Author's Notes:

Updates
-22JAN2017

Discord.

Lord of chaos, spirit of disharmony, ruler of evil, and once a great tyrant among the pony kind...now reduced to a helpless creature before me. I was once one of his best friends but now I'm one of his worst enemies. He laid on the ground with his limbs spread out completely drained of energy. His tail, hands, and feet have all been cut off. I step forwards to get a better look at his pathetic face.

“Why don't you just kill me and get it over with.” Misery and defeat dripped from his voice.

“I'm not here to kill you unless you take this generous offer I'm going to give you.”

“What could I possibly want from you. Unless you give back my powers then I don't want anything from you.”

“Even if you get to be with Fluttershy again.” Discord showed interest now, albeit slightly, but interested none the less. “That's right, you can be with Fluttershy again. No strings attached. You'll be with her and talk to her whenever your heart desires. I'll even heal your limbs and tail.”

“...But…”

“But you must surrender your powers willingly here and now or else you die before nightfall. You have one minute to decide starting now.”

I couldn't tell if he was thinking or just wanted to have a few more seconds of whatever free will he had left. Doesn't matter to me. I gave him a time limit. Soon enough he opens his eyes looking back at me with a very distinct sadness. Almost like he's given up. That would make this deal all the sweeter.

“I accept your offer.”

“Good.” I envelope him in my magic and drag him so we are face to face. “Say goodbye to everything you knew.”

I open my mouth, ready to suck out the power Discord possessed. Tapping into the power of dark magic I began to drain the poor draconequus. All of his magic was leave his body never to be returned. The blood in my veins increased in pressure as my heart pumped fast enough to break my chest. All the powers of chaos itself flowing through my body. Pure magic in chaos form, it felt better than dark magic.

As the last remnants of Discord's magic left him I dropped the useless body, shuddering from the sheer force I just endured. I knew he was powerful but this...it was indescribable. I recovered enough to stand straight up so I could look into the eyes of my newest captive. With a quick spell, that I had to tone down significantly, I replaced his stumps with fully functioning limbs. He, in turn, took a minute to examine them with a surprised look.

“Not happy with the deal?” I'm sure my voice was a little shaky. I know my body was.

“No!” He answered rather quickly. “I mean it's not that. I just didn't think you would allow me to live.”

“I wouldn’t.” I turn to walk away, mainly for dramatic effect and to act awesome, as Rainbow would say. “But it would make Fluttershy cry.”

“...I see. What now?”

“I'm going back to the empire. You can join me if you want or stay here and watch the rest of Ponyville be enslaved. Your choice.”

He chose the latter of the two. Getting on my crystal dragon I set off for the Crystal Empire with my draconequus passenger. But the question remains, how will I give this power to Sombra? Dark magic transfer or a full make out session? Perhaps... Yes. It's perfect.

I wake with the same over-exhaustion that occurs every night I...do business with my king. This happened every time he bucked me brainless. He uses me, treats me like a tool, and releases his stress all over me. Mmmm, I wanna do it again. ...Anyway, getting up was going to be a nightmare. Luckily I didn’t need to try moving as I heard my slave chime in.

“Do you need assistance my queen?”

I tried talking. In all honestly I don't think I could talk if I really wanted to. Sombra really did a number on me last night. Combine that with a magic drain from a lord of chaos and I was spent. Talk about heaven on Equus. Last night was better than the honeymoon, if that was even possible. Come on, Twilight, focus. I don't think I can move my mouth just yet, but I had an alternative.

“Uuhh.” Simply graceful.

“Very well my queen. I shall alert a guard to come help then I'll start a bath for you.”

Ah yes, the bath. That thing is truly amazing. If I wanted, I could turn it on which would produce low pressure water jets that would massage my body. It wasn't the same as the masseuse I use on a somewhat regular basis, but it got the job done. One of the many perks of becoming the Queen of Darkness. Heavy hoofsteps entered from what I could tell was the hallway and came closer to my bedside.

“I am guard number 42 my queen. I will carry you to the bath.”

“Uhh.”

It easily picked me up with it’s wings and steadies me on its back as it walks. Guard 42 huh. That was one of the better, smarter guards we had. One of my personal guards and one of the next in line to become general. Getting closer I can hear the water running and the feel of the warm steam around me. Using the gentlest of motions, it eases me into the water. Dam, does that feel good. It must have added my usual conditioner with the fur coat rejuvenizer. My slave starts talking.

