm sorry for being so stupid, all this time."

Rainbow blinked a bit, before she sighed, feeling a bit reluctant to go into a more heartfelt conversation with this villain, but she scratched the back of her own mane before blushing slightly, and trotting over to Eve. "L-Listen...You've done some pretty bad things...actually..you've done reeeeally bad things, but that doesn't mean it has to end here. You heard me earlier didn't you? You also heard Twilight? Why don't you just stop? If you stop, sure you'll have to face the consequences of your actions, but that's something we all have to do when we make mistakes."

Rainbow placed a hoof on Eve's head before giving her a stubborn glare. "I don't know your reasons, but there's no excuse for hurting others like this, and especially from what I heard in Canterlot. I don't know if I could ever forgive you for hurting my friends either, but you don't deserve to lose your life, that's for sure. You're so young kiddo!" Rainbow forced the draconequus to face her, before pressing her nose up against Eve's and then poking her in her chest, still having that stubborn explanatory look on her face. "Now just surrender! I can talk to Twilight, because surprisingly, as chaotic as you've been, there are a few others who like you." Rainbow paused, "Like Cheerilee...."

Eve cocked her head to the left somewhat still with a gentle smile. "I'm glad we could talk, even if for a little." Eve snapped her claw, as surrounding them would immediately be a stream of scenes, all in the form of a conjugated collage. She smiled back at Rainbow Dash, "Please, take anything you'd like to know. I don't want to stuff you with information but...it's the least I could do. I was thinking of showing Princess Twilight but..." Eve turned a bit red as she scratched her cheek a little, "I don't think she'd like being stuck alone with me for any period of time." Eve glanced back at the ground nervously as she buried her head in her shoulder a bit with a pleased look. "Hmhm, I could even put it in the form of a library if you'd like. When I showed Princess Celestia, I wasn't that good at playing around with this yet so all I could do was overwhelm her with these things. I doubt what I've learned will be of much help but I made sure to study a lot just in case." Eve closed her eyes before pointing upward with a explanatory look.

She began walking back and forth. "L-Listen! I may be gone soon, but that doesn't mean I'm going to just let you guys run and do whatever." Eve puckered her lower lip grumpily for a second. "I understand Twilight's feelings but she can sure be scary at times. But maybe that's just with me, she's strong." She paused, "Oh oh! Also please try to work things out with the changelings, they're not all mean." Eve placed her claw on her chest. "I'll have you know Rainbow Dash, I've learned quite a bit of things about ruling as well." She snapped her claw as suddenly emerging from the desolate white ground of this world would be rows of bookshelves, streams of knowledge the draconequus had collected. "Twilight has proven more than enough to me, so this would be the perfect time for you Rainbow Dash. Now, all we must do is-"

Rainbow interrupted, as the mare was more focused on the scenes around her. Eve couldn't see her expression but based on Rainbow's tone she was fairly upset with what she was seeing. She simply looked up, at this vast space filled with such vivid scenes, and the mare's voice trembled somewhat. "Shutup...."

When she took the time to actually observe what was happening around her, what all of this portrayed. "What is this?"

Eve's eyes widened as she paused mid sentence and just looked at Rainbow, a little clueless. "Huh?"

But Rainbow was far from playing some childish act, let alone in the mood for one. As she immediately grabbed hold of Eve and then slammed her small body up against one of the shelves, causing many of the books to fall and scatter across the empty floor. And it was Rainbow's expression which left the draconequus looking puzzled. Rainbow was enraged, yet tears swelled in her eyes as she swiped her hoof, pointing behind her as she kept Eve pinned up against the bookshelf angrily. "WHAT IS THIS EVE!? WHAT'S WITH ALL THIS!?"

Eve shook her head as she wanted to desperately answer the mare. "W-What're you talking about? I've told you tha-"

Rainbow's hooves started to tremble as she didn't even want to recall what she'd been shown. What she'd been seeing. "ARE YOU JUST STUPID!?" Rainbow immediately referred to all the vivid scenarios which surrounded her. "Why did you never mention any of these things!? Eve what is this!? W-Wha...." Rainbow was at a loss for words as she simply placed a hoof on her forehead. This was far too much to take in, and what puzzled her even more was the fact the draconequus simply didn't seem to get it, which hurt the mare even more. Was this simply stupid innocence?

Rainbow glanced back at one particular scene as she'd seen Cheerilee and the draconequus laying on a couch, which'd caused the mare to immediately react by throwing up. She staggered to the white floor, realizing that after so long Eve had managed to find peace in a world filled with turmoil and grief, and in some ways, they were responsible for taking that away. The tension overwhelmed her the more she thought about it, how they were a part of her descent into what she'd became. Rainbow had seen so many pictures of horrors in the dark followed by pools of crimson and streams of red mush. She saw her kind only regard the girl with sickening looks, disgusted by her very appearance. It all baffled her and hurt her to say the least. Why did some child have to experience all these things? Why did she deserve such a severe punishment? And what happened with Princess Celestia, what caused Eve to forcefully what looked like, tear her own limb from her body!? It was disgusting and horrible! The mare tried to make sense of it all, but it only caused her to feel even sicker. Rainbow now looked tired as she looked angry, confused, flustered. And why were some of these memories so bittersweet around her? Where were all the crimes that were spoken of? What were these vivid images of Eve being attacked in the forest, then of laughter, and of a family the mare had never seen. Yet she could feel it as well, which made her stomach churn with pain and her heart ache. These feelings of gratitude, of hope, of happiness and guilt. Only to be followed by feelings of despair. Rainbow felt as if her brain were about melt due to the fact she could only assume the worst. These feelings were all truly Eve's. She rose to her hooves once again as she looked at the draconequus. "Eve,.....let me out."

Eve stomped a hoof before shaking her head at Rainbow. "N-No! You still need to take what you can before-"

Rainbow snapped, getting in the draconequus's face. "NOW!!!!.....I need to speak with Twilight right away!"

Eve shuddered, before backing up further against the book case and grumpily glaring to the lower left. "Fine...." Then with a snap of her claw, the world around them shattered, in a familiar fashion she'd seen so many times before.

But before disappearing, a light smirk appeared on Eve's lips. Just what are you trying to accomplish now, Rainbow Dash?

Twilight paused as she'd froze in place, looking at Rainbow, unsure what she was doing. "Rainbow, what're you doing?"

As Eve focused on the present once again, her eyes saddened before she just glanced down towards the dirt. "Yes Rainbow, what're you doing?" Eve spoke with a hint of annoyance, "This is no time to play around."

Rainbow now stood in front of the draconequus, blocking the path to Eve, defiantly. "Quiet Eve!" Rainbow then immediately looked at Twilight. "T-Twilight there's things we need to talk about okay? I know that this'll sound crazy but just trust me okay! Eve's showed me things, things not even she understands. I just need you to see it as well Twilight!"

Spitfire arrived a few feet away from Eve's position, also looking reluctant to follow along with anything the aspiring Wonderbolt had to say. "Rainbow Dash! What do you think you're doing!? Stop this nonsense at once!"

Twilight to stomped her hoof. "Rainbow you can't trust anything Eve has to say! She's crazy, she hurt our friends! She killed innocent ponies! She's messing with your head! Now move out of the way before she hurts you to!" Twilight looked desperate as she attempted to get through to her friend. "Rainbow please! Whatever she showed you isn't true, it's simply a lie to get you to turn against us! It's what she's always done, what she's good at! She's no different from Discord before he was reformed! She's playing with your good conscience! Using it against you!"

Rainbow cried out, "TWILIGHT, JUST LISTEN!!!"

Twilight flinched as she staggered back some, muttering. "R-Rainbow Dash?......"

Eve still didn't appear amused as she just remained silent, keeping her head lowered.

Rainbow continued as she looked pained by this whole experience to say the least. "Time is short, and I NEED to do this before something ends up happening that I may end up regretting for my entire life if I don't act now. Twilight, there are things we don't know, that YOU don't know okay? I-I know it's crazy, I know it sounds weird-" Rainbow began to tremble again as she looked as if she were losing her mind, actually she was wondering if that truly was the case. She gave an obviously crooked, conflicted grin. "But....." She then looked back at Eve who simply looked at Rainbow as if she were wasting her time. "But...I saw! I saw that she's just a kid Twilight! I always knew she was just a kid! The things she did, they were stupid, immature, but...we can fix it! By the looks of it she didn't mean to do those things, there are things that she just has to show you! If we just give her a chance, I mean....-"

Rainbow was growing increasingly frustrated just by how crazy she sounded. She wanted this to make sense, wanted them to just be able to get everything as she did in mere moments. To have the same hunch she had throughout this encounter, and to be able to receive that confirmation. "We don't have to go this far Twilight!!! Let's just stop this! We only need to talk to Princess Luna and Princess Celestia and they'll understand, I'm sure of it!" She glanced back at Eve, "Eve go over to Twi-"

"Twilight Sparkle please calm down. Rainbow is right, however, that child lacks conviction."

Rainbow's eyes widened as she turned, in regards to that voice, and seeing in the distance, emerging from the shadows of the candy cane trees would be Princess Luna herself. "Princess!"

The alicorn looked fairly serious before stopping in place, simply looking upon the mare and her newfound companion by the looks of it. Then immediately landing at Princess Luna's sides would be Soarin, accompanied by the rest of the recon team who'd been sent into the castle earlier. Princess Luna raised a hoof as emerging from all around them, practically surrounding the area would be everypony else as well. This included Twilight's new personal guard of ponies, lead by their Captain. Yet, the draconequus were missing, but Princess Luna didn't seem troubled, as if she were expecting it. "Now step away from her Rainbow, we'll settle things from here on."

A wide smile appeared on Princess Twilight's face as she was more than happy to see Princess Luna had actually decided to participate rather than give orders. This mission was already all over the place, perhaps Princess Luna could see to that Eve needed to be stopped. "Princess I-"

Princess Luna winced at the fellow alicorn. "Not another word Twilight Sparkle. At least not now, your actions put you and your friends, and this entire mission in grave danger, now look at the situation we're in."

Twilight's expression sunk as she lowered her head, muttering. "I'm..I'm sorry Princess Luna I-"

Princess Luna continued. "It's fine." Princess Luna closed her eyes, regarding Eve with a smile. "Actually everything is just perfect." She paused, "Eve, you're awfully quiet, are you alright child? You seem rather distressed."

Eve scrunched up her shoulders a bit, remaining silent as she curled in her claw.

Rainbow turned, grabbing hold of Eve softly before smiling at Princess Luna hopefully. "Princess Luna, I can vouch for Eve, see, see how she doesn't attack me? Listen Princess, I think Eve just might be going through some trouble! If you can just let me talk to her, I think we'll be able to fix all of this." Rainbow lowered her frame before going in front of the draconequus and facing her, attempting to force her to look her in the eyes. "Squirt, we can deal with all of this haha! Whatever that was you showed me you have to do it again."

Eve trembled somewhat before she squinted a bit, as if becoming even more stressed due to the mare's words. She hesitantly looked at Rainbow Dash. She gave the mare a broken smile, baring her sharp fangs in the form of a childish grin. "Thank you Rainbow Dash, but sadly, there are things far more important." She fell silent, "Sorry."

Rainbow Dash couldn't stem her trembling as she shook her head, before biting her lower lip. "What're you thanking me for?......What're you apologizing for!?" Rainbow's frustration only continued to rise. "Why do you keep acting like it's over when it isn't!? It's not over!" She shook the draconequus, as Eve gave the mare no reaction. Rainbow's heart sank as she looked at Twilight, who still looked upon her friend with little recognition. "Twilight help me! Help me convince them!" Rainbow then looked back at Princess Luna. "Princess!" Then to Spitfire. "Captain Spitfire! I'm telling the truth you guys I swear it!" Rainbow looked in Eve's eyes, begging for her to say something.

Princess Luna, "Eve, playing games is pointless. Inside, you are no more than a child, despite your so called, beliefs."

There was a lengthy silence between all of them.

But as they stood there for some time, Twilight Sparkle noticed a sudden change in Eve's expression. As she saw the draconequus's expression turn cold and sadistic, and a grin steadily form from cheek to cheek, Twilight felt like her heart was about to burst as she could only presume what'd happen from then on. She cried out to her friend, before moving forward. "RAINBOW DASH!!!! GET AWAY FR-"

But the situation had already escalated before she could even fully react, as if it were over in an instant.

Princess Luna's own eyes suddenly went wide with shock, as she felt a cold chill run down her spine.

Twilight Sparkle appeared lost, as she looked upon her friend, and her eyes swelled with tears.

The surrounding ponies, all looked on, stunned by the sight, unsure what to think. Everything seemed so certain to Princess Luna, even to Rainbow Dash, yet reality struck them like a sledgehammer as they couldn't deny what they were seeing before them.

Rainbow Dash stood in place as she felt her vision starting to blur. Her world slowed as she saw in front of her, a liquid red stream, a spray of red awfully close to her. Yet where was it coming from? She irked as she'd felt a slight pain in her side which gradually started to increase with every second she continued to stand. Soon she even started to lose balance. No, but she couldn't faint yet, she had to convince them of what she'd seen, she had to make Eve show them to. She looked back to Eve as she closed her eyes halfway, only to see the draconequus covered in red, much like the red she was seeing. But why was the draconequus's claw also raised in such a manner? Rainbow then looked to her side to see a large open wound, a giant slice which tore through her side like butter. "Eve?"

For a moment, Eve looked to Rainbow with an apologetic stare, as if using subliminal messaging.

It was at that moment, Rainbow realized, just how she'd failed. She thought back to Eve's memories, why would the draconequus show her such a thing, such a convenient thing? Did Eve know she'd react like this? That she'd stand here at her defense, vulnerable, all for the purpose of claiming innocence for the enemy? But even so, even if this was Eve's plan, what was the point of Eve striking her down like this? What did she have to gain from shattering all chances of redemption and innocence in front of Twilight and Princess Luna? That's when Rainbow's eyes widened before she felt overcome with realization. That was exactly the case, there was absolutely nothing to gain from it. This sort of action would only result in one fatal consequence for the draconequus. She'd been planning to end this here the entire time. Rainbow immediately attempted to stand, to regain balance and prevent herself from fainting. "....Twilight....wa-....wait.." But Rainbow's eyes fell shut as she'd fallen to her side. She groaned in frustration somewhat as she attempted to speak more, but only producing a wheezing gasp of air, before remaining motionless on her side and closing her eyes, her rising sides rapidly falling short in length.

Rainbow's words never reached Twilight.

Twilight simply stood there, looking at Rainbow laying on the ground, her eyes wide with disbelief. She herself was stunned as tears simply rolled down each of her cheeks, and she trembled. She couldn't contain herself or her feelings, let alone her rage which rose to a boiling point. Twilight couldn't even form an expression. Her fury steadily consuming her as she then looked to the draconequus decorated in Rainbow's blood. But Twilight didn't say anything, she simply looked at Eve for some time, before gritting her teeth, slowly and surely expressing herself as best as she could at this time.

Princess Luna to, simply looked to be in shock as she regarded Rainbow Dash, still on the ground. It was at this point as well, Princess Luna regarded Eve in a different manner as well. The alicorn slowly raised her hoof, as all the guards as well as the Wonderbolts surrounding her paid close attention to that rising hoof. Princess Luna's pupils dilated as although she was attempting to remain calm and composed, her silent rage spoke for itself.

Eve on the other hand simply regarded the two angered mares with a fierce smile. She then raised her claw, before letting off a tired sigh and chuckling a bit, wiping her face off. "Whose playing games now hmhm?" She began to chuckle, letting off hushed childish laughter. "Eheheheh...." Before giggling wildly. "Eheheheheheheheh! Mooooron, mooooron, mooooron!"

Twilight let off an echoing roar!

"AAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAH!!!!!"

SLAM!

There was a crackling shatter, as in an instant Twilight teleported using her alicorn magic, reappearing in front of the draconequus and in a second having manifested a massive transparent purple sledgehammer. Twilight could now feel it flowing through her, that conviction and determination Eve wore earlier, those cold eyes dead set on accomplishing something. Her hammer made contact with Eve's face, as the amount of force she put into her strike caused her to feel little different from that of a god. She could feel the weight of her blow in that fraction of time force the draconequus back, like forcing a cotton ball back with a brick. Eve's body felt light, weightless, as Twilight didn't even give it anymore thought besides seeing Eve get flung through the air, blown away by her attack.

Twilight disappeared again, not failing to let up on her maddening assault.

Yet as Twilight had struck Eve, Princess Luna shouted her orders as well. "RIFT, HAVOC, EVERYPONY! ATTACK!!!!!" And appearing at Princess Luna's sides with determined glares and reaffirmed nods, were both draconequus as they'd set their sights on the limp draconequus currently soaring through the air against her will. They looked to one another before nodding once again, then back towards their target and disappearing in a flash of dust and debris.

The Wonderbolts, Spitfire in particular wiped her eyes before she looked to Rainbow Dash, then turned away reluctantly and then had a fiery fierce glare in her eyes, as did her partner Soarin. The two of them let off mini shockwaves as they'd also rose towards the sky, straight towards Eve, dying to reach her just as all of them were. The grounded unicorns all dashed through the forest, before raising their horns towards the sky and then lowering their frames as they'd aimed them towards their target, preparing to let off a mighty unified blast.

As much as Princess Luna wanted to rush to their aid as well, she looked reluctantly to Rainbow Dash. Princess Luna then moved forward in a hesitant trot, as she also appeared to fall into a dramatic state of despair. She looked pained, horrified by the limp lifeless body of Rainbow Dash. If she'd only focused on eliminating Eve the moment they'd failed in capturing her, then this wouldn't have happened. Princess Luna bore the responsibility, she'd misjudged Eve, as did her sister. Her heart ached as she wept softly to herself, "What have I done?...." She still regarded Rainbow in disbelief as the state she was in.

As Eve caught balance again midair, it was revealed her face wasn't in the same condition as before. Already her right eye had been forced shut, which was surprising seeing as none of the ponies expected to be able to cause her harm, especially from such a physical attack. Eve's blood decorated her now swollen lower lip, but she kept a composed expression as she'd barely had time to react anyhow to the oncoming attacks, Eve found herself faced again with the enraged Twilight Sparkle.

Twilight Sparkle did a spin midair before hurling her hammer in an upwards motion upon going full circle, having her hammer make contact with the draconequus's jaw, sending her further up into the sky. Twilight's horn shimmered vibrantly again with purple magic as she'd yelled out another piercing cry, before many more manifested weapons circled around her and then she'd pointed her hoof straight in Eve's direction as the storm of weapons had pursued the draconequus who'd been soaring upwards like a mini rocket.

Eve then felt her body jerk in a multitude of directions as she didn't even take notice of the fact the Wonderbolts had created a formation not much different from that of ping-pong setup, knocking her back and forth in a series of bucks and kicks, not allowing her a chance to recover before Spitfire rose, fierce and fast before letting off a series of flaming kicks with her back hooves, sending the draconequus even further up.

Eve had actually found that the damage was far from small. Yet her mind was elsewhere as she was forced upward, not fighting against it this time. All she'd wanted to do was think for now. She told herself it wasn't enough. No, this still wasn't enough to make up for anything. She'd thought of the changeling she killed at that time, she'd thought of Apple Bloom and Spike, she thought of every pony she'd terrorized at the Crystal Empire. she'd thought of the Canterlot Guards. She thought of Cheerilee. Then finally, she'd thought of Rainbow Dash. No, this wasn't enough, not even close. But Eve could now feel the sharp awkward feeling of cut fur and torn flesh. This sensation steadily coursed throughout her entire body in the next few seconds as she found herself lost in a storm of magical blades. They were like small little nips and itches surprisingly, and it wasn't a whirlwind of pain.

As the storm of weapons subsided, Eve's rapid elevation came to a stop, before she naturally began to fall again. Her body now was covered in gashes and slices, her once slender brown fur torso being barely recognizable as she could finally feel it again. She was unable to smile, but she was grateful, grateful to know she could still feel such things, that she could still receive such things. Yes, she wished she could thank Nightmare Moon for helping her after this was all over. But Eve's eyes drifted, as her thoughts were cut short again as she'd noticed something she never saw before at her side. A runic circle in the middle of the sky at her side, pulsing vibrantly with a bright yellow color? She didn't recognize this type of spell, and it lacked Princess Twilight's signature magical color. Yet before she could dwell on it any more, the runic circle let off a fierce magical stream right into the draconequus's side. Eve's body now flung right as she continued to soar through the air in a downward spiral, only this time in yet another different direction.

She continued to descend, the draconequus felt a sudden clutch on her hoof foot. She glanced back at the individual doing so only to be left more puzzled. She felt as if she were hallucinating, and wasn't really surprised by that idea. Who she saw was a figure from her past, as she couldn't even form expressions. The figure clutching onto her was none other than Fluttershy. The mare spun the draconequus in a circle, before tossing her up once again. Was it really Fluttershy? No, of course not, Fluttershy wasn't here. Eve couldn't make sense of it, but she didn't really care to try to anymore at this point. She'd gone crazy a long time ago, she obviously couldn't differentiate such things anymore.

Yet Fluttershy spoke to the draconequus. "O-Oh...Do forgive me for doing this Eve. May I ask you something? Are you making up for what you've done? I guess it's expected coming from you. Now that we're finally here, I always wished to see just what you'd become. We all need to make sacrifices. Oh, I really do believe in these final moments will show your true character. Have you managed to recall all we did as your helpers? Do you fear you haven't risked enough yourself? I risked losing my friends for you, you know." Then Fluttershy bucked the draconequus up again through the air.

Eve was then held still once again, but this time by magic. Not far from her was Trixie, accompanied by a changeling, as well as a fluffy pony. Trixie scoffed, "Hah! How quaint, to make such a dramatic exit. It really is befitting of one of your capabilities and reputation Eve the Insane. Are you satisfied with your closing act? Your grand performance? Do you fear it wasn't good enough? The Great and Powerful Trixie has taught you well it seems! All that is left is to rid yourself of that troublesome doubt!" She snickered before tossing the draconequus aside with a powerful force of magic, which'd ignited and exploded soon after.

Eve's body was propelled in yet another direction as she now emitted ash and smoke, as if she were a charred corpse in some manner. Yet with all the damage she'd received she still knew it wasn't enough. But they were getting there, they just had to push further, she told herself this, and the fact she was being affected only made her more satisfied. But as much as she'd expected it all to continue and for their unrelenting attack to progress even further, she actually found herself in a moment of peace. The draconequus descended, and for that moment she could see something further in the distance, higher in the sky.

It was Twilight Sparkle.

Eve gazed upon her with tired eyes, before questioning, "Twilight Sparkle?...."

Twilight's rage didn't subside, and in a flash she'd disappeared yet again, before reappearing in Eve's face, and leaning in closer, their heads side by side. Twilight muttered in an angered tone, as her eyes became thick with tears in her fury. "No more Eve." Before the mare did a spin with her wings, and propelled herself in a sideways roundhouse kick again, knocking one of her ethereal blades straight through the draconequus's torso. Twilight moved with grace, accuracy, as if using her intellect to calculate the precise movements she needed to make in order to get the result she wanted.

Eve's eyes widened, as she instinctively clutched the mare, having felt her torso pierced. She'd actually felt shocked, overwhelmed by the sensation that ran through her, causing her to grip onto Twilight Sparkle harder and tighter for the time being. She'd actually felt pain. It pleased her, as she put on a wicked grin even though she'd whimpered in the process as well. Her grip gradually loosened, but before falling the draconequus wrapped her one arm around Twilight's neck, before wearing a tired, exhausted expression with a warm and affectionate smile. "Twilight Sparkle...."

Twilight didn't answer, as she'd only closed her eyes. Knowing Eve, of course she'd expected the draconequus would come to her own defense once again. Perhaps give some pathetic reasoning to why she'd done what she did, why she took the lives of fillies and colts, why she'd harmed Rainbow Dash. As much as the thought of it irritated Twilight to no end, she relished in the thought of Eve acknowledging this was over, and her mistakes had finally come back to bite her. Yes, Twilight would grant Eve these last few words. She'd relish in them, that sense of retribution on her part finally.

Eve's breathing was heavy, and raspy to say the least. As she hung onto Twilight, she could no longer feel her tiny wings attached to her back, and assumed she'd lost them in the assault. She coursed her sharp fingers through Twilight's mane, admiring the touch of the mare, and when Eve thought about it, this was probably the closest she'd ever come to Twilight Sparkle. She wanted to live in this moment, a moment where there was only neutral silence between them, where all her faults didn't seem to affect Twilight. Eve was able to run her claw somewhat down the side of Twilight's cheek, and she realized just how damaged her body currently was, after having seen the amount of blood which traced down Twilight's face, an imprint from her claw.

Eve's eyes were wide and she was proud of Twilight, having been able to accomplish this all through the means of defending a friend. Their friendship could break the boundaries of despair, of draconequus magic which was limitless, it could overcome anything. Eve nuzzled the side of Twilight's face, as she'd clenched onto her tighter, and what she wanted to do was praise the mare. Yet Eve held back her compliments, she knew they would only hold the opposite effect. All she'd done was hurt Twilight's friends, for her own twisted goals which she wasn't even certain would mean anything in the end. No this still wasn't enough, just a little more. She opened her mouth but found that the words were hard to produce. She struggled to use her charred throat, before putting on a smug almost insulting expression and speaking in a tone of amusement. "Is that all, Princess?..."

DISGUSTING! Twilight's mind snapped once again as she'd felt overcome by her emotions again. This was Eve's final chance to show a last sliver of consideration, of compassion, and this is how she abused that moment? Twilight grabbed hold of Eve's mane, before tearing the draconequus away from her and then spinning forward with godly momentum, and tossing Eve down towards the coast of the island. Her magic only strengthened her conviction as she'd took hold of Eve's body through the use of telekinesis, forcing her downward only more. "NO MORE! NO MORE WILL I LET YOU BLATANTLY INSULT MY FRIENDS, HURT THEM, MANIPULATE THEM, BREAK THEM, DISAPPOINT THEM! NO MORE WILL I LET PONY LIVES BE DESTROYED BY YOUR DESPAIR! NO MORE WILL I  STAND IDLY BY AND PRETEND ONE AS DESPICABLE AND HORRIFYING AS YOU DESERVES ANY MORE CHANCES!!!"

Twilight rose to the skies before spreading all four of her hooves. In that moment, her horn ignited once again as her body emitted a bright purple pulsing light. It was pounding, blinding, and radiating from her very being as her horn's light only continued to grow and grow. Twilight's body soon started to shimmer with violet lightning as she'd felt her magical capabilities reaching their peak. Her heart raced, raced for finally reaching this defining pinnacle moment. Soon Twilight's spell would separate from her horn entirely, before gathering more energy from her being only a few feet above her horn in the form of a crackling purple sphere. A mass of magic, as beautiful as it was deadly the longer it continued to be bathed with magical essence. With each passing second, the massive sphere only continued to grow as Twilight's face appeared strained to say the least, but she continued. She continued pouring her heart into one final spell.

A massive gathering of her most effective, yet destructive magic.

Spitfire looked upon Twilight's spell with a mesmerized look. She was stunned by the sheer beauty of it, the scope of power it held and the magical energies radiating from it. All Spitfire could think, that this was the capabilities of the Princess of Magic and Friendship, the Princess of Harmony, Princess Twilight Sparkle. This was the potential held by the newest princess of Equestria? Spitfire pondered the idea of just how much magical power Twilight actually had, it was no wonder Princess Celestia had chosen her as her star pupil. A filly who was able to forcefully grow a baby dragon, the unicorn who'd helped defeat Nightmare Moon and prevented the return of King Sombra. This was her. Spitfire muttered to her fellows, "She can actually pull this off." But Spitfire glared back at Soarin who was also concentrated on Twilight's spell at the moment. "But not alone. Alone is never enough for the enemy we're facing here."

Soarin smirked somewhat before saluting his Captain. "What's your plans Cap?"

Spitfire snickered as she'd lowered her frame. "You heard the princess slacker, we now stop Eve the Insane once and for all." Spitfire then lowered her frame as her hooves began to emit and swirl with a small amount of flames as she'd prepared herself for flight. "We're going to avenge Rainbow Dash, whose with me!?"

The Wonderbolt's let off unified cheers. "NOW AND FOREVER CAPTAIN!"

Spitfire snickered as she'd grinned. "That's more like it! Now let's do this!" Then in the next second they were gone, disappearing once again from their current position towards the edge of the candy cane forest.

Eve laid on her side, before feeling the cold chill of the ocean tide roll up against her body from the coast. She laid upon a bed of sand, simply looking off towards the rolling seas. She saw a distant landmass which appeared so small from where she currently resided. As insignificant as that tiny landmass appeared to be from where she was, to her, it was the entire world. It was where she was born, where she'd made her first friends, and where she discovered perfection. Despite the damage she'd received, looking upon that precious world in the distance compelled the draconequus to rise.

She struggled, as she slowly staggered to her hoof and claw feet. Her expression was pained at first, until it sparked with fierce determination and the draconequus gritted her teeth as if to force herself, to convince herself she needed to continue. She didn't have the right to give up yet and she knew that. Everything must be perfect, she told herself this. Eve let off a screeching yell as she motivated herself to finally stand firmly upon both her feet, giving herself a boost of momentum. But as Eve stood, facing the ocean, she saw how the surface reflected a vibrant purple light, beautiful and luminescent. Eve's eyes widened slowly as she realized that the source of that beautiful purple light was behind her, and she'd then only just noticed the light was followed by a sound. The sound of searing flame and crashing thunder, and as the draconequus turned to face the very source, she'd become stunned. She only stood there, looking up towards the sky. There she saw it, a spell of colossal proportion. A vibrant pulsing decimating purple sun. Twilight's figure was only a tiny speck beneath the spell she'd managed to create. Eve muttered, "Wow..."

But soon Twilight Sparkle was joined by two more figures, and as Eve took notice of them she still wasn't able to pertain if she were simply hallucinating or they were actually there. There she saw two draconequus each at Twilight's sides, perfectly resembling her birth parents. But the more she looked, the more figures which progressively appeared at Twilight's sides. Then there was Fluttershy, accompanied by Trixie. Soon to be followed by Zecora, and furthermore a changeling with a fluffy pony resting on his head. They each gave the draconequus a pitiful stare, before each raising their hooves and claws, as if influencing Twilight's spell even further. Then appearing in front of Twilight herself would be Cheerilee, who looked upon the draconequus with a soft smile, before that smile turned slowly into a frown. The mare then closed her eyes as she to raised her hooves, and along with the others, her body emitted a purple light, aiding Twilight.

Eve looked upon the scene, at first with a blank expression. But she soon grinned, fiercely.

The draconequus Rift stood beside Twilight Sparkle with a determined glare focused on the enemy. Her claw raised as she squinted a bit as she helped Twilight's spell become more balanced and effective. She indeed seemed to have her mind elsewhere. Troubles stirred within her, and she couldn't seem to get over them. After some time, the draconequus even sneered before her claw trembled a bit and she revealed emotion which she'd never shed since she'd arrived to help aid with this mission. The mental turmoil tore at the draconequus, and Havoc didn't fail to notice it.

Havoc who was at Twilight's opposite side looked at Rift with worry. "What's wrong with you? The magic's working, why do you look so troubled? We've got to concentrate on helping Princess Twilight finish this, stay focused!"

Princess Twilight continued to charge her spell but she couldn't ignore the draconequus aiding her either. She then glanced at Rift, before looking to Havoc. "What's wrong with her!? Is she hurt or something?"

Havoc shook his head before looking back towards Rift, "I've never seen her like this before, let alone make any expression far from what you'd call an emotionless husk. Perhaps she's using too much magic for this spell!"

But Rift broke her own silence, before speaking faintly in an irritated tone. "My magic.....isn't working."

This caused both Havoc and Twilight to regard Rift with wide eyes before looking at her with puzzled expressions.

Rift's nose wrinkled in annoyance, as she'd frowned angrily. "She isn't afraid, and she does not fear." The draconequus started to tremble from the frustration she was feeling. "My mirages are giving off the opposite effect!" She gritted her teeth, baring her fangs as she looked upon the enemy in annoyance. "That doesn't make any sense. For what reason would this girl willingly accept her greatest faults and weakne-..." the draconequus fell silent before her eyes hinted at realization on her part. The target of her annoyance was now the mare which stood beside her, "You idiots...."

Princess Luna ran her hoof through Rainbow's mane as she'd sobbed quietly to herself. She lowered her head in her own shame, struggling to look at the mare. "Oh sister....how I have shamed us. How will I tell you? How can I expect you to forgive me? Due to my carelessness I may have costed us a precious ally." But as Princess Luna kept her hoof on Rainbow, doing what she could with her alicorn magic, it wasn't long before Rainbow's hoof trembled, and actually rose it to Princess Luna's face, then chest, causing the Princess's eyes to widen. "Rainbow Dash!?"

Rainbow Dash looked frustrated to say the least, as she had a pained expression. She opened her mouth, struggling to speak but doing all she could to get the words out. She muttered, "Princess L-Luna....please...."

Princess Luna lowered her head, baring a relieved smile before shaking her head. "Don't worry Rainbow Dash, you'll be fine, we shall get you to safety and give you the best possible medical treatment. Just hold on a little longer."

Rainbow gritted her teeth before shaking her head slowly, and continuing, "No..NO!...stop the attack."

Princess Luna wasn't following as she'd raised a brow at the mare, confused, but remaining silent trying to understand.

Rainbow lowered her hoof, placing it over where her wound once was. "Everything's....a lie."

Princess Luna's eyes widened as she then looked back at Rainbow's wound, before running her hoof delicately over it herself, to which her body ran cold upon realization. Rainbow's wound was already healed!? But if that was the case then why didn't Rainbow say anything? Why did she simply lay here limp? Why did she look to be in such struggle simply trying to stay awake, to remain conscious? But Princess Luna's body started to tremble with both frustration and anger as she recalled key things she'd seen. Eve's familiar lunar magic which appeared no different from her own, her significantly weaker form, the fact that Eve had been struck with sleeper spells numerous times at this point. That imagination was an asset for her, her chaotic magic was practically limitless. Princess Luna's voice was faint, "Impossible, what could that girl possibly gain from this!?" But she paused again.

Rainbow was beyond frustrated at this point as she'd gripped Princess Luna again, only stating. "Twilight....."

Princess Luna gave Rainbow a blank, petrified stare. She then immediately rose to her hooves and spread her wings then disappeared, now desperately flapping her wings and teleporting to attempt reaching Twilight's current location.

Twilight obviously felt quite offended by the draconequus's words. "What's that supposed to mean?"

Rift spread her arms, desperately seeking more information. "Just how much do you know about her motives?!"

Twilight looked at the draconequus in irritation, as she opened her mouth about to say something-

Eve grinned fiercely as she'd burst into wild, childish chuckles. "Yes yes yes! Perfect Twilight Sparkle! You're doing it, you're actually doing it! You're amazing Twilight Sparkle!" She wrapped her arm around herself, unable to contain her gratitude, her sense of relief at what she was seeing. Eve could feel it, she could feel the overwhelming sensation and sense of power the spell Twilight Sparkle had wrought. Eve didn't believe it at first, she didn't believe it'd be this easy for the alicorn to accomplish. But she'd actually pulled it off. Eve's eyes were wide with anticipation as she looked up at the sky, up towards the shades of those so important to her, alongside Twilight Sparkle. This was beyond anything she could've imagined, such artistic beauty, such a mesmerizing punishment laid out perfectly before her. The violet light glistened in the everlasting midnight, penetrating Luna's mist and stretching out into the far endless beyond.

A sphere capable of decimating anything in its path, such empowerment birthed from the queen of magic, from the goddess of harmony. For every life Eve took, for every individual she'd caused suffering, for her chaotic twisted existence, she'd receive the most cataclysmic finale she could ever dream of. This was enough, this was her time of reckoning. Eve wore a fierce happy grin as she even saw the spells influence infect everything around it as she looked upon it. A heavenly sun of twisting purple flame, unknowingly infused with the essence of chaos, and the horrid potential of harmonic alicorn magic, perhaps the purest form of magic in such an incredible form. Eve spread her arms as she'd stood, but the longer she stood, the more her legs trembled as did her body. Her severe wounds tore at her, yet even so, here she still stood. Eve's chuckles of satisfaction had only become something more followed by childish laughter, as she'd closed her eyes and threw her head back as her crimson blood, and wounds began to slowly fade away from her body. The wound on her chest steadily started to close, as the draconequus put effort into slowing the process. She then continued to look upon Twilight's spell, simply waiting. She had a look of adoration, "Do it Twilight Sparkle!"

Eve simply couldn't stop from expressing this form of absolute ecstasy. It was overwhelming!

"Ahahahahahahahaahahahahahaahahahahaha!"

Nightmare Moon was silent within her realm. She only had her head lowered, wallowing in what appeared to be annoyance. A voice rung throughout her palace, and it was Eve's laughter. Throughout every corridor, every room, she could hear the childish laughter haunting her from the present world. Eve......

"Aahahahahahahahahahahaahahahahahahaha!"

She'd winced angrily. As the laughter drew on, the alicorn started to tremble with irritation, before rising to her hooves and standing on her hind legs and letting off a bellowing cry. It shattered the ceiling of her castle revealing a tainted moon off in the infinite night sky of the nightmare realm. Nightmare Moon looked pained, frustrated by her own powerlessness. But as she sat there in thought, the alicorn soon took a moment to glance down at her own hoof as she sat again. Her eyes grew wide as she grinned fiercely with a look of relief. "I will have no part in this Eve."

Nightmare Moon sat in privacy, knowing Eve couldn't hear her, yet she still spoke to the draconequus with her being unaware.

In the present world, Eve chanted her call to Twilight once again. Doing a hop and twirl before stomping her hoof and glaring at Twilight Sparkle still with that plain grin. "DO IT TWILIGHT SPARKLE!"

Nightmare Moon's horn started to glow as she'd snarled fiercely. "I AM NIGHTMARE MOON, AND MY DECISION IS MY OWN!!! IF YOU BELIEVE YOU CAN SHOW ME YOUR PITIFUL KINDNESS, THEN EXPECT TO USE MY INFLUENCE TO GO THROUGH WITH SUCH A PATHETIC COURSE OF ACTION!-" She paused before continuing. "THEN YOU ARE SADLY MISTAKEN!!!!" a faint blue mist began to radiate from her body. "I am a twisted god of malevolence stupid girl. I plaque children's dreams, I am the monster in the darkest of shadows watching and waiting for the perfect opportunity to gain further influence in the world, further power.  It was always meant to be this way, I shall find my own way out of here, and once I do, I shall repay you for your kindness and obedience in full. But until that day arrives-" The mare swiped her hoof with a look of anticipation, "I think I'd much rather have you alive to witness my glorious return."

Nightmare Moon closed her eyes, appearing fairly amused. "And once I am at my rightful place upon the throne. I shall never let you go my sweet conflicted little creature, my source of entertainment, my dear twisted monster." The mare then clapped her hooves, "Until then," before making contact with Eve again, allowing her voice to go through. "Farewell Eve. I thank you for the company you gave me,....I shall be taking some things on my way out." She smiled.

Eve's eyes suddenly snapped wide with confusion. "Ms.Moon what're you talking about?" But before she could make sense of Nightmare Moon's words, a sharp pain tore through Eve's head like a throbbing migraine. The draconequus immediately fell to her knees before grabbing hold of her head and letting off a echoing, deafening, screeching yell.

"EYAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAH!!!!"

Everypony's eyes immediately situated on the draconequus child, at the sudden unexpected cry of emotion. Their eyes wide with curiosity as Twilight Sparkle still kept her spell charged, but wasn't alone as she along with Rift and Havoc, fixated on Eve from their current position. Princess Luna even stopped to see, as she glanced back to the beach.

Memories swarmed throughout Eve's mind. As she recalled particular scenes of her time spent with Nightmare Moon melt away from her. The draconequus's eyes were wide in fear, in absolute despair as such things she didn't want to forget burned away in her mind, like pictures thrown to a flame. Scenes of the two exploring the castle, conversing in the courtyard, speaking of things more personal, unexpected bonding with the Queen of Nightmares, something neither of the two would've ever expected, something precious. It wasn't fair, why would Nightmare Moon do this!? Why would she take everything they'd forged together, everything they'd managed to create through their feelings and steal them away, escaping with them all by her lonesome. Why would she abandon their friendship? Eve couldn't lose another friend, she was furious, enraged at the alicorn as she'd cried out to the sky. "Ms.Moon!...MS.MOON!!!!!! YOU'RE RUINING EVERYTHING!!! WHAT'RE YOU DOING!?"

Nightmare Moon situated herself comically in her throne, snickering with amusement. "Adorable child, that's the point."

Eve looked up to the sky as she simply let her claw drop, appearing broken as she only looked up towards the sky. How was it possible? How was it that something could go wrong so quickly just as she was about to succeed? It wasn't fair. It was absurd! She was furious! But too confused, too stunned by disbelief in order to cry. Her memories faded against her will, and she was forcefully losing another friend. She didn't understand, and knew she wouldn't have time to find the answers. It was as if a piece of herself was dying on the inside, being torn away from her, and it was a heartless cold murder, a betrayal that she couldn't bring herself to hate the betrayer for. Eve wanted to beg, to grovel before Nightmare Moon, to have her reconsider. And the more she thought about it, the more her soul crumbled, chipping away piece by piece, as soon, her eyes were thick with tears yet again. The draconequus cared not for pride, as she mumbled, "Ms.Moon....help me...help me please."

Nightmare Moon cackled as she'd looked up, but there was a hint of sorrow in her eyes. "I......can't do that."

Eve opened her mouth as she was about to say another thing in protest. "Please! Ms-...." but now she couldn't even recall what word would've followed. She felt hollow, empty inside, disconnected from reality. A speck of drool ran down the side of Eve's mouth as she appeared brain dead for some time, before her head slumped down. And in the following few seconds, she couldn't even recall why she was crying, or why she was heartbroken. But it still hurt, beyond belief. It overrode any physical pain by a mile, leaving her feeling as if she were at the edge of torment itself. "Ms.........."

But there was no word she could recall, no word which came to mind.

Nightmare Moon sat within her realm with pained eyes but a relieved smile. "Now, just one last thing."

Eve's eyes snapped wide as she immediately threw up what appeared to be a disgusting, sickening and bubbling black substance as a faint, fiery blue mist tore itself away from her body. Eve's eyes slowly reverted back to normal as her wounds gradually healed, all except one in the middle of her abdomen. Then to her astonishment, Eve looked as she felt another wound heal, one she'd believed permanently in place, as she saw her left arm piece together from bits of shadow, forming a perfectly usable yellow furry arm and paw. But now the draconequus felt even more significantly downgraded, as she felt practically no different from a time when she'd ventured in Equestria. A time where she lacked understanding and such capabilities. a time where she were more vulnerable and helpless. It frightened her as she remained in place on the ground, her blood boiling from the utter amount of nonsense that'd just occurred. She felt it, a significant portion of her magic had gone, as well as a certain influence.

As Nightmare Moon's connection gradually faded from Eve, she appeared sad, reflective but overall satisfied with the results. She spoke faintly to herself, "Have at her Twilight Sparkle, but, you would do best not to harm her anymore than you already have. Unless you wish to incur a few more life sentences once I escape, but of course, such things come with time." She sighed heavily, "Now I have work to do. Farewell Eve, do forgive me for my sudden change of heart but, if you're to become my cherished subject, then I will need you breathing." She smirked, realizing that once again, like not so long ago, she was talking to herself, alone in her castle. "I guess its back to dreams now.....isn't it?"

Before once again, Nightmare Moon faded away, disconnected from the present world. Alone in the dark.

Well, there will always be nightmares, just do well not to ever roam in my realm again, meddlesome ponies.

Then the creatures of her realm let off bellowing miserable cries, echoing throughout the black decimated wastes.

Eve soon just tore at her mane, angrily, before letting off another cry, filled with ferocity and anger.

"ERAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAH!!!!!!!"

she, was, exposed.

It didn't take long for Twilight, as well as Rift and Havoc to take notice of the sudden change in atmosphere as well as Eve's appearance yet again. Yet it was far from a negative occurrence, despite the circumstances.

Princess Luna paused in her flight, immediately looking back at Eve.

Twilight looked down upon the draconequus child attempting to recover from whatever just happened, with wide eyes.

Rift's own eyes widened as she immediately grabbed hold of princess, before muttering, "The situation has changed..."

Twilight looked to her, almost worriedly, "The situation has changed?"

Eve stood, looking down at her own paw and claw with wheezing breaths, still in shock to say the least as she appeared angry yet stunned at the same time, taking notice of her own downgraded features still in disbelief.

Rift looked at Eve observantly, curiously as she continued. "I don't know...but things are different-"

Twilight and Havoc just continued to listen, waiting for her to reveal all she knew about the current situation.

Rift now look infatuated by the pure perplexity of it all, fascinated by Eve. "She's no longer absent of fear."

Princess Luna from afar even wondered, pondered, what being could've possibly had the power to change the situation in their favor, so suddenly and drastically. Princess Luna's curiosity was at its peak for she believed she'd be the only one capable of accomplishing such a feat if she were only to get into Eve's head, her very dreams as of this moment, but that was never a possibility given their current circumstances. Yet somehow, something, had accomplished it. Princess Luna now felt her influence completely absent from Eve, the draconequus was completely vulnerable.

Rift paused before swiping her claw and glaring at Twilight Sparkle. "I'm not sure what's just happened, but if there was any time to apprehend that girl, it would be now! Something, somepony has given us the perfect chance, we don't know if we'll ever get a chance like this again! I can feel it Princess Twilight, her angst, uncertainty, fear. Her mind is in shambles. You need to make a decision!" Rift grabbed hold of Twilight by the scruff of the neck. "Do you understand?"

Havoc sighed, due to the fact his companion lacked the courtesy that should be given to the princess.

Twilight didn't mind it however, actually she preferred such an attitude especially given the sitaution; but she cared little for Rift's request. "Decide? Decide what? This was decided the moment Eve decided to hurt all those innocents. What good would capturing her do at this point!? We've done that before, and no good came of it! Like King Sombra, there is only one way to deal with monsters such as this. We eliminate all traces of her existence, it is only logical." Twilight Sparkle raised a hoof, as her massive spherical orb of magic jerked slowly in the air, following her hoof's movement. "I told Eve I would put an end to this and I plan to do just that! This is justice, retribution, this is for the greater good!"

Eve gritted her teeth angrily due to her own ignorance of the situation. She couldn't pertain what'd just happened to her, but she felt whatever it was it had sent her entire plan into shambles, that it ruined absolutely everything that preceded before this. It was as if a fragment of her was missing, and it was needed in order to complete the puzzle. She now lacked the answers needed in order to succeed, and it tore her apart. Her desperation was now at its peak as the draconequus raised both her claw and paw, looking up towards Twilight Sparkle's spell. What was Twilight Sparkle doing? Why wasn't she attacking? Eve was right here ready in waiting! All Twilight needed to do was deal the final blow, why, why would Twilight Sparkle hesitate now!? But then as Eve looked up towards the sky finding that there were no longer figures of her past which'd assaulted her earlier, no, instead there were two anonymous draconequus beside Twilight Sparkle, a male and female, and the male's eyes were set upon her.

Eve lowered her arms before looking upon the three of them in confusion, who were they? Just what was going on!? But as Eve stood there lost in thought, she felt herself stagger and her vision blur as she immediately placed one paw over her eye with a look of fear once again. She started to feel groggy, dizzy, as her levels of exhaustion only continued to rise. "What?...." Eve staggered and fell to her knees. "No, no no no no no no no no no." She shook her head defiantly, as she felt the drowsiness coming over her, becoming more sleepy by the second. And as Eve struggled to stay awake, she found that she was soon immediately surrounded by the Wonderbolts, she gave each of them an intense glare of discern. Sneering angrily, she knew she didn't have time for this! "GO AWAY!"

The Wonderbolt's all remained stern, unmoving as they each surrounded the draconequus without any sense of fear. Vindicated and sure, they stood beneath the violet sunlight, fully ready to die together to accomplish their mission, or whatever was required of them. Spitfire in particular took a few trots forward, wincing at the draconequus before stomping a hoof and grinding it in the sand beneath her. "Looking a little under the weather there kid."

Eve placed her paw over the wound on her abdomen, as thick black bags underlined her eyes. The draconequus's irritation with them was obvious as her expression mirrored one of heightened annoyance. She spoke simply, "If you don't want to get hurt ponies, I suggest you move. That spell will erase everything in its path." Eve then put on a confident smile. "Things haven't gone exactly as planned hmhm. I don't want to have to forcibly move you out of the way."

Spitfire snarled, "TRY IT BRAT!" She fluttered her wings before pointing a hoof at Eve. "If you think we're going to fall for anymore of your little schemes after what you did to Rainbow Dash, then, you can expect us all to burn together!"

Eve remained silent, simply raising her claw, about to flick it in the direction of Spitfire.

Yet at that moment, Twilight's spell became even more stunning, vibrant and pulsing, causing all on the beach to pause.

Rift got in Twilight's face angrily. "Do you truly believe that is the wisest course of action Princess Twilight!? Did you come here to finish things, or did you come here to give your ponies justice!? Would you rob them of the right to look their harbinger of terror in the eyes, to have a say in what actions should be took?" Rift pointed a claw at Eve, realizing that the more they stood here and talked things over, the more their dire chance dwindled away. "There will never be another draconequus such as this, her fears, her conviction to disappear by your hooves, everything is only certain to me, you've only been playing right into her hooves! The question you should be asking yourself isn't how quickly you want to have the peace of mind that she'll never harm your subjects again. It's just what compelled her to commit such actions in the first place, what would compel a draconequus child to avoid capture even to the point of death? And why must it be you?"

Rift paused, wincing at the alicorn. "What secrets does she so desperately want to keep hidden from your eyes? You may be the one who resides with the final decision, but tell me, who is the one truly being judged here?"

Twilight's eyes widened a bit due to the draconequus's sudden hint at proclamation. It irritated the mare.

Rift spoke faintly, "That draconequus? Or you, who she believes isn't worthy of knowing what she does? Tell me Princess Twilight, is relieving your angst truly worth betraying Princess Celestia's trust and letting your emotions drive you to commit such actions? Of ridding yourself of the only chance at understanding?" Rift loosened her grip on Princess Twilight before backing away, and simply looking at her with a judgmental glance herself. "The choice is yours."

Twilight looked upon Rift in contemplation before lowering her head in silence for a few seconds.

Havoc regarded Rift with an irritated wince, before crossing his arms and simply keeping quiet, waiting for Twilight.

Yet coming before the group of three, would be another alicorn as she'd looked rushed, hurried as she'd immediately spread her hooves in front of Twilight. "Everypony wait, there has been a change in the situation!"

Rift glanced back at Princess Luna before smiling. "Of course you'd notice as well, Princess Luna."

But Princess Twilight raised a hoof. "It's fine Princess Luna....I feel I know what we must do know."

Princess Luna raised a brow at Twilight, as Havoc and Rift glanced back at her observantly, waiting.

Princess Twilight glanced down at Eve. "It's not my right to decide her fate."

Princess Luna's worried expression then melted away, before forming into a smile. "I see, I'm glad I wasn't needed then."

Twilight noticed the draconequus was now surrounded by the Wonderbolts. "Not mine alone."

Eve staggered yet again before seeing emerge from the forest, yet even more figures. Majority of them consisted of unicorns, and Eve recognized them as Twilight's private guard, lead by a particular unicorn. It seems once again the entire bulk of Equestria's apprehension team was before her. As Eve looked upon them, as well as Twilight seeing that she was joined now by Princess Luna, as well as those two mysterious draconequus, Eve realized that this would be the pinnacle moment for all of them. For reasons unknown to her, she was now alone, without understanding of why her current condition had worsened so drastically and everytime she thought about it, her heart hurt. But Eve curled in her claw, before gulping and giving a determined glare up towards the sky.

"EVE! ARE YOU LISTENING!?"  Twilight Sparkle shouted with a faint familiarity of the Canterlot Voice.

Eve's eyes widened as she immediately focused her attention on Twilight Sparkle.

Princess Twilight continued before raising her hooves. "I TOLD YOU I WOULDN'T LET ANY MORE PONIES LIVES BE DESTROYED BY YOUR DESPAIR. THIS CHAOS ENDS HERE, AND YOU WILL FACE THE PONIES WHOSE LIVES YOU'VE RUINED. YOU WILL FACE THEM ALL. NO MORE RUNNING, NO MORE FIGHTING, AS PRINCESS OF HARMONY, OF FRIENDSHIP, I WILL SEE THOSE SUCH AS YOURSELF BROUGHT TO JUSTICE BY NOT ONLY MY HOOVES, BUT THEIRS AS WELL." And slowly but surely, Twilight had actually begun to take in the bulk of her massive spell, as it swirled and concentrated upon the mare, breaking down into misty essence and sinking into the mare's very being. Rift and Havoc assisted with the process, allowing Twilight to adopt a magic far beyond that of both draconequus and alicorn magic, as Princess Luna did the same, pouring magical essence into the alicorn as well as helping guide Twilight's massive sphere into her.

Eve immediately shook her head, beyond frustrated, her voice steadily rising with each word. "What? No, no no no! TWILIGHT SPARKLE WHAT'RE YOU THINKING!? YOU'RE DOING IT ALL WRONG!!!" She stomped her hoof. "TWILIGHT SPARKLE!!!" Before trembling horribly, unsure what was happening, or what to do about it. Twilight Sparkle, she was doing everything wrong, why was everything going wrong all of a sudden!? She was right here, yet what was with Twilight's sudden change of heart? No, Eve didn't want to return. Yet at this point she couldn't escape.

Her plan, her perfect epilogue, crumbled into pieces before her for reasons she couldn't understand.

She could feel the walls of despair closing in around her.

Upon finishing, there would be a massive outward burst of light in the form of a violet ring.Twilight's appearance changed significantly, as she remained stationary in the sky yet her beautiful mane had become that of living purple flame. Magic radiated from her very being as the weather of the island began to spiral out of control. All the elements were present, as it rained and snowed, from the mere presence of Twilight. Twilight's eyes were now no more than two gaping holes of blinding white light, as she appeared no different from a god, overlooking her world.

Havoc, Rift, and Princess Luna immediately went into raspy gasps for air.

Rift raised her claw before looking upon Twilight, feeling exhausted simply from being near her. "Princess Twilight, what we've done is horribly dangerous, you must hurry. No sole individual creature was ever meant to be able to house the power of both draconequus and alicorn at once, this presence of yours will only last a short amount of time, and even now I'm unsure of what consequences it will have on both your body, and psyche. You must succeed here and now."

Princess Twilight nodded. "I understand." She smiled, "Thank you, for everything." Before she disappeared, charging everything she had into one final assault, one that would render Eve incapable of escape indefinitely. The mare then disappeared shooting down towards Eve's location like a missile locked onto the enemy.

Yet Eve fell to her knees, as she simply sulked. She'd lost, again. Even when attempting to lose, all she could ever do was have something go wrong. It was like a shadow, attaching itself to her and preventing her from succeeding in any plan whatsoever. She closed her eyes, and braced for impact, simply keeping her head lowered as she knew there was no hope left for her, and she might as well submit. She thought about the fact she once had somepony here with her, but now she was alone again. It was like a natural cycle for her. She belonged to the pony's now, and she smiled as she found it ironic, for she loved pony kind, and cherished them dearly. At one time the current situation was her biggest dream, to be forced to comply and go with the ponies. But this was far from acceptance, and she could only expect the worse given the current situation. She kept her eyes closed, and as she did so she let the feeling of exhaustion creep over her, as her paw slumped from her abdomen. But surprisingly there was also another unfamiliar feeling that graced her in that moment, a feeling of relaxation and warmth. She couldn't remember the last time she had a good night's sleep, one without nightmares, yet now, somehow, it felt as if she could dream.

The first thing she thought of of course was Cheerilee, recalling memories of their brief time together. Yes, she always ran to her adoptive mother when she recalled her dreams of long ago, they were always her comfort zone. She giggled, before letting her mind drift away in a matter of seconds. She wanted to forever be in this perfect world, an everlasting dream.

Then there was a rainbow stream, that had immediately reached Eve's destination in a flash.

SLAM!

And a cataclysmic explosion of debris and sand shot up towards the sky, upon impact from Twilight.

Spitfire and the rest of the Wonderbolt's, as well as the violet guard, alongside Captain Noteworthy, coughed as they covered their muzzles, looking upon the scene in wonder and waiting for the dust to settle.

As the sand came down like rain, and the dust cleared, Twilight Sparkle stood with her hoof stuck in the ground, expecting to have seen a subdued and unconscious Eve beneath her. Twilight's eyes went wide with shock and fear as she found that wasn't the case, seeing there was absolutely nothing beneath her. She muttered, "What?"

"That's enough Twilight."

Twilight's eyes widened even further due to her recognition of the voice. She turned her head to her left, to see a particular individual standing off, further in the distance. "Huh?"

Even Spitfire looked upon that individual in confusion and silence, simply watching and unsure what to say.

There stood Rainbow Dash on her hind legs, holding a sleeping Eve in her hooves as she glanced back at Twilight with a saddened expression, before shaking her head. "The whole thing was over before it even started, Twilight."

Twilight immediately became overcome with happiness however, putting on a wide smile, "RAINBOW!!!!"

As everypony protested their happiness in the fact the mare truly was alright, despite what'd happened. Twilight's guard only looked on with soft smiles however, as a feeling of relief overcame them for obvious reasons.

Rainbow Dash looked upon Eve still with sad eyes, almost as if she cared for the monster that hurt her friends.

It was over, the enemy was captured and now no more harmless than a sleeping rabbit.

Yet despite that, how come for Rainbow Dash, nothing could've felt further from a victory?

Princess Luna smiled warmly, before she to, began making her way down to the others.

But, the mission was over, finally, the ponies of Equestria had succeeded, hopefully for the final time in this matter.

Chapter 8: Draconequus - Part 1


CHAPTER 8: DRACONEQUUS - PART 1

The battlefield was now desolate and empty.

Only the cold wind remained, leaving a hollow empty ambiance over the fields of Candyland.

But hidden deep within the Candy Cane Forest would still remain a puddle of a bubbling black substance. It was otherworldly in appearance, pitch black and seemingly infinite in depth.

Making its way to that black puddle would be a lone figure, as it knelt down, touching upon the surface of the ooze with its paw. A playful chuckle followed afterwords, as soon did a grin. The figure's body shimmered with sparks of different colors, before it muttered something silently to itself, revealing it was indeed a female. "Well well, how convenient for me."

Nightmare Moon continued to sulk in darkness, sitting upon her worn throne knowing deep inside that being a ruler here still lacked the purpose she desired. After what she'd done, she was just about ready to give up. She would've never admitted it to herself, but she knew nothing mattered anymore, she to was alone. She was alone with nopony to care about her pitiful pride and world. Her pride got her nowhere, and perhaps it was the primary reason she'd been stuck here in the first place. Eve's voice was no longer here to comfort that lonely existence. But as painful as it was that there was no longer anypony to keep her company, she still didn't regret her decision. Nightmare Moon looked as if she were on the verge of tears, deep bags underlining her eyes like permanent black marks, but it was that stubborn attitude which prevented her from doing so. The more she sulked, the angrier she became. She wanted out, she wanted to mean something again. Here she couldn't make an impact, she could do absolutely nothing! She gritted her teeth, before dwelling on it even more, her own uselessness. Her horn started to glow, as in a moment of great anger she turned swiftly, teleporting away from her throne and using a blast of magic to shatter it to pieces.

Nightmare Moon breathed heavily as she watched the pieces of shattered stone tumble and scatter across the dusty floor. She then reduced those very pieces to ashes with a simple glare.

"Looks like somepony's upset!"

Nightmare Moon's eyes suddenly snapped wide, as she glanced at the ground, uncertain of whether she was losing her mind. Had she finally reached that point in this everlasting sentence? The point in which she truly feared most. The point of insanity? Nightmare Moon ignored it, she remained silent for some time, only to see if it came again.

"Aw, don't ignore me! I want us to be friends you know!" The voice immediately cut in again.

Nightmare Moon stood firmly, now shouting defiantly while glancing around her throne room. "WHO ARE YOU?! How did you manage to get in here?" She paused for a few seconds, "Do you know of who you speak to? Play any games with me and you shall regret it. I am not in the mood, I can assure you." She was paranoid, because even she thought it was impossible for another to enter here at this point, and with such confidence no less. Nightmare Moon lowered her head, and an actual shiver had run down her spine due to this sudden presence.

"I know all the answers! But none of the questions matter, so I won't waste time on any of them haha!" The voice paused, "You and I want similar things you know. So how about we work out something, you and I!?"

Nightmare Moon cocked a brow, leaning her head back. "And what business would I have with a pest!?"

Then suddenly making an appearance in front of the alicorn, floating confidently above her with a cheery smile curled upon her throne would be a female draconequus. She bore a shockingly similar appearance to Eve, which immediately caught Nightmare Moon's eye, leaving the alicorn stunned with an almost frightened look. The draconequus then grinned fiercely, before resting her chin upon her paw, looking horribly amused by it all, especially Nightmare Moon's expression. "Am I but a pest, Ms.Moon?"

Nightmare Moon trembled, shaking her head as she backed away. "What, what is this?" Nightmare Moon was suddenly overcome with a fierce anger as she glared at the draconequus. "WHAT'RE YOU DOING BACK HERE!? I DID EVERYTHING IN MY POWER TO ENSURE YOU WOULDN'T BE SENT BACK HERE! NOW HERE YOU-.....You..." Nightmare Moon looked broken as her eyes saddened. She wasn't sure whether these conflicted feelings were happiness or sadness. Had Eve really returned to this desolate realm for her? No, that wasn't possible. But then what did this even mean? Why was she here? "You couldn't really be-" Nightmare Moon placed a hoof over her forehead as she started snickering to herself with a look of paranoia. "Looks like I am going insane."

But the draconequus interrupted with a bored look. "Nope sorry to burst your bubble but, I just ain't her." She smirked.

Nightmare Moon's hopes were shattered as she appeared stunned yet again, and a swelling feeling of annoyance began to show itself through her demeanor. "Oh?...." She lowered her head, her eyes darkening a bit as she did so. "I guess that does make sense." Of course Eve was gone forever. She'd never see her again, that little draconequus who managed to find a place in her cold black heart, was beyond her reach now. That little monster she herself came to accept due to being accepted in return, despite her philosophies and judgement regarding the world, was now probably no more than a powerless creature in chains. Nightmare Moon's sudden feelings of subconscious happiness dwindled, but her anger didn't. She glared at this new draconequus. "So what do you want? I have little patience for any other of your kind. Especially those who like to make fools out of ones I care about."

The draconequus gasped, followed by a snicker. "Care? I thought you were incapable of caring about anything besides yourself!"

The air surrounding Nightmare Moon began to grow heavier as she formed a deep engraved scowl, "10 seconds."

The draconequus leaned back in her throne. "Right right right! Straight to the point huh!?"

There was a looming silence between the two, as they just looked at one another.

The draconequus suddenly manifested two wine glasses along with two apples, as the apples were crushed in midair then ground down into floating masses of apple juice, and dropped perfectly into each glass. She chuckled a bit, "Would you like some?" She immediately shrugged afterwords with an amused giggle and sarcastic laughter. "Oh of course not! Well I'm really thirsty." She then jugged down one glass before moving onto the second, then tossing both glasses behind her, allowing them to shatter on the floor. "Well then, might as well trash this dump, seeing as it'll no longer house somepony as marvelous as you."

Nightmare Moon raised a brow. "What're you talking about?"

The draconequus crossed her arms, then her legs. "You'll be coming with me to the outside world. We'll blow this joint!"

Nightmare Moon looked upon this draconequus as if she were joking, obviously amused. "Hah! Who do you think you are? A god?"

The draconequus glanced down at Nightmare Moon worriedly, as she remained silent to that comment. "Hm...I wonder..."

This caused Nightmare Moon to appear a bit baffled herself, as her expression slowly sunk and there was that sense of intimidation in the presence of this creature again. It was as if the two were equals, if not one being greater than the other. "Who're you?...."

The draconequus now had a more serious demeanor about her as her piercing red eyes met with Nightmare Moon's. Her look was cold and heavy, as she slowly spread her arms. "I am the one who brought Eve to you in the first place."

Nightmare Moon's pupil's dilated as she glanced down towards the ground. She now knew Eve intimately, which had recently lead her to believe something about Eve's original coming to this realm was horribly out of place. The girl wasn't a god despite her amazing magical birthright, she was far too inexperienced to truly know how to manipulate chaos to the length of bringing Twilight and her friends here. To have the talent of being able to use chaos to transcend very worlds. Nightmare Moon had made her assumptions at that time, as did Twilight Sparkle. Yet now here stood the actual culprit responsible for disturbing and intruding upon her sanctum, or perhaps better wording would be her prison. And so easily, did this individual breach it.

Nightmare Moon knew Eve had potential, but to think that this second party had actually existed was baffling to say the least. Was she looking upon a god at this moment? One far greater than even Celestia and Luna? One on an entirely different level? Cold sweat ran down the side of the mare's head, as she had a hard time measuring this creature's actual capabilities. "Hah...."

The draconequus's gaze never left Nightmare Moon as she continued. "All you need to know is that, my name is Eris." She cocked her head to the left tiredly. "If you disregard the existence of my only living family, Discord, then yes, my capabilities may be a little more refined than most. But my past isn't the point of my coming here you see, I've come here to discuss something of far greater importance. It seems Eve's usefulness has proven fruitful, because come a few months ago I would've never possessed the gall to approach you from within your own realm, Ms Moon." She smiled somewhat, obviously in a particularly cheery mood.

Nightmare Moon muttered, "But now you do?.....Why?"

Eris snickered, before a fierce grin steadily spread from cheek to cheek. "Opportunity."

Nightmare Moon wasn't catching on, as Eris expected. She simply stood there, listening with little interest.

Eris continued, chuckling as she did so. "I've been watching Eve's progression for quite awhile now. She was unlike your usual draconequus, and honestly one of my favorites." She sighed before glancing up, tapping her throne. "I would've probably ended her misery myself had I not come to admire her persistence to live alongside such a foolish race. Her kindness was disgusting, up to the point where it came off as if she'd inherited it from these very ponies. How befitting for one such as herself to be born in such a land." Eris suddenly manifested another apple, tossing it into the air before catching it as it descended. She flashed Nightmare Moon a cocky smirk. "Look where that kindness got her in the end. In truth, I knew she wouldn't last long if she didn't accept she was meant to be a being of chaos and destruction. She is an instigator, not a peacemaker. But she rejected my advice, and paid the price for it, so I lost hope for her." Eris then pointed a claw at Nightmare Moon, her smirk only growing wider. "But something unexpected happened, she ended up finding you. Her kindness earned your trust, something unheard of for you Nightmare Moon. It caused you to care. You actually managed to make a friend besides Luna, after all this time." Eris snickered again, letting off hushed laughter at her sudden supposed insight. "Oh yes, I've learned a lot about you in the previous months, after leaving that child here to survive in this little realm of yours. It's funny what foolish things creatures end up doing for these friend's of their's, I will never understand it." She shrugged, before grinning. "But I sure can abuse it."

Nightmare Moon turned slightly red, before looking a bit frustrated with this so called Eris. "You best shut that filthy mouth you pest. You're trying my patience with all these insults. You know nothing about that girl, that much is obvious despite what you say. She is something different, and the moment I escape this place, I'll be sure to take her back from those meddlesome brats."

Eris cackled, before shrugging. "I've no idea what's with this friendship fest going around. It's all so boring! Who would want to live in a world filled with nothing but love and friendship!? Where's the excitement in that? What's a story without conflict, without chaos!? Even my own flesh and blood has become smitten for some little pony, how pathetic is that!?" She started kicking her legs a bit, sighing as she did so as her tail swayed from side to side. "But he lasted the longest in this little plaque of kindness, so I give him the credit he deserves. But for a draconequus to actually be born with it? No, no we can't have that. It's reboot time." She paused, before giving Nightmare Moon that cold stare once again. "Which is why you're going to help me clean up my race. In return for your assistance, I'll save you from this place. I'll grant you the freedom you require in order to take back that girl."

Nightmare Moon burst into laughter, "Hahahaha! You expect me to believe you'll not only be able to get me out of this place, but that you'll do it for helping you massacre your own race. What sort of joke is that? Ahahahahaha! That is grand!"

Eris immediately cut into the conversation. "Yes, that's right." Before she'd snapped angrily, her eyes wide as the draconequus became suddenly overcome with a pent up fury, her words ruthless and cold. "EVERY, SINGLE, ONE OF THEM!!!!"

Nightmare Moon then fell silent, and flinched somewhat in regards to the sudden outburst. She now regarded Eris with a serious contemplative stare of her own, realizing this draconequus truly was something darker than she expected. "Hm..."

She placed her paw on her forehead, sighing heavily then glancing up. "Well not all, at least the ones who thought it would be best to reduce my kind to such a boring pitiful state. A world of order, a world of peace? I will destroy them for ruining my perfect balance, for not fearing my wrath. For abusing my race in such a manner, and rejecting our given birthrights. You see, for quite some time I have been recovering from past events, but now is the time we act, together." Eris spread her arms once again. "You will offer me your assistance Nightmare Moon, because I am the only one who can get you out of here with my powers. I am different from other draconequus, I embrace chaos fully, I have more understanding of it than any other. I don't degrade myself, I don't limit myself from my endless potential. Which is also why I will make the offer even better for you."

Nightmare Moon squinted a bit in discomfort as she wore a twisted frown, obviously conflicted.

Eris wiggled her sharp claw. "Ah! See I knew you weren't yet satisfied. Of course helping you get out of here wouldn't be enough. Not only would you be forced to waste your time with me, but you would lack the power needed in order to accomplish anything. You alone aren't enough to deal with three of my kind, let alone the children of harmony as well as Princess Celestia and Luna, it'd be a wasted effort. You'd only be banished again, and if you did manage to somehow escape, then you'd be hunted to the ends of this world." That fierce grin returned to Eris. "Which is why I shall birth you with the greatest gift I can. I shall birth you with the gift of, chaos!" Eris burst into wild laughter as she relished in the idea, trembling in her throne. "Can you imagine it? The potential you will have!? The forces you'll be able to manipulate and control!? As you are now, you may even possess the power to surpass me! I'd be the ultimate fool allowing you to abuse such potential, I'd be absolutely mad! But chaos, oh the chaos would be spectacular!"

Nightmare Moon cringed practically in disgust at the persona of this twisted deity. "And how would you accomplish these things? I no longer harbor any doubts you are indeed who you say you are, but even this is beyond you."

Eris flinched, before scowling at the alicorn. "Nothing.....is beyond me. I am a creation whose very appearance signals the coming of the end. I am the endgame! I am the insurmountable wall! I am the one who has transcended worlds!!!" She burst into laughter again, kicking her legs before writhing around her throne happily. "Bahahahahahahahaha!!! I am chaos, did you forget!? Chaos lively and full! Chaos which doesn't restrict itself! Chaos which has spread from generation to generation! I am everywhere and a part of everything! I am limitless in my potential!" She suddenly paused before her expression sunk a bit. "At least....I was..."

Nightmare Moon's nose wrinkled a bit as she knew it was official, this draconequus was officially loony.

Eris glanced down at her paw and claw. "Which is why to be limited to only one world would be foolish for ones such as ourselves. With chaos on my side, this very fabric of reality is no more than a boundary waiting to be surpassed. After I have claimed what is rightfully mine, I will go about my business with the remaining remnants of my race, and we will leave this world to its business, as we will leave you to your business. Do what you want with the inhabitants of this pathetic world of friendship, I will do what I must with the inhabitants of those realms not yet affected by it. I will restore my perfect balance to those worlds and ensure everything remains as it should be." She returned to lightly tapping her throne with her claw. "The end is night and it's certainly been a long time coming, but that's besides the point." She cocked her head to the left, "You see Nightmare Moon you may exist, but you lack a physical form in the material world. Princess Luna now has sole rule over her body, meaning you have no place to return to." She paused, "But don't fret, for a physical shell is nothing for one such as myself to create. Especially when the spirit itself is still intact, creating life is a whole other matter entirely, but giving you a place to reside is simplistic to say the least. You will be capable of doing all that I can do and more, but only if you learn to understand and embrace the chaos which will course through your very being." She smiled, "Yes, you will be able to take back what is yours. You will be able to save perhaps your only friend."

That lengthy period of silence had returned again, as Nightmare Moon stood there silently for quite some time.

Nightmare Moon smirked softly, closing her eyes and lowering her head. "You truly are something completely different from any I've ever encountered. A true fool, a blind god who would do anything in order to remain sated with the universe which surrounds you. You're like a spoiled child whose lost all satisfaction with every toy she's ever received, and now here you are desperately searching, trying to recover and save yourself from your own insanity and paranoia. Even if it costs you everything." Nightmare Moon appeared fairly amused with it all herself. "Take it from me goddess, you may not believe me now. But be careful what you wish for, a world from the bottom is far different from a world at the top. Despite what you may believe, sometimes the challenge isn't worth overcoming. And sometimes the amusement, is far too short-lived to be worth anything."

Eris scoffed with her arms crossed, "Hah! Let me worry about those things will you? So.....Does this mean you accept?"

Nightmare Moon's smirk never left her, "I will gladly accept your gracious offer. Lady of Chaos, Lady of,.....Discord."

Eris smirked. Well Eve, thanks to you, I've made quite the ally on this day. "Shall we get started?" She snapped her claw, as behind her throne, suddenly a tear in the very realm had appeared. A portal of sorts, reaching into the very depths of the void.

Nightmare Moon proceeded towards the portal with anxious eyes. "I think a better way to put it would be, shall we finish this?"

"What of the citizens of the island?" Princess Celestia remained situated at the far end of the banquet table early that next morning. However the only individuals present were her, Discord, Rift, Havoc, Princess Luna, and a band of guards. Neither Eve, nor Twilight or any of the others involved with the success of the mission were present at this meeting. Princess Celestia had a look of angst written all over her face, it was obvious she wasn't very happy with the briefing she'd received regarding this entire event. She only sighed before closing her eyes and lowering her head somewhat.

Rift nodded plainly, closing her eyes and crossing her own arms before replying. "They were left entirely unaware of what occurred princess. However, there's something I think you should know, regarding that island."

Princess Celestia raised a curious brow at the draconequus.

Rift continued, wincing slightly. "It was something that struck me as odd upon our arrival. The island appeared to be everything but a natural occurrence. The creatures which inhabit it as well as the landscape itself was entirely out of place. It was truly as if a child had crafted it from her filly tale fantasies. It wouldn't surprise me if our little monster was heavily involved with the origin of the island itself if not entirely. Which is why Havoc and I took the precaution of using our own powers to help mend the wounds caused by our presence there with our own chaotic influence. Hopefully this will deter the locals there for some time from what's happened, but still I worry that girl has allies she did not speak of. There may be possible future repercussions for taking her." Rift paused, "However, if you require us to ensure such a thing doesn't happen. All you have to do is give the order, and we'll be right on it."

Princess Celestia frowned heavily due to the subliminal messaging and realizing immediately what Rift was implying. Princess Celestia ignored that possibility entirely, before revealing her own insight of the situation. "Yes, thank you for your report. I am aware of that strange island's conditions and after hearing of it, I to took some time to connect the pieces. Your words are only confirmation that my suspicions were correct all along. I will ensure that Eve's capture will bring no trouble to Equestria let alone my subjects, there are many ways of handling this through diplomacy. We do have a lot of things we need to take care of, but nothing too complicated, we've been through worse. So no, further handling of the situation won't be required."

Princess Celestia fell silent and appeared lost for a few seconds. "That girl has no true allies besides us. Those creatures, if they truly believe themselves to be her companions then they are horribly mistaken. They are only attached to the poor girl out of convenience and out of a feeling of necessity if anything. Once I agree to supporting them in their ways and offering my help in establishing a better order for us all, they will forget Eve with time I imagine." Princess Celestia glanced around at the individuals listening to her. "That draconequus child was born and raised in Equestria, and if anypony were to have the right on deciding what's best for her future it shall be me. Those islanders will also help in shielding Eve from Twilight's wishes and accusations, for if Twilight truly cares about Equestria and her subjects, which I know she does, then she will keep Eve's whereabouts a secret until the time is right. Lest she wishes to bring the possibility of war to our very shores if she truly was that significant to those creatures. Eve knows too much at this point and would be far more useful on our side, rather than imprisoned."

Discord soon cut in with a yawn, patting his mouth with a paw. "Speaking of which, where iiiiiis our purple little princess? I do imagine she'd be the one MOST interested in hearing about your plans for the future Celestia. I mean for what is it, months now? All we've heard is whiiiiining and mooooaning, I mean sheesh! You'd think after finally capturing the darn girl she'd be a little more eager about the idea of finishing up hm?" Discord snapped and a bag of chips appeared in his claw as he took a handful. "Oh quite delicious!" He then slivered a bit before stretching and yawning again. "Buuuut politics politics, this is quite the bore. Celestia! I'm going on lunch break, you don't need me around anyhow do you? Toodles!" Then Discord disappeared in a poof of smoke.

Havoc sneered, tapping his claw atop the surface of the table. "To think that he's the most lethal of our kind astonishes me to say the least. With such talent, you'd think he'd have the mind to actually accomplish more instead of joking around all the time."

Rift regarded her partner with annoyance. "It's because of his unique mind that he is who he is. You'd do best to remember that, and him Havoc. Discord is a legend among our kind and is related directly to Eris, a goddess in her own right. It's only natural he'd be the most capable out of all of us." She shook her head at him in disappointment.

Havoc smirked somewhat, "Then how come he was unable to handle one little draconequus?"

Rift appeared heavily offended by such a proclamation. "That child is a hybrid, a monster, a creature out of nightmare! Do not compare her to an honest bred draconequus! You saw what she was capable of!" Rift scowled, appearing bitter to say the least. "Somewhere in her twisted philosophy she was able to abuse her birthright and mold it into something else entirely. It was her dwelling on such negative emotions that turned her into what she is. How ones falls into fall into such a bottomless pit of despair is beyond me. Nonetheless the child had to have had some help from an outside source, one besides Princess Celestia."

Princess Celestia looked a little baffled as she immediately rose. "Outside source? What're you talking about?"

Rift glared at the princess intently. "Princess, our mission would've been a failure had we not received help from another outside source, the same source I also believe prevented us from succeeding in the first place. The conditions were beyond our control, and the only solution available to us at the time was utter decimation of the girl, it was only because she'd become severely weakened and distraught we were able to apprehend her. What most draconequus take millennium to achieve was reached by some kid in the span of less then a decade, it is a phenomenon in all forms of the word. I understand that your influence on this matter helped Eve achieve a very intimate grasp on generations worth of knowledge revolving around very dark subjects, but even so, I believe somepony or something helped her even more so than you."

At that point Princess Celestia appeared a little annoyed, although she continued to listen.

