Chapter 4:

'The Iron King'

Many guards were lined up on both sides of the large throne room as Princess Cadence and Prince Shining Armor were preparing to depart for Canterlot. As soon as they received the letter from Princess Celestia stating that their presence was required, they couldn't afford to decline the Princess's request, especially since the letter also stated that it involved the growing threat in the Frozen North, where Prince Dusk resided. Celestia had also sent a letter to Prince Dusk, requesting that he also come Canterlot so he could fill them all in on this supposed threat.

Prince Shining Armor knew little of the situation, even though the Frozen North was literally just right next to the Crystal Empire. When the thought entered his head, he started wondering, why did Prince Dusk send a letter to Princess Celestia and not Cadence? Surely anypony would know that it takes longer for a letter to reach Canterlot from the Frozen North, while it would only take mere minutes to reach the Crystal Empire. He started asking himself, why didn't Dusk ask him and Cadence for help instead?

If the Prince in the North wanted help then he could have gotten it quickly by requesting it from the Crystal Empire instead of Canterlot. Cadence would have happily obliged to send guards to aid him against this unknown threat. Instead, he took a longer route and asked Celestia and Luna for help. Shining Armor started to wonder if Dusk merely didn't trust him and Cadence, after all, the Prince in the North knew about the situation with Queen Chrysalis a while back, so it wouldn't exactly be a surprise if that was the reason for not asking the Crystal Empire for help. In all honesty, Shining Armor couldn't blame him, nopony would want to take a risk in asking help from a kingdom or empire that was once ruled by an imposter, even if the ruler of that empire guaranteed they were trustworthy.

As he continued to ponder in his thoughts, he noticed he and Cadence made it outside of the castle, and saw a royal carriage up ahead with two saddled Pegasi waiting for them. A large number of guards were also lined up behind the carriage, prepared to go to Canterlot with them.

Cadence moved on ahead and told all of the guards that they were to remain in the Crystal Empire. No guard attempted to protest but they all had concerned expressions on their faces, knowing it would be dangerous to let their royal leaders go without a large escort. Cadence however assured all of them that there was no cause for concern, and that she and Shining would be ok heading to Canterlot alone.

The guards all returned to their posts and Cadence motioned for Shining Armor to sit with her on the carriage. As soon as he did so, the Pegasi took off, pulling the carriage with them into the sky.

"Do you think Prince Dusk will show?" Cadence asked.

Shining Armor sighed. "I don't know. Considering how arrogant he is, it'd be a miracle if he did. I actually hope he does, because I'm really curious about this threat he speaks so much about."

"I agree..." Cadence said before looking at the land below them. "This land is beautiful, it frightens me to think what would happen if evil continued to plague it."

Hearing her words, Shining Armor nuzzled her and said, "Evil will always be defeated, just like we defeated Queen Chrysalis..." He leaned away and looked back at the Crystal Empire. "And King Sombra." He looked back at the front and his smile widened. "Just like my sister and her friends defeated Discord."

The mention of King Sombra's name made Cadence quiver with fear. Shining then said, "Don't worry, whatever this threat is, we'll beat it. As long we're united, nothing will stop us from protecting our home."

After hearing his confident words, she was able to relax again. Even if this threat was powerful, the combined might of Canterlot, the Crystal Empire and the North Kingdom would be more than enough to stand against it. What was the worst that could happen?

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Atleast twenty guards were lined up outside the silver castle, prepared and ready to depart. All they were waiting for was their Prince.

Magister Sky Shadow entered the throne room to escort Dusk out of the castle, but was surprised when he found that the Unicorn was not in his throne, where he usually always is. He checked to make sure he was appropriately dressed, as he didn't intend on making a bad first impression on the Princesses of Canterlot. His gleaming silver armour covered his entire body from neck to hoof, his wings however stuck out so he could still take flight, there was also a pattern of white blossoms decorated on the chest plate that went down to his right foreleg. His mane was nice and tidy and his tail was tied up, he also had a silver cape that went slightly past his tail, the cape itself also had a design of white blossoms that were patterned in a circle. On his back was a helmet, it looked like it could cover a Ponies head completely, it had a sort of noble knight look to it and there were two eye holes at the front.

After standing and waiting for a good long moment, he was relieved when the golden armoured Prince appeared from the open doorway just behind the throne. "Your highness." Sky Shadow bowed, his silver armour made a small rattling sound as he did so.

Dusk merely looked at him for a moment before making his way down the small set of stairs that was in front of the throne. "Celestia should be grateful that I'm even bothering to show up at this royal gathering. I assume the rulers of the Crystal Empire will be there too?"

Sky Shadow nodded. "Yes, Princess Celestia stated that she sent a letter to Princess Mi Amore Cadenza..." He said Cadence's name proudly. "And...Prince Shining Armor." He was hesitant as he said Shining Armor's name. Dusk started making his way towards the doors at the end the throne room, Sky Shadow followed. "Both of them will arrive in Canterlot way before us. If we hasten a little, we should be able to arrive without missing anything of importance, though I doubt Princess Celestia would start anything important without you."

Dusk narrowed his eyes as the two exited through the doors and into a small hallway. "I've ordered the guard to remain on high alert and keep the castle safe from his forces while we are away, I have faith that they will be up to the task. I've also sent word to the other Magisters, they are almost finished with their council and will move to catch up with us as soon as their done."

"I'd rather not leave my castle." Dusk stated as they reached another set of doors.

Sky Shadow opened the doors for the Prince, the two then exited out onto the snow covered bridge where the Pegasus guards were waiting, unfazed by the never-ending blizzard. Sky Shadow then put on his helmet, covering his head completely. "I understand your desire to stay your highness! But I believe this may be a good thing! After all, if Princess Twilight Sparkle agrees to marry, then you will atleast get to see what your future wife looks like! I heard she is quite beautiful!" He said loudly behind his helmet trying to make sure his slightly muffled voice was heard over the blizzard.

Dusk's horn began to glow a dark red colour. Within the blink of an eye, green wings of light that resembled that of an Alicorns suddenly appeared on his back. After casting his wing spell, Dusk flew off, Sky Shadow followed closely. "I will be the judge of that Magister! The only thing Princess Twilight Sparkle needs to worry about is whether or not she is worthy of me!"

Sky Shadow narrowed his eyes a little at the Prince. The twenty Pegasus guards caught up and formed around the Prince and the Magister. As soon as they reached and passed the top of the mountains, the beautiful land of Equestria came into view. "We fly for Canterlot!"

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Sitting in silence and pondering on her future, Twilight Sparkle sent a quick glance towards Celestia and Luna, both who were sitting outside on the large balcony of Celestia's room. The white Alicorn Princess had brought the sun up not too long ago, which meant the start of another day, and the day that Twilight Sparkle would meet her future husband, if he was going to show up of course. Though she was still uncomfortable with the idea of marriage, she was able to relax a little bit more now that she knew what was going to happen.

The other problem she had to deal with now was her brother when he eventually finds out that she is to be married to Dusk. She didn't doubt for a second that the Prince of the Crystal Empire would try and talk her out of it.

She then started wondering what her friends would think, especially Spike, as the dragon had been with her for a long time, and even he knew how arrogant Prince Dusk was. Just like her brother, they would most likely try and talk her out of it, but even so, she had made her decision and she was going to stand by it.

If those stallions that attacked them really were a part of this threat, then she would have to marry in order to protect her friends. Not just her friends though, but Ponies everywhere. Prince Dusk clearly stated that he would help protect their homes, and that being the case, marriage was a small price to pay for the happiness of others.

"Twilight Sparkle..." Celestia's voice caught the young Alicorn's attention.

Approaching the two older Princesses, Twilight said, "Yes Princess Celestia?"

Celestia slowly turned and faced her. "You're nervous aren't you?"

"Yes..." Twilight didn't hesitate to answer that one. Of course she was nervous, she was going to be married, to a Prince who has quite the reputation for being the biggest jerk in all of Equestria. She could only imagine how much Ponies opinions of her would change when this news begins to spread. "I am nervous, but I promise, I won't disappoint you."

Hearing those words made Celestia smile a little. "You could never disappoint me, Twilight Sparkle."

Rolling her eyes, Princess Luna turned and said, "I think we should prepare for Cadence and Shining Armor's arrival. Dusk too, if he is coming."

"I agree sister..." Celestia turned to her former student and said, "Twilight...if Prince Dusk does come then I would like for you to be here when he tells us about this threat in the North. We will all need to know everything about it if we are to defend ourselves against it. If you were planning on returning to Ponyville to see your friends, I'm afraid I must ask you wait a little while until we have spoken with the other royal leaders."

At the mention of her friends, Twilight's eyes widened, remembering what she had said to Starlight last night.

"But as soon as I'm done with my business in Canterlot, we can spend the rest of the night together, how does that sound?"

The young Alicorn Princess started feeling guilty, wondering how the red Earth Pony was feeling when she didn't return to Ponyville last night like she said she would. She made a mental note to send a letter to Spike later.

"Is something wrong Twilight Sparkle?" Celestia asked.

Twilight shook her head and walked by the white Alicorn's side. "I'm fine. Just...thinking about something."

"You're thinking about your friends aren't you?" Celestia said.

"...Yes." Of course, Celestia can read her like an open book. She started thinking about her friends again, and wondered, what would happen once she married Prince Dusk? Would she go with him to live in the Frozen North once this threat was dealt with? Would she never be able to see her friends again? The thought of never seeing her friends again terrified her greatly, it was her friends that stuck with her through thick and thin, it was her friends who were always there for her when she needed help. Now she was worried, because there was a chance that she may have to leave them all behind, she could never do that, but she wouldn't exactly have a choice. "Princess Celestia...what happens once we've gotten rid of this threat? After I marry Dusk I mean."

Celestia had no answer for that question. Luna on the other hoof, said, "Once all is done...you may have to go with Dusk to the Frozen North."

"But...that means I would have to leave my friends behind." Twilight replied.

Luna said nothing to that and walked on. Celestia sighed and finally spoke up. "I understand how you feel Twilight Sparkle...but when the time comes, you will have to go with Dusk. He will not allow you to remain in Canterlot, and if anything were to ever happen to him, it would be up to you to lead his kingdom."

Things just continued to get better and better. First the Cutie Mark Crusaders were attacked by a group of Ponies who were believed to be a part of this large threat, then she found out that she was to be married to the biggest jerk in all of Equestria, then she forgets to spend the rest of last night with Starlight when she said she would. Now she may have to leave Canterlot and live the rest of her life in the Frozen North, never to see her friends again, the thought was driving her crazy.

Despite this though, Twilight decided it would be best to just accept whatever happens through this marriage, for everyponies sake, and Celestia's. "I wonder how the others are doing right now."

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Applejack and Rarity had gathered the others together to inform them of the events that had taken place near the Everfree Forest. Pinkie Pie was her usual cheerful self, and she asked a large number of questions, one of which was why they hadn't introduced the stallions to her. Of course, the pink Pony didn't fully understand what they meant, and so she had a hard time processing what was said to her, the fact that those same, dangerous stallions tried to hurt Apple Bloom, Sweetie Belle and Scootaloo.

Fluttershy on the other hoof, was devastated and was on the verge of tears, wondering how anypony could possibly sink so low. The group, which consisted of Rarity, Applejack, Rainbow Dash, Fluttershy, Pinkie Pie and Spike, were all inside Fluttershy's cottage, thankfully Fluttershy was already done tending to the animals by the time they all arrived.

"So...what do you think's gonna happen?" Spike asked.

"Well isn't it obvious?! We're gonna have a PARTY!" Pinkie Pie yelled out in her usual hyper tone.

They all looked at her for moment, she sat back down and said, "Sorry...got carried away again."

Rarity narrowed her eyes as she looked at the floor. "Well I certainly know one thing...if something is not done about those brutes then they may try to harm other Ponies. We simply cannot allow such evil acts to go unpunished!"

"An' what do ya expect us ta do? If ah remember correctly, we aren't in any position ta do anythin' about 'em. We'll jus' have ta hope Princess Celestia is able ta figure out what ta do, after all, Spike did send her a letter, and ah'm sure Twilight told her what happened aswell." Applejack replied.

"Unless of course they decide to come back here." Said a voice.

The group turned to see Starlight standing by the open door. "Starlight, how are you feeling?" Rarity asked.

Starlight shrugged as he walked over and sat down next to Fluttershy, the latter who was giving him a very concerned look. "Well, let's just say that if it wasn't for Pinkie Pie cheering me up with another one of her cheer up parties, I'd be worse for wear. Thanks again Pinkie." He said as he gave Pinkie a smile.

"You're absolutely welcome!" Pinkie replied, still smiling.

Fluttershy decided to speak up. "Um...I..."

"Yeah Fluttershy?" Applejack said, curious about what she was going to say.

With all eyes on her, Fluttershy merely backed down and remained silent.

"Come on! Spit it out!" Rainbow Dash said.

Fluttershy looked at Spike and said, "Well...Spike? Do you think you could send Princess Celestia a letter?"

"A letter for what Fluttershy?" The young dragon asked curiously.

"I just think...maybe we should...you know, go to Canterlot. It might be a little easier if we discuss this with Celestia herself right?" Fluttershy replied.

Rainbow Dash raised a brow and nodded. "Good point. The sooner the better I say..."

Spike rolled his eyes before leaving to retrieve a quill and a scroll.

Rarity turned back to Starlight and noticed something. There was a large mark on his face, as she closed in, she realised it was a bruise, and a rather painful looking one at that. "Oh dear!"

Starlight looked at her, confused. "Umm...what is it Rarity?"

"Your face dear! What happened to your face?!" She asked as she grabbed his head and pulled him towards her so she could inspect the bruise.

Applejack, upon noticing the bruise aswell, said, "Ah think ah know how he got that."

"Do tell..." Rarity said, Starlight's head still held in her hoofs.

When all eyes were on her, Applejack explained. "Ah know it couldn't have been anywhere else but the Everfree Forest. That's the only place he could've gotten the bruise."

Fluttershy spoke up. "But...umm...how did he get it exactly?"

Starlight was about to answer until Applejack continued. "Well, you remember what we told ya'll about those stallions? One of 'em was a big blue Pony, and let me tell ya, his hoofs were probably some of the biggest ah ever done seen."

"Air Break his name was." Starlight added.

Applejack nodded. "Right. Air Break. Anyway, it was him that gave Starlight that bruise. Ah saw it happen with mah own eyes, Starlight rushed him and got smacked right across the face."

"Oh dear..." Rarity said as she looked back at the bruise on the red Ponies face. "How did I not notice this last night?"

Starlight shrugged. "The pain was there but the bruise hadn't formed yet. And I woke up this morning with a major headache."

"I could throw you a get well Party if you'd like!" Pinkie Pie said.

"Uhh...no thanks Pinkie." Starlight said. Rarity gently rubbed the bruise, Starlight winced when she put on a little more pressure. "If it's still painful then we'll need to get you a bandage or something darling."

Starlight slowly backed away. "Really Rarity, I'm fine." He gently pushed her back. "It is painful but I can deal with it."

Rarity sighed. "Wait! I know what do!" She approached Starlight again and put her horn up against his face. "Just stay still..."

The others watched as Rarity's horn began to glow, the light eventually engulfed half of Starlight's face. He closed his eyes as the light got brighter, after a few long seconds went by, the glow died down and disappeared. "There we go! Good as new darling!"

Starlight rubbed his face and noticed the pain was no more. He rushed over to a mirror at the corner of the room and was shocked when he saw the bruise was gone. "Whoa!" He turned to Rarity and said, "How did you do you that Rarity?!"

Rarity smiled. "Simple healing magic dear. It comes quite in handy in case situations like this ever came up."

"I see..." He rubbed his face again before walking back over to the group of mares. "Well whatever the case, thanks Rarity. I owe you, again."

Rarity giggled. "You're very welcome darling, just be more careful next time ok?"

"Hmph!" Spike frowned at the red Earth Pony before walking back over to Fluttershy, quill and scroll in hand.

"Alright...any volunteers?" Spike asked as he was ready to write the letter.

Fluttershy decided to speak up. "I'll do it..." She cleared her throat. "Dear Princess Celestia..."

Spike started writing down everything Fluttershy said.

"...I understand that...that there is important business going on at the moment within Canterlot, and I'm sure you have been informed of what happened outside the Everfree Forest. It makes me a little worried and I'm very concerned for the well-being of my friends and animals and all of the other Ponies. So, I would like to ask, if it is not too much trouble, if we could come to Canterlot and speak to you directly about this. The group of stallions hurt one of my friends and came close to hurting a few young fillies, if you already know what needs to be done, we would like to be there to hear it. Sincerely, Fluttershy."

Spike stopped writing, rolled the scroll up and breathed his magic fire onto it before blowing the ashes away into the air. "Done."

Rainbow Dash spoke up. "So...what? We just wait? Why don't we just go to Canterlot right now?"

Pinkie gave a cheery grin and yelled out, "We can have a party to pass the time! How about that?! Great idea! Huh?! Huh?! Huh?!"

"Umm...maybe another time Pinkie Pie. Ah think we should jus' wait it out." Applejack said.

Not liking the sound of that, Rainbow Dash floated in the air and said, "I could think of a thousand things to do to pass the time and you say we just sit and wait?! Who knows how long Princess Celestia will take to send a letter back! She's probably so busy that she might not even be able to send one back at all!"

Applejack raised a brow. "Ah'm quite sure the Princess will be able ta put some time aside ta send a letter back Rainbow."

Starlight turned to see Spike leaving the cottage. Since the mares were talking amongst themselves, he decided to follow the young dragon out. After closing the door behind him, he saw the dragon just sitting by the river up ahead. "Hey Spike!" He called out.

Spike looked at him for a quick second before turning back. Confused, Starlight approached him and said, "Are you okay Spike?"

"I'm fine Starlight." Spike replied.

The red Earth Pony raised a brow. "You don't look fine."

Spike looked at him once more. "Really Starlight, I'm fine. I just need some time alone right now..."

There was definitely something wrong with Spike, and Starlight began going through the list of what it could be. He was positive on one thing though, the dragon seemed quite angry at him. He sat down next to the dragon and stayed quiet, listening to the flow of the river and the birds singing.

Starlight looked up at the sunny sky and smiled.

"Nice day huh?"

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Somewhere in the mountains, North of the Crystal Empire...

Blitz Bolt flew up and landed just outside a cave that was hidden halfway up the mountain. He took in a few deep breaths and turned back to look at the vast land before him. He could practically see all of Equestria from where he stood. Not far to his left was the large castle of the Crystal Empire. Further on in the distance, he was able to easily make out the large towering mountain, and on the side of that mountain, the white castle, Canterlot.

His thoughts drifted back to the mare whom he had fought not too long ago. Rainbow Dash. He cursed silently and stomped his hoof on the ground, clearly furious that he suffered a humiliating defeat. Or rather, as he thought about it, he was not defeated, as Rainbow Dash had flew off to find her filly friends after he brought them up, as such, there was no true outcome. Even so, he was still angry that he was almost beaten by the cyan Pegasus, almost beaten by one of the famous Elements of Harmony.

Pushing the thoughts out of his head, he turned and entered the cave. It was large and dark but he was still able to make out where he was going. He started going through a list of excuses, how would he explain what happened last night? How would explain why he took so long to return? How would he explain how he got outwitted, by a bunch of fillies?

...Without a doubt, he had no problem keeping that last one to himself. Unless Kickback or Air Break blurted it out, then all he knew was that he had to prepare himself for the worst beating of his life.

He finally reached the end of the tunnel, there was a dim light shining through the opening up ahead. He walked on through the opening and into the large open cavern. There were stone pillars and statues lined up on both sides of the cavern, a large stairway up ahead that led to what looked like a ruined castle.

Movement caught his eye and he set his sights on the source.

Changelings.

There was a large number of Changelings walking around the cavern, some sitting down, they had set up small fires in various parts of the cavern and were eating various types of food. And if Changelings were here, then that meant only one thing.

Knowing something important was going on, Blitz Bolt wasted no time making for the ruined castle.

Upon reaching the top of the stairway, he slowly made his way over to the doors that led inside. As he was almost within reach to open them, they suddenly opened themselves. Exiting from the inside, was none other than Queen Chrysalis herself. Blitz Bolt stood still and watched as she was walking in his direction.

As soon as she reached him, she stopped. "Blitz Bolt I assume?"

Blitz Bolt merely looked at her, refusing to speak. Chrysalis chuckled. "Don't be afraid my friend...I am only here to help." She said with an evil grin before continuing on to meet with her Changelings.

He studied her, the holes in her legs, her messy mane, tail and wings, one would think she got caught in a stampede and barely made it out alive. Even so, the silver Pegasus couldn't help but sympathize a little, as he knew all about Queen Chrysalis's history.

Turning around once more, he opened the rusty doors and already found himself entering a large dark and rusty throne room. At the very end of the throne room, he could see his allies standing in front of a podium, there was also a large number of grey armoured guards lined up on both sides of the hall.

As soon as he nearly made it, all eyes in the throne room were on him. He was able to make out who stood beside the podium. Kickback and Air Break, and of course, the blind navy blue Unicorn, Vanisher.

"Ah! Blitz Bolt! You finally made it!" Kickback said, sounding a little happy to see him.

Blitz Bolt nodded. "Indeed, sorry I took so long, I was...err...busy. So, what happened?"

Air Break stomped his hoof onto the floor. "We got our tails handed to us! That's what!"

"I...I see..." Blitz Bolt said.

Kickback rubbed and patted his coat as he said, "Just look at what they did to my beautiful coat! AND my mane! Let's not forget about my wonderful tail! They have committed the crime of all crimes! And they must pay for it!"

Blitz Bolt, Air Break and Vanisher merely stared at him. "It was just water Kickback." Air Break said.

"DIRTY...water." Kickback replied.

Suddenly, a loud sound echoed through the hall, it sounded like a door getting slammed shut. Blitz Bolt and the others noticed that all of the guards that were lined up on both sides of the hall turned to the podium next to them and bowed.

"Blitz Bolt." A dark voice said.

The silver Pegasus froze as he heard his name being called. He, along with Kickback, Air Break and Vanisher, turned to the podium next to them and bowed. "My lord."

A tall stallion stood on top of the podium, hidden and shrouded by the darkness that covered almost the entire hall. "I was beginning to think that you had perished, Blitz Bolt."

"Of course not, my lord. I don't die easy." Blitz Bolt said, trying to keep calm.

The stallion slowly moved forward and into what little light was shining through the openings in the ceiling. As he emerged from the shadows and into the light, they were able to make out his appearance. He was tall, very tall, in fact, he was taller than Princess Celestia herself, if only slightly. He was an Alicorn, that much was obvious due to the long and terrifying horn on his head along with his wings. His coat was a dark grey colour, the rest of his features however were covered up by the silver metal armour he was wearing.

He wore a jagged metal helmet that covered the whole top part of his head and face, two eyes holes that revealed his eyes, his left eye was a blood red colour, his right eye however was pale and almost all white, his horn stuck out from a small hole that was carved into it. His hoofs were covered by large metal bracers and he had a large metal breastplate covering his whole chest and the lower part of his neck. What stood out the most though, was his wings, they were large metal wings that stuck out the back of his armour. The wings looked as sharp as a blade and they resembled that of a dragons wings. There was a small design of a dark grey crown decorated on the chest of the breastplate, as well as the large bracers.

And, although the jagged helmet covered up almost his entire head and face, there was a burn mark slightly showing on the right side of his face, which immediately explained the reason for his pale right eye. His armour expanded across his back and covered his flank, which also concealed his cutie mark.

Simply put, this metal armoured stallion looked like evil incarnate.

"And yet...here you return to me, with no satisfying news. I am disappointed in you Blitz Bolt, I was expecting my second in command to return with good news for once. But I should have known, you have failed me far too many times and my patience is nearing its limit." The metal Unicorn stated in a dark and cold tone.

Blitz Bolt cringed and kept his eyes on the floor. "I...I am sorry for not returning much earlier master...but..." He tried to think of something that would prevent him from suffering the worst beating of his life. With no excuses however, he resorted to the only possible thing that would save him. He lied. "But...I was too busy finishing off that Pegasus known as Rainbow Dash. You know, one of the Elements of Harmony?"

This caused the metal stallions eyes to widen a little. "Really? Do tell, Blitz Bolt." He said with an intrigued tone.

Hearing his tone, Blitz Bolt was able to relax a little. "I led her away and lured her into a trap. She was so helpless, she couldn't see where I was coming from, and before she knew it, I knocked her right out of the sky!" Blitz Bolt said in a proud tone.

Narrowing his dark eyes, the metal stallion said, "Is that so? From what Kickback and Air Break told me, they were attacked by Rainbow Dash as they tried to carry out the task I gave them. And you're telling me you killed her?"

Busted. But the silver Pegasus didn't give up and tried to keep up his act. "I-I...I was...I was not looking at the time, and...and she attacked me from behind like the coward that she is. She then ran off to help her friends, I pursued her and...and I...umm..." He scratched his head with his hoof before continuing. "I found her again...she was with a few others, but I can't remember them exactly. All I know is, we fought each other again, and I left her to drown in the river." He looked at the metal stallion and tried to keep up a confident look, hoping nopony would see through his lie.

A long silence lasted for a good long moment before the metal stallion spoke up again. "Are you sure that the Element of Loyalty is no more? You saw her die with your own eyes?"

Blitz Bolt shrugged. "I know I saw her fall into the river and not come back up again."

"So you aren't fully positive..." The metal stallion said.

The silver Pegasus merely looked at the dusty floor and remained silent.

After looking at the Pegasus for a moment, the metal stallion turned away. "Very well...whether or not she is dead is of no concern at the moment, I shall let you off this time Blitz Bolt."

"T-Thank you, master. I will not fail you again." Blitz Bolt replied.

Kickback chuckled. "Where have we heard that before huh?" He muttered to the blind Unicorn, Vanisher.

Vanisher merely stared at him behind his blindfold, his face was blank as usual.

The metal stallion turned back to the group. "I have a task that requires all of you to carry out."

With another chuckle, Kickback said, "How wonderful. And I'm assuming you're going to send Fire Shock with us this time?"

"Fire Shock is currently back in Dalkia dealing with a rebellion. Once he has dealt with it, he'll return with the main army." The metal stallion said.

Air Break raised a brow. "So...what's the task exactly?"

The metal stallion narrowed his dark eyes at them. "While I would like to believe that Blitz Bolt successfully killed one of the wielders of the Elements of Harmony, I am not going to take any chances. The Elements of Harmony have defeated others before me...Nightmare Moon...Discord...I will not allow myself to be added to that list. I have planned this for a long time now, and if I am to succeed, then I must get the Elements of Harmony out of the way, as I know all too well how powerful they are."

Blitz Bolt's eyes widened a little. "Wait...what are you saying master?"

The metal stallion slowly made his way off of the podium. "I want the four of you to meet up with Cloud Hunter. He is currently waiting in Canterlot. As soon as you arrive, he will lead you inside the castle. From there, I want the five of you to retrieve the Elements of Harmony and bring them back here."

"W-What?! You...I...but...but he...ugh..." Kickback took a deep breath and continued. "Right. Let me get this straight. You're suggesting, that we go all the way over to Canterlot. Voluntarily...ENTER it. And while somehow remaining UNDETECTED...we make our way to the room where the Elements of Harmony are being kept, sealed up behind a magical door that only Princess Celestia can open, retrieve them, and get out of there, while trying not to get our limbs torn off by the Princesses magic? Really? REALLY?!"

The metal stallion merely stared at him. "I have every confidence that you and the others will be up to the task."

"But why send me?!" Kickback replied.

"Simple Kickback..." The metal stallion said. "For one, Vanisher and myself don't have the ability to use healing magic, but you have experienced medical abilities, which is why you are our armies medical officer, am I right?"

Kickback sighed. "I...suppose you're right."

"If something where to happen to the others, they'd need somepony to treat their wounds. Who better than you?" The metal stallion added.

Realising he brought up various good points, Kickback sighed in defeat. "...As you command my lord."

The metal stallion narrowed his eyes at them all. "For the record, you may want to be careful who you attack this time. One of the Ponies you attacked was Princess Twilight Sparkle." As he said this, their eyes all widened in shock. "And had you actually killed her, you would have ruined my plan, be glad that you didn't."

"H-How...how do you-" Before Air Break could ask, the metal stallions spoke over him.

"Simple Air Break. Vanisher showed me what happened, Twilight Sparkle and another wielder of the Elements of Harmony, Applejack, were the Ponies who defeated you. Keep in mind that I do not care if you kill any of the other Elements of Harmony, but Twilight Sparkle must live in order for my plan to succeed. Am I understood?" The metal stallion said.

"Understood master." The three said, while Vanisher merely nodded.

The metal stallion grinned. "Now go! Retrieve the Elements of Harmony and bring them back to me! The rise of the Iron Empire begins now!"

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"Magister Sky Shadow did say that he and Prince Dusk left for Canterlot correct?"

Four Unicorns, clad in armour, slowly made their way down the empty throne room of Dusk's castle as they discussed the possible marriage that was to take place.

"Indeed Snow Charm. Though I do not know why Dusk is suggesting marriage as the method for an alliance, but I would assume he will tell us in due time. It would be quite foolish to keep information from the very Ponies who keep order around here." One of the Magisters said. Unlike the others, he wore gold plated armour much similar to Dusk's, only his covered up his entire body, minus his mane and tail. His helmet also looked like it resembled that of a Manticore's head, it had large red fur attached to the top and went down the back of the helmet and was tied around his neck. It was also complete with a design that looked like fangs on the mouth of the helmet, there was also two eye holes that allowed the Unicorn to see. There was also fire patterns designed on his armour, and his white cape was no different as it had a large fireball design on it.

Snow Charm faced the golden armoured Magister. "Burning Mace...do you think it is wise for him to be making such a move? After all, I do not think that marriage is necessary. A temporary alliance was all he could have offered until we have defeated the enemy." Snow Charm's armour was pretty much similar to Burning Mace's, only it was silver. She had a breastplate around her chest aswell as bracers around her hoofs and a helmet that pretty much resembled the same helmets the guards in Canterlot wore. There were snowflake designs carved into the breastplate and the bracers, and just like Burning Mace, she also had a cape only this one had a snowflake design aswell. Her coat was a bright blue colour and her eyes were a light yellow, her mane and tail were also a dark grey colour.

"All is an enemy of the North Kingdom..." The third Magister wore complete black armour. His helmet resembled that of a dragons head and it had a thinly carved slit where his eyes was. Unlike the others, there was no design on his armour or his black cape.

Snow Charm faced him. "And what is that supposed to mean Black Lance? Surely you are not implying that Canterlot and the Crystal Empire are our enemies too."

Black Lance continued walking on and spoke in a dark and cold tone. "That's exactly what I'm implying, just as Dusk had created his own Kingdom, so too did Celestia and Luna. Had it not been for their meddling, Discord would still be ruling Equestria even as we speak."

"You cannot be serious! Are you saying Equestria would have been better off with Discord as its ruler?!" Snow Charm replied.

No reply came from the black armoured Magister. Snow Charm said, "If Celestia or Luna hear you say such words then they will have you thrown into the dungeon."

"Ha!" Black Lance stopped walking, as did the rest of them. "I am a Magister of the North Kingdom, Celestia and Luna know that if they even so much as touched me, Dusk would retaliate in his own way. That of course, would be cancelling the alliance and the marriage, not that I would mind him doing that, I think it'd be a splendid idea." He turned to Snow Charm. "Marrying Princess Twilight Sparkle is a grave mistake on his part, she is nothing but a little filly with a piece of power that was hoofed down to her, she did not earn the right to be called Princess."

Burning Mace nodded. "I concur with Black Lance, I do not think this Twilight Sparkle is worthy of the honour... she is indeed nothing more than a little filly. I really have no idea what Princess Celestia was thinking when she made such a decision. It is because of this very reason, that I question Equestria's rule."

Snow Charm turned to the last Magister. "Freed...what of you? Do you believe this is the best course of action for our Prince to take? I for one, believe Princess Twilight Sparkle earned what was given to her and I am sure that, although she is lacking in experience, she will make up for in smarts."

All pairs of eyes were on Magister Freed. He wore metallic brown armour that looked much similar to the other Magister's, only it had no design and his black cape was no different than Black Lance's. His helmet however resembled a minotaur, there were two thin eye holes which allowed him to see, and there were two horns attached to it. After a long silence, Freed spoke up. "Black Lance...Burning Mace...the two of you would do well to hold your tongues. If I recall, that little filly as you call her is to be Prince Dusk's wife, thus, that makes her our future Queen. You would be wise to remember that." He said in what one would consider the calmest tone possible.

Black Lance and Burning Mace said nothing after that and remained where they stood. Snow Charm spoke up. "Now then...to make up for lost time, let us combine our magic, we should be able to create a teleportation spell powerful enough to take us right to the gates of Canterlot. We will await Prince Dusk and Sky Shadow if they have not arrived already."

"So be it." Black Lance said as his horn started to glow a black colour. Snow Charm's horn glowed a bright blue, whereas Burning Mace's glowed a fiery orange. Freed's horn glowed a simple white light, and as all glows began to get brighter, the four Magister's were engulfed in the light. Eventually, it disappeared, and they along with it.

__________________________________________________________________________________

Once again, night had come and Luna had raised the moon as was her duty. Twilight was kept inside the castle the whole day and there were no words in existence to describe just how bored she was. It was because of this, she started thinking that being a Princess wasn't all as amazing as she thought it'd be.

Thankfully, her company consisted of Princess Celestia herself, Princess Luna however was too busy to talk to her, as she had taken up the duty of welcoming Princess Cadence and Prince Shining Armor, whom she was looking forward to seeing. At the same time however, she wasn't looking forward to seeing her brother, as he still had yet to be informed of her marriage.

As Celestia walked to her side, she asked, "Princess Celestia...do you think my brother will be mad at me for agreeing to Dusk's marriage?"

The tall white Alicorn Princess smiled at her. "If I recall, was it not you who didn't like the idea of your brother marrying at first?"

Wow. Good point on her part. Twilight chuckled a little. "True...but I'm just a little worried, what if he tries to stop it? Dusk will no doubt cancel the alliance between us and we'll be vulnerable to this enemy."

Celestia put a hoof on her back and said, "Worry not, young Twilight Sparkle, I promise you, no matter what happens, your brother will support you every step of the way. That is what family is for is it not?"

And of course, another point goes to the all powerful white Alicorn Princess. "I suppose..."

Before the two could continue their conversation, a guard rushed into the room. "Your highnesses! Princess Cadence and Prince Shining Armor of the Crystal Empire have arrived!"

Celestia looked down at Twilight and smiled. "Let's go and greet them, shall we?" Twilight returned her smile and nodded.

They caught no break however, for as soon as they left Celestia's room, they saw another guard rushing towards them. "Your highnesses! Prince Dusk of the North Kingdom is approaching."

"Oh dear..." Celestia muttered.