“My queen, for today’s schedule you have a meeting with the Royal Family including Cadence and your brot-"

“Princess. She still holds domain over love, so that would constitute her as a princess. That would still make my brother a prince. Don’t forget that.” Ok, so I still had enough energy. That or the rejuvenizer worked more than just my fur.

“Yes my queen. Please forgive me.”

“Continue.”

“As you wish my queen. The meeting is at 9 o’clock sharp. After that you have a meeting with the generals about the cleanup of Equestria at 3 in the afternoon.”

“Don’t see why I’m needed. The treaty was broken so there’s no need to go to those meetings anymore. They never involved me anyway. Tell them they can handle it without me. If they need somepony send them Princess Celestia.”

“By your will my queen. Other than that your schedule is clear for today. Although your friends did want to see you today.”

“I'll visit them when it’s time. Tell me, how is breakfast doing?”

It was delicious as always. Meat on top of meat. I don’t think I'll ever get sick of that red, juice filled goodness. I'll need to settle down with the consumption of meat at some point. I don't think the population of crystal ponies can keep up with my eating habits.

It’s almost nine, I don’t want to keep them waiting. My slave said 'meeting', so I can only assume she meant to be in the meeting hall. Hopefully she told the others where to go or else I’ll have to dish out another beating. It would be a shame too, it’s been so long since I’ve had to do that and she’s keeping a fine record above all the others. Entering the hall I see the four royal family members turn.

“Twily!” Shining yells as he runs up to me but he stops halfway through. He is looking right at me when he stops.

“What’s wrong? Remembered this isn’t a dream?” The slightest bit of anger showed on his face. “Relax dear brother I meant nothing by it.” I give him a quick nuzzle before moving onto my own seat next to Sombras, who is absent of course. “You called a meeting, so what did you want to discuss?”

“Well, we didn’t mean for this to be an official meeting, just a small talk.” I doubt you just wanted to 'talk' Celestia.

“Is that so? I will need to speak to my slave later about the difference between serious and casual. And by speak, I mean beat the actual meanings of the two words right into it. My slave does have a tendency to take things too seriously sometimes.” Looking back to the others- “Nevertheless you're here. What’s on your minds.”

“More to the point, it’s not what’s on our minds, but yours.” Celestia responds.

“Ahhh. I know what you're thinking. How do I really act when you're not around? How can you ‘help me’ to be a better pony? As you might be able to tell from ten seconds ago I have some discipline to enforce, which is only scratching the surface of what I'm normally like around my kingdom.”

“Twilight please we just want to help you.” Was Cadence pleading? It was a hell of a lot more annoying than it was cute. Either way I slam my hoof on the table to get my point across.

“No, you listen to me. You are in my domain so you can’t tell me how to act. If you wish to continue seeing me as a great student and a harmless filly then I suggest staying indoors for the majority of your stay. I don’t expect you two to understand.” I told Cadence and Shining. Then I look towards the former diarch sister’s. “But I'm sure you two know that the real world is more that just sunshine and harmony. You should have lived long enough to see it.”

“We are well aware of that Twilight, as evidence by you and your past.” Luna with the annoying dark ages speech again. Sometimes that really ticks me off.

“Luna, not now.” Celestia seems a little suspicious. “Harmony is all we want to know because it is what we want for our subjects.”

“Then start learning because this isn't a Saturday morning special were you teach others about friendship. This is the real world where everyone is cruel and the bad guy isn't reformed in thirty minutes. I think we’re done here.” Before I walked to the door, Celestia had something to say.

“Before you go,” I suppose I can humor her for a second, “Tell me...are you truely in love with Sombra.”

“That’s 'KING' Sombra to you.” I got my point across. I didn’t need to stay any longer.

Not to sure who to start with first. All my friends could be anywere in the empire. I need to narrow down the search. None of them were in their rooms, even the apple family is all gone. I almost wish I didn't send my slave away. Guess I’ll start looking for them, one at a time of I must.

“…”

What time is it? Not even 10 o'clock. Why did it sound like there was someone in the bakery? There was no one in there at this time of day. I quickly cast an invisibility spell then snuck into the kitchen. What do you know, it’s Pinkie Pie and my slave. Seems they were in the middle of a bonding session. Might as well listen in.

“I told you my special talent was throwing parties and making ponies smile. What’s your’s?” Pinkie asked.

“I’m not so sure my queen will approve.”

“You don’t need to worry about that. I’m sure she won’t mind if you’re talking to me.” Pinkie was so wrong. If my slave ever talked out of turn I might beat her senseless, but I can’t do anything right now without blowing my cover.

“O-ok. Well my special talent is organization. Whether it’s a small or big task or even something that needs force, I can get it done.”

“Oooh. So that’s way Twilight likes you so much.” Pinkie, right now I don’t like 'you' so much.

“D-do you really think she likes me?”

“Of course. You might not be able to notice, but I know my friends.” You don’t know me as well as you think you pink headache. “She keeps you closer than anypony I’ve seen so far. Tell me does she make sure you're more taken care of than the other crystal ponies?”

“...Yes, actually. Some others that I’ve talked to sometimes say I’m shown a little too much favoritism. I sleep in my own bed in my own little room. All I have to do is mention my queen’s name and the guards will let me do anything.” I’ll need to have a talk with her about that, but I guess I see where Pinkie’s coming from.

“See. I know my friends, no matter how much dark magic they have in them. *Ding* Ah. The cupcakes are done!”

Cupcakes? Of course, I should’ve known. One of Pinkie’s way of coping with a difficult situation is baking. And throwing parties. And midnight snacks. And laundry. And...and I'm noticing a pattern. As my pink friend opened the oven the kitchen was filled with the delicious scent of sugary goods. In no time she cooled off the treats, slabbed some icing on top, and gave one to my slave.

“A-are you sure I can have one? What if Queen Twilight walks in on me?”

“You don’t need to get all worked up while I’m here. If anything happens I’ll take the blame. Relax, everything's going to be ok.”

“Alright, if you say so.” I saw her take a bite of the delicious treat.

By Celestia’s enormous flank, why? Even I wouldn’t torture somepony like this. I can’t think of taking one while still being invisible. What I wouldn't do to have one of Pinkie Pie's originals. Wait...are those? They are! Those are Pinkie’s Nasty Chocolate Surprise! Contrary to the name, they might just be the best, most delicious, absolutely mouth watering piece of sugar that party pony could possibly patented. She only baked those for one occasion and one occasion only. But who’s birthday could it be?

“Mmm, this is so tasty.” Gem? Really? I completely forgot she had one. I’ve forgotten a lot of things since I became queen haven’t I? “Pinkie Pie, your baking could turn the great King Sombra soft.” I sincerely doubt that, but it is a nice concept to think about.

“Now there’s an idea. Wonder if king meanie would loosen up a little if I gave him some of my Nasty Chocolate Surprise.” She is only one of five ponies and one dragon who could get away with saying that.

“Please miss Pie, don’t say that. If Queen Twilight found out you said something like that, she may punish me for not having stopped you.” Probably true.

“Gem…,” so they’ve been talking long enough for my slave to say her real name at least, “what is it with Twilight that makes you act like you do? It must not be your real self or the way you would normally act.”

“Well...it’s just that...my queen has made our lives so much better.”

“What do you mean, Gem?”

“Since she has come into power with our king, we have been able to live without fear, or at least with so little fear that our spirits have lifted, however slight. We’re sleeping in comfortable beds, we can clean ourselves in a real bathtub, and we’re being fed real food grown from the ground and baked from our own hooves. My queen has rescued us from a life of degradation and sorrow and filled it with as much peace as she could.”

“You must have a lot of respect for Twilight.” Pinkie held out her hoof to take my slave’s wrapper. “I don’t want to give you bad advice but here’s a little something I know about Twilight you might not know.” This is going to be good. “She is nice pony.” Maybe not.

“Twilight is a little awkward. She always was. But the trick is forcing yourself to be her friend. That’s what happened with me and the others, and Twilight warmed up to us really fast. If you want to make life for yourself and the other crystal ponies easier, then laugh with her, show her kindness, give her a present for her birthday, never lie, and stick with her no matter what.”

Wait...did she just say to act like the elements of harmony. Oh Pinkie, even now you never cease to amaze me. I guess that’s true in some aspect. My friends are the best thing that’s happen to me. I love my friends with all my heart and I wouldn’t be where I am today if it weren’t for them. And I really love where I am today.

What is Pinkie doi-CRAP! Pinkie threw the wrappers towards me which hit me in the head and then dropped to the ground. So, looking back I see the trash can directly behind me. In hindsight I should have stood anywhere but in front of one of the most used objects in a kitchen. The other two ponies in the kitchen stood shocked. The cat’s out of the bag now. I took off the illusion spell which made their heart rate double. I take one of the cupcakes in my magic and took a bite.

“Mmm. I’ve really missed your baking Pinkie.” It took my slave another few seconds before she rushed to me in a quick bow. It was quite cute. I took both wrappers and threw them into the trash before walking out. But not before saying something else. “I want to see you in my chambers before you retire for the night. Understood?”

“Yes, my queen.” A little too fast for my liking but I needed to hear it before leaving. She want’s to act like my friends then I’ll return the gesture ten fold.

Seems my friends are scattered around the empire. I’ll just have to search for them. Shouldn’t be too difficult. Some new ponies roaming the empire won’t be too hard to spot. Especially if said ponies weren’t crystal ponies. Question is, where do I start? That became very clear when I noticed the small crowd down the street.

The crowd consisted of guards yelling at something in the center. If I had to take a guess, then this was a makeshift arena. I had to see who was fighting, but I wanted to see before I got close. They would stop what they were doing if I walked up to them from nowhere. A quick ear hustling spell would do the trick.

“Come at me rainbow bitch. Let’s see what you’ve got.”

“I ain’t scared of you rock head. Bring it on!”

A succession of swings and hits followed suit accompanied by some heavy insults. What did you do now Rainbow? Can’t be anything good. Then again I wouldn’t put it past her to do something stupid. Better break it up before the guards to something they regret. I walk up to the group, giving a slight cough to draw their attention.

“Who is it? Go bother somepon-,” the look on that guards face made the disrespect worth it, “-IT’S THE QUEEN!”

The group stopped yelling and immediately opened up a path to the center. Rainbow Dash was pinned by one of the guards. She was covered in bruises, cuts, and a black eye. The guard, being made of crystal, had almost no flaws. She never could resist a fight.

“Well?” They all bowed, even the one over Dash. Not her though. I didn't expect her to. “That’s better. You may continue.”

The guard that was serving the hits was now on the receiving end. Blow after blow Rainbow laid into it like she did with those bullies a few years back, only now with twenty times more skill. The guard stood there and took the beating like a good obedient pet. Every time it was about to strike back, it saw me and the rage behind my eyes.

“Come on! What are you waiting for? Hit me back you lousy piece of shit! Are you a coward or a stallion?” The guard was wearing thin from both Rainbow's verbal and physical assaults.

Soon it couldn't take the punishment anymore. With a final uppercut it fell to the ground not wanting to get up.

“What are you waiting for? Get up!” No response. “I said GET UP!” My prismatic friend began to stomp on the downed pony over and over again. Piece by crystal piece was chipped away from its hide. I think it learned its lesson.

“Rainbow Dash, stop!” I unfold a wing in front of her to make her stop just in case. Before she began cursing me out, I interrupted her by addressing the crowd. “Listen up insects. If you didn't know before then I'm telling you now, you will not harm any of my honored guests. If you are too thick to tell who they might be then go to the castle hall where you will find the list containing those names. If I have a repeat offense again from any guard they will be terminated on the spot. Is that understood?”

“Yes, my queen!”

“Good.” I fire up my dark magic using it to shatter the guard on the ground. “Leave before I do worse to you." I didn't need to repeat myself. "Rainbow, are you ok?”

“Yes! What made you think I needed your bucking help!?” Dash spit out some blood.

“Stop being a baby and get over here.” It only took a second for me to heal up her wounds. “There, now tell me what happened.”

“Fine. That bastard I fought was hasling Fluttershy. She flew off once it started getting bad. Me and her were trying to find Applejack. I'm sure you can figure out how well that turned out."

“Which direction did she fly?”

“She flew off that way.” Dash pointed towards the train station. It was also where the snowy forest was closest. “Knowing her, I think she was trying to find safety with the critters.”

“(sign) She might be kind but she can be completely stupid when she doesn’t think. Those forests are inhabited by some of the empire's most dangerous creatures.”

“WHAT!?! We have to help her!” She starts to fly off when I grab her in my magic and force her back down to the ground with a thud. “What are you doing!?!”

“Sit back and watch the progress that can happen in a year.”

This will be child’s play. I didn't even need to concentrate to teleport into the forest.

I appear in the icy forest. The cold wind hit my coat like a frosty hammer burning away my body heat and restoring it with frigid air. The crystal snow blows along with the blistering winds making my fur stand on end. Goosebumps dot my body as does the Frozen North Mountains of Equus.

In other words, I’m cold.

Good thing I'm wearing my hoof shoes. I might have frozen solid here on the spot. But it’s nothing a warming shield can’t fix.

I cast the spell then walk off. I’ll need to have a way of tracking Fluttershy. A tracking spell should do the job, of course. Sure enough I found the scared pegasus who was crying in fear pressed up against a tree. Truly the sight of a miserable pony.

“Fluttershy, are you ok?” All I could hear was an almost nigh inaudible squeals and cries. “Fluttershy?”

Nothing. She must have closed off her mind because she’s so scared. It’s kind of amusing really. I find this sort of thing to my liking when I’m torturing others, not so much right now though. I have to get her out of this...funk or else she’s going to attract the killers of the forest.

…

Actually I want that to happen. I haven’t killed anything today, not counting that guard. I’ll have to warm her up a little for now. Wouldn’t want to have a popsicle as one of my friends. I warm her up then begin to talk to her in a soft, gentle voice.

"Fluttershy you’re safe. Please don’t cry.” She didn't look. I'll have to use slight force. A hoof to move her chin to face me will do. “Fluttershy, look. It’s me, Twilight.”

“T-Tw-Twilight? I-Is that r-eally you?” All she saw was me as a normal unicorn.

“Yes Fluttershy, it’s me. I’m here to protect you.”

“Oh tha-ank you. I’m so scared Twilight. Those guards...they wouldn’t stop harassing me...I didn’t kn-know what to do s-so I flew away.”

“Hush now dear friend. Before I teleport you to safety I have to show you something.” I slowly lifted my illusion to reveal my real form, an evil and dark magic, corrupted alicorn.

“T-Twilight?” The worry and confusion was spread across her face as my spell wore off. Even now I can see question upon question gather at the back of her mind. I could see a hint of fear as well.

“This is the real me. I’m Twilight Sparkle, a long time friend and Element of Harmony. I may look like a monster, like most of the things you see nowadays, but know that I will always be here for you. Everything can’t be perfect, that’s where evil comes in. Sombra does exist and you are living in a world he lives in with me as his queen.”

“Not everything is sunshine and rainbows. This is the real me and this is the real world. You have to get used to it...but you don’t have to go through it alone.” I could hear some of the creatures of the forest approach. “You must go now. I’ll take care of business here while I send you back to Rainbow Dash.”

“Wai-” I teleport my pegasus friend away before she could finish.

Now it was my turn. I can feel it already. The adrenaline pumped through my veins from a fight yet to come. Frost trolls, ice wraiths, wolf packs, and grey giants. As the first wave of enemies charged out of the frosty evergreens to meet my deadly gaze, I grabbed them in my magic, split their chest open, and poured their blood all over me. I’ve waited so long to to this, the ancient dark magic tradition of a blood bath.

The blood drips down my body in an intoxicating scent that chills me to the bone. I don’t even need the warming spell anymore. The hot blood is doing just fine on it’s own. It wasn't as good as the first time I performed the tradition with Sombra but it was still pretty damn good. As the red passion reaches my nethers, I can’t help but scream in pleasure

“AAAHHH!” ...I just came.

“Twilight...” I teleported in the area near Rainbow. Her face said ‘what the buck happened’. “Do I have to ask?”

“Trust me when I say you don’t want to know. I’ll get cleaned up momentarily.” I shivered from what was left of my…mmm...my ritual. Good thing the smell of blood is so strong. Otherwise Rainbow might be able to smell my leftover ‘arousal’. “How is Fluttershy doing?”

“I’ve calmed her down some but I really didn’t need to do much. Seems like you took care of that part for me. Thanks for that, I guess.”

“My pleasure...Dashie.” Acting frisky gave her a light blush. I never really understood why Pinkie was the only one to say that. “Before you go, I’ll need you and Fluttershy to stop by my room later on tonight. Get with Pinkie Pie for the details.”

“Wait! Twilight...just how much did you change over the past year?”

“In my opinion, not enough.”

I teleport away before she could say anything else.

After a quick wash, all the blood was gone. That tradition may have been anything but unwanted, but keeping the blood on my coat any longer and it would have stained. That explains why most dark magic users had a red fur coat. Then again, most of them were idiots. What was I doing again? Oh yeah, the apple family.

Using a tracking spell, which I seriously should have just used from the beginning, I found a large concentration of them at the slave camp. Not just most, but all of them. Wonder if it’s apple family stubbornness again. Either way I won’t learn the truth without going down there. That and if Applejack was getting beat then some more guards were going to get killed. If it wasn’t for their complete lack of a real functioning brain then they would be perfect.

I enter the base camp where the first guard who see’s me, bows, then leads me deeper into the camp. It was there I saw her. Applejack. It looked like she was trying to work while keeping the slaves from being harmed. It was amusing and awkward at the same time.

“Applejack,” she turns to look at me, “What are you doing?”

“Keeping the apple family together and well. That’s more than ah can say about you. Hey!” She runs off to stop a guard from attacking an apple member.

“You’re really butt hurt about this aren’t you.” Applejack proceeds to viciously walk towards me with a hate glare meaner than an angry dragon and slaps me across the face.

“How dare you! They're mah kin, mah family! Disrespect them and you disrespect me! And that is somethin ah will not tolerate! If mah family is working, then so will I! Got it!”

…

What was that!

I have to take a few seconds to realize what just happened. I never thought she would do something like that. The surprise written on my face told enough to all. She’s stubborn but not nearly as aggressive as Rainbow. Looking back with practiced neutrality, I see half of the camps guard force ready to attack the apple mare on my command. These guards were smarter than the others. Either word spread fast or they knew better than to hurt one of my friends in front of me. The weirdest part,

Applejack never showed any signs of flinching. Steadfast and firm as always.

“For your information these ponies are a necessary part of our work force. I gave you some favoritism. Don’t push your luck.”

Applejack got right in my face for what she was going to say next.

“Either the whole apple family stops or I go right back to work.”

Strong, motionless, and stubborn. I expect nothing less from the country mare of honesty I’ve grown to know. It won’t look good if I free a whole family from servitude and no one else. That’s about two hundred ponies, give or take a few ten or twenty. Haven’t really had an interest in the family as a whole to keep track of their numbers. Then again...the barracks were getting to be crowded now that we began taking prisoners instead of killing everypony. I’ll give it another few seconds to see if there’s meaning in her words.

“To bad. Looks like ah’m going back into the mine.” She begins to walk off.

“Wait. ...You’re all pardoned.”

“Aaaaand there it is. Yeehaw!”

I grip that mare hard enough to give her a good scare then drag her in front of me. She’s close enough so all she can see is my death glare. Had to make sure I got a point across, even if I didn’t really mean it.

“This is your one chance. If any apple member does something stupid I will not hesitate to inflict my own punishment. Understood?”

“Y-y-yes Twi. A-ah gotcha.”

“Good.” I drop her then proceed to walk away. “Make sure you find Pinkie after you clean up here. She’s in the castle and will tell you what’s going on.”

Rarity. Thinking rationally, she would most likely be in one of the, nowadays, abandoned fashion stores. She always did like to make dresses as a way to relax...or think over gossip she heard...or create an activity for her family. I think I’m noticing another trend. It’s weird the type of things you figure out if you just think.

There’s two fashion stores in the immediate vicinity of the castle, ‘Glamor and Fame’ and ‘The Fashion Shack’.

...

Yeah, it was pretty obvious which one she must have gone to. Walking up to the better one, I see her milling about the store. Looks like she is trying to organize everything. For now it resembles her usual organized chaos she’s so fond of.

“Hey Rarity.” I say as I walk in the boutique.

“Ah! Oh Twilight, it’s you. I must get a new bell on that door, I’m used to hearing one when somepony comes in. Anyway, dear, what can I do for you?”

“Just wanted to check on my friends. See how you’re all fitting into the empire.”

“Well enough I suppose. To be quite honest dear, I don’t like what Sombra has done to Equestria. That’s putting it lightly. I can’t even think of the camp he has set up. I don’t know how you put up with all this drama. It would have broken anypony else by now.”

“Who said I'm not broke?” I say under my breath but it seems she heard me.

“What was that, dear?”

“I said you get use to it. Comes with living here. Do you need help cleaning?”

“I would love some help. It’s too dusty in here for my liking and it’s good to have some company to chat with.”

So we spent the next hour or so talking. I tried to steer Rarity away from the bad things around the empire. Instead we talked about how it was back in the old days. Meeting Discord for the first time, fighting off the parasprites, the gala, even how Spike turned into a giant and greedy version of himself. Speaking of, I still need to find him before Pinkie starts. This got her talking about their relationship.

Oddly enough, even though there was a significant age gap and a species difference, she still felt something for the little guy. Not quite as much as Spike feels for her, but it’s still something. We talked about a way to get them closer to each other's age so they could test their relationship. Becoming an alicorn, accelerating Spike’s aging for a short period, or maybe time travel. All of which were either too dangerous or out of reach.

This was surprising to me. I knew she felt something for the young dragon, but I never thought it was deep enough for the fashionista to consider options as dangerous as these. I offered dark magic lessons which are proven to slow the aging process but she outright dismissed it. Said something about wanting to still be herself. In the end she decided to let fate run its course for now. It’s about time for me to wrap things up here.

“Rarity, before I go, do you need ponies here to help?”

“I would love some help, darling. I might not have as much business as before but I could use some extra hooves for supplies and clean up.”

“Ok. I’ll have my slave find some ponies best suited to what you’re looking for.”

“Um...yes. Quite. Well then Twilight...I’ll see you later?” Awkwardness poured from her voice. Forgot my friends aren’t comfortable with slaves, or the use of them.

“When you're done here, link up with Pinkie Pie in a bit. She’ll be hosting something later in my room.”

“I’ll be there darling. You needn’t worry about me.”

Where do I go to find a number one assistant? The library of course. When I get there I find a very interesting sight. There, standing outside on both sides of the entrance doors, were two changeling soldiers.

What would Chrysalis be doing here? She doesn’t normally come here unless it’s for the meetings. Now there was no need for that. I’m going in there, might as well see what she’s up to. As I walk up to the doors the changelings give a quick bow.

“Queen Twilight, we were instructed to tell you our queen is here as a quick visit and didn’t want to attract much attention.”

“It’s fine. I just want to talk.”

“As you wish. Our queen is just inside.”

Heading in, it didn’t take long to find the changeling queen. She was in the study area sitting down with a few books. As I get closer another changeling flies over to her with another book in hoof. I always found it funny whenever changelings flew. The sound was just so funny compared to ponies it always gave me a small chuckle inside. Chrysalis notices me.

“Ah, Twilight. Good to see a friendly face. Please, won’t you join me.”

“What brings a changeling queen out this way when there’s no meeting involved?” I ask as I take my seat across the table from the changeling queen.

“Before I answer yours, answer this. Have you returned yet?”

“What do you mean?”

“Just a psychological test, is all. Now for your answer, I’m looking up anything you have about changelings. I haven’t had the time to do so.”

“That’s it? That’s all you came for. Seems like a waste of a trip.”

“Not at all. If we are to continue our alliance then it would prove helpful that both sides knew more about each other. Your king has already planned a meeting to discuss the topic in a few weeks. Not only that, but some of the facts here are misleading.”

“What about Equestria’s libraries? They must have something on changelings.”

“Of course. I already had my minions purge everything that was remotely related to my kind. Now that knowledge will be lost in time, never to be used against us again. I was getting antsy about it too. Don’t want to think about what might have happened if I acted before the attack.”

“I see your point. Destroying everything about one subject can look suspicious to anypony with half a brain.”

“Please don’t. I have already gone through those scenarios far too many times. How have you been doing as of late? It must be exciting to be with your friends again.”

“Kind of.” I didn’t really know how to respond to that but it seems Chrysalis could sense my lack of enthusiasm.

“You don’t like seeing them again?”

“It’s not that. It’s just...”

“You don’t want your friends to see you as a monster.” I know she’s a master at body language but why did I have to pick now to lower my guard. She was now able to read me better than I can read a book. “Twilight, I have seen first hoof the bond you and your friends share. They will not disown you so easily.”

“...You think so?”

“Wow. You really are blind. No wonder you were given friendship reports as homework assignments.”

“Shut up.” I had to suffer some laughing at my expense. One of her changelings came over to whisper something. “Not anything good I’m guessing.”

“Running an empire is remarkably similar to running a hive.”

“That bad huh?”

“If you can believe it.” We shared a quick laugh before she continued. “It was good to talk with you, Twilight. I’m looking forward to our next get together. One last thing before I go, one of my minions claimed to have seen a purple dragon near the biography section.”

“Thanks for that. Hope to see you soon.”

A nod from both sides, followed by us walking our separate ways, and our little meet and greet was done. Spike must be organizing the books. I don’t think they’ve been dusted since the enslavement of the crystal ponies. The camp was getting pretty crowded. Maybe it would be a good idea to have some of them tend to the shops and stores around the empire. The one’s around the castle at least. I hate to see books in the state they're in now.

I find the little guy on a ladder putting away some books he carried in his arm. The astonishment of Spikes age finally caught up to me at that moment. Before he was barely three quarters the size of a pony and could only carry seven books at a time. Now he was a few inches taller than a pony, carried ten books with one arm easily, and had a tail as long as his body. I feel so happy for him...I think I feel a tear coming on. I straighten myself before grabbing his attention.

“Hey Spike.”

That’s one way to get him down. A shout of surprise was preceded by him fall off the ladder. Prior to him hitting the ground I grab him in my magic. As he opens his eyes I bring him closer for a big snuggle. It’s oddly comforting to feel his scales against my fur again.

“Come on Twilight. I missed you too but I’m not a baby anymore.” Even his voice gained more maturity.

“I know. That’s the sad part.”

“Very funny.” Sarcastic as ever I see. I let him go of my magical grip. “What brings you in this dusty place? Now that you're number two assistant's here you can’t stand to see a dirty library?”

“No, I just wanted to talk to you for a bit. You know, make sure you’re fitting in alright. Also did you say number two?”

“You heard right.” Spike began returning to books to their rightful place. “For just over a year now you’ve had Gem to be your assistant. In the brief time I’ve been here I noticed she’s one pony who’s good at getting things done. Probably because it’s her special talent.”

“I don’t mind having two assistants you know. It would be good to have you around again.”

“Thanks but no thanks Twilight. It’s for the best you have a new assistant. I’m growing up. Soon enough, most ponies will see me as a threat. I’m sure the princesses will figure out what to do with Equestria at some point. I’ll just stick by them for a while until I’m ready to move on.”

“If that’s what you really want, I can’t do much to stop you. But I am immortal now so I’ll expect you to stop by every now and again.”

“That shouldn’t be a problem. So...mind helping out an old assistant with these books?”

“I would like nothing better, Spike.”

Ah, the good old day’s. I felt some small nostalgia while putting away these dusty old books. The dragon and pony back to dusting off books in a library. I feel a bit weird. Like I want to cry. Why am I sad? The answer hits me as I finish the question. Because I want things to go back to the way they were before.

But why? I love where I am now. I love my position, my authority, my stallion, and my empire. Why is this hurting me so much?

I can’t do this anymore, I have to go.

It took longer than expected but I left the library. Not before telling Spike about what is happening later. I couldn’t stick around him much longer. Tears would have formed. I have to get this over with before I meet up with the others.

I have to find...her.

How could I? I was never the one to find her. She always found me. Whenever I needed somepony to talk to or just needed to let out some steam she would be there. Hopefully she knew about my feelings now.

She always knew when to show her face, or rather, her cloaked and shrouded face. Everytime with that pony, full cloak, protection spells, and almost a dozen identity charms. It’s like she was keeping herself hidden from the world.

Before I could continue on my train of thought there she was. Quite as an assassin, fast as light, powerful as an alicorn, and wise as an old sage.

Shela.

“Queen Sparkle, good to see you again.” Same familiar voice that she somehow didn’t let me figure out.

“Good to see you again, Shela. Can we talk?”

“Please, Sparkle. What else do I have to do with my life? I am here to serve.” She gave a deep, respectful bow before continuing. “What is it you needed to speak of?”

“My friends.”

“Ahh. This will require some privacy. Allow me.” With a teleportation spell, that was clearly dark magic in origin, we ended up in one of the many abandoned buildings. After taking up a comfortable position, she spoke. “Please...continue.” I take a spot close to her, not too close however. She never was one to get too close to another.

“I have to get this off my chest before I see them again. Every time I see my friends, I have an urge to turn things back to normal. I look at my friends and my heart is filled with sadness that makes me cry. I have a need for things to go back to the way they were before. Before the return of Sombra and this whole mess started. Do you have some insight for me?”

“Hmm.” She paused after that.

Now I’m one to wait for answers but here, right now, my patience wasn’t holding out. I was getting far too anxious for my liking.

“Please Shela! I don't think I can look at them again without some help.” I was borderline begging for advice. Scratch that. I was begging.

“Sparkle,” she starts after my futile attempt at groveling, “this isn’t something I can really help with. They’re your friends. I can’t say I understand because that would be a lie and I can’t say it will be all better in the end. But I can say this, they are your friends, plain and simple.”

“I-it can’t be that simple.”

“It is. Your friends are the best things that have happened to you. Correct?” I offer a weak nod. “Not only that but your little group has pulled off amazing feats while the world was against you time and time again. All you have to do is talk to them and I know, as a fact, your friends will not only stay your friends but you they will keep loving you as well.”

Her words. Again. She did it again. With her around I might be able to confront my friends. I just hope they still accept me.

“Thanks Shela. I think I can face them now.”

“Anytime, Sparkle. If you’re much better now I’ll be going. I have preparations to make.”

With a teleportation spell she disappeared. Along with her body, all traces of her existence vanished. Every time she did, I’d wonder when she would show her face. I didn’t have much time to think about this now.

I had to be somewhere.

I was walking through the castle heading toward my room. Unfortunately the guards had other plans for me. Sometimes I wonder what use they are.

“My queen, we need your assistance in the meeting room.” They hastily spoke in a bow.

“What’s in there that you can’t handle.” Irritation growing within me.

“It’s the princesses. They are getting out of control.”

“(sign) Fine. Take me to them.”

It only took a minute for us to get to the designated room. