I stare out over Equestria as I watch the sun set over the land. The same cascade of colors washes over the sky as the land slowly fades away. It's a sight I always love to see. The colors fading into one another, as if the sky itself was transforming before my eyes. Changing every so slightly, yet remaining the same as it was and always will be.

But Equestria, it changes drastically. I remember a time when the sun would set and the land would fade to black, save for the sliver of moonlight. But, slowly, it started to change. Dots of lights would appear, ever so slightly. Those lights would grow in time, adding smaller fires around them until they morphed into something larger. Detrot. Manehatten. Ponyville. And now the Crystal Empire far to the north. Equestria is changing everyday, but at least there's something I can rely on to be the same, regardless of time.

Speaking of changes, tonight seems to be the night of nights for changes. Every village and town is shining brightly tonight! Equestria seems to be covered in a tapestry of lights and fireworks as the first ever nationwide Grand Galloping Gala kicks into full swing! And at the center of it all stands Canterlot!

Dazzling lights shimmer off the castle walls in a mesmerizing array of colors and patterns. Even the lower buildings seem to have their own effects on full display! Lights, illusions, decorations, no expense was spared. If I didn't know any better, I'd say they were competing with one another. But, tonight isn't about knowing better. Not now at least. Tonight is about showing that Equestria stands together, regardless of what the world says.

The day was far too busy. Too many things to prepare for, too many ponies asking too many questions. We were fortunate that Pinkie was able to get as much done as she did. Though I will never understand how that little pony did all of this over the entire nation by her lonesome. I fear it is a question better not asked aloud.

"Princess Celestia?" I'm pulled away from my ramblings as one of the maids pokes her head into my study. "It is time Princess."

"Of course, thank you. I'll be out in a moment." I offer her a smile and a nod in thanks. She returns one in kind and leaves, shutting the door quietly. It would seem my time to ramble in my head is up. Now my real work begins.

Getting ready for the night is easy enough. I don't worry about makeup or styling my mane like Luna does. She's always been a bit envious of how quickly I can get ready, but I think she makes me look better when I let her do it. Not that I'd ever tell her that. Though she refuses to believe it, she can get an ego bigger than Miles's. I wonder if that's a byproduct of being around him? If it lets me blame him, I see no harm in it.

I pull out the two dresses I was considering for the night and check them against myself in the mirror. The first one is a rather modern dress. Mainly being pink with stripes of pastel blues and yellows. It fits nicely, but there's something about the other that keeps drawing my back to it. It's an older dress of mine. Much older. Preserved with magic, I haven't worn it since I courted the Old King to aid our march on Sombra. Knowing what I know now, and knowing what I'm doing tonight, it keeps calling to me. I want to wear the dress Rarity made for me... but when in Roam.

I trot down the halls feeling a bit giddy. I can't help it! The dress gives me a confidence I haven't felt in a long, long time. And all the turning heads are definitely aiding that perfectly. I make it to the main entrance where I see Twilight and Speaks Softly waiting for me. I can't help but chuckle when I see the two of them do a double take. Like mother like daughter it would seem. I take my place by Twilight's side and act as if nothing is wrong. I can feel the smug smile plastered all over my face right now.

"Twilight, are you ready for tonight?" I ask her curtly, getting her to snap forward.

"Y-yes Princess! Um... are you sure you want... I mean, eh... how do I put this?" I charge my horn and start the process of opening the doors. I'm not changing out of this, not after a reaction like that.

The tall doors open completely and a wave of ponies start to march their way in as fireworks light the sky above. The front row of ponies are nobles I'm well aware of. The Canterlot elite, business moguls, and top tier celebrities. They collide into one another as they take their first view of me.

I'm in the toga I wore when I was anointed in Roam. Pure white silk trimmed in gold drapes over me elegantly, fitting comfortably against my sides. Each of my legs are visible thanks to the cloth being opened widely at my shoulders and hips. A large broach is pinned on my chest. I almost forgot I had this still to be honest. It's the crest of Roam. A sword pointing down flanked by a pair of wings all set before a round shield. I've added a few other accessories as well. I few bracelets, my usual necklace and tiara, a few rings keeping my mane bound together. But the piece that has everyponies attention is the piece that hold my toga together.

Set across my back and sticking out slightly to my left is a great sword. A great sword by alicorn standards at that. It's black scabbard has silver etchings of an important battle I'm sure nopony here knows about. It's large ruby pommel shines brilliantly beside neck, giving my side a light red glow. I've never been one to name objects before. Maybe on the rare occasion, but never of my own volition. But I've forgotten how good it felt to carry Tide Breaker.

"Welcome everypony to this years Grad Galloping Gala!" I announce to the crowd before us, coaxing them inside. "We hope this years Gala will be the most grand of all. Please, come in and enjoy the evening with us!"

Twilight and I start the process of greeting ponies as they start to funnel into the castle. This year is different in that we've opened up more of the castle to the public. The library, all of the studies, and the observatory are all open and staffed for the night. I'm amazed at that crowd that's appeared here tonight despite the rather short notice. But I guess there are a lot of ponies that wanted to take advantage of the chance to see the castle in all its glory.

As we work through the crowd I notice Softy stealing glances. Just as Twilight was, she's nervous to be around me. I find it adorable to see the small filly hiding behind her mother. But I'm feeling the need to coax her out more.

"So, Softy, how well do you know Equestrian history?" She gives her mother a nervous look, who nods her along, before answering from the safety of her hiding spot.

"I know a bit..." I hum a chuckle at that. She's being modest. If she's anything like her mother that is, which I know she is.

"Well, I have an arsenal of history to share, if you'd like?" I shoot a grin at her, getting her to smile softly back up to me. Though, I could hear a few nearby ponies roll their eyes at my pun. "Tell me, have you ever heard of the War of the Empires?"

"...um... I don't think so." Even though she's bashful for not knowing, I can tell I've piqued her interest. Twilight's too for that matter.

"That's okay dear, most haven't. This was a long time ago. Back before ponies called me princess!" There are a few ponies around us that desperately want to stay to listen, but the crowd forces them out of the hall. Much to their displeasure. "This was at the time Sombra raised his first army, not his slave army mind you."

"Sombra was a noble and held large tracks of land with many ponies under his rule. His predecessors made many alliances and they were a prosperous people. If the tribes weren't careful, they were going to be absorbed into his rule and he would own all of what would have been Equestria. But, a small city state started to vie for power. Do you know who?"

She thinks about it for a moment before going to shake her head. But she stops when she sees me gesturing to my toga. "Roam?"

"Very good. Roam appeared and set to work conquering their neighbors. Where Sombra ruled with gems and gold, Roam ruled with iron and... well, they thought might was right." Probably shouldn't scare her with all of the true details at the moment. Twilight give me a look of appreciation, to which I give a coy smile.

"Where Sombra had numbers, Roam had skill. Sombra had allies, but Roam had intimidation and fear. It was this balance that kept the two powers at bay. If Either side waged war on the other, there was a fear that both would lose. What is the point in fighting when there is nothing to be gained?"

"..."

"Well?" I ask her, catching her off guard.

"Oh... Uh... well... there... isn't?" I nod to her, getting her to take a breath of relief.

"But... one day, somepony found something to be gained. Gems were discovered in Roam, and it broke the balance. Sombra wanted something, and was willing to do anything to gain it. He was scared that if they had uncontested access to such a large gem vein, it would relegate them to the sidelines in the eyes of their allies. He feared losing his power, and it drove him to do something terrible."

"... what did he do?" Softy asks. I take a moment to greet a few more ponies before continuing. Though I do note Twilight's silence. I can tell she's interested, but there's something else going on in her mind.

"If you noticed, I've been referring to Sombra, and not a government or nation state. Much of his family controlled city states and the businesses of their would be empire. Sombra brought them all together... and took control for himself." She gives a piqued look, but I can tell that she doesn't really understand what that means. But, we'll save that story for a later time in her lessons. We need to keep this clean for the young one.

"Sombra was a fool, you see. He thought that if he controlled all the gems, he'd maintain his position. The Roamans weren't interested in trading their gems away. They needed them for their magics after all. But, there is no convincing greed. So Sombra gathered a large army and marched on the city state."

"Why didn't he try asking for the gems?" Softy asks, leaning out from behind her mother. I take a moment to greet several more ponies before answering her. I still have a job to do after all.

"We'll never know if he did, or if he even considered it. In all honesty, I can't imagine why he would though. Roam had a reputation for... hitting first and asking questions later. I don't know if they would ever trade them away for anything. But again, this is something we'll never know."

"Did you try and talk them out of fighting?" Her question makes me pause for a moment. It was such a long time ago, I rarely even think about what I was doing at the time.

Let's see... It was before the Three Tribes united, but before the Crystal Empire was pushed north. Roam was around, so it couldn't have been too late. Was this before or after the Doctor? Actually, it might have been at the same time...

"You know what, my dear. I did not." I tell her as all the memories start to come back to me. "You see... this was around the time I would go off on my own adventure for the very first time. A... very dear friend of mine... pulled me into a box."

I chuckle a bit at that. It sounds so silly, but it's the truth of the matter. The two of them give me a confused look, but I lose my chance to explain myself when a group of nobles approach me.

"Princess Celestia, what an honor!" I chuckle as I shake the stallions hoof.

"Fancy Pants, one day you'll have to think of a new greeting." I tell him as I give a slight bow to Fleur. "Fleur De Lis, stunning as ever!"

"Oh please Princess, I pale in comparison to you! Stunning, yet fierce! I think all of Equestria will be sporting togas for the next decade!" I blush a bit from that. I did't really think about the ramifications of what would happen if I wore this today. I guess fashion is going retro for a bit... really retro.

"Princess, I hope this isn't too mush of a bother, but there is something vital that I must discuss with you at the moment. I'm afraid that it is of the upmost importance and cannot wait." I chuckle for a moment, thinking he's joking. But I can see the cringing in the usually confident stallion. Whatever this is, it actually is important.

"Twilight, it would seem I am needed elsewhere. Could you be a dear and finish greeting the guest for me?" I ask her, keeping my voice calm and formal.

"Of course Princess Celestia." I nod my thanks to her. Before we leave I lean down to whisper to Softy for a moment.

"We'll have to finish our lesson another time, okay?" I give her a quick wink and she smiles back to me. I'll have to make sure to do a quick study on the matter before we talk again. Knowing that filly, she'll have millions of endless questions the next time we speak.

I lead Fancy Pants and Fleur through the main entrance and into the castle proper. There are dozens of venues for entertainment and refreshment dotting the interior. It all seems so inviting, but duty calls. I glance back at the two of them several times and find them in a small state of panic. Whatever is happening, it must be huge. Big enough to make the both of them sweat. I've never seen the two of them fidget so much before.

We make it to a study and shut ourselves inside. I take a seat of one of the large cushions and motion for them to take the one across from me. Fleur takes it, but Fancy stays standing. I don't he'll be able to keep still until after all this.

"Well, Princess... uh... well, there is no real easy way to say this. So I'm... I'm just going to say it!"

"... Okay. What is troubling you Fancy?" He takes a deep breath steel his resolve and goes to speak.

"..." He has the words of the tip of his tongue, but they can't seem to come out. He takes another breath and tries again, finding similar results. Maybe a third time would be the charm?

"All air ships of the East Equestrian Trading Company are being grounded immediately." Fleur blurts out, making Fancy finally exhale and nearly collapse.

I stare at the two of them and start to laugh. But, they don't join me, so I slowly stop and start to think things over. They can't be serious. They can't! That's more than half of our trade vessels suddenly out of action! All trade over the Divide would come to a complete halt! Not to mention what would happen to domestic trade!

"You can't be serious," I mutter as I sink into my cushion. They look to one another before Fleur stands to address me.

"I can assure you with the upmost certainty that this happening. Any ships thirty miles off the coast will continue with their current transports. But all other ships will head straight to port for needed repairs and updating. We are sorry Princess."

Numbers race through my mind as I start think about the actual implications of what they are saying. We would have to work out major city transportation. But anything else would just come to a halt. Small towns and villages would have to rely on hoof transport, which would delay goods by days! We'll have to figure out what resources to prioritize for air transit. Industry is going to be cut in half, if we're lucky!

And that's all before I even start thinking about the Griffin Colonies! Relations are strained as we stand now. But what will happen if we completely stop sending aid to them? Maybe we could figure something out, but that would take time. Time we don't have!

"What... what on Earth has made you come to this decision? Are you not aware of the legal ramifications? How much you'll have to pay for ending contracts? The public outcry from grounding so many ponies from their jobs? This will effectively cease all eastern trade for Equestria! How could you do this?"

I would normally try my best not to sound desperate. Normally I would try to remain level headed and collected. But normally, half of the economies commerce wouldn't just end suddenly. I knew giving all of this power to one entity would come back to bite me in the flank! I should have never let something like this happen in the first place! But, that's in the past. And I can berate myself about it later.

The two of them share another uneasy look. Fancy Pants looks as if he's about to pass out. Fleur is holding strong, but I know this mare. She's determined about this. Even if this is eating away at her.

"We know the cost. We've already ran the numbers. But, given the current political climate, we feel this is the right move for the company to make. We do apologize and will follow all legal proceedings-"

"Get out." I order them. Legal proceedings. I know what that means. They've already started. There's no going back now. They don't try to argue. They don't add any apologies or attempts to save face. They simply bow and leave the room.

Every curse word I know races through my mind as I start to think of the logistics at hoof. We'll have to find a way to pick up the slack, but where? There were no competitors within Equestria. Maybe the west trading company can pick up some of the slack, but nowhere near enough to compensate. To cover for the short term loss we'll have to make all traders operate internally. But that's just throwing fuel into a thousand other issues.

As I think of the implications, something suddenly comes to mind. They said this was for repairs. But their fleet has been the pinnacle of modernization! How could they suddenly decide to break away for repairs? No, there's something more to this. Somepony is pushing them to this. But who would gain anything from stopping all trade over the Divide and the eastern parts of Equestria?

Asking myself that, I com to the answer rather quickly. Miles. Terradisia needs more trade, and forcing us to lose half of our trading partners certainly makes things easier for them. He believes there will be a war soon and wants to prepare for it, aggressively. I cannot think of a single other person who would want and benefit from this more than him.

I practically launch myself from my cushion and storm out of the study. I need to confront him about this, now. There is a small chance that he'll listen to reason... a small chance. If not, then at least I can yell his ear off.

I make my way throughout the castle until I see the Spartans in the back of the main hall. They seem to be sticking to themselves, but are seemingly having fun. Loudly.

I take a moment to compose myself before approaching them. I need to be calm, cool, and most importantly, confident.

"Excuse me, ladies and gentlefolk, I'm looking for your Captain. Have you seen him?" I ask politely.

"Nah, he's probably in your sis-" I grab Elzy's beak with my magic and hold it shut. I don't need his sass at the moment.

"When he arrives can you send him my way please?" I ask the others. Most of them nod, though I'm sure they can tell something is wrong. "Thank you."

"Princess?" Si Ye asks from the far end of the table. I acknowledge him with a small smile. "Exitus acta probat."

I keep a calm facade about myself before I step away. Throughout my training I've learned quite a bit about these Spartans. While most at times can be brutes or overtly competitive, to assume them to be dullards would be presumptuous. Some may be smarter than others, but they all have learned to hold their tongues until just the right moment. If I were to use one word to describe them, I would settle on opportunist. They wait for their opening and take advantage of it. Whether in war, trade, or getting under my skin.

I make my way to the entrance and find it mostly empty. Save for several guards and the few late ponies trotting along, it would seem everypony has arrived. With the exception of my sister and her pain of a husband.

I can't think about him right now! Everything about him right now just drives me so crazy! Did he honestly put no thought into this!? No, knowing him he put too much thought into this move. I don't know if that makes things better or worse. And those theoretical war games he put me through! Was he just flaunting his influence in front of my face the whole time!? I'm going to wring his neck out and crush that smug look right off his face-!

"Princess, I know you want to be our general, but scowling at the main gate won't do you much good." I blink back to reality from Diamond Hearts remark. I look over to the old stallion as he steps before me and bows. He has a sharp looking tuxedo on with a dark red bow tie around his neck. A bottle of brandy is held nearby with his magic. "Might I say you look quite fierce tonight Princess, even without the scowls."

"Diamond Heart, last I checked you didn't drink," I remark bitterly, trying to compose myself.

"Oh, normally I wouldn't. But that young mare that threw this little shin-dig gave it to me as a gift. It's hard to say no to that mare you know," he says with a smirk as he pops the top off and takes a whiff. "And it's three hundred year old snow berry cognac. Legend says that pandas make this in their spare time using stolen griffin recipes. I do love a good history lesson with dinner!"

"You don't say?" I say blandly. I know that look though. He's going somewhere with this.

"Yup! Now I could just stick to my old morals and put this on a shelf somewhere and keep it as a memento, but that's not what tonight's about now is it?" He takes one last whiff before taking a large sip, letting out a loud sigh of relief as the alcohol burns its way down his throat.

"Are you trying to tell me that I should just sit back and enjoy the night Diamond? Because I don't know if I can do that with what's about to happen."

"Hm? Oh, nope!" He tells me with a hearty laugh. "Sorry Princess, but I just happened to walk by and find you. I was actually looking for my grandson to share this drink with him. But, it would seem he's off doing... whatever it is he's doing. I really should do better at keeping track of that stallion... Regardless! It would seem that I am at a loss! I have this special drink to consume, and nopony to share it with! And what a night to have nopony to share a drink with!?"

"Diamond, you know I don't drink-"

"What a shame it is too!" He cuts me off with his usual charm. "I don't know how many more Galas I'll be attending, with my years catching up with me and the aches and pains that riddle me!"

"Are you... are you trying to play the old stallion card?"

"And with my grandson lost at the moment, who could I share this memory with? What could be one of my last memories of the Grand Galloping Gala!" I stare at him for a moment before glancing around. Nopony is around. Save for a few guards, but they aren't looking...

"No!"I turn away from him and start to walk off. "I don't drink Diamond! Nothing is going to change that!"

"Not even a little secret a little birdy told me?" I stop and look back at him. His smug look has intensified, telling me he actually knows something big. That's something I've always appreciated about him, in retrospect. He's far too easy to read. It's usually intentional, but I appreciate a noble whose forthcoming.

"Would that secret be about the East Equestrian Trading company?" I ask him as I turn back to face him properly. His eyebrows pop up for a moment, an easy read per Diamond Heart conduct.

"What happened with them?" he asks, genuinely curious.

"They... you'll find out soon enough. Trust me on that. So it's not about them, then what is it about?" He takes a look around before passing the bottle towards me. I take a deep breath before looking around. There still isn't anypony around... and he is getting on in his years...

I've been good for over twelve hundred years! One sip won't hurt anypony. And I can hold my alcohol far better than Luna... who can't hold her alcohol. And snow berry cognac... that is rare... not that I would know, of course!

NO! NO! NO! I made a promise and I intend to keep it! What's the worth of any of my promises if I just justify it because of an old stallions over dramatizations!

Well... at least not in front of my guards at least. Maybe somewhere private... and just one sip! Would one sip count as breaking my promise? How did I even word that promise...? I think it was along the lines of 'neither wine nor ale shale touch these lips.' And cognac is technically a wine so I can't have it! And that's final!

"Diamond, I will gladly-"

"FANTASTIC!" He yells before shoving the bottle into my hooves.

"I WAS GONNA SAY SHARE THE NIGHT WITH YOU, YOU OLD COOT!" I tell as I try to give it back to him. I try to force it into his hooves, but for some reason it's proving to be harder than it should be.

"Come now Princess, one little sip and I'll give you some good news. News I know you'll need to hear." I pause to stare at him. He's being smug, but sincere. I take a look at the bottle before swallowing the lump in my throat. Sorry old friend, but tonight's the night I break my pact.

I bring the bottle to my lips and pause when the smell hits my nose. The sting of the alcohol hits me like the voice of an old friend. A friend that I got into too much trouble with in the past. I can feel my tongue start to water at the thought of having a taste of the beverage. I take a look at Diamond Heart and see that he's rather impartial at the moment.

I purse my lips on the edge of the bottle and take as small of a sip as I can muster. The cognac hits my tongue and fills my mouth with a delightful mixture of nuts and spices. The snow berries give it a tart, bitter, aftertaste. But it helps dull the sharp alcohol that stings its way down my throat. It is a delightful mixture. It's as if I had a warm drink in the cold bear winter, with a hint of a griffin pastry.

"The entire Apple family is joining the Terradisians."

"WHAT!?!?" I nearly toss the bottle behind me in rage. Diamond nearly falls over as several nearby glass shatter from my voice echoing throughout the hallway.

Out of rage or bewilderment or some other third emotion I take the bottle and knock it back.

"Princess!?" Diamond asks worriedly. I hold up a hoof and motion for him to wait.

CHUG

"Um... Princess?"

CHUG

"I guess I'll wait..."

ANGRY CHUG

"... you know I only had that one sip... right?"

I let out a loud sigh as I finish the bottle. I take a few deep breaths as I let the alcohol sting at my stomach. My friend would understand, or I don't care at this point, it's hard to tell. With everything they're doing I can't tell if they're trying to force us into hostilities or if Miles is just that stupid. What am I saying, of course he's that stupid. This is the same man that took my nobles hostage, let them speak ill of me, and then walked away from it all. Of course this is his stupid plan. His relentless posturing knows no bounds or limits.

"I... I don't know what to do right now." I tell Diamond Heart as I try to think. I honestly thought that we were close enough that this wouldn't happen. I thought that, because we were family, he would try to protect me. Not destroy everything I hold dear!

I never thought he'd actively try to hurt me.

"Princess..." Diamond sets a hoof on my shoulder and offers me a small smile for sympathy. "I am sorry to be the bearer of bad news. But there is a silver lining in all of this."

"How could there possibly be good news in all of this?" I ask him, my voice trembling slightly.

"My dear Princess, you should know this better than any! With the Apple family joining the Terradisians they now have a large enough population so that we will not have to deal with Miles any longer! They are now under the guidance of new, elected, leadership!"

I stare at him before it finally clicks in my head. How did I forget about this?! I'm done with treating Miles as a political leader! I'm free of possibly offending his nation! I don't have to take his crap anymore! The thought almost brings a tear to my eye! I'm done with him!

I scoop Diamond up and twirl as I give him a large hug. Several of his old bones crack as he yells in protest, but I don't care right now. And to think, if I play my cards right I can take over their government! Make it a tributary state to Equestria! I would have control over the Spartans, and all of their resources, and Miles would have to do what I say! MILES WOULD HAVE TO DO WHAT I SAY!!!

"We have work to do!" I announce as I set Diamond down with my magic. I take off for the gardens to find Twilight. I have a new goal in mind. I don't need to compete with Luna to be general. I need to win over the Apples to have them vote me in as the leader of the Terradisans! I need to speak with all of the Spartans! Should I make a trip to Mooseden? I'm getting ahead of myself! First things first, I need to speak with Twilight about the news!

I've always loved when the palace gardens grounds are dressed up for special events. But none have ever really compared to the Gala. It's the one night of the year where the entire nation gets an inside glance at the palace. Where nobles and celebrities dress extravagantly, showing off the the latest fashions. I may not be as swayed by those frilly things as much as somepony as Rarity, but they're always fun to see and be a part of.

This year has been taken to an entirely new level.

I would have called the last Galas quaint and refined. But this year is boisterous and rambunctious! But in a good way... I think.

There's a carnival, masquerade sort of a theme going on in the palace backgrounds. There are performers dancing on pedestals and swinging from high ropes, as well as walking around the crowds of spectators. They're all dressed in extravagant costumes while some even have various props like swords to swallow, juggling tools, and even some exotic animals on display!

I wouldn't think something like this would do very well with for a crowd such as this. Especially when compared to galas past. But I couldn't have been more wrong! There's a smile on every face as ponies snap back and forth from one attraction to the next. The dance floor is filled with jumping ponies and everyone there seems to be having the time of their lives! It's as if they all somehow knew that this was the one night of the year where they could let loose and have the night of their life without any consequences! But there's no way Pinkie would have been able to pull something like that off... right?

Softy and I are on the edge of the dance floor having fun dancing along. The mask we have are hard to keep on, but we're enjoying it all the same. It was a bit of a struggle getting her this far, but so long as I'm with her I think she'll do fine. Wearing a mask is probably helping too.

"Twilight!" I look back when I hear my name called over the music. Princess Celestia is trotting towards me. She seems elated about something, barely noting the bowing ponies as she rushes towards me. "Twilight, I have exciting news!"

"Princess, what happened?" I ask when she bounces to a stop before me. I haven't seen her this excited... ever. Not that I can recall at least.

"Well, I'm still working on the details, and I will be needing your assistance with this, and I'm sure there will be loads of competition, but suffice to say that I believe that we are soon to be annexing the Terradisians! So I'm going to need several reports on the people, the processes within their current government, as well as anything you know about basically everything they have at their disposal-"

"Whoa, whoa, whoa! Slow down!" My mind spins for a moment as I try to understand everything she just said. But one thing stands out among it all. "Did you say we're annexing Terradisia?" I ask in a hushed voice.

The amount of excitement I see in my former teacher scares me for a moment. It's tantamount to a filly on Hearths Warming Eve or Nightmare Night. She's practically dancing in place with an uncontrollable smile on her face. Even several nearby spectators are starting to get uncomfortable.

"I can't get too into details at the moment, even though I really want to, but suffice to say I have found a loop hole that may fix all of our problems! Well, most at least. It will be hard to tell right now but I'm sure we'll figure something out!"

"Okay..." I nod and smile along, not following even slightly.

"Oh! There's probably going to be a town meeting soon! We have to make sure to make this one, so clear up your schedule! We don't know when that'll happen so we're going to have to play it by ear!" I try to follow her words, but she started dancing to the music. Nothing too crazy, swaying hips and a light trot, but its pulling us away from our position as wall flowers. I try to keep up with her, but Softy is holding back in fear of joining the crowd.

"Um... Princess?"

"Should we bring something or do you think that would be too superficial? How quickly do you think we'd be able to absorb them into our empire? Oh! Oh! Can you imagine the look on Miles's face when I give him his first order!? I'll have to make sure he doesn't have a helmet on when I do it. We'll need a camera there as well-"

"Princess Celestia!?" I try again to reach her, but she's too far into her fantasy to really notice anything. I try to pick Softy up, but she's attached to my leg and isn't letting go. Celestia is starting to get too far into the crowd for me to listen properly, so I do the only thing I can think of.

FLASH

A moment later the three of us appear in one of the lounges dotting the outer garden area. It was the only way I could get her away from the crowd and think properly. I hope she doesn't mind.

"I'm sorry Princess, but I had to pull you away to think. What's going on? How are we annexing Terradisia? Is Miles aware of any of this?" She practically shivers in excitement from the last part, so I'm guessing he doesn't know.

"The Apple family has joined Terradisia." I blink a few times as I try to think about that. The entire Apple family? Or just the ones in Ponyville? What am asking, it's the Apples. It's all of them.

"That's terrible," I state plainly.

"I know, isn't it?" Celestia asks with a massive grin, still bouncing and swaying to the music. I get it now. She's finally cracked. Miles has pulled the last straw and broken her mind.

"Are... are you okay?" I ask, unsure how to respond.

"I'm fabulous! I was destroyed when I first heard the news, but then Diamond Heart reminded me that this now raises the Terradisian population to the point where they can elect a government!"

I stare at her for a moment before it all starts to click into place. With this she can attempt to take over the entire Terradisian government! Even if she loses the election it's still a win in that it will be new leaders making all of the decisions. She no longer has to deal with Miles anymore. I can see where all of this excitement is coming from now.

"That's... I mean it's going to be... but then... wow!" I can't even start to fathom all the good Equestria could do with the resources of Terradisia. The technology. The capitol. Metal, soldiers, magic, knowledge! No secrets, no having to tip-hoof around. We could literally walk into any of the cities and do whatever we wanted!

"We need to get to work as soon as possible! Who we need to speak with! Candidates that would be good to run against! Plans for anything and everything that could happen! There's going to be a mountain of work to do in the morning! So make sure to enjoy tonight! I'm sure there won't be many free nights like this anytime soon."

I chuckle at that as everything starts to come swirling into my mind. Who could we possibly appoint to a leadership position that would be best for us, aside from the Princesses of course. Who would the people of Terradisia even want to appoint? Does Celestia really think she has a chance at winning an election of people who were trying to escape other governments? I can't imagine so. Though, I can't really imagine Mooseden setting up a functioning government that could last.

But then again, it isn't just Mooseden anymore. With all the Apples joining in, will that be enough to sway the vote for her? It's a big family, and they have a lot of history with the Princesses. But they've been under a lot of stress lately. Even if it's just Applejacks farm, they're a close family. Attacking one is tantamount to attacking them all. That might work against us in the early run of things.

"Twilight!" I shake my head as Princess Celestia calls me. "Think later! Enjoy the night and relax! We'll begin tomorrow."

"Of course Princess. It's just... it's a lot to take in so suddenly." She looks off into the crowd of ponies before something catches her attention. I look over and spot them immediately. It's Miles, or I assume it's Miles. It's hard to tell with that cloak he's wearing. And he looks too... thin. And curvy...

"I have to go gloat. Why don't you two go find Storm Cloud and steal him away for the night? I'm sure it would be good to see him again." Celestia mentions as she starts to walk towards the crowd.

"O-of course. If you need us you know where to find us." I barely manage to respond as I stare at the human in the middle of the dance floor. Something is... off about them. But my attention is pulled away when Speaks Softly starts to pull on my leg. "Okay! Okay, I'm going! What's got you in a rush?"

"I wanna see Dad!" she says excitedly as she starts to guide us back into the main chambers.

I chuckle at her enthusiasm. She's happiest when it's the three of us together. Even though Storm does his best to be around her as much as he can, there are times when he has to disappear for brief periods. She does a good job of understanding, but that also means she understands to make the most of our time together. I would be lying if I said it didn't hurt to learn that she tends to miss Storm more than me. But I explain it away with how much he can spoil her at times. Obviously I know why he does that as well, but it's still bitter sweet.

It isn't hard to find Storm. Through all the noise and commotion the Spartans have made their presence abundantly known. Softy starts to slow down and recede into her shell as we get closer to them. She hasn't met any of them before. And Softy... takes after me in that regard. Well, I don't think I was that shy at her age. I would say she's almost Fluttershy levels of introverted.

"Princess Twilight?" I stop when I hear my name called. I don't even know how I could hear them over the music and ponies milling about. Much to Softy's dismay, I turn around to face the pony behind me. She's not somepony that stands out to me. If we met before it wasn't for long, or it wasn't over anything memorable. A nice white dress that matches her milky mane, all contrasted by her charcoal coat. I'm fairly certain I don't know this unicorn. "I'm sorry to bother you like this, but I was wondering if I could steal you for a moment. I promise it's super important and won't take too much of your time!"

I was going to politely try to shy away, but then I noticed the book in her magic. It's a book I'm all too familiar with.

"Is that Starswirls book of Prophecies?" I ask as I step around to get a better look, though Softy tries to pull me in another direction.

"Yes. I'm sorry, I know the book is supposed to be off limits. But I think somepony put it in the public area on accident. But... once I found it I had to give it a read!" I chuckle at that. I remember reading it all those years ago. I still remember the prophecy that changed everything by heart.

"On the longest day of the thousandth year, the stars will aid in her escape, and she will bring about nighttime eternal. I can't really blame you for wanting to read it so eagerly. But I've read it a dozen times and there aren't any prophecies left to come about."

"Well... that's the thing. I believe that there's a hidden message in the book. Something that even Starswirl the Bearded wanted to keep hidden -but recorded! I know how far fetched this may sound! But please believe me when I say-"

"I'm sure that whatever secret that may be in there Princess Celestia is well aware of it. She was aware of Princess Luna's return after all."

"Yes, but-"

"Now I will bring this up with the Princess at a later time but tonight simply isn't the night for prophecies and old mares tales. Thank you... what was your name again?"

"Mystic Starr, but if you'd only-"

"Mystic Starr, thank you for this. But tonight simply isn't the night. Now, please enjoy the evening."

I try to leave it at that. I took a few steps before a thought came across. That book brought me to my friends. But that was through my mentor telling me to not read it and go out to make some friends. Now this mare is asking me for knowledge from this same book and I'm trying to push her aside. It feels... strange, to be on the other side of this conversation. Though, it's not a perfect comparison I guess.

"Actually... Mystic? At the very least I'll walk with you to the library. To return the book that is. Think you can manage to get your whole theory out in that time?" I see the spark of hope ignite this young mare. She nods vigorously as she pulls the book up and starts to flip to various pages.

"Thank you Princess! I promise, this will be worth your time!"

"But Mom!" Softy protest, still hanging onto my leg.

"We'll find your father once we return this book, okay?" She gives me a pouty face but doesn't argue any further. That's mostly thanks to the crowd though. Normally I'd be hearing all of the reasons why she believes her way is the only way. She's an arguer in the right setting. Sadly, she's a really good one too. "Alright then, let's hear what you found."

"It's rather basic at first, truth be told. But if you take the first letters of each page, you can make out a message," she tells me as we start to walk away. "But the issue is that it's in a language I don't know."

"I'm a bit rusty on my old Equestrian, but I'm sure I could give it a swing." I offer, but she gives a coy smile in return.

"Um... I uh... I've been reading old Equestrian since I was a little filly. Even Old Prench. I... I'm a student here at Canterlot. It's... sorta a minor I've been taking to keep my GPA high." I give her a surprised look before nodding my approval. It's hard to find another pony willing to read the old texts as they were written. She must really have a respect for the classics just as I did.

"So it's not old Equestrian, then what is it?" I ask, my interest slightly piqued.

"Well... again, I don't know what it means or if I'm even pronouncing it correctly. But here's what I've got written."

She passes me a note and I immediately recognize it as Latin, the language of the Terradisians. I pause as I stare at it for a moment, unsure of what it exactly mean. My attention is pulled away when Softy pulls at me dress. I smile to her and show her the note.

"Maxima noctis supra millesimum annum, caelum invida crescere potestas ejus, infernus et pluet super omnem terram.
Mors solum initium. On the longest night of the thousandth year, the sky will grow envious of his power, and hellfire will rain over all the land. Death is only the beginning." We all come to a stop from the cryptic massage.

"Wow..." Mystic mutters quietly. "What language is that?"

"Is there more to the message?" I ask, taking the book and looking it over. How could I have never noticed something like that? This brings into question all of Starswirls previous writings! What more is there to learn from him?

"Well... that brings me to why I wanted to speak with you." I pause flipping through the pages and look up to her. "There are some parts in the middle that I'm fairly certain are nothing. But... well... after that message is a date. And it's dated five months from now."

"Five months from now?" I ask aloud as I look down to the book. What could all this mean? What's going to happen in five months? And hellfire? Starswirl was many things, but religious... noway! He hated the idea of ponies worshiping anything that couldn't be explained. He was not a faith led individual, that much I'm certain. So what could he mean by hellfire?

I start to walk off towards the library as I start to think of what this all could mean. The sky growing envious? What would the sky become jealous of? Well... maybe that's less literal. Perhaps he means the poisoned clouds? But those are over the Griffin Colonies. So that doesn't seem right. Maybe it has to deal more with the jealousy notion, but that doesn't feel right either.

And the longest night. That would be the winter solstice. That's the easiest part, kind of. The winter solstice is six months away, not five. Well, six months and a few days, but that just adds to how wrong it all feels. Where is this all leading to? There has to be more. Something that I've over looked in the past. And the only way to figure this out is to go over all of Starswirls old scripts and look for anything that might be there. But I'm not going to have the time to do any of that. especially with Celestia's attempt to take over Terradisia.

I stop and look over to Mystic Starr as a thought starts to come to mind. She's shown herself to be knowledgeable in this subject. And I can tell she's more than willing to get her hooves on some Starswirl the Bearded books. And with her already being a student here at Canterlot, there shouldn't be too many issues of bringing her here to do some research on my behalf. She smiles nervously at me as I stare her down, sizing her up unintentionally.

"Mystic Starr?" I ask as we come to a stop at the top of the stairs for the Royal Library.

"Yes Ma'am!?" she almost yells, scaring a few ponies around us.

"How would you like to take an accelerated course in some of Starswirls the Bearded's personal writings?"

Shout out to Sulpher for picking the song, Lone Digger by Caravan Palace! Good use of your Brony points!

Head Held High, Semper Fi.

It's good to be back!

Brony on!