Rift continued, "Somepony with the power to influence her directly through the mind in order to make a permanent engraving on her if it so wished it. Something with a vast knowledge revolving around misery, fear, and despair in itself. A malicious entity? One on the scope of godhood if you were to judge. I know it is unlikely that such an individual would exist, but I ask you now princess, does it? Is there one in your history capable of these things? One of nightmarish malice?" Rift sighed, glancing to the lower left in contemplation. "Princess, I need to know. I believe Eve has been unconsciously influenced longer than you realize, that there's been a plaque on her mind which must've been present months to say the least. She had near instant regenerative capabilities and perhaps endless grasp on chaotic magic, such experience could never be taught by you alone, especially in the short amount of time she was exposed. You informed us she did herself a great deal of harm after being influenced by past events which you showed her. Now imagine if these things were amplified without your knowledge, imagine if while you were going by your own methods to further that girl's progression, there was already one who'd been doing it, unconsciously affecting that girl's mind. Such a possibility would piece together all that's happened, you were simply the final push that girl needed in order to reach the peak of experience to become no less than even a goddess, a draconequus with timeless knowledge relating to a unique representation, or you, alicorns themselves. A being with many years worth of experience." She gave Princess Celestia a crooked expression with an intense stare. "With you yourself being unaware and due partly to unfortunate events, that girl was able to create a domino reaction which resulted in her ascendance. So I ask you again princess, is there any you can think of with such potential? Is there any time in Eve's life that you're aware of where she was exposed to such an individual?"

Princess Celestia was quite silent, as one did come to mind but she dared not say it, before glancing over towards her sister.

Then as did Havoc, and soon Rift, each of them with looks of suspicion regarding the alicorn.

Princess Luna immediately gasped, rising from her seat. "This is absurd sister! What're you all implying!? Do I look like a malicious entity to you? Do you not trust me body and soul!?" Princess Luna's eyes saddened. "How could you? How could you even contemplate such a thing!? Do you not believe I've changed since then? Why would I involve myself with that creature? WHY!?"

Princess Celestia shook her head, wishing to explain herself. "Of course not Luna! I know you would never do such a thing!" But Princess Celestia's tone died down as she appeared distraught, glancing to her lower right once more. "But...it is only you who're capable of such a feat as well with such powers. There is no other like you in this world of ours. The realm of dream is your domain, you are its sole ruler and protector, so I see no other possibility." Princess Celestia looked at Luna in puzzlement. "I trust you with all my heart sister, I know you have changed. But who else could've heavily influence that girl's mind besides you? Nightmare Moon is no longer a part of this world. It is you who controls the realm of the dream, to use such a method would be genius, no trace, no evidence, and all the results. Please Luna, I'll understand if you were only trying to help me achieve my goals, it's under-"

Princess Luna snapped angrily, "I HAD NO PART IN IT!!! NONE!!! Now will you all stop suspecting me!? You're breaking my heart sister, I thought we were past this!" She huffed profoundly before her expression died down and she simply frowned, looking down towards the table's surface soon afterwords. She then muttered beneath her breath, "Besides Celestia....I don't think you understand how my magic works. There are other factors to consider." Princess Luna glanced up at her in hesitation, before looking fairly guilty. "I do not possess sole control upon the realm of the dream. Ever since that night, I've pondered the thought if perhaps my control over that realm had split as well. Perhaps another realm was created, one where things of nightmare themselves could reside, I have always considered this possibility." She appeared distraught as she fell silent for a few seconds.

Princess Celestia, Havoc, and Rift kept their eyes on Princess Luna in bafflement, wonder, as the alicorn explained herself.

Princess Luna continued, "I have encountered monstrous things in the dreams of all ponies alike, and I have vanquished them all the same, but where do they go afterwords? They could never simply cease to exist. I bring tranquility to those who're lost in nightmare, but, since my return nightmares have become more frequent, more unpredictable and fortuitous. Before my banishment, I felt a need to know, to discover just where nightmares themselves originated. I never found it, I was never able to reach such a place. But if it is indeed out there-" Princess Luna glanced up at the others once more. "Then Nightmare Moon herself resides in a world of her own, disconnected from ours. She would need allies, and what better than a vulnerable draconequus child?"

Princess Celestia turned away, "I refuse to accept that somehow she managed to involve herself in all of this."

Princess Luna's expression sunk. "So what would you rather believe sister?...That I'd betray you a second time?"

Princess Celestia frowned heavily. Neither option was enjoyable. Either Luna had betrayed her, which she knew for certain wasn't true, or somehow Nightmare Moon had managed to influence Eve's mind directly for a prolonged period of time. Eve was fine now yes, but, was Nightmare Moon still lurking in the shadows waiting for an opportunity to strike? How could she from where she was? Princess Celestia didn't enjoy any of it, and she knew eventually they'd have to look further into the matter. "No Luna, I know you'd never do such a thing. I'm just frustrated is all, obviously this is something we cannot ignore." She sighed, before putting on a smile. "At least the supposed ally Nightmare Moon sought is out of her reach now."

Princess Celestia paused yet again, "But still, I do believe we should hurry and tell that child how things will work from now on."

Princess Luna stood firmly. "What of Twilight sister? Won't she be upset with you after this?"

Princess Celestia glanced back with a wince. "The last thing Twilight needs is to be around Eve. Whenever they're together I see an obvious change in her and it's not something I enjoy. After this, Twilight will be forced to trust me with Eve's future whether she likes it or not, I cannot risk her being involved any longer, she has proven she isn't yet ready to house the responsibility with draconequus." Princess Celestia's own eyes saddened at the thought, "To think she'd resort to such measures a second time, this cannot go on. We need to hurry and speak with her before Twilight begins her banishment ceremony."

Rift leaned back in her seat with a curious expression. "Princess, what exactly are you planning to do with that monster?"

Princess Celestia kept herself faced away from the group as she made her way towards the doors exiting the banquet room. Her expression was hidden from the others but was one pure annoyance to say the least. Her eyes were cold and fierce, as was her twisted scowl. "What I should've done from the very beginning. If it isn't already too late."

Twilight looked out a bedroom window, leaned up with the curtains pulled back. The lower portion of her body was hidden beneath the blankets, and she appeared satisfied with herself. She wore a cheery yet gentle smile, looking upon the garden of the castle grounds with a sense of longing, as if she just wanted to just get up and go out there. "It feels so good to be back."

Suddenly Pinkie Pie made an appearance, "And it's good to finally have you back Twilight! YEP YEP!" She jumped up and down on the bed before dropping back down to the floor and acting all jittery as she moved about the elegant room.

Applejack simply grabbed hold of the mare, forcing her to stay still for a second. "Simmer down now Sally."

Rarity soon cut into the conversation. "But yes Twilight, we are all absolutely ecstatic that you've returned safe and sound. We were all quite worried you would get hurt again in this whole mess. Especially poor Spike."

Twilight glanced around the room worriedly for a second. "Speaking of that, where is Spike? Is he okay?"

Fluttershy stepped in hesitantly, lowering her head somewhat with a smile. "H-He's okay Twilight...He just went to the library, since when he came to see you, you were still sleeping." Fluttershy looked apologetic still, recalling what'd happened the last time they were all together like this. "I'm...I'm so sorry Twilight, about, about everything that happened. I'm glad you're okay."

Twilight regarded Fluttershy with a forgiving smile, chuckling softly. "It's okay Fluttershy, we all make mistakes sometimes. But I'm sorry to, I shouldn't of had an outburst like that. I was just so worried about everypony, I just wanted all this angst and madness to end. But overall I'm just glad we're all back here together again, and all of this crazy draconequus business is finally about to end."

Fluttershy flinched, before lowering her head again and looking quite saddened by the proclamation.

Applejack and Rarity didn't fail to notice Fluttershy's reaction, and they just kept their thoughts about it to themselves.

Rarity suddenly gave a crooked smile, before further inquiring, "S-So, it's finally over hm? Eve....she's...well...erhm..."

Twilight's expression sunk before she looked deeply upset, wearing an intense glare. "She's with Rainbow Dash....."

The rest of their eyes widened in shock, as Applejack took a few trots forward. "Wait, say what now!? Why!?"

Twilight scowled, wincing as she did so. "That's what I'd like to know. Eve has a tendency of getting under other's coats. And instead of resting, Rainbow wanted to pay her a visit." Twilight paused before closing her eyes and sighing heavily, just glancing up towards the ceiling. "Not that it'll matter come a few hours, I'll begin the banishment ceremony and ensure Eve never hurts anypony else again. The things we saw on that island may haunt me for years to come but I know overall the pursuit was definitely worth it. Rainbow may be confused now but once Eve's gone, she'll understand I did what I had to. We'll all just return to our normal lives and this will be another problem we all managed to make it through together." She lowered her head before placing a hoof over her heart. "Friendship is a precious thing, we all know that. We all know sacrifices need to be made to protect and preserve it when those willing to reject and decimate it emerge from the shadows. Some, can never know the true value of this gift."

Applejack then asked Twilight worriedly, as the others mimicked her expression. "Twi, you ever done a banishment spell before?"

Twilight's eyes widened before she stuck her tongue out and blushed faintly, scratching at the back of her head. "Nope!"

Rarity and Applejack simply covered their faces with a hoof.

Pinkie Pie then bounced around ecstatically once again, "Oh my gosh! Banishment!? What's that!?"

Fluttershy frowned at Pinkie Pie. "You probably don't want to know Pinkie."

Applejack turned towards the door. "Well Twi if you don't mind I'm gonna knock some sense into Rainbow Dash."

Twilight raised a hoof, "Wait Applejack!....Let's...instead let's go to the gardens for now. I'm sure Rainbow Dash will be fine."

Applejack glanced back with a raised brow. "Wha? Twilight have you gone bonkers to?"

Twilight smiled softly. "Eve's locked away and restrained somewhere very confined. For now I'm not worried, I just want to go out and enjoy this relaxing day with my friends. Just for some time, I want to forget all about this tragedy."

Twilight glance down at her blankets, seemingly lost in thought. Just for some time, I want to reject Eve's existence.

Eve sat in her cell, which was surprisingly well accustomed. There was a comfy bed with beautiful blankets and pillows full of fluff perfectly laid out for the draconequus as well as walls decorated with pictures of many prestigious Canterlot figures, more than likely royalty. Eve sat upon the edge of her bed, kicking her legs slightly. She wore a paranoid expression as she chewed on the tip of her paw nervously while lost in thought. She wore thick stainless steel bracers as well as a collar around her neck and finally two  bracers around her ankles. Although even with such things the air surrounding her began to distort while her collar pulsed and vibrated with magical energies and static. Eve thought back to everything that'd happened. Everything that'd contributed to this moment. She recalled all the decisions she made to arrive here, and her heart raced the more she focused on such things. Her body slowly started to tremble the more frustrated she became, and the more distraught she grew. All her memories played out like scenes in a picture book, and it was as if half the story was missing, and deep within herself, she panicked because of it.

She saw the face of her real mother accompanied by her father, as they smiled holding a piece of candy before her. Then immediately afterwords, she also saw them leave her behind. She saw them flash her one last disappointing glance, one she couldn't understand back then, but something that was all too painfully clear now. She saw them depart, trailing off into the vast endless skies never to be seen again.

Eve slowly rose her claw to her bangs tearing at her mane somewhat, gripping it tightly.

She couldn't prove herself to them, not that she really cared anymore. To her, they were now simply mirages.

But ever since then, she'd had trouble making decisions and she could see that.

It all felt so definite now, so apparent and factual, she was almost petrified with disbelief at her own knack for misjudgment.

The memories transitioned to Cheerilee's smiling face. Eve recalled how Cheerilee looked down upon her with a caring affectionate smile, keeping her close and selflessly putting Eve before herself and wanting only what was best for her. Cheerilee looked upon her as she would any other child, despite the fact she was a draconequus. There was that peaceful atmospere and that unfamiliar feeling of sanctity when they were together in her home. It was something she would always cherish, and would never be able to replicate or forget. Too much had changed since that point in time, Eve felt nothing could ever be the same again.

It was a gut-wrenching feeling.

Then that very image of Cheerilee's smiling caring face transitioned immediately to a grimmer portrayal of Eve's loving adoptive mother. It was Cheerilee's tears of grief and disappointment, her mane soaked from the rain as her eyes were wide with shock and horror due to Eve's actions at Canterlot. Cheerilee's smile was no longer there, it felt infinitely far away.

Eve's own eyes were wide as she thought back to these memories, as they were like a slap of reality to her face. Her pupils were dilated as it all played throughout her head over and over again, everything that'd happened. So much regret coursed through her, what was she doing with her life? She appeared lost in time as she was focused on the marble floor beneath her as her mind was in an entirely different place. In the memory, Cheerilee's voice was mute, she was screaming indistinguishable words at Eve, weeping for her as she stood mere feet away from her in the blood ridden castle courtyard.

Eve's head slumped down, as she did a sluggish swaying motion. Just how many mistakes had she made, one after the other? It was all never-ending for her, all so stupid, all so pathetic. And those decisions never accomplished anything.

Usually the decisions she made only made everything worse.

Twilight inevitably appeared next in her memories. The mare always wore that contemplative expression before her, although Eve recalled how much more mellow it was in the past. One could easily see Twilight's hesitation, her wisdom for insight into the very future they'd arrived at, the one the alicorn princess attempted to prevent. Eve couldn't help but feel displeased with Twilight after everything that'd happened, but nor could she bring herself to truly hate Twilight for any of it. Eve saw it, she saw Twilight change over a lengthy period of time, each and every time she herself causing the mare to fall into something far more cold than she actually was. Eve felt like a virus slowly affecting the mare, pushing her down towards the edge of insanity. She saw that look of guilt and contemplation from their first meeting twist into a fierce scowl of piercing hatred. Twilight's look of disgust and hatred in regards to Eve's very being. Time had done nothing for them besides make it all worse, and Eve knew Twilight would never accept her. Since this all started, Twilight was only ever doing what she could to ensure nothing as traumatic as this never occurred, and now here they were. Eve felt like a fool as she saw how it all could've been avoided if she simply ceased to exist. Yet Twilight still showed her mercy. Even at the end, Twilight somehow found it within herself to spare her. It was all just so annoying.

Just how long had she chased after something that didn't even exist? That perfect paradise she believed was achievable somehow or someway was never even there. It was only the privilege of the ignorant and the sheltered. Yet she still wanted it, despite knowing she likely would never arrive at that destination. And that was the problem, she could never let go of a dream that never had any meaning in the first place. She'd managed to create an entirely different society of ignorance and acceptance, one made up of individuals who she hoped would never see what lied beneath the surface of tranquility, hidden deep within the shadows of the world. That grim reality was lurking, waiting to be found by those unsuspecting victims. Eve cocked her head back, looking up at the ceiling as she wondered just how long she'd repeated this never-ending pattern of misfortune.

They all came to her at once in shards and pieces of her fragmented storybook. Fluttershy, Trixie, Zecora, Prowl, Talon, Celestia, then there was simply darkness, a chapter that was missing. Eve's heart ached as her lip quivered and formed into a broken frown and she never found that look of peace, still appearing lost. Every single one of them. Everything always ended in tears, in angst, in misery, and in negativity. There was not one sliver of happiness in her life anymore! She'd lost everything and everypony, and what for!? She was still here in this grim harsh reality, forced to live on and remember. She'd made absolutely no progress at all! Once again her stupid plans failed and she'd accomplished nothing, nothing! All her actions resulted in was more hatred towards her kind, and more turmoil for the ponies. Her trembling became more frantic, as did her grip on her mane and chewing on the tip of her paw. She wrapped her claw around a lower portion of her mane, tugging at it, attempting to find something to vent her feelings on. Her sharp fangs tore into her paw, but her magic healed the bloody wounds with each crushing bite. Eve continued to question herself, telling herself it was all because she tried. She tried to change something that could never be changed. She tried to pursue a world that was no longer possible for her. Every decision she made was wrong, and everything she did only resulted in more madness. Trying was the problem, and if she wanted to fix it, she simply needed to stop. To stop trying,.......to stop caring.

All along, she should've simply listened. Listened to Twilight, listened to Princess Celestia, to everypony.

Everything could of been avoided had she at least managed to have a fraction of common sense,....of understanding.

She could no longer bare the wait of any of the consequences, she could no longer bare the regret of everything she'd done.

Eve tore down angrily, ripping out some of her mane, before glaring forward.

And with her motions, the very objects in her cell tore themselves apart.

They spiraled and crashed about the walls as if they were possessed, shattering to pieces like part of a makeshift tornado.

The guards outside Eve's cell attempted to not react, but some couldn't hold their trembling, while one in particular gulped.

Rainbow Dash had never explored this part of the castle before. She was hesitant, and she'd never admit it but was actually somewhat afraid of this seemingly isolated area. It felt as if they were entirely disconnected from the rest of Canterlot, especially after having made her way down so many stairs. She wondered if the Crystal Empire had something similar to this as well. She felt as if she'd descended completely into shadow, but luckily she wasn't alone. Rainbow was trembling lightly, as she used her outstretched wing to hold up a tray of various fruits and vegetables and a bottle of water.

Rainbow lowered her head, blushing a bit in regards to how meaningless it probably was. It was just a tray of food and some water, but she wanted to do something to at least give the kid some ease. Rainbow knew Eve had done some horrible things yes, but she also knew now that not everything was her fault. A lot of other factors came into play, and Rainbow knew she probably needed somepony there for her. So many of the images didn't make sense to Rainbow though as well, but nonetheless, no kid should have to go through all the horrors she'd witnessed in that vault of memories. Rainbow knew at least that much. Although now was not the time to get lost in thought, Rainbow motioned down to her small companion with a nudge and smirk. "Thanks a lot Spike, I really appreciate this you know." She paused, "Buuuuut, I'm not so sure Twilight would want you coming down here to see Eve."

The little guide revealed as Spike laughed a bit, as he placed his claw on his chest. "Hah! No worries, I've got it all covered. Twilight and the others think I'm just hanging out in the library." Spike rolled his eyes in amusement. "Which is a laugh to say the least! Heck, why would I be in a library of all things?" He muttered softly to himself followed by a groan. "I'm in one long enough as it is." He then began making his way forward down a long hall. The hall although it possessed this strange atmospheric chill to it, was also just as beautiful as it was ominous. The floor was clear as crystal, while the walls were etched with decorative markings which glistened in the shadows. They were like streams of gold, never-ending as they reached all the way down the hallway.

Rainbow Dash of course followed in suit, still keeping the tray steady but also causing a chattering noise due to her trembling.

This caused Spike to stop in place, before glancing back at the mare. "Are....you scared Rainbow Dash?" He raised a brow.

Rainbow's face flushed red, before she'd gasped in disbelief. "W-WHA!? I'm not scared! Are you nuts or somethin!?" She turned her head away from him stubbornly, obviously offended by his foolish proclamation. Her, scared? Who'd this little baby dragon think he was anyway!?

Spike burst into laughter. "Hahahahahaha! You're actually scared!" Spike paused before letting off a light sigh of amusement. "Jeez Rainbow it's not like there's anything down here. Twilight and I used to play hide and seek down here all the ti-"

"May I ask what you two are doing down here?"

Spike immediately jumped as did Rainbow as they screamed in sync, hugging one another. "EYAAAAAAAAAAAH!!!!!!"

The tray immediately fell for obvious reasons, causing the food and water to scatter and spill across the floor.

Rainbow and Spike then turned, immediately catching sight of a mare adorned in beautiful black armor.

She was a bat pony, and an oddly familiar face. She raised a brow at the two unexpected individuals trekking around in this area. "As you probably should be aware, security down here has heightened since Eve the Insane's capture. She is a dangerous criminal, and like every dangerous criminal, especially one whose been able to escape more than once, Princess Celestia and Luna has ensured us no chances are to be taken. So, as I said, may I know what you two are doing down here?"

Rainbow dropped to all four of her hooves, before getting obviously offended. "Who do you think you are!?" She got in the mare's face with an annoyed expression. "Look at what you caused me to do!" She pointed a hoof down at the spilled water and food.

The mare winced at Rainbow, before smirking softly and cocking her head to the left in amusement. "That was only due to your own fear, not me. Also, you may refer to me as Silver. I'm only a humble member of Princess Luna's guard, not one of outstanding rank or prestige, just any other guard who happened to be assigned to this sector in task of guarding a prisoner as dangerous as this." She chuckled a bit, before smiling softly in a more friendly and welcoming manner. "It has always been an honor to work under the gracious Princess Luna, she's a very amazing leader and ruler." The mare then regarded Rainbow with an interested look soon afterwords. "It's also an honor to meet the Element of Loyalty Rainbow Dash herself." She then glanced down at Spike, "As well as seeing you once again Sir Spike, I'm sure Princess Twilight is worried about you."

Spike blushed a bit before scratching the back of his head. "Ah naw, haha, I'm sure she's fine."

Rainbow suddenly looked upon this mare with suspicion, before easing up and sighing heavily. "Sheesh, well it's not that much of a big deal. Also I wasn't afraid alright! You just startled me is all." She then began scooping up the food and placing it back on the tray with a disappointed look and a frown. "Well to answer your question we're here to see Eve, she may not have much time so I need to talk with her before then. I...I just feel anypo-...well..anything her age might feel a little overwhelmed after all that's happened. She could use somepony to talk to, somepony non-threatening."

Spike also spoke up. "I'd also like to say something, I mean...maybe if Apple Bloom and I had a chance to talk to her a little then...well, you know-" he glanced up at Rainbow Dash, "Things could've turned out differently." He scratched at the side of his head before shrugging. "But she did attack me before I had a chance to really say anything."

The mare whom referred to herself as Silver looked at the two with a somewhat baffled look, before laughing heartily. "Hahaha! That's very noble of the two of you, as expected of the heroes of harmony." She paused, "But-....You might be a little late."

Rainbow's expression sunk, as there was a slight tremble in her voice. "T-Too late? How come?"

Silver raised a hoof, before shaking her head. "Have you even seen her since she's arrived? That girl's crazy. I was wondering why either of you thought you could get through to something like that." Although keeping such details to herself, Silver muttered something in reference to another. "I don't get how anypony thought they could get through to it."

Rainbow then immediately made her way past the guard, as she rushed hurriedly down the long hall and taking the first turn.

Spike chased after the mare. "W-Wait up Rainbow Dash! You don't know the way!"

Silver glanced back at them, before smirking again and continuing down the hall in the opposite direction. She chuckled before glancing up, "Guess I better go give my report. It won't be necessary involving that child any longer." She also placed a hoof over her muzzle, before tilting her head to the side a little. "Oh. Perhaps I should've warned them about Princess Celestia."

Eve sat in the corner of her cell as all the beautiful decorations which once adorned it, were now shattered and scattered across the floor. Patches of white hair also laid about, as the draconequus sat in the corner, she still appeared lost in her own thoughts. She continued to focus her attention elsewhere, somewhere far away. Her hair was also much shorter at this point, torn unevenly to end just below her ears. And at the far end of the single massive room where Eve's cell was located, there was yet another fortified door, buffed with magical barriers. Eve paid no mind to it of course, she no longer worried about such things.

And when that door at the far end of her chamber room had opened, she paid no mind to that either.

Making their way through would be Princess Celestia, Princess Luna, and Rift the Draconequus.

Although Rift blocked the path of Princess Celestia hurriedly, who had in her possession, a giant bound scroll. Rift glared at the princess intently, before shaking her head stubbornly. "Princess Celestia please reconsider! You've seen that girl pose such a threat and yet you'd trust her with such a dangerous object? What is the point of this? What could you possibly be thinking? I'd rather you banish her than trust her with that scroll! You place too much faith in our kind! Far too much! This child will grow up to be a monstrous threat to you and your kingdom, no different from King Sombra, no different from Queen Chrysalis, no different from Discord, or even your student of the past! You harbor far too much hope, and not enough doubt!" Rift turned, immediately facing the cell in which Eve resided pointing at it defiantly! "There are some, who have had enough chances!" Rift then manifested an engraved purple scythe, pulling it from her more secure realm. "I won't let you make this mistake!"

Princess Celestia sighed, "Sadly that is not for you to decide, now hold your emotions and step back."

Rift of course paused, before lowering her head, trembling with frustration. "Fine!....Do what you will, it's not my homeland..." She turned away swiftly, stomping out of the room in obvious annoyance as well as frustration.

Princess Celestia looked to Luna with a nod, before the two of them proceeded towards the cell.

Although Princess Luna covered her muzzle as she'd noticed what'd transpired within it. "My word....S-Sister! Is she alright?"

Princess Celestia's eyes were wide in bafflement as well as she to noticed the chaos within the cell. She then set her focus onto Eve in particular who was in one of the corners. Princess Celestia seemed quite hesitant at first but eventually reaffirmed herself, as she spoke. "Eve, I'm going to have to ask you to come with me. Can you do that?"

Eve simply stood, as she began twirling her claw through her hair. She just proceeded to the cell door, before forcibly tearing it off with magic herself. Of course this caused Princess Celestia, Luna, and practically all the guards to react with horror and surprise before they readied themselves hurriedly before the draconequus, but Eve still didn't react. She simply proceeded to Princess Celestia passively, before tugging at her coat and remaining distracted.

Princess Luna gritted her teeth somewhat, glancing at her sister. "Sister, I thought you said those shackles would limit her...."

Princess Celestia's expression sunk as she glanced down at Eve questionably. "They have....The situation has worsened dramatically, come sister we need to hurry." Princess Celestia was still cautious for obvious reasons, but she hesitantly placed a hoof atop Eve's head, before turning back down towards the opposite direction. She glanced over at Luna to take the scroll with her telekinetic magic, before slowly leading Eve down the hall. Although, the process was much easier than expected. Still, Princess Celestia didn't let down her guard, and somehow, this new-found obedience made her feel quite guilty about the situation. Yet she couldn't deny this is what she wanted. She gave a light sigh of relief, before shaking her head at the guards, letting them know that once again, she truly believed she had everything under control. She could feel it, Eve wouldn't be running this time.

As Rainbow Dash and Spike made their way further down the hall, it wasn't long until they found another draconequus making her way down the opposite direction. Of course it was none other than Rift the draconequus as she stopped in her tracks.

There was a looming silence between the three, as Rift just sighed before continuing on her way.

Rainbow Dash however made her way up to Rift immediately afterwords, "Did you just get back from seeing Eve!?"

Rift raised a brow, before laughing a bit and just sighing heavily. It was that same pony from the island, the one who'd ended up defending the draconequus. "Jeez, are all of you ponies are crazy? Your reasons behind what you did are noble, but foolish all the same. Instead of focusing on what truly matters, on who was that girl's main influence, everypony would rather try to figure out some happy ending to all of this. That child did the same and look how it all turned out. Do you truly believe she would comply with your wishes? Do you truly believe she'd expose her secrets, we're not idiots you and I, we all can connect the pieces. To do such a thing would spell about the end of Equestria's precious order, is that all worth one little draconequus's freedom? How naive." She placed her claw on her hip in annoyance, regarding the rainbow maned mare with a slight anger.

Rainbow Dash flinched in reaction to the draconequus's words, yet she still persistently continued, "DID YOU SEE HER!?"

Rift glanced down at her with little interest, "Yes, and just to let you know, you won't be. Now will you go away?"

Rainbow Dash's eyes widened as she'd looked confused, "What? Why? What's wrong with her?!"

Rift made her way past the mare, speaking bluntly. "Everything. But that's not the point. The point is none of you can accept that."

Rainbow Dash cocked her brow before just sneering at the draconequus. "What the heck are you talking about!? Will you stop speaking in riddles, sheesh! All I want to know is what's going on!"

Rift paused, before turning to face the two once more. "So, you want to know what's going on? Pretty soon nothing will be going on. Soon, everything you once knew about that draconequus will be erased. She won't be connected to any of you. She'll have the freedom she's apparently always desired, all at the cost of something that matters little to her due to her harsh upbringing. She'll have the potential to off each and every one of you, to plan and deceive. And for what? All at the risk of another estranged happy ending, the only one with sense in this place is Princess Twilight." She paused, "I should've let her finish the job."

Rainbow Dash and Spike stood there for a bit in bafflement, as they watched the draconequus depart.

Rift trekked down the hall in her annoyance. You can't expect to shelter them forever from the truth princess.

Eventually all things good and bad, come to light. They must be exposed. Despite how much you want to preserve the happiness which surrounds you, we can't deny reality requires some form of balance. Some form of good,

Meanwhile, Twilight and the others sat in the Canterlot Castle gardens, enjoying themselves at some makeshift picnic setup. Twilight of course had a book or two at her side, as she read quietly with a soft smile, while her friends conversed around her. Pinkie Pie was bouncing ecstatically as Applejack and Rarity only laughed due to Pinkie's crazy antics. Fluttershy was closer to Twilight however, simply admiring the little critters which scurried about the area.

And evil.

While Silver Shade stood before her bedroom mirror, giving a report to Queen Chrysalis. The Queen however appeared to care little for anything that her subordinate had to say, seemingly preoccupied with much more important matters.

And chaos is a factor which shows its face on both ends of the table. It's unpredictable,

Discord sighed heavily as he stood in the ruins of the old castle located in Everfree Forest. He glanced around momentarily, as he flew on over to the throne room. Of course it was worn and barren, with rubble strewn about the place, but he wasn't here for decor, he was here for something far more important. Even now Discord could feel the chaotic influence of not only Nightmare Moon's remaining magical essence, he could feel Eris's interference looming. It was as if Nightmare Moon was etched into the very shadows of this cursed place, almost as if one could mold her power in the form of an invisible clay. Although she was most certainly gone, in some ways, she still remained here in the material world. Traces of her dark magic lingered on, and would always be here, waiting for one powerful enough to make use of it. Discord soon manifested his throne before snapping his claw, "Cripes! That little twerp lived in this dusty place for months and didn't even bother to clean up!? Such lack of taste, it needs a bit more touch of....CHAOS! Ohohohohoho! Well, if I do say so myself at least. Now, where oh where did she do it at?" He munched on some chips soon afterwords before grumbling, "Darn brat is ruining my lunch break!" He glanced around the room again with interest, remaining situated in his throne as he tapped his armrest with a thoughtful look.

Although he didn't admit it, Discord appeared weary and cautious, almost as if he were expecting something.

But as Discord was lost in thought, suddenly opening before him would be a portal. Where the broken throne now remained, a gaping hole of infinite black now situated itself, centered upon the crafty draconequus. Discord remained calm however, as he only looked upon this portal with intrigue, waiting for whatever was to come, to hurry up and come. He commented with an impatient tone, "Weeeeeell.....we're waiting!" He glanced left and right, "This would probably be a lot more impressive if I had those meddlesome six....well, five, since we possibly can't count dearest Fluttershy of course!"

"Well well isn't this a surprise!? Can't say we were expecting company, not that it matters really."

A feminine voice chuckled in the shadows, as the figure accompanied by another, soon emerged from the portal. She was tall and slender, as was her partner. Upon revealing herself, Discord's eyes widened as he found himself looking upon yet another draconequus. She regarded him with a pleased smile. "I knew this would be the perfect place to flesh out the finishing touches, but who would've thought you'd be here as well! What brought you here Discord? Would it be safe to assume you were perhaps...looking for me? Or maybe my friend here was the priority on your mind?"

Discord looked on silently, as he actually appeared stunned and frozen as if he were looking upon some mirage or illusion.

The female draconequus just chuckled. "Come on brat, don't look at me like that! It's me....Eris!" She crossed her arms. "But I guess I should also probably introduce my new friend here, forgive her she's a little impatient at the moment!"

Then emerging from the portal would be a second draconequus. She looked over herself as if disgusted at first, or simply confused. Her coat was a pure black color, almost as defining black as the portal from which she'd emerged. Her mane was an azure blue, and surrounding her body would be tiny sparks like little stars shimmering around her, attracted to her very being. Her eyes were a turquoise shade, and she soon focused on the draconequus who sat in throne further down the room. As her tail swayed from side to side, she snapped her claw as appearing on her torso and claw and paw, would be glistening sapphire armor. She spoke in a an irritated tone, "You're Celestia's little puppet from Canterlot. Then that means....-"

The black draconequus grinned fiercely looking down at her paw and claw. "It worked...."

Discord flashed the two a look of heavy concern, and remained silent.

Eris crossed her arms before leaning back against the black draconequus with a chuckle. "Of course it worked! Jeez, have a little more faith in me why don't ya? Honestly, now will you hurry and release them? I'm sure we're both anxious."

The black draconequus couldn't contain her joy as she just looked down at her claw and paw happily. She trembled with eagerness and excitement, before laughing, "Hahahahahahaha! This is grand! I've truly returned to this pathetic little world!"

Eris closed her eyes before smiling softly in amusement. "You're like a child, but I must admit, it's a very good feeling."

Discord's face darkened as he lowered his head, before leaping off his throne and touching upon the floor. He scratched the back of his head before sighing heavily. "Aaaaah this is just no good! I mean, I knew something funny was going on, but why did it have to be the two of you? This isn't good, this just isn't good at all. I mean, especially with dear Fluttershy out there. Although this is the Everfree Forest, it certainly is a great choice of location. It's probably perhaps the main hub of chaos in all of Equestria mhmhmhhm!" Discord flicked his claw momentarily before looking upon the two with a tired look, followed by a sigh.

Eris smiled as she glanced down at Discord.

And suddenly surrounding the entire castle would be a glistening barrier of pink light.

Discord crossed his arms as he flicked his tail, focusing on the two draconequus before him. "Slumber party?"

As the two draconequus near the broken throne simply regarded him with amused smiles.  

Eris snickered, before grinning fiercely. "A little too late for that I assume, my dear Discord."

And it's everywhere.

Chapter 9: Draconequus - Part 2


CHAPTER 9: DRACONEQUUS - PART 2

As Discord stood there before the two, he still wore a welcoming smile. "Ah, that's too bad...."

Eris smirked, as she nodded. "Yes it is too bad," the draconequus then squinted a bit at Discord before her smirk widened and then it turned into a grin. "It seems that the ponies are dabbling with things beyond them yet again, you see we can't have that Discord. Nightmare Moon and I have quite a busy schedule we need to attend to, and Eve the Insane is a promised reward." Eris then snapped her claw as she suddenly manifested a golden pocket watch, popping it open before looking at the time with a bored expression. "Sadly, I will not be able to handle this all myself, so I'll leave it to my assistant to retrieve Eve."

This caused Discord's eyes to widen a bit as he cocked a brow.

Nightmare Moon also raised a brow as she glanced at Eris. "Assistant? I never met any assistant of yours...."

Eris chuckled a bit, "Dear, there are a lot of things you don't know and never will." She then clapped her claw and paw together before levitating in the air and beckoning, "Scaaaarlet! Dearest Scarlet! We're ready!" Eris manifested a whistle, before blowing into it hard creating a screeching deafening noise.

Then immediately appearing in a cloud of pink smoke would be a tiny baby draconequus. Her eyes were blood red as her hair was a fiery pink shade. She bore two distinct yellow wings as she also had two yellow pony hooves as her legs. She chuckled a bit as she immediately saluted Eris with a smile. "Reporting for duty M'lady Eris! How may I assist you today!?" The baby draconequus was adorned in a multitude of many different decorations as she wore a large golden crown, accompanied with a necklace which bore a pink butterfly pendant. The baby draconequus then disappeared in a flash, before reappearing in front of Nightmare Moon, "OOOOOOH? Whose this m'lady!?" She then repeated the process, reappearing beside Discord, "Hm?.....And this one?"

Discord gazed upon this new draconequus ultimately in wonderment, puzzlement. Something was absolutely off about her as were the small decorations adorning her body. He felt a bit stunned by her presence, and a little lost in her appearance.

Eris glanced to her right in amusement, "Hah...."

The baby draconequus known as Scarlet just blinked at the older male, as her paw and claw were laced behind her back as she puckered her lower lip and cocked a brow. "M'lady! What time period are we in exactly? What world is this?"

Eris just shrugged before shaking her head, "Nothing that concerns you my dear Scarlet." She then placed her paw on her hip, before snickering a little, "What I need for you to busy yourself with is in Canterlot, please, go retrieve Eve the Insane for me, you two will be like sisters from now on you see. Entertain the others for the time being." Eris paused, "I'll signal you when ready, and please do not repeat what you did on your own home world. This one is special."

The baby draconequus nodded hurriedly, "Yes M'lady! I'll get to it right away!" She then bowed, before saluting Nightmare Moon and regarding Discord with a departing wave. "See you later you all, it was nice to meet you both!" She then huffed before doing a circular motion with her arms, "Scarlet off off and awaaaaay!!!!" The baby draconequus then immediately disappeared in a ball of pink smoke as she'd raised both her paw and claw to the air in a flat palmed manner. "Shazam shazam shazam!"

At this point Discord was annoyed, "I tend to enjoy surprises, but this is getting a little out of hoof, wouldn't you agree Eris? Who was that might I ask?" Discord kept calm however, still knowing that despite wanting to, making any move against these two would probably not be best. In all honesty, Discord at this point was contemplating whether he would even be able to accomplish anything at any time. He was  a talented draconequus, but he was still at a major disadvantage, at this point he was more worried about Fluttershy.

Eris chuckled heartily, before cocking her head back with a playful smile. "Oh Discord don't you know? Well,....of course you wouldn't know at this point in time." Eris tilted her head to the left, "You see Scarlet, she is the future ruler of Equestria."

Nightmare Moon's eyes widened, as did Discord's, both wearing ultimately shocked expressions.

Eris blinked a bit, somewhat confused by their stunned reactions as she did a shooing motion before snickering. "Oh do calm yourselves you two! This is nothing simple to grasp. Perhaps I should've worded that differently. Scarlet you see, is the result of a world where ponies did not learn from their mistakes. She is the result of the choices of pony-kind, of ponies such as Princess Celestia who believed it would be wise to constantly try to dabble in powers best left alone, to control a race such as the draconequus whom are far superior to mere ponies. She is a child draconequus in its full glory. She has already achieved much in her own world, you see when I found her she was miserable, alone, left without guidance; an ignorant slave to a weak and pathetic society. She was much like Eve the Insane, but I changed that. Now as you can see she is a bundle of joy, is she not!?"

Eris hopped up and down happily, clapping her paw and claw as she did so. "Oh I was so ecstatic when I found her! Ultimately it didn't take much convincing on her end." Eris closed her eyes and exhaled. "But I'm sure you're wondering why I'm telling you all this. It's as I told you Nightmare Moon, we draconequus are the greatest beings ever to come into existence. We are a limitless race which cannot simply be turned to stone or exiled. We are a mighty race, we are our own masters. WE, will transcend worlds." Eris then glared at Discord momentarily, "I have only temporarily borrowed Scarlet, and then she will return to her own world yet again to go about ruling it. As mentioned she is my assistant. As Eve to will soon join us whether she likes it or not."

This caused Nightmare Moon to wince a bit, "So if you had that little runt hidden under your sleeve, why do you need me? Or Eve for that matter. Just what are you up to exactly Eris? What are you scheming?"

Eris blinked a bit before tapping her lower lip with her claw. "That,.....is NOT important hmhm! As I said Nightmare Moon I need you because in this particular world you are special. Eve is special. The universe is a vast realm, consisting of many different worlds and timelines, it is in its natural and purest form, chaotic! It's beautiful isn't it!? I am me, you are you, and Discord is Discord. We live in a realm of unpredictable patterns, and we originate from our own specified times you see! I have seen you in many different worlds, some you are small and harmless, some you are prosperous and almighty, and some you are like this. You were helpless, and had established connections with some of my race, you are perfect, and now you are now one of us."

Eris then manifested two apples, "For example, you take two apples, one is unique to the other yet they appear entirely the same." She burst out into hearty chuckles, "Uhuhuhuhuhu! BUT, this is my original home. This to is where I have originated. I need you and Eve because it is here where the playing field has become equal. The one who strikes first is the victor. It is here we bring an end to this little draconequus tale. It is this world that has decided to make a fool of my race, so it is here I shall find what I need most for my journey of conquest. It is here I will bring an end to the tragedy my race has become, and move onto a more glorious prosperous future." She wore a soft smile at that point, as if lost in the past for a few lingering seconds.

Eris then looked back to Discord with a confident smile, "Which is why you give us what we want Discord, and we'll be out of your hair in no time. Resist, and well.....You'll have to suffer the consequences of those choices." She paused, "For now just sit back, watch, and enjoy yourself. It'll be a field of chaos no doubt, something we both can appeal to." Eris manifested her throne before sitting in it, "There are many things that remain unanswered Discord, even for you. That's one of the many things that makes the world such an interesting place, the mystery enveloped within it. This little tale of ours has reached the boiling point and I believe it's time to bring it to a close as I've stated numerous times. So watch, as everything falls into place. Welcome yourself, to my endgame." Eris leaned back, before just glancing up at the ceiling. "For so long, I've sought to build my perfect family.....To see the draconequus at their rightful place atop the universe, upon the astral throne of everything in-between. I will see that reality."

Discord frowned heavily as he now was just silent, glaring at the female draconequus.

Nightmare Moon had her arms crossed as she still seemed a bit confused. "Will we be leaving after this?"

Eris smiled while looking at Nightmare Moon with wide beaming eyes, "Mhm! In due time love, in due time."

Rift made her way onto the throne room balcony, looking over Canterlot with tired eyes. Suddenly accompanying her in a flash of orange and yellow smoke would be Havoc, as he seemed a bit more distracted by something else. Rift however had her mind preoccupied with Eve, as she thought back to the choices she'd made regarding the draconequus's well-being. She then thought back to the scroll Princess Celestia had, which caused Rift to then scowl in irritation as she was obviously still upset over the whole matter. Rift placed a paw on her forehead as she muttered, "Do you think the ends justify the means Havoc? Even when it comes to our orders? For a long time now, I've struggled between the two."

Havoc leaned over the railing, observing some ponies trailing down below in the plaza district of Canterlot, before answering her without really paying attention to her, with yet another question. "What're you talking about Rift?" He sighed heavily, "See, that was always your problem. You've always put too much thought into everything. We've come here to provide aid to Princess Celestia, Luna, and Twilight, nothing more. Technically our mission is already over, so don't go butting your head in where it's not wanted, you'll only end up getting hurt. Or worse..." He frowned heavily then at the fellow draconequus.

Rift's expression darkened, as usual, she kept her personal thoughts to herself.

Havoc's frown twisted into a light scowl, "This is why you should've followed after your sister. Why did you even join the council? It was established so we could bring some sense of order into our chaos filled world. We've managed to divide and control many individual aspects of chaos, your powers aren't required anymore Rift. You've grown into a fine young draconequus yet you still linger handling problems where you're not wanted." He paused, calming himself a little bit before he'd continued in a more relaxed demeanor. "When we get back I want you to leave the council and join your sister. Form a family, settle down, and stop focusing on things that don't matter any more." Havoc manifested an apple then, tossing it up into the air before catching it with his claw and staring at it for some time. "We've succeeded in proving that we've changed since then, and even now, we've succeeded in defending our race from more bigotry and further persecution from the outside world. We did what we came here to do, and further strengthened our relationship with Equestria. That's all that really matters, wouldn't you agree?"

Rift spoke briefly, silently before raising her hood, looking a bit lost in her thoughts. "But that child, Eve,....Don't you worry about what she'll become if she isn't dealt with properly? We may have proven ourselves and shown our loyalty to Princess Luna and Celestia, but if we don't ensure their safety by severing all possible loose ends, then won't it come back to bite us? I..I don't know how to put it into words, but answers are all we need from that monstrous child, yet here they are repeating the same mistakes which brought us here in the first place. They're focusing on things that don't matter!" Rift's mood immediately worsened then, as she spoke with an intense anger in her voice. "Can't you see what they're doing Havoc!? They're risking themselves and their subjects for something so petty and meaningless! Don't you care!?"

Havoc winced before glancing towards her in frustration. "No, why should I care? What's your deal anyhow? Do you have some personal stake in this which keeps you attached to that girl or something? No? I thought so. Now stay out of it Rift, let Princess Celestia and Luna do what they want with the girl. As long as they don't order us to do anything, or neither does Princess Twilight then all is fine with us. It has nothing to do with us, just like Discord no longer has anything to do with us. Eve the Insane is Equestria born, she is a draconequus born and raised in a different land, even her name is foreign."

Rift snapped, before turning away swiftly from her fellow draconequus, "If you don't want to help then fine! If you truly believe allowing Princess Celestia to do this is right, then I'll go get help from someone that DOES care! I've followed my orders to the letter, but I didn't agree to endanger everything we've worked to establish for one stupid petty little brat! All of you are absolutely insane, allowing something such as this to happen. I should've just kept my mouth shut! I should've let Princess Twilight do what she had to, she had sense, she knew what needed to be done in order to protect all the races of Equestria, despite ORDERS." Rift then began to walk off, before snapping her claw and opening a portal, about to walk into it before she was grabbed firmly by her shoulder, forced in place as she just gritted her teeth, "Claws.....off!"

Havoc now had a look of suspicion yet annoyance. "What's your deal? Ever since this mission started, you've been eager to jump on the bandwagon for this little girl. You've been far more opinionated than usual, and the way you're acting now reminds me no different of the way you acted when you first joined the council, spouting all this nonsense about doing anything to preserve our race, to prevent anything bad from happening to us. Forgive me, but when did you become the leader of the draconequus? When did this all suddenly get so personal for you? You were fine with capturing the girl, you were fine with assisting in that capture, yet now here you are getting upset over the fact Princess Celestia and Luna are doing something such as this? What matters if they still find some use for her? It has nothing to do with us! She is an equestrian draconequus! She is not one of us at this point! Let them do what they want, and allow them to deal with the consequences, we've provided the assistance we were sent here to do."

Rift glared back at him, "That girl is far too dangerous to mature. I won't let my remaining family or my race become endangered by the ponies irresponsible decisions. I know what to expect, even if you're too ignorant to realize it, I won't blindly rush into suicide."

Havoc replied curtly, "It appears that's what you're doing right now. You're disobeying orders Rift, this is unlike you, calm down and just ignore this one little thing." He turned back towards the balcony railing, before leaning over it, "If you truly choose to pursue this in your own way, then I can't protect you Rift. Please don't force me into that situation, don't force me to confront your sister should anything happen." He just sighed heavily, before looking up towards the sunlit sky. "I'm a purebred draconequus, I'll always have the heart for chaos, but I'm so tired of seeing our race dismantle like this. Must we really find drama in every little thing we do? I'm starting to see why Discord decided to stay behind with the ponies." He slouched, just closing his eyes with a tired expression.

Rift stood there for some time, before just silently commenting, "Goodbye Havoc...." She then stomped promptly into her portal, disappearing along with it. There was a looming silence for some time afterwords.

Havoc opened his eyes before just looking back down towards the city of Canterlot. "Later kiddo, be safe.." But as Havoc looked upon the city, there was something further off in the distance which caught his eye. Down past the mountainside, further into the open plains of Equestria, Havoc squinted as he focused particularly on a forest region. There he could feel something was off, something from within distracted him, and he couldn't exactly pinpoint what it was. He was too distracted by Rift to have noticed it earlier, and it upset him to the core of his being. He raised a brow, "What's going on over there?" He then turned, "R-Rift! You need to make another portal, I need to-...." but as he looked behind him to see that the draconequus had already departed, he frowned heavily. "Ugh..."

Eve stood in a room, similar to the one she'd been trapped in before. Yet something felt different here, especially regarding both Princess Luna and Celestia's demeanor's. It was as if they'd all come to an understanding, especially Eve. She no longer cared to try, to resist, or spout any of her nonsense that she'd convinced herself of over the course of time. She was done making excuses for the inevitable, and her eyes were pure representation of that fact. They were like windows, allowing one to easily read into her current mood and personality; she lacked any emotion whatsoever. She simply sat, glancing down at the transparent floor.

Princess Celestia unbound the scroll she'd been keeping close, smiling in regards to Eve. "Let's not waste any time then. Eve, to call you a child would be an understatement to say the least. You're a monster, one capable of many horrible things, let's not deny that any longer. You've realized what you are and you've been through endless discipline and failure, and you know there will always be consequences for your actions. The way you are now, you've had years worth of experience, and learned things I don't expect most to learn in a lifetime. You've matured." Princess Celestia paused, "Which is why I'm willing to give you freedom, for a price."

Eve glanced up at Princess Celestia momentarily, before smirking a little. "Oh?...And what's that?"

Princess Celestia smiled back herself, "Your youth, and your loyalty."

Eve blinked a bit, just looking at Princess Celestia in confusion for some time. "Huh?"

Princess Celestia circled around Eve, before stopping behind her and lowering her head next to her's. "Eve, you're perfect. There is no connection I have to any other draconequus such as you besides Discord. You see what we have is....prior history." Princess Celestia lowered her hind legs, before glancing down at the baby draconequus affectionately. "I know you care deeply for Equestria, for my subjects and I, for everypony's well-being despite what you claim and how you act. I will always know this, for you were kind enough to not take advantage of the situation back then. Instead you showed me a world you feared, one you struggled to understand and accept, and that in itself was your reason for rejecting my offer was it not? You have guarded my secrets with your life, such loyalty is unheard of in any other draconequus, even Discord. And even now, you would rather remain in banishment than risk Equestria's well-being." She placed a hoof atop Eve's head, "For such reasons, I will save you now. I will protect you from Twilight's judgement. I want Equestria to always be safe, and I cannot protect it as I am, solely from the shadows, and nor can Twilight seeing as the further she descends into such a darker world, the more she risks her power and role as the Princess of Friendship. Yes Eve, along with Discord, Luna, and I, I will ensure you have a place in Equestria, I will set you free."

Eve's eyes went wide as she felt frozen, unsure of how to react to Princess Celestia's words.

Princess Celestia immediately stood, before giving Princess Luna an intense glare. "Now, we're short on time Luna."

Princess Luna nodded, before glancing down at Eve, raising her hoof, and swiping it. And with her sudden swipe, Eve then once again, had lost consciousness before just plummeting to her side motionless, lost in a deep temporary sleep. Princess Luna raised a brow at the draconequus due to how easy it was to sap her consciousness. "Hm, I'll never understand how this girl works, nonetheless, it is done sister. We're now prepared to begin." She frowned, "How many years will we be taking."

Princess Celestia sighed at Luna, "Don't word it in such a way Luna. We're doing this to help her, not the opposite." She then glanced down at the open scroll which laid upon the transparent invisible floor beneath them, "Time is but another plaything for a draconequus, the fragility of youth truly doesn't hold much meaning in their seemingly infinite lifespan. We don't have time to wait for Eve for go through the natural course of her lifespan for a multitude of reasons. We must move with haste Luna, Twilight will want to get Eve's situation over with as soon as possible, for now she is still recovering. There will be no turning back after this..." She frowned heavily, before looking at Luna intently, as if apologetic. "Sister, you don't have to follow me in this decision. You can choose to trot away if you wish. I only want your support if it's what you truly want to do, I don't want to force you into this. If there is a time to back out, now would be it Luna. In all honesty, I can't be sure what'll emerge from this chamber once we're finished."

Princess Luna shook her head, before a soft smile made its way onto her own face. "No Celestia, I would never let you go through this alone, despite what my personal beliefs are. When it comes to the draconequus race, I believe you and I both have many things we need to make up for in the past, this girl is Equestria born, we are giving her a chance no other draconequus has ever received. She should be grateful for this blessing, and whatever emerges from this room, I'm sure it will understand that. Now shall we stop stalling and finish this?" Princess Luna squinted a bit at Celestia with a playful smirk, before her horn started glowing a bit.

Princess Celestia smiled back, obviously relieved by Luna's words. "Of course Luna..." as her own horn started to flicker and spark with a colored light which matched her own magical essence. Princess Celestia made her way beside Luna as they both wore serious expressions, practically staring down the open scroll which now laid next to Eve. And as they stared, the more their individual horns began to gather in magical focus and stimulate with power, as the light at the tips only became more intense. Soon with their motions, the very scroll which laid next to Eve began to levitate, simply being elevated through the pure power of their magic. Princess Luna and Celestia waited for a certain point in this process, and they stayed focused, their eyes practically locked on the scroll waiting for it, and keeping up with spell was obviously straining on them as well. Princess Celestia mused with a somewhat tired snicker, as it sounded as if it took away her breath simply to speak, "To think after all this time, his spells are still this complicated for us Luna, that unicorn was certainly a genius...." And as she'd said those words, the air around Eve started to become violent, as gusts of wind began to circle around the baby draconequus and both alicorns noticed a rise in Eve's mane flowing steadily, almost as if she were beginning to get caught up in a rising hurricane. This only sparked them to continue further in the process.

Princess Luna had noticed something, and it caused her eyes to widen. What she saw was Eve's mane beginning to grow longer, inch by inch on the short ends, she'd seen how it was beginning to extend, to naturally regrow once again. "CELESTIA!"

Princess Celestia replied almost instantly, "I see it Luna!" Before the scroll that'd once levitated in front of them, turned into astral dust before their eyes, the remnants of it scattering into the air and around the draconequus. At this point the very room which once felt more still and lifeless than the void, was now recurring with heavy winds, as the effects only intensified like a violet storm. Princess Luna and Celestia at this point themselves appeared a little shocked, surprised, as it was as if not even they had actually taken the time to perform such a feat before. Princess Celestia looked up towards the seemingly infinite starry sky of the room as she'd frowned in contempt, "We die with our secrets, isn't that true sister?" She turned immediately, looking towards the large stone door which'd kept them in this room privately. She then started trotting towards it, "Let's hurry on out of here Luna."

Princess Luna watched as the effects of violet weather only intensified in her dream room. She then commented in regards to Celestia's words, before turning with her and making her way down towards the exit of the room herself, "It is those secrets that have kept Equestria safe for so many years Celestia, never regret them. Such as with Chrysalis, with Sombra, even with me, what they don't know won't hurt them, and when the time comes, should our choices ever come back to haunt us, we will always deal with it and make the best out of such things. Our world, this world we've crafted out of love and friendship, it cannot handle such dark matters openly, the only way to preserve its sanctity is to lock away the horrors ourselves to keep them at bay." She then glanced back towards Eve, who became lost as she remained stationary on the ground, before wincing at her, "And we've just found our lock and key, one who will do what's necessary to help us do what we ourselves could never do alone."

With Princess Luna's wince, Eve slowly rose as she appeared confused with half closed eyes. At this point in time the draconequus's hair was already much longer than before, having returned to its original length and more. It didn't take her long for her to realize something strange was going on, as she glanced around with wide eyes, still a little too petrified to make any movements. But the longer Eve sat there, growing increasingly aware with the rising situation, to Princess Luna's surprise and nearly to her horror, she saw something she didn't expect. There in the whirlwind, the thick cloud of astral dust, she saw a smirk creep onto Eve's face. It was almost as if Eve actually understood what was going on, or had even expected it. Yet Princess Luna couldn't read into her expression any longer, no longer did she meet with those hollow lifeless eyes. There she saw one whom was sinister, one who wore a conniving smirk. It'd actually frightened Luna somewhat, and caused her heart to race for that split second. As Eve's image slowly faded in the cloud of astral dust surrounding her, Luna was unsure what to think. And as she saw that smirking conniving image of the draconequus fade, she also believed she'd heard the words, Thank You, echo faintly in her mind. There was a hint of regret which coursed through the night princess at that moment, as she muttered, "Such....is the definition of sacrifice?...Is it not, sister?" Before the chamber room door opened.

Rift strode sternly down through the tiled path which lead to the more open areas of the Canterlot castle gardens. Suddenly blocking her path would be two unicorn guards, wearing glistening purple armor.

One of the guards pointed his lance at Rift with an irritated look, "Stop! Princess Twilight is enjoying a picnic with her friends!"

Rift glared down at the guard in irritation, not caring for the lance blade at her throat. "Haven't you idiots left yet? What are you still even doing here?...." Rift then looked past the guard without a care for him, further in the distance, where she caught sight of Princess Twilight and her friends. Rift then looked back down at the guard, "I seek an audience with the princess."

The guard shook his head, "No! We won't let you disturb her. She is as said, enjoying a peaceful picnic with her frie-"

Suddenly speaking up however would be Twilight herself, "Guards!"

The guards immediately sheathed their lances as they turned towards Princess Twilight bowing their heads. They then spoke in unison, "Princess!"

Princess Twilight regarded them with displeasure. "Please, raise your heads, there's no need for any of that." She then looked at Rift with at first a questionable glance, before a welcoming smile. "Lady Rift it is good to see you. Please come join my friends and I, we're just enjoying ourselves for a bit before the banishing ceremony begins. I'm a little nervous since it's my first time."

This caused Rift to squint a bit in discomfort, as she immediately closed her eyes and bowed to Twilight. "Of course Princess Twilight....I do wish my coming was simply for idle chatter, but I'm afraid this is in relation to a far more dire situation. One where I require your heartfelt approval and assistance. I would be very pleased if you would hear me out."

Twilight was silent for a bit, just blinking in regards to Rift before frowning softly, "I'm not sure if I want to....but I will..."

Pinkie Pie then immediately appeared besides Twilight, "Huh huh huh!? What's going on!? We playing truth or dare!?"

As Twilight, Rift, and Pinkie made their way to the rest of the mane six, they all stood there together for a bit in silence. Rift appeared reluctant to speak, as she just kept her eyes focused on the ground. The surrounding scenery didn't depict the tension of the situation at all, seeing as they were all standing in the beautiful Canterlot gardens, shaded by the leaves of a massive tree. It was as if Rift was struggling, waiting for some sort of signal or right moment to speak. She curled in both her paw and claw in irritation, as she'd gritted her teeth looking towards the grass, unable to say anything. She then drew back on what Havoc said.

You're disobeying orders Rift, this is unlike you, calm down and just ignore this one little thing.

Twilight just looked upon the draconequus nervously.

Applejack then made her way next to Twilight, before muttering, "H-Hey Twi....Is she gonna be okay?"

Rarity to butt in at that time, cringing a bit, "Erhm yes...I must say she looks quite upset...."

Applejack looked to Rarity with a nervous chuckle, "Eheh, g-guess it's safe ta assume it's bad news..."

Fluttershy just remained silent in the background, before nervously gulping.

But as a group of birds suddenly flocked from the branches of the tree they stood beneath, the draconequus spoke, breaking the silence. Her expression was blank and her eyes were wide, and her words were straightforward. "Princess Twilight, I've come to inform you that-.....Princess Celestia and Luna are in the process of subjugating Eve to an overwhelmingly powerful magic ritual."

This immediately caused the rest of the mane six to regard the draconequus with wide eyes and stunned expressions.

Twilight in particular appeared suspended in disbelief as she looked upon Rift, unable to say anything.

Rift continued however, "This spell will cause Eve to become even more powerful than before. In other words, she will be beyond your reach, and she would become unrecognizable due to the after-effects of such a spell. She will be beyond banishment."

Twilight's eyes widened exponentially, as she'd let off a fierce yell in her Canterlot voice.

"WHAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAT!?!?!?!?!?!!?!?!?!?"

As Spike and Rainbow Dash emerged from the apparent catacombs of Canterlot castle, the two appeared exhausted and disappointed to say the least. Rainbow Dash of course was seething with frustration, as she stood there in annoyance, simply trotting down the hall which they'd made their way down in the first place. They were now once again on the upper more public level of the castle, which had maids and guards trotting about all directions. Rainbow Dash shook her head before glancing back at Spike, "Spike, you sure you don't know where this dream room thing is? Even though you've been here for so long?"

Spike shook his head as he frowned heavily, "N-No, sorry Rainbow Dash. Princess Celestia had an old one, but she hasn't used it since whatever happened here in Canterlot some time ago with Eve. Heck, she never even allowed me or Twilight to ever see it, always used to say it was absolutely off limits to us, especially when Twilight was younger. Now wherever she is, she's using Princess Luna's, and I've never been to Princess Luna's dream room. She had it constructed some time after she came back from the moon according to Twilight. I didn't even know Princess Luna had a need for one, I know Princess Celestia's was to help her figure out things she couldn't possibly do on her own during Luna's absence, or well, banishment. The only way to do that was to construct her own makeshift dream room thing, it allowed her to do what Luna does to a lesser extent should she ever need to."

As they trotted down the hall, Rainbow Dash raised a brow at Spike, a bit surprised. "Jeez Spike, you connected all those pieces on your own? I don't give you enough credit then." She then looked ahead, surprised with Spike but still frustrated.

Spike shrugged before closing his eyes with an amused smile. "Huh? Oh, naaaw! I just remember Twilight talking about it on one of her more talkative nights. She was apparently trying to make sense of it to. Actually, if I remember correctly she said something about that room not making sense." Spike then placed his claw on his chin, glancing up curiously. "I think she said something about how the room had to serve some other purpose besides dreams, one she couldn't figure out." Spike paused before shaking his head, shrugging yet again. "Who knows, maybe in time we'll figure it out." Spike then stopped in his tracks, before his eyes widened. "W-Wait! Rainbow Dash, haven't you been there before!? Don't you know where it is!?"

Rainbow Dash glanced back at the dragon for a moment with a squint and confused look, "What're you talking about Spike?"

Spike continued, raising his claws in a suggestive manner, "I remember Twilight telling me you guys were allowed inside it once, a long time ago when Eve took Apple Bloom and me? Do you remember ever using something like that?"

Rainbow Dash's eyes immediately widened, as she fluttered her wings, flying a bit and placing both hooves on her head. "HUH!? OH YEA YOU'RE RIGHT! GAH!" She gave herself a face hoof, "Of course! Now I remember! So that's where they went!" Rainbow Dash immediately prepared to burst off in a particular direction, as she glanced down at Spike, "Come on Spike let's hurry!" But Rainbow Dash paused in that next moment, still a bit confused. "But we never had to go through some secret halls or something to get there last time?....If Princess Luna and Celestia went there wouldn't they have had to gone back in the direction we were heading with Eve? How come we didn't see them? Was there some other way to get there in the lower levels?"

Spike shook his head, "I don't know, maybe Princess Luna has some thing for secret passageways? Who knows?"

Rainbow Dash just touched upon the ground in frustration, "Now that's just weird Spike! Why would she have that?!"

Spike shrugged, "I don't know Rainbow Dash, I'm just taking guesses here!"

Rainbow sighed with a facehoof, "I'm being serious here Spike, we need serious suggestions, not jokes. Now let's OOF-" Rainbow Dash was then immediately shoved to the side for a moment, as she fell to the marble floor and then touched her head. "OW!"

Suddenly a guard glanced down at her, as he was now present with fellow guards who were all beginning to rush in a particular direction. In actuality, Rainbow Dash recognized him to be the captain of Twilight's temporary guard, but she couldn't recall his name. He seemed frantic, rushed, as he bowed his head in regards to the mare. "Forgive me Lady Dash, but it seems something has come up and I was a bit lost too lost in my thoughts to be paying close attention, my apologies!"

Rainbow winced at him angrily, "And what's so important that you can't watch where you're going!?"

The captain saluted Rainbow Dash respectively, before answering. "It's Princess Twilight! Lady Rift has informed her of some dire news regarding Eve the Insane! Apparently to our horror, Princess Celestia and Luna are planning to do something with her. Once Princess Twilight was informed of this, her and Lady Rift, of course accompanied by the rest of your friends, made their way down to where Princess Luna and Celestia is now. Of course," the captain sighed with a heavy frown, "Princess Twilight isn't happy about this, not one bit. I worry if these draconequus issues will branch off to neighboring countries such as my own."

Rainbow Dash immediately rose to all fours, shocked. "W-What!?" This news caused Rainbow Dash's expression to sink, as she was appallingly worried by the looks of it. "S-She's heading to Eve!? When did this even happen? We just saw that purple haired draconequus a few minutes ago! She was nowhere near Twilight's room or anything!? How'd she inform her of this? Why did she do it? It's just Princess Luna and Celestia? What does that have to do with her and Eve?"

The captain of the guard simply sighed, closing his eyes. "Apparently, everything."

A shiver ran down Rainbow's spine as she gritted her teeth, "Ugh!" She then glared at the captain as if demanding answers from him. "Why? Why is all of this even happening!? Why can't we all just find a peaceful way to resolve this!?"

This offended the captain a bit as he glared down at the mare. "Huh?...Well judging by what's happened, I believe we've been as peaceful as we can be. Sorry to say Lady Dash, but you should be grateful that Equestria is the only place involved in this matter, seeing as these draconequus creatures have the power to affect the entire world." He squinted a bit, obviously irritated as he spoke bluntly and in a straightforward tone. "As for the logic regarding this whole thing, I believe it's easy enough to understand." He paused, "Chaos must be controlled, be it through the hooves of a child, adult, or whatever it may be, this is obvious enough."

Rainbow Dash winced angrily at the captain, before scowling a bit, "SHE'S A KID!!! AND AN INNOCENT ONE AT THAT!!!"

The captain simply frowned, before opening his mouth, about to say something,

Princess Luna and Celestia exited the room, but as they did so, to their surprise, something immediately made its way inside.

Like a flash, making its way between them, would be a swift figure, rushing into the room immediately.

Princess Celestia and Luna's eyes widened, as they immediately glanced back towards the open doorway.

Now standing in the room wielding her scythe would be Rift the draconequus, as she'd winced at both princesses, before curling in her paw and forcibly shutting the massive stone door behind her, locking herself in the room along with her supposed target.

Princess Celestia immediately turned towards the door with a horrified expression "R-Rift!? WHAT DO YOU THINK YOU'RE-"

Before she'd been interrupted by a familiar voice. "Princess Celestia?.....Why?"

Princess Celestia then immediately looked ahead once again to find Twilight standing there, accompanied by members of her personal guard and her friends, who were deathly silent. "T-Twilight?...What is the meaning of this!?"

Twilight shook her head, obviously hurt by Princess Celestia's words. "That's what I should be asking you! What is this Princess Celestia? Princess Luna? Why're you trying to help Eve!? Why're you trying to take away Equestria's justice!?"

Princess Celestia stomped a hoof in desperation, "WHAT YOU'RE PLANNING ISN'T JUSTICE DEAREST TWILIGHT!!!"

And Twilight snapped back angrily, "And what you're doing is!? What're you trying to accomplish Princess Celestia!?" But Twilight paused, as she glanced to the lower right, "No...you know what, I don't even want to know. I know if you felt the need to do this, then you must've had good reason, despite your judgement. But as a princess, I'm not going to let that decision bring any more harm to our subjects! I don't care what your reasons are, if you won't let me punish Eve, then I'll have somepony else do it!"

Princess Celestia's eyes widened as her breath fell short, "T-Twilight?....What've you done?"

Twilight cocked her head back with a sneer, "Established control Princess Celestia. Rift will solve this issue for us now then..."

Princess Celestia's eyes snapped wide as she'd immediately turned back towards the door, "RIFT!!! STOP THIS!!!!"

Innocent or not, she won't be a child forever, that much is obvious. When will the situation escalate beyond our control? Have you ever asked yourself that question, Lady Dash?

As Rift stood in this room of infinite stars, she simply glanced down at her purple scythe, gripping the handle tightly. In the middle of this room, a whirlwind of astral dust still gathered around the center, as if creating a violent barrier and attempting to prevent anything else from entering into it. Rift muttered something to herself, "You know, there's this saying I've heard, that we must take our secrets to our grave. But I don't think that's true. I think it all depends on who we share those secrets with that matter, but no secret can stay buried forever. I questioned it many times, your existence, whether you deserved the right to live, whether I should keep a neutral perspective about everything, whether I should follow my orders, but in the end I could never get over the fact that it's me whose responsible for you." Rift winced in irritation, "It was as if I finally managed to achieve the best of both worlds you know. You got to live despite my mistakes, Princess Twilight would've found justice for those that you killed, and Princess Celestia and Luna would've eventually had been satisfied with the results. And I, I would've still obeyed my orders to the letter." Rift then glared ahead once again, straight towards the violent whirlwind. "Then this had to happen, now I have to put you down myself Eve."

Rift touched upon her purple mane with her claw, noticing the length of it was steadily becoming longer. She squinted a bit in reaction to her changing locks, but ultimately didn't appear too surprised by the occurrence. And soon appearing around the draconequus would be faint images surrounding her, scenes from the vaults of time, ancient memories reawakened in this starlit atmosphere, this twisted tornado of the past, future, and present. The image to her right portrayed something Rift refused to acknowledge herself, and standing there on her left side would be a child version of herself, a baby draconequus not much different from Eve, as that baby draconequus stood before a bearded stallion, one whom appeared old and wise beyond the ages. "I was indeed the first Eve, our worlds had to inevitably collide at some point, and at some point it would have to be me who made such a decision. I assume it was just the work of some twisted entity that you'd end up being a part of my own family." Tears swelled in the draconequus's eyes as she walked slowly, forward and ahead, taking her time, still wanting to speak, to let all these things out, things she'd managed to keep hidden for majority of her life. "Forgive me, I am the source of the draconequus protocol." At that point, Rift picked up her pace as she immediately charged the center, leaping into the whirlwind and doing a spinning motion with her scythe. There she saw a faint figure, her target of course, as she'd attempted to strike it down.

But immediately blocking the incoming blade would be another, a refined candy cane blade.

Rift's eyes immediately widened as she looked struck with confusion, "W-What!?"

Then immediately emerging from the center and pushing the older draconequus back, would be another draconequus. One who was significantly taller than before, a young teenage draconequus who was now capably aware of making sense of the situation. One who was now far more aware of many things. "I know,....Auntie!" Before that draconequus did a swift reactive kick to Rift's abdominal region, having fortified her leg with a rocky outer layer, sending the scythe wielding draconequus skidding and tumbling across the transparent floor, before even slamming into an invisible wall at the far end of the room. "I see it now, all of it."

Rift coughed, gasping for air as she'd wobbled to her feet, looking upon this new draconequus with horrified eyes. "No...."

There stood Eve,now far more older than before. Her hair was of course beyond measure in length, reaching partly across all areas of the room, and she wore a face which as usual lacked emotion, and was deathly cold. "I've seen what you've been through." Eve then glanced down at her claw, "This spell is amazing. Princess Celestia, she protected me despite everything that I've done. She trusted me. I can't disappoint her now, not now, not ever." Eve regarded Rift with a curious look, "Wouldn't you agree Auntie?"

Rift shook her head, as she immediately became fueled with a fiery rage of desperation, chanting her words. "No, no no no no!!!!" She leaped into the air, before giving her wings a mighty flap and striking down once again towards the teenage draconequus. "NO NO NO NO NO NO NO NO NO!!!! I couldn't have been too late! It's too early!" And with each of her strikes, she failed to make contact, failed to do any damage to the draconequus who stood before her, her heart ached in despair. "NO!"

Eve parried each of her blows with ease, before frowning somewhat. "Draconequus like us are meant to shrivel away and disappear with our names, our legacies are stains upon the pages of history. I know this all Auntie, and thanks to Princess Celestia, I can make sense of it now. I can make sense of the images we see here, I can make sense of the logic behind her thinking, and I can understand why you feel responsible for what's happened. You were the first, the first child draconequus to show just what we're capable of turning into and becoming. Starswirl the Bearded saw this, he saw the monstrosities we were, the magical capabilities of a childish imagination. He was horrified by it, by your cause and mastery over fear itself. He saw no hope in the chaos." Eve paused before leaping back some, expecting to be pursued by Rift, which she was. "You attacked him didn't you? After Grandma and Grandpa's deaths during our escape in the battle which determined our exile? You were responsible for everything. It broke your heart. It's all so clear to me now Auntie, everything is clear to me now." Eve's nose wrinkled a bit. "You're the one who ruined my life. You're the one who turned me into what I am. You're the reason I can't enter my beloved world peacefully."

Yes surrounding the two draconequus would be such images, yet they were flashing simultaneously, back and forth about the room, it was practically impossible to keep track of them or make sense of them. They were after-images, effects due to the time scroll used to birth this madness. But how, how was Eve able to make sense of it all in a matter of seconds? To read into her like an open storybook, was there now such a vast difference between them? Rift's expression sunk as she pursued Eve, as she looked into those cold dead eyes of the forcibly aged draconequus. This was their only chance to stop it, to stop Princess Celestia's madness, to stop the creation of a monster, not a goddess. She knew only something horrible would come of this, Eve's development was unlike other draconequus, she'd been through too much, seen too much, for her to mature would only spell catastrophe. Rift saw it now, and the effect of the draconequus before her caused her to feel something she hadn't experienced since she to was a little girl. She experienced the feeling of despair. For her whole life she kept her heart closed off, kept such things hidden from everypony, and had even kept her identity hidden from Princess Celestia and Luna. Her origins were no more than mirages of her past, locked away in her mind, only to ever emerge here. Rift couldn't let her past mistakes be the cause and birth of one such as this! She had to be the one to put a stop to it! She put on a pained expression as she pulled her scythe back, and as Eve touched down upon the ground in front of her, Rift swung while letting off a fierce yell.

Eve just sneered as her eyes were covered by her bangs, and she gritted her teeth before lunging forward at Rift, "Eheh!"

Their swift motions were followed by the sound of piercing flesh in that next instant, and then followed by a longing silence.

Memories of a distant past, were apparent in Rift's mind, even during these moments of confrontation with Eve. Actually, Eve started to remind her of such things she'd forgotten over time. A particular moment that shaped who she was.

The skies of Equestria were a blood red shade mixed with orange, as if the realms of flame had merged with the heavens. Of course all at this time was silent, as sitting in a cave by her lonesome would be a small draconequus. She had purple hair, and her arms were wrapped around her knees. She appeared hollow as she looked upon two lifeless bodies of fellow, larger, draconequus. The baby draconequus just sat there silently, staring at them, unable to expression anything anymore. She spoke in a tired manner, "Mommy?....Daddy?....." Of course there was no answer from them. There'd been numerous gashes and scrapes covering their fur coats, wounds that hadn't healed. Then in the middle of their chests were two gaping holes. "Will you wake up?....I'm not afraid anymore. I'm sorry I wasn't brave enough to help you back then, but,....I beat them now, each and every one of them."

Then it was revealed outside the cave where the baby draconequus sat, would be a multitude of pony corpses, scattered across barren desolate plains. Judging by the rocky scenery, it wasn't hard to establish the area was likely somewhere in the badlands.

Standing on a peak of a cliff would be a cloaked bearded pony with a wizard's hat. He had a straight expression, looking upon the field of corpses with a seemingly petrified, yet calmed and composed demeanor all at the same time. He simply gulped as he stood, lowering his head and gritting his teeth. He watched, and he waited, silently, keeping his eyes focused on the cave entrance. His eyes widened as from the left of the cave, emerging from some opposite peaks in the distance, would be a larger draconequus accompanied by a few others. This immediately caused the bearded pony to lower his frame, as if to conceal himself as he breathed heavily, hidden behind a couple of smaller rocks. He then pulled out a journal, "Such complex creatures..."

The baby draconequus in the cave remained situated and still, as she just continued to look down at the bodies of her parents.

Then suddenly speaking with a saddened yet calmed expression would be another larger draconequus behind the smaller one. "Come Rift, it's time to go. We've secured ourselves a safe exit further south of the Badlands." She paused, before glancing back with somewhat worried eyes. "Was that you, who did all that outside? Mom and Dad would disapprove....You know this..."

The baby draconequus immediately clenched tight onto her legs, tightening her grip on herself as she'd gritted her teeth. "But they're the ones who hurt them! I hurt the ones who did this! How can you sit there and not care sister!?"

The larger female draconequus simply sighed before closing her eyes halfway. "I do care little sis, I care a lot more than you do." She frowned in contempt, "But I also know that you're too young to make sense of these things. Why, why would you resort to such methods?" She winced, "I hate this land more than anything, I just want to leave it behind us. Even more so, I hate uncertainties. You know how much I hate not knowing what to expect, so just be careful next time." She made her way over to the smaller draconequus before embracing her in a hug, "You know how I'd hate to lose you." She rubbed her cheek against her sibling's affectionately, smiling and closing her eyes as she did so. "You're just too passionate sometimes, you got that from dad."

The other draconequus accompanying the eldest sister were simply silent in the background with their arms crossed.

The eldest sister glanced down at the corpses of her parents with a disappointed expression. "I'm sorry we didn't make it here sooner, we came across Princess Luna, luckily for us we managed to escape. It seems Discord is planning to stay behind, so he's going to give us the opening we need to make our escape with the others. We're going to start somewhere new, somewhere fresh, away from this broken world and forge our own paradise. We'll disappear with the ages sister, we'll be able to live happily again." She tightened her clench around her sibling, her voice trembling somewhat as she attempted to speak clearly and distinctly, but there was an obvious hesitation in her words. "I want you to forget what's happened here. What happened to mom and dad isn't your fault. Forget about Equestria, forget about everything you've seen in the recent months and grow up peacefully." She glanced down to her little sister with a hopeful smile, "Forget about killing, forget about the ponies, forget everything. We'll build a perfect society, one that'll be able to defend itself as well as raise children who don't have to be exposed to this. There will be no room for failure sister, we don't need the ponies. There's no more reason to be afraid."

The purple haired draconequus gripped onto her sister's arm, before her eyes saddened. "I'm not afraid sister...."

The eldest sibling's eyes widened, as she seemed a little confused.

The baby draconequus stood to her hoof and claw, just glaring down at her parents at this point. "I never will be again. I won't lose you, and I'll protect you no matter what. I will never be afraid again." She turned with a swift stride, baring cold eyes as she made her way for the exit of the cave, and past the other older draconequus, muttering something as she'd left, "No more mistakes."

The eldest sibling sensed something new in her sister, something distasteful. Yet it was something she should've expected seeing as her sister had just resorted to murdering a group of ponies in order to make up for her parent's deaths.

Suddenly approaching the older sibling would be a larger male draconequus. "Rave...."

The older female draconequus revealed as one known as Rave lowered her head, her eyes covered in shadow and somewhat concealed by her white bangs. "What is it Ravage? As you can tell, I've just watched my family break apart. My little sister is emotionally scarred. So as you can imagine, I'm not in the mood for any more bad news."

The male draconequus frowned, before crossing his arms and glaring towards the corpses of Rave's parents. "Your little sister managed to take out practically two battalions of Celestial and Lunar guards, highly trained. This is something not even two elites such as your parents could accomplish. I think it's safe to assume we've got to keep her under control in future scenarios, despite your wishes, she could be a great help to the defense of our race from possible future incursions." He then placed his claw beneath his chin, rubbing it inquisitively in thought. "Perhaps, some children hold greater potential than even some of us adults."

Rave winced, as she practically glared at the fellow male draconequus in annoyance. "What're you thinking?...."

The male's eyes widened as he gave her a crooked smile, shooing her away somewhat. "O-Oh, nothing...Nothing Rave. Just taking things into consideration, but for now, let's escape this twisted land. The others are waiting for us, so we need to hurry."

Rift waited outside the cave, still sitting as dust clouds made their way past her. She looked up towards the crimson sky with a frown, and then back down at the result of her massacre, somewhat suspended in disbelief she'd caused this. "There is nothing to fear, nothing at all." The little draconequus then immediately reached into a tiny portal, a makeshift void she'd created, as she pulled out what appeared to be a small bloody curved dagger. She looked at this bloody dagger affectionately, smiling at it. "Do you enjoy the taste of it? Perhaps you will grow with me over time hm?...Hehe, yes, we'll be together, until the end, you and I."

And observing the draconequus from afar, would be the bearded pony, now accompanied by another. He was with an armored mare, an alicorn with a vibrant pink mane and a blood stained white coat. Her golden armor was blotched with differing shades of deepened red, dried scarlet. She wore a sickened expression, a tired one, as if she were simply tired of all the fighting, all the horrors she'd been witnessing in recent times. She had deep bags underlining her eyes. "What is this Starswirl?" She'd asked simply.

The bearded pony revealed as Starswirl the Bearded just glanced to his upper left at the alicorn. "A threat Celestia....won't you take care of it?"

The alicorn revealed as Celestia didn't react for some time, that tired expression never left her. She simply looked upon the field of carnage, at her fallen soldiers with saddened eyes. She then glanced in the direction of the baby draconequus sitting outside the cave, before glancing down at Starswirl once again. "That little draconequus did this?...." She'd asked tiredly.

Starswirl the Bearded just nodded silently as he kept his eyes focused on the little draconequus in the distance.

Princess Celestia followed his glance, back towards the baby draconequus, as she felt both her and that baby draconequus had made eye contact in that moment. It was as if they understood one another through some sort of silent message, that no matter how this went down, there would be more blood had the princess chosen to pursue them. There was this form of silent exhaustion between them, especially in Princess Celestia, who appeared as if her tears had all but dried up completely. She seemed withered,  too demotivated to go on, too affected by everything she'd seen. But as Princess Celestia stood there, in that next moment she then glanced behind her, to which it was revealed there was yet another battalion of her guards standing further off in the distance behind her. They wore fearful yet loyal expressions, as some were also withered and tired, appearing as if unable to go on. At that moment Princess Celestia looked up towards her flaming red sky with wide petrified eyes. Before replying to Starswirl the Bearded in a light tone, "Leave them,.....Let us go regroup with Luna."

Starswirl the Bearded blinked a bit, as if surprised, "Of course Celestia, if that is your truest desire."

Princess Celestia spoke faintly, "We've earned our victory, let them go continue with their retreat. Both ends have lost a great deal." She then looked up towards the sky, as Princess Celestia shed tears and frowned heavily. "T-This, this isn't the sky I wanted to see. I grow tired of the smell of burnt flesh Starswirl, it's an overwhelming stench. Yet now, I feel I can't escape it." She paused, "It's become natural. I can't live in a world of chaos any longer." She lowered her head promptly, in the form of a sulk as she trotted slowly. "Let us go regroup with Luna and share the good news. That we of Equestria, can now forge a new destiny. I will never let my subjects be subjugated to such things ever again. I will never let my family be harmed by races that deem themselves above us to the point they can control us. Let us hope the draconequus are aware of this."

Starswirl the Bearded then immediately turned towards Celestia, preparing to follow her before commenting on something else himself, "Yes Celestia I understand this, but there is still one who refuses to let go. The youngling, Discord. What of him?"

Princess Celestia's eyes widened as she glanced back, "Discord?...."

Starswirl the Bearded nodded, "Yes, the child of Eris. Ignoring him would not be wise."

Princess Celestia glared ahead again, before groaning lightly, "We will find a way to deal with it, with time, I assure you."

Starswirl the Bearded bowed his head, as he followed after Celestia at that moment. "Of course Princess, with time."

The baby draconequus situated outside the cave, kept her eyes focused on the cliff's edge in the distance, as the two figures which stood there before now disappeared from sight. This brought a sense of relief to her for some strange reason, for some reason she felt that those two were particularly more dangerous than the rest. She closed her eyes, before lowering her head.

"Is something wrong Rift?"

Rift's eyes widened as she glanced back, to find her eldest sister looming over her shoulder with a curious look.

Rift then shook her head, before baring a soft affectionate smile. "No sister, everything is absolutely fine."

Rift in present time then fell to her knees, as she heard the sound of her scythe clanking to the floor.

She wore that tired expression again, much like when she was a child, as her eyes were locked onto the fact there was now a sharpened candy cane pierced straight through her chest. She spoke faintly, "So you learned even that to?"

Eve stood behind the draconequus, with a cold piercing stare, before muttering, "Yes. To think that in truth, we're much more fragile than we seem. Decimate the heart and the draconequus will go with it, it is something Princess Celestia knew this entire time. Yet she never revealed this information to Twilight Sparkle, she protected me. But why Auntie? Why did you hide this information? It doesn't matter, you won't die. I have only stilled your beating heart for the time being, thanks to the altered flow of time within the room, this process is much easier." Eve looked at her claw with wide eyes, "Time magic is fascinating. So are these powers."

Rift didn't say anything, as she kept her eyes on the ground.

At that point, Eve to got a hopeful look, as she gulped and muttered, "I wonder Auntie, could it be that....that you-"

Rift interrupted her, with a weak snicker. "Hah, don't get ahead of yourself. I was only following orders. My only spark of guilt, came from the fact that you'd grown into such a dangerous creature because of protocols that were established due to my existence. They were haunting, maddening for me. But you personally, had nothing to do with them." Rift raised her paw, as she slowly saw it chipping away and turning to dust before her. "So, how's it feel? To know you're despised by all of your family?"

Eve appeared reluctant to answer, but she didn't falter nor did she shed any tears. "I've.....grown used to losing family...."

Rift smiled, as she closed her eyes, "That's the spirit. You'll need it." She looked up towards the starry ceiling of this strange room with a cocky smirk. "You know, I guess it makes sense." She glanced back at Eve with half closed eyes, "It makes sense that you've lasted this long. But still, I interrupted Princess Celestia and Luna's spell before it could finish, now you're stuck like this, your progression finally ends here." She then looked back towards the ground, at the candy cane which pierced her chest. "But to think you'd learn so much simply from this, you truly would've grown into a monster. Nonetheless I consider this a victory, despite how it ended. Princess Twilight understands my perspective, she'll never let you get away, especially as you are now." Rift paused yet again, before coughing up a large amount of blood, and smiling. "You're done, Eve the Insane, the game is done."

Eve smirked a bit herself, almost making a humored look. "But things have a tendency to change Auntie, as you've probably noticed. Chaos is unpredictable, isn't it?" Eve paused, before baring a soft broken smile, "I want to protect Equestria. Anything else doesn't matter at this point. Their world is more precious than anything else. And if that means I must live alone, absent of any individuality, absent of choice, absent of family, absent of love.....then so be it." She chuckled a bit.

Rift chuckled again, slouching down. "Hah, to think you've become so delusional over something so idiotic. You're no more than a celestial puppet." As she said those words, the draconequus fell face first to the floor, simply coughing before curling in a bit.

That cold look returned to Eve, as she just muttered, "See you, Auntie." Eve's candy cane soon also dissipated.

In the land of the draconequus, in one particular home, an older female draconequus stood over the sink with a distracted look, seemingly lost in her own thoughts. She didn't say a word, as behind her, there was an older male draconequus sitting in the living room, enjoying himself as he spent time with three younger draconequus whom were sleeping on the carpet. It was hinted that they lived on an upper story of some sort of apartment complex, or tower which consisted of many homes for the draconequus race. Their balcony door was open, seeing as off in the distance of the cloud filled sky, one could see the setting sun, giving the room an orange glow to it. The female draconequus's expression sunk, as she spoke in regards to the male draconequus, "Do you ever regret it? Do you ever wonder what happened to her? What she's going through?"

The male draconequus's eyes widened as he put on a prideful sneer, leaning back and placing both his paw and claw behind his head. "Tch, why would I? The girl couldn't even grasp the basic concepts of magic. She was a failure from the start."

The female's paw and claw started to tremble, as she was using her magic in order to clean the dishes without even touching them. But her firm hold on the edges of the sink began to leave imprints, as her eyes were now wide and her pupils dilated as she stood there, simply looming over the sink. And as she cleaned the dishes, many of them back to crack, as she replied to the male draconequus. "Do such things, even matter at this point? Don't you ever wonder what it could've been had we simply committed more time to her? Don't you ever wonder, if she missed us? If she cried for us? If she was confused, or scared, or ever learned to adapt?" The draconequus's trembling started to worsen, "Does it matter if she were a failure, or a prodigy, or an average child? Isn't all that matters, is that she was our child? I've been thinking recently. I've been thinking how much time has passed since that moment. How peaceful our life is, how everything has seemingly fallen into place. All except for one of us...."

The male draconequus now wore an annoyed look. "That's just your motherly instincts speaking, you don't truly believe any of that nonsense. What point is there in raising a clueless daughter that can't contribute to herself or anybody around her?" He just closed his eyes, before frowning. "Nonetheless, there's no point in putting any more thought into it. I doubt she even still lives, Rift and Havoc have been gone for some time, I'm sure we'll more than likely never see that child again anyhow."

The female draconequus glanced up towards the ceiling, just silent. She couldn't wrap her mind around her own feelings of discomfort, these feelings of angst and worry. "Little sister.....have you learned anything since that time?" She paused, as unaware, tears streamed down her cheeks, and she whispered silently to herself, "Eve, what a lovely name....."

And sitting alone on her couch in Ponyville, would be Cheerilee, as her body was wrapped up in a blanket. She had her television on as she simply remained in that sitting position stationary, with torn pages of a particular book scattered about her home. She was also looking over a tiny crystal star in an affectionate matter. Cheerilee's face expressed one of pained nostalgia, but also slight gratitude. She then rubbed the star against her cheek, before shedding silent tears, her body trembling as she did so. The mare reluctantly got up from the couch, before going about her living room, then picking up the pieces of torn paper, gathering them all up in one pile.

There on the TV, giving a news report would be the same mare from the Crystal Empire not too long ago. She mare was ecstatic in her news delivery, as she stood before a grand stage. "And in a few minutes! The Great and Powerful Trixie will make her debut!"

Cheerilee then slowly made her way way outside her home, with the papers and crystal star in hoof. She paused however, as she was caught entranced by the distant sunset. She was lost in the color, in the sense of heartache it brought upon her. She only stood there in silence for some time, before simply dropping the papers and the crystal star in front of her home, but as she was doing that, she'd suddenly been interrupted by a greeting.

"Ms.Cheerilee!"

Cheerilee then glanced to her right, noticing standing there would be Apple Bloom, Sweetie Belle, and Scootaloo. They waved at the mare with cheerful looks, before Apple Bloom questioned worriedly, "Where have ya been!? We've been worried sick!"

This brought an affectionate smile to Cheerilee's face with half-closed eyes. "Hey girls...I've been,....well, busy....thinking."

As the papers soon scattered, fluttering about the area, soon many of them were carried off with the winds.

As the crystal star which remained on the ground, soon cracked, before breaking down into tiny pieces, and fading to dust itself.

Eve then picked up Rift's scythe, staring down at it momentarily, before using it to cut her hair in one swift slice, reducing the length greatly. She then snapped her claw, placing the scythe back into a black void, before using her own magic to dissipate the portal to that void entirely. The draconequus then made her way towards the dream room's entrance, before forcing the door open herself. There she saw standing, was Princess Celestia still with a horribly worried expression. As the princess caught sight of Eve, her expression eased into one of relief. As Princess Luna only looked upon the draconequus, suspended in disbelief with wide eyes, unable to say anything. As Twilight looked upon Eve with a petrified look herself for some time. Eve looked upon all of them, she still wore that cold expression, before she to put on a sinister yet softer smile, pleased with the situation. "Hiya all..."

Twilight couldn't believe what she was seeing, as she just trembled before falling to the ground with wide eyes.

Princess Celestia frowned heavily, "Where is Rift, Eve?"

Eve glanced over at Princess Celestia before nodding her head, "Incapacitated for the moment Princess Celestia."

Princess Celestia sighed heavily, "That, is unfortunate. We will have to relay this information of her betrayal, and her departure." Princess Celestia then glared down at her student. "And you Twilight, have you seen what your pursuit has costed you? As you have Spike, I Princess Celestia, shall have Eve carry out certain tasks. This, Twilight, is the fruit of my labor, what you see before you, is a draconequus I believe isn't beyond salvation for her crimes against Equestria! This is the truth you wanted, here she stands, ready to defend Equestria from any future threats. She is no longer the draconequus you sought to capture." Princess Celestia stomped a hoof stating, "She is willing to sacrifice everything to protect you and your friends!"

Twilight's voice trembled, as her horn started to spark and shimmer, "Have you lost your mind Princess Celestia? Protect?....Defend?.....W-What're you even saying?......ARE YOU CRAZY!? SHE'S A MURDERER!!!!"

Fluttershy flinched as she began to tear up. "T-Twilight please....please will you just stop this?! Can't we all just stop fighting!?"

Applejack though stood beside Twilight, pointing a hoof at Princess Celestia. "N-No offense Princess Celestia but Twi is right! Why would you side with her, she's a criminal! She's done many horrible things to all of you, you can't possibly ignore all that!"

Eve didn't react to this however, she simply stood at parade rest, with her claw and paw clenched behind her back. "Princess?"

Princess Celestia stated simply with a frown and sigh, "Defend yourself, but don't attack."

Eve reacted in suit, "Understood....."

Before Twilight let off a screeching yell, "SHE'S A MURDERER!!!!!" Before lunging herself towards the draconequus with a powerful flap of her wings. Twilight wore an enraged look, as she charged Eve, manifesting a transparent purple sword.

"SHAZAM!!!!!"

And ceasing all the activity in the area, would be a bright pink light.

Pinkie Pie immediately clapped her hooves, "Oooooooh so pretty!!!"

Twilight just stopped in place, stunned as she tried to get a good look at the source of the interruption.

Eve could see it clearly, as could Princess Celestia and Luna, but they still didn't know what to make of it. They each shaded their eyes, both princesses with their hooves, while Eve shaded herself with her paw.

There standing in-between all of them in this hall, would be a baby draconequus as she held what appeared to be a giant lamp post. The light at the top was in the shape of a star, flashing a bright and constant blinding pink glow. Her lower lip was puckered, and she also wore strange adorations and a golden crown in the shape of a tiara. "HALT! I Princess Scarlet Shy, have come to deliver M'lady's blessing! Any who get in my way shall be punished with kindness! Kapow Kapow Kapow!"

Twilight Sparkle squinted in irritation, as she was still furious at Eve, let alone another irritating draconequus having entered the scene. She didn't halt in her actions, retracting her floating transparent blade but simply lunging forward yet again.

The little draconequus glanced back in puzzlement. "Princess Twilight Sparkle? It has been long! How have you been!? You look mad!" The baby draconequus then immediately turned towards Princess Twilight before raising her butterfly pendant necklace and giving it a kiss, "Let me show you this kindness! If you're still around Twilight Sparkle it means this Eve the Insane is too soft. A world of softies! This isn't the world draconequus deserve!" She stomped before showing Twilight her open palm. "WHAM!!!"

Twilight snapped angrily, "OUT OF MY WAY LITTLE GIRL!!!! I DON'T CARE ABOUT YOU!!!"

Princess Celestia then snapped at Twilight herself from afar, "Wait Twilight! STOP!!! Leave her alone!"

But before Twilight could even say anything back, she found herself struck in a moment of bewilderment as her head was forcibly turned to the left somewhat, and there was a horrible aching feeling in her right cheek. It felt like only a second, before the mare found that she was slapped with an incredible force of air. Of course Twilight shot back immediately like a torpedo, skidding and tumbling across the hard marble floor as she slammed and crashed into a wall at the far end.

And at the far end of the hall, about to make a sudden turn would be Rainbow Dash and Spike, accompanied by the Captain of the Twilight Guard, as they'd flinched in reaction to seeing the mare suddenly crash into the wall, getting lost in a pile of dust and debris. Rainbow looked at the motionless Twilight for a second before crying out to her, "T-Twilight!?"

Spike of course, reacted in suit as he made his way through the rubble to Twilight. "Twilight!? Twilight are you okay!?"

Princess Celestia cried out desperately, "TWILIGHT!!"

Rarity and Applejack glanced back in Twilight's direction hurriedly.

Applejack of course rushed to provide aid to her friend in suit, "T-TWI!?! HANG ON SUGARCUBE, I'M COMIN!!!"

Rarity trembled before falling to her side as her mouth was covered with a hoof.

But Fluttershy's focus was on the baby draconequus in the middle of the hall, she wore a curious expression for some reason. A curiously horrified expression as she trembled while covering her head with her hooves.

As Pinkie Pie just hopped up and down before chuckling a bit, "Oooooh what an intense game of tag!"

Scarlet Shy just stood there nonchalantly with a bored look. "Mmmmmmm..."

Twilight's guards of course immediately tried to strike her down, as they were frozen in place entirely by the pink light. They stood there in place, stunned, powerless to resist this draconequus's will. Of course, this angered each of them greatly.

Princess Luna then attempted to cast a spell on the draconequus as the draconequus shielded herself with a pink barrier.

Scarlet commented, "I've seen all these spells before you know. They won't work a second time Princess Luna,....Celestia..."

Princess Celestia frowned heavily, in confusion, bewilderment, "W-Who are you? Where did you even come from little one?"

Scarlet Shy glanced back at Princess Celestia wide eyed. "Hm?....I'm from Equestria." She then turned to face Princess Celestia with a smile, "Don't you recognize the crown Princess Celestia? I'm sure you do." She pointed her claw at it.

Princess Celestia's eyes widened at the sight of it.

Scarlet Shy continued, "But I don't have much time here, I just came to fulfill m'lady's orders."

Eve glared at the little draconequus before her angrily, silently, preparing to strike.

Scarlet Shy then pointed a claw at Eve, "This is Lady Eris's endgame."

Eve blinked, now suddenly confused as she muttered, "E-Eris?....Ms.Eris?"

Scarlet Shy nodded with a smile, "Yes, Lady Eris has returned to Equestria. And I have come to deliver her endgame to the ponies." The baby draconequus then raised her lamp post, as she chanted, "SHAZAM!!!!" Causing the scenery around them to change drastically. The surrounding group of ponies soon found themselves in a world of candy coated features, while the castle had dissipated entirely, they all stood in a world of sugary sweets and pink clouds, of course.

Eve looked about, seemingly amazed by it all. She looked to the fellow draconequus, "Endgame?"

Scarlet spread her paw and claw with a pleased smile. "To bring a change to this world! This is a draconequus's world!"

Twilight remained still on the ground, as her friends looked over her.

And yet somehow, Havoc had not arrived with the rest of them.

While Rift laid on a bed of chocolate icecream, wheezing heavily as she only observed from the background.

Princess Celestia spread her two front hooves as her horn started to glow, "Over my dead body child...."

Princess Luna who was now able to move freely again, glanced over to Celestia worriedly, "S-Sister...."

Scarlet pointed her lamp post at Celestia with a sinister smile herself, "I will carry out m'lady's orders without error! Yep Yep!"

Eris smiled from her current position, obviously satisfied. "Only by looking past their own paranoia and self-induced hatred can those ponies hope to accomplish anything with that particular girl around. But what're the chances of that? Seeing as we've arrived at this point already." Eris then looked to Nightmare Moon, "Nightmare Moon, do please change it to night time, I'm sure you won't have any resistance for the time being. But move quickly, time is short I'm assuming."

Discord burst into hearty chuckles, "Bahahaha! Not to burst your bubble, but if she does that, Luna would notice immediately!"

Eris cocked her head back, "Don't be so snide Discord, of course I anticipated something so obvious." She then nodded to Nightmare Moon assuredly. "Go on Nightmare Moon, please, if you will."

Nightmare Moon raised a brow, before raising her paw to the air and curling it in.

And soon, just as the draconequus had predicted, the skies of Equestria turned dark, as the full moon overlooked the sky.

Nightmare Moon smirked, "Hah, well....That was easy enough..."

Discord blinked, before immediately poofing outside to see for himself. "Are you kidding!? Just how many tricks do you have!?" Discord began rubbing his chin nervously as he frowned, "Mmmmmm, well I can't deny I'm impressed."

Eris joined him outside merrily, "Oh thank you Discord, your praise pleases me."

As Nightmare Moon soon followed, except emerging from a cloud of shadow instead of a ball of pink smoke like most.

Eris continued, "Now is the time that we move in to take care of something that's been long coming."

The ponies of Equestria all looked to the skies in confusion, as did Cheerilee and the Cutie Mark Crusaders. As did Trixie, as did Zecora, and as did Chrysalis and her band of changelings. As all looked to the sky, unsure what to think or make of it.

Eris manifested a portal, as past it, one could see that it lead to the land of draconequus. "Let us not waste any time then."

Chapter 10: Draconequus - Part 3


CHAPTER 10: DRACONEQUUS - PART 3

Eris smiled as she remained elevated before the portal to the land of draconequus. However it wasn't a smile which depicted of her usual erratic self, it was a more calmed one. She regarded Discord almost pleadingly before asking, "So does this mean you've had a change of heart Discord? You've been awfully quiet, which leads me to assume you're reconsidering helping the ponies." She spread her arms, "Please Discord, won't you join me? Chaos is where you rule, not this petty state you've been reduced to. You are a slave to nopony and nothing, by my side you are free to be yourself and rule however you please."

Discord yawned heavily, "Oh what's that!? Sorry, didn't quite hear you there. Listen Eris, I get that you think we're the greatest race in all possible existence and I couldn't agree with you more! But you see here, I just can't imagine you sharing anything with me. I do hope you understand." Discord smiled softly as he'd crossed his arms with a slightly smug expression.

Eris frowned heavily as she sighed, closing her eyes and shaking her head. "Typical, it seems anypony whose befriended by these meddlesome little ponies changes over time. Well Discord as you know I can't having you roam about getting in the way, even if you are of my own blood. You're a talented draconequus yes, but I believe you don't really understand the gravity of the situation you're in. Not even you're invincible against everything, and I'll prove that to you now." Eris snapped her claw sluggishly with disappointment, as she now glared at Discord still upset by his decision. "To think that little yellow pony would be more important than family, you've disappointed me greatly Discord. Sadly I'm preoccupied with the recovery of our race so instead I'll let you play with somepony more fitting towards your tastes, and agenda."

Eris snapped her claw, before appearing before her would be another portal, pitch black in appearance. She'd sigh heavily, before emerging from the portal would be another individual. Yet this one wasn't a draconequus, nor was it a pony. It appeared to be a hybrid of some sort, a dragon and pony mix. Her scales were a glistening white shade, as majority of her wing's scales consisted of the colors green and purple. She stood upright despite having four hooves, and a dragon's tail. She also bore a unicorn's horn.

Eris sighed heavily yet again, "Amethyst Primrose."

The dragon hybrid glanced around momentarily with a blank expression, before turning around to catch sight of Eris, to where she immediately bowed. "My lady, what is the occurrence for which I am needed? It is rare you call upon me for aid."

Eris regarded the creature with a smile, "Mhm, you see Scarlet already has quite a bit to deal with Primrose, so I need you."

The creature remained knelt, but still spoke regardless. "Forgive me my lady, but if Scarlet is here, am I really necessary?"

Eris nodded. "Mhm, I need you to handle Discord while I go clean up this mess. Primrose, this is in regards to what we spoke of long ago,  so please do not fail me, this means quite a lot to me." Eris then looked to Nightmare Moon before they both regarded one another with a nod, and proceeded into the portal which lead to the land of draconequus.

The portal soon closed afterwords, to Discord's disappointment.  

Primrose then turned to face Discord yet again, before just regarding him with a blank stare. "Hello Discord, it's nice to see you again. I apologize we have to meet under such circumstances but as you know, you've upset Lady Eris."

Discord groaned, "Oh do save me the melodramatic tone! I do say I feel more like I'm in a soap opera if anything! Besides what's a little child like you going do to me!? I must inform you, surprises aren't very effective this time around."

Primrose shook her head, "Absolutely nothing Discord."

Discord's eyes widened, and he wore a confused expression, unable to wrap his mind around what she was implying.

Primrose shook her head, "I know full well I can't do anything to you, direct confrontation isn't my forte anyhow. I am simply here to be a meddlesome distraction to be honest. There's also a reason I'm Lady Eris' personal courier." The creature flapped her wings once, before she'd disappeared. She then reappeared in Ponyville, as immediately the townsfolk just looked upon her in feint curiosity as most couldn't even depict what she was. "I'm quite fast." Most ponies were already distracted with the night sky, since the fact of the matter was it should only be nearing into the late afternoon. You misunderstand everything entirely Discord. If Scarlet is here, then I'm certain Lady Eris is quite serious about this world, whichever one this may be. She paused in her thoughts for a brief moment, momentarily glancing at the dirt beneath her hooves. For Scarlet comes from a place much different from what I'm certain you're most familiar with, especially if you're unaware of who she is. I guess that's not much of a surprise however. Suddenly with a simple glance and a spark of her horn, many houses in Ponyville would spark and be lit with a fierce and spreading green flame. Scarlet, are you there? Can you hear me? I want you to listen to my voice. How are you doing?.

Immediately the citizens of Ponyville began to disperse and run about in a panic.

Primrose looked back up towards the sky in Discord's general direction.

As Discord saw Ponyville spark with flame, his eyes widened as he to then rushed to aid the small, now familiar town.

Immediately Primrose's eyes widened as she took notice of the fact there'd been a barrage of fiery pink magical spheres of flame flying in her general direction. They were all focused on her, and she leaped from area to area with a flap of her wings, ensuring to dodge each and every one, realizing she couldn't get hit. I am here if you need me, don't lose sight of your goal. I will do everything in my power to help you, but you have to listen to my voice. I'm saddened that Lady Eris let you go alone, but if that's indeed the case then I can't imagine she's in a very healthy state of mind either. Scarlet, I need you to answer me.

Primrose then reappeared beside a small undamaged house, still wearing a concentrated expression. As she appeared there, a stack of papers scattered around her, being carried off by the winds. She blocked out all the surrounding ambiance, as if neglecting to hear or acknowledge it. Realize; we are not the monsters, Lady Eris will build us the world we're searching for. Primrose paused as she glanced about momentarily, feeling a slight hesitation in her own words and thoughts. We,...are not the monsters. But in that moment, out of the corner of her eye, Primrose saw something. She saw a young mare, and a band of three fillies hiding in an alleyway. They all wore fearful looks as they attempted to remain out of sight of the creature. For personal reasons, this petrified the hybrid creature. She couldn't take eyes of them. That is until Discord had remade his appearance swiftly, and relentlessly with a smirk. The draconequus looked upon the creature as in a split second he'd raised his claw in front of her, and forming in the palm of that claw would be another fiery pink spherical shaped spell, in which he didn't hesitate to try to press against her. The little hybrid creature's eyes widened as she'd immediately gasped, and of course, pulled back and away from Discord. We aren't monsters. We aren't murderers. That's what we've been trying to change. Isn't it,....Scarlet?

As Nightmare Moon and Eris overlooked the cities of draconequus, it had appeared as if the cover of night had already affected these lands as well. This brought a smile to Eris's face. She looked upon the city almost in a nostalgic manner, "Nightmare Moon, you know why I love children so much?" She took this moment to glance over at the now fellow draconequus.

Nightmare Moon shook her head, "No...And I don't really care. I didn't sign up for all this small-talk."

Eris continued. "Children are so easily convinced, and so easy to understand. You give them an ounce of your acceptance and love, and they will repay you in whatever way they can. Promise them reward and they will follow you, and attach themselves to you. Of course this may not be the case with all children, but, powerful ones, ones who're feared and left alone to fend for themselves. They are the ones who make the greatest difference. They are ones who understand what it means to forge a world from scratch. They are the easiest to take advantage of. Easily disposable, and easily conquerable." Then with a swipe of her hoof, a row of towers on one of the floating cities had crumbled. Being immediately crushed and torn asunder by Eris's simple swipe.

Eris chuckled and grinned, "We draconequus who can feed off chaos and negativity, have proven that if willing, we can turn our children into threats far greater than ponies and that of their gods. Twilight Sparkle could never realize it, not even in the end, that our greatest weakness is friendship itself, something so trivial yet so effective. But it matters little, Scarlet will prove to them otherwise, that even Eve's development is small in comparison. So many worlds differ greatly."

Nightmare Moon just remained elevated there with her arms crossed, glancing at Eris with another uncomfortable look.

Eris chuckled madly, as she'd continued swiping her claw, her grin spreading wider from cheek to cheek. "Only once in my life had I been thwarted by pitiful kindness, but I will correct that mistake here and now! Friendship is a lie! A manipulative tool used against us! It is status and nothing more! Friendship is an illusion craft from petty desires and noble birthrights! Greed, jealousy, looks, primal instincts, friendship doesn't come to those who lack the selfish qualities to achieve it. It only comes to those who understand the meaning of survival, the desperation of acceptance! Naive children believe otherwise! Such as those who cling themselves to me, see how they're so easily manipulated, so easily used! Have Eve for all I care! I'll finally get what I came for!" Then with another simple swipe, Eris had already decimated half of one of the cities. Her grin was crazed, and she possessed a look of intoxication, as if she were getting a rise out of the experience. She couldn't stop chuckling, nor grinning.

Almost immediately after her assault, Eris found that the draconequus were already on the move. She could hear the cries of the children, lost in their confusion, in the destruction and chaos. She could hear them already falling into their own negative feelings. The adults were scattered, already attempting to make sense of what was happening. As a few notable figures soon made their way into the sky in Eris's direction. The blinding white moonlight didn't do well to hide their location, but Eris nor Nightmare Moon was hiding, they were simply waiting. Eris remained elevated there eagerly, never losing satisfaction, and she never stopped grinning. She burst into laughter, "Hahahahahaha! It's beautiful, so beautiful! Now they know the cost of trying to establish order, of going against my wishes. And their punishment has only just begun! Trusting in Princess Celestia, Princess Luna, Princess Cadence, Princess Twilight Sparkle." She'd paused, before snapping her claw, "What a bunch of idiots."

Nightmare Moon then raised her own claw, as opening behind them in the face of the full moon would be a massive black portal, and emerging from that portal would be creatures of the nightmare realm as they'd exited absently.  

Scarlet, can you hear me Scarlet? Are you there?

Twilight Sparkle sat at a dimly lit study. However, this Twilight Sparkle appeared much different. She appeared older, more worn than before. She sat alone in a room cloaked by shadow, accompanied only by a single flickering candle light. She was an alicorn, but she also now bore wrinkles beneath her eyes and in other areas on her face. She coughed for a second, before lifting a quill and just staring down blankly at a piece of parchment. The ambiance around her was desolate with hollow winds as a window located towards the back of the room was wide open. She frowned heavily, and it looked as if her eyes were dried of all moisture, as her body already seemed frail and weak. She then began writing on that piece of parchment.

I doubt anypony will have the chance to read this, but I do enjoy the thought of reassurance. I guess all I want to leave behind now is the thought that somepony might avoid the mistakes I've made in the past, because in my world; there is no future. Time and again, I have done what I could to keep the draconequus at bay, to the point where I have exiled all of their children from my lands. As successor to both Princess Luna and Celestia, it was my heartfelt intention to protect my subjects, no matter the cost.

I see now that such worries of mine have costed me everything, and if I could take back those decisions I would. However, there's no such thing as a second chance to make a good first impression. The draconequus have proven this to me. Perhaps it was my mistake to allow one draconequus's actions to affect me so greatly. Had I accepted Discord for the fact he changed over time, perhaps things could've turned out differently. I guess there's no point in regretting any of this now.

I saw the children as monsters and nothing more, creatures that couldn't be tamed. Ironically it is that very thought process that has lead me to this point, for now here I am in my final moments, contemplating my life. I await my death at the hands of one of the very children whom I rejected out of my fear and paranoia. A child birthed from one of my closest friends. Those very fears have costed me all them as well, and I am all that remains of a once prosperous and beautiful kingdom. I am sorry, truly, I am.

Twilight Sparkle paused for a moment, as her eyes watered and she started to appear as if she were losing her composure. She then just continued writing on the piece of parchment silently, before lowering her head in contempt.

I guess it's best to start from the beginning.

I was careless, and all I could see before me was frustration, annoyance, and spite; despite the fact it was one of my friend's before me experiencing perhaps the most joyous day of her life. I recall it being a beautiful day, and the sun's vibrant rays reflecting off her face, bringing an even brighter more heartwarming glow to her already soothing yellow features. It was the birth of Fluttershy's child, a half-pony, half-draconequus hybrid. But perhaps she could've been different had I been more tolerant of her from the beginning. I however, couldn't stand it at the time. I gritted my teeth, having felt betrayed by Fluttershy. How could she go and have this mutant child with Discord behind my back? I'd felt lost, caught off guard, and ultimately as if I were put in a horribly unfair situation. I recall the words I spouted off to Fluttershy in my rage, despite her having invited me to the hospital that day.

"What have you done!? Fluttershy! She will only cause you more pain and suffering!" Twilight stomped around the room, huffing profoundly, unsure what to make of it. "This is the surprise you were keeping from me!? THIS!? F-Fluttershy....This is horrible! Do you understand what it is you've done!? I can't make exceptions! Not even for you!" She stared her in the face, so full of anger and hatred for the child she'd judged before she could even develop a personality. "The draconequus protocol needs to remain instilled, who knows how dangerous your daughter could be! I'm sorry I can't risk it, you're too kind. Give her over to me."

Fluttershy of course denied Twilight's offer to house responsibility over her child. And despite knowing her beliefs regarding the draconequus, she looked at her as if she were shocked, appalled, and confused. Her eyes teared up almost immediately in reaction, as she looked at Twilight in hesitation in anger. She gripped her wrapped child in her hooves, as half her body was buried beneath the blankets. Twilight felt as if she'd became the elephant in the room as Fluttershy shouted at her; "Twilight! Now isn't the place or time for this! H-How?....How could you even suggest such a thing!?" In Twilight's own arrogance, she'd become ignorant of what the meaning friendship truly was, and the bond she'd established with her friends so long ago. They were all present, and they all looked at her as if she'd lost her mind. Rainbow Dash, Rarity, Applejack, even Pinkie Pie and Spike. Discord however didn't appeared surprised by Twilight's whirlwind of emotions in the slightest.

Feeling cornered, of course Twilight stormed out of the hospital room.

Rainbow Dash approached Fluttershy with a caring smile. Her rainbow mane was fashioned into a ponytail now, and she to appeared to have grown a bit older from her common appearance. Rainbow Dash also wore a flight uniform with the hood pulled back. As she stood at Flutteshy's bedside she chuckled, before putting on a pleased smile. "Don't worry about Twilight Fluttershy, I'm sure she'll come to accept her with time. Of course, a child from you is no different from actual family. What's her name?"

Fluttershy sniffled a bit, before smiling at Rainbow Dash, her cheeks flushing red for a moment. "I...I know. I guess I was just a little caught off guard by her outburst. I never intended for Twilight to immediately take notice of the fact my little filly is half draconequus. I'll ensure Twilight never has to worry about her though. She'll be a sweetheart." Fluttershy cradled the child more, pressing her against her body while holding her with her two front hooves. "Discord and I have talked about it, we like the name Scarlet, it's...it's nice. I-I mean...well, of course we'd like your opinions on it as well."

Rarity exhaled softly with a look of adoration. "Oh that's a lovely name darling,...." She teared up, "I'm so happy for you two."

Applejack nodded as she'd also tipped her hat, "As am I darlin, can't believe you're the first of us to actually have a kiddo."

They all soon started chuckling amongst one another, in this somewhat joyous celebration.

I sat outside the room, in the hallway with my head buried in my front hooves. I refused to accept it, or acknowledge the idea still. Little did I know, that would be the last time I would ever see Fluttershy, there before me, so full of emotion, so full of life.

Fluttershy, was found in her hospital room, no more than a week later.

Nopony was sure who was the culprit, and I believe this was the definite point in all our lives where we found that our idea of friendship would never be the same. I recall the room, looking as if it'd been painted red. It was a rainy day, no pegasi was in the mood to clear the skies. I fell into despair in my own grief, as did Discord, for he wasn't there, none of us were, to protect her. Nor could we pertain who or what had done this to our dear friend. Her corpse was twisted, drained, and I dare not describe the expression she more than likely made in her final moments. Had I stationed guards, had I considered the possibility of such a thing occurring, I would have never let down my guard. Everypony else was too lost in this moment of serene bliss to have considered Fluttershy's child being a target. I was too lost in my feelings of arrogance to have prevented anything from happening in the first place. There were heaps of flesh and putrid meat scattered about the room, they didn't not belong to Fluttershy. No, we assumed they belonged to the child. We'd all assumed as such. Fluttershy's little girl, having been the target, a child feared to receive special treatment and protection, at the risk of Equestria's well-being. Pony society was raised to be afraid of a child draconequus, it was only likely to assume somepony would take their worries too far.

We searched and searched for clues, to no avail. Day by day, week by week, month by month, year by year, nothing changed.

Scarlet Shy had disappeared from the face of Equestria.

Discord soon followed.

We'd assumed he'd departed out of guilt, and out of punishment for his own failure to protect the one he'd cared most for.

We were all fools to not have seen the bigger picture. To not understand just how short-sighted we were being.

Many years passed as my friends and I only continued to drift apart because of Fluttershy's death. Rainbow Dash blamed me, and I of course blamed myself, as I do to this day. Rarity simply wanted to forget. Applejack followed this train of thought soon afterwords as she'd realized that no matter what, she to could never get over what she saw that day. Pinkie Pie sunk into her own state of depression, realizing that she could no longer get us to truly smile. Our friendship was breaking apart with time, and with time, we'd started to lose touch. Our happy times together ended up being our burdens to carry, and became haunting memories which only reminded us of the worst time of our lives. I am ashamed to admit, that even then, I put some of the blame on Scarlet. I hated the child for having brought such a fate upon Fluttershy, for being the cause of such madness.

I told myself, had that child never been born, then perhaps all of this could've been avoided.

Maybe, had I removed the draconequus protocol in the first place, nopony would've cared to notice her potential anyhow.

But our personal feelings couldn't get in the way of our duty to the land itself.

Seven years would pass, before we'd ever actually come together again. Seven years of no contact would happen, before strife and turmoil itself would be the one thing to bring us together again. However it mattered little, for we now lacked the heart to move forward or fight for a world we all had begun to lose hope in. The enemy had dealt the final blow to us so many years ago, without us even realizing it, we were already finished. It just took the loss of one of us, to shatter our spirits. I see that now. It was all a part of the grand scheme of things. Somewhere down the line, she learned more than us. She learned what it meant to thwart friendship, and to build a sense of everlasting despair. Why couldn't I see it? I'm sure Princess Celestia would've seen it.

But once again, it's a little too late for regrets.

Twilight Sparkle sat at a meeting table, and along with her at that meeting table would be her fellow Elements of Harmony. They didn't eye one another, and they all kept their glances towards the table's surface for some time. Well all except Pinkie Pie, who glanced about worriedly at each of them, momentarily. Applejack however answered Pinkie with a simple stare and a shake of her head. Pinkie Pie frowned heavily, before tearing up and closing her eyes and burying her head in her front hooves. Twilight Sparkle rose from the table in that moment, as her guards behind her remained at each of her sides with their lances sheathed. "I thank you all for coming, it means a lot to me. It's such a pleasure to see all of you again. I'm sorry to have dragged you all out here on such short notice." Twilight wore a patient expression, waiting for a response.

Applejack was the first to answer. "I-It's...It's fine Twi, it's good to see you're still okay after all these years."

Rainbow Dash's face darkened as she kept her head lowered. "Yea, it's too bad one of us isn't here to see it."

Rarity winced in regards to Rainbow Dash, "R-Rainbow! That's highly uncalled for! It wasn't Twilight's fault!"

Rainbow immediately slammed her hooves on the table, before swiping one in Rarity's direction. "WASN'T IT!?"

Rarity immediately flinched with wide eyes and a paranoid look.

Rainbow Dash continued as her body trembled with frustration as she spoke. "Friendship? What a joke! How can she even call us here on that premise knowing full well we were called here as weapons! Not as friends! Our friendship withered away a long time ago!" Rainbow then shot a piercing glare at Twilight, "It went along with Fluttershy, and you all know it!"

Twilight kept her gaze towards the table's surface and didn't say another word for the time being.

Rainbow Dash gritted her teeth, looking back down at the table yet again. "If only Twilight had just been happy for Fluttershy then things would've been different! Had Fluttershy not felt the need to keep such a beautiful moment a surprise, had she not felt the hesitation, had Twilight gotten rid of the draconequus protocol the moment she became princess, Fluttershy would still be with us!" Rainbow paused, before glaring at Twilight, "Tell me Twilight, do you feel satisfied? Fluttershy was such a problem wasn't she?" Rainbow then smirked, "Killing two birds with one stone, it's progress, isn't it? Eheh."

Twilight immediately glared at Rainbow Dash with imminent killing intent. She then used her telekinesis to grab hold of the mare, before forcibly throwing her body against the back wall of this meeting room. Rainbow of course reacted with a pained gasp for air, as Twilight didn't falter in her actions. She then immediately lifted Rainbow with her magic, just staring at her plainly.

Applejack immediately rose from her seat, before shouting at the guards. "What're ya all doin!? STOP THEM!!!" She then immediately dashed for Twilight as she'd grabbed hold of the alicorn tightly, keeping her close. "C-Calm down Twi! STOP THIS! This isn't the way to do things! We're friends don't you remember!? We call came here to work together like old times!"

Rarity joined Applejack as she'd also embraced Twilight. "P-Please Twilight....Put her down, we're begging you."

Pinkie Pie just trembled as she'd had her ears covered with her hooves. "Will you all just stop it!?"

Pinkie's words seemed to strike them all into a sort of daze, even Twilight. Twilight appeared as if she'd snapped back to her senses, as she steadily let Rainbow Dash back to the ground, releasing her from her telekinesis then setting her gently upon the surface of the white marble floor. They were all silent yet again. Twilight of course was as well, before just turning away back towards her guards and then trotting off. "Fine. It was my mistake to call you all here. It's obvious we won't be able to return to using the elements with the state we're in as it is anyway. Return to your daily lives. I'll deal with these issues....alone."

With that Princess Twilight left the room, as the rest of the mane six simply kept themselves.

Rainbow Dash in particular was awfully silent, as she soon turned away as well, trotting towards a different exit sluggishly.

The rest of the mane six besides Pinkie Pie all soon departed afterwords as well. Pinkie Pie remained, with her head lowered.

Had I fought harder to restore our friendship to what it once was, then I truly believe things would've turned out different. But I couldn't ignore Rainbow's words either, I couldn't ignore them because, they hurt. They hurt, because they were true. Deep down I felt responsible for Fluttershy's death, and I couldn't deny it, I could only stand there and bite my tongue, and ultimately I made the ultimate mistake of lashing out against another of my closest friends. We were all in the darkness, slowly being guided towards our caskets by the opposing hoof. For coincidentally, only a day after that meeting took place, the sky would shatter.

Harmony became corrupted, and had I been more weary of her, then perhaps I would've been prepared.

There standing at the top of a makeshift natural staircase made of dirt and grime which lead towards the tree of harmony, was what appeared to be a draconequus. She was fairly young based on mere appearances.The sky overlooking the entire area was amass with black clouds and loud with thunder. The draconequus had pink hair with streaks of white coursing through her wild bangs, as her tiny wings were a pale yellow shade. She bore no expression at this time, and only looked up towards the sky for a moment.

She frowned to herself, as if disappointed. The demeanor of the draconequus was horribly gloomy, as were the deep black bags underlining and bordering around her eyes like that of a raccoon. It was as if that grieving expression was permanently indented on her face, and she knew not how to make any other expressions. She wore a black hooded cloak, and had a staff fastened to her back by use of a brown leather strap. She raised her paw to the sky, before curling it in. With her motions, came another loud echoing boom which reached towards the far ends of Everfree Forest. And with her heavenly motion and call to her birthright of chaotic magic, rain poured down over her head and the entire region. This brought a fierce grin to her face.

At that moment it was revealed that littered behind the draconequus would be a multitude of pony corpses. The likes of many guards, both lunar and celestial in appearance, as they were strewn across the entire area like torn rag-dolls. Their divided pools of blood began to mix in with the moist dirt and grime beneath them. Some wore horrified expressions while others appeared confused, many of their eyes were wide open as they laid there. The draconequus didn't take the time to regard the corpses, perhaps she already had. But she did pull out a small pendant of a pink butterfly, before kissing it gently. "Mommy, show them the kindness I could not, welcome them with open hooves as I escort them to your infinite paradise. Let your tears of love bless them."

As she descended down the staircase she kept her eyes focused on the pendant wrapped around her neck. She looked at it as if it gave her peace, and the whole time while she did that, that gloomy demeanor never departed from her somehow. Soon enough, the draconequus arrived at the bottom of the staircase, tucking the pendant behind her cloak once again before approaching the entrance to the cave which lead to the tree of harmony. It was like taking a long walk through an open field, everything felt slowed for some reason. It also felt too quiet, there still had to be some more resistance. She still wore that pleased smile, but the closer she came to the cave entrance, was also the moment she practically unsheathed both her claw and paw, trotting on both her hooves like an upright pony. "Daddy, guide me as I bestow your gift upon the race of heretics."

Her expression became slightly more serious but still looked pretty much the same, but her eyes widened as she paused in that next moment, seeing as appearing in front of her would be two distinct clouds. One flashed with blinding light while the other was a darker shade of blue, sort of like the evening sky. She kept her eyes focused on both of them.

"That's enough!!!" Shouted a voice fiercely, as two figures emerged from their separate clouds.

The draconequus stayed stopped in her tracks, now with a displeased frown.

Revealing themselves would be Princess Luna, accompanied by Princess Celestia. Both princesses no longer wore their crowns, and actually looked far more casual than usual. They lacked their royal adornments, and were simply bare alicorns.

Princess Celestia glared at the draconequus before her with a fierce snarl. "What do you think you're doing!? Who are you!?"

Scarlet just commented with a straightforward tone, "I am Scarlet, and I have come to bestow my blessing upon the land."

Princess Luna scowled then, obviously just as upset as her sister, "What are you planning on doing to the tree!?"

Scarlet blinked a bit before before leaning her head back with a snicker and chuckle, "I just told you didn't I?"

Princess Celestia and Luna's eyes widened as they then glanced to one another, before frowning some themselves. Princess Celestia spoke firmly as she regarded the draconequus with a heavy look of sorrow and regret. "Then you have forced our hooves, we won't let you come in here and destroy the very foundry Equestria's built upon. Why you would do something like this is beyond my understanding. Your crimes will plaque Equestria for years to come, you can't be allowed to do this. "

Princess Luna squinted and raised a brow, remaining silent for a moment before asking herself, "Are you a draconequus?"

Scarlet looked at them as if they were crazy for a moment, before frowning again. She clutched her pendant with both her paw and claw, pressing it against her chest before closing her eyes and muttering a silent prayer. "Mommy, I must place two more souls in your care, they are goddesses in their own right, please show them the respect they deserve. Show them the kindness that I could not." She paused before continuing, "Daddy, I ask you again to guide me as I bestow your gifts of chaos upon those who dare go against the righteous path that must be bestowed upon the races of Equestria." She opened her eyes before kissing her pendant, "I will open their eyes, and lead them back into the light from which they've strayed from for all these years."

Princess Celestia stomped a hoof in protest and desperation. "Stop this! Why!? Why would you make it your personal mission to go against all the good things we've established for you and the rest of your generation? There is no point to this madness, to this chaos! If you do this, the consequences will be catastrophic!" She stomped a hoof, "Where did you even learn to speak like that? To act in such a manner? From whose womb do you belong to!?"

A devilish grin spread from cheek to cheek on Scarlet's face as she rose her paw and claw. "The ponies of Equestria have strayed from the righteous path, they hide from the evils which surround them daily, they ignore them, and they are blind to the pain and suffering of the world around them. Fear, hatred, despair, they are things that must be mastered in order to prepare ones self for the future. Now I alone must be the message Equestria needs. Mommy has educated me greatly in the truth of your ways."

Princess Luna wore a saddened expression as her drenched mane covered her face somewhat. It was fitting to her, she was far from happy. "You're very opinionated for such a young little thing, I'm saddened by the fact that you must resort to even this in order to feel appeased with yourself. How you turned out so twisted and different is beyond me. Your reign of terror has gone on long enough and you have forced us into this position. You are the reason we goddesses of the past have emerged to give aid once again, because even now, there are exceptions. Even with our powers waned, the two of us together should be more than enough to put an end to you." Princess Luna paused, "It has been long since I've last seen one so confused." She frowned heavily.

Scarlet stood there, still with gloomy eyes before glancing down at the mud beneath her, then once again pulling out the pink butterfly pendant. "Mommy is a great mare. She sacrificed everything to give birth to me. All the other ponies, they have all become confused and lost. There is only one way you can make them understand the truth. Punishment is necessary."

Princess Celestia shook her head. "There's no getting through to you. Do you truly think Twilight and the others will stand idly by once they hear about what you've done!? This tree is more precious than you know! How you found out about it I don't know, but this is a sacred place, the world will not accept this! We will not accept this, so surrender now! Or pay the ultimate price."

Scarlet didn't budge, and only just took a few more trots forward.

At that point Princess Luna snarled, before reappearing high above the draconequus. She'd let off a magical blast towards the her, attempting to finish her quickly before the fight really started. And as the the blast had made contact with the child, there'd suddenly emerged a veil of yellow and pink smoke, practically absorbing Luna's spell. As Luna noticed this, she'd paused, before disappearing yet again in a flash of blue smoke, and reappearing besides Celestia.

Princess Luna and Celestia just stood there patiently, simply waiting for the smoke to clear. As it did, there eyes widened as they both suddenly appeared petrified, unable to definitely describe what it was they were seeing before them.

There standing beside the draconequus as the two were shielded by a magical pink barrier; would be an all too familiar mare. She bore a beautiful pink mane and her coat was a light yellow shade with beautiful cyan eyes. She stood there, beside the draconequus child while petting her head. The draconequus at this time had her staff unsheathed, as the mare beside her just stood there patiently and pleased, caressing the draconequus's head with loving affection, just looking upon the two alicorns with a smile. "Hmhm......."

Princess Celestia's expression sunk drastically, as it slowly became an expression of horror despair, then anger. Her eyes swelled with tears as she looked upon the figure standing before her, "What?...What's going on here? Fluttershy?"

The pale yellow mare just sighed, before bursting into laughter. "Aha...Ahahahahahahahahaha!!!!" In that moment, the mare appearing as Fluttershy, just grinned fiercely before cocking her head back and raising an amused brow.

And in that moment, Fluttershy's eyes momentarily flashed with a neon green color.

We were unaware, of just how far she'd go to ensure the ponies were knocked off their pedestal.  

Please realize what we couldn't. Draconequus could never be handled under normal circumstances. The answer has been before us all along, and we just couldn't see it in regards to all of them. Fighting alone won't work, only the power of friendship will. I only hope these words won't be wasted, whomever may have to deal with such issues ahead.

In present time, Scarlet grinned as she stood there. They were still in a realm far different from the Equestria the ponies were familiar with. Surrounding them would still be the depictions of a filly's storybook, with floating dolls, chocolate rivers and streams, strange elevated towers and a multitude of different pieces of candy. Streams of a liquid red trailed down Scarlet's body as she wore a sadistically playful expression with a raised brow. "I wonder how bad it hurts. It must hurt really bad, right, Princess Celestia?" The child draconequus's face would be decorated red, as she'd licked her lips, getting a taste of the bitter substance.

She chuckled as she just repeatedly tapped the surface of the ground with her lamp post.

Princess Luna, Twilight Sparkle, Rainbow Dash, Pinkie Pie, Applejack, Rarity, Eve, Fluttershy, all who were present were frozen with petrified expressions. They couldn't react, and Twilight who looked as if she'd been battered suddenly appeared as a lifeless husk before the sight, as she just fell to her side and the tears absently coursed down her face. Princess Luna in particular broke down almost immediately, as she cried out to her sister, "C-Celestia!?!? CELESTIA!!"

Princess Celestia was motionless, as her face was also drenched with the crimson substance, and it dripped from the bristles of her once beautiful white coat. Her eyes had lost their color, and were half closed depicting the princess was no longer with them. Princess Celestia's crown slid from her head, before dropping to the floor beneath them, and her mane also lost it's beautiful glow soon afterwords, before becoming motionless and falling limply to her sides. Princess Celestia was impaled on a series of crystal spires, as the sharp transparent glistening spikes punctured her on all sides, protruding and exiting from many regions of her body. Beneath her motionless body would be a pool of red, sparkling in this twisty candy coated realm.

Scarlet would bare her fangs with a wicked grin. I can you hear you clearly, I'm having the time of my life!

In Equestria, Princess Cadence and Shining Armor regarded one another with approving nods. They looked upon a golden chariot from a porch overlooking the Crystal Empire, as they both then looked up towards the midnight sky and full moon.

Princess Cadence glanced to her lover worriedly, "Do you think auntie and the others are okay?"

Shining Armor sighed heavily, "That's what we're going to find out, I find it strange that night's come this early as well."

Princess Cadence chuckled somewhat hesitantly, and deliberately, "I'm, I'm sure....they're just fine hmhm."

Shining Armor flashed Cadence a weak yet hopeful smile, as his eyes saddened a bit. He muttered softly, "Yea...."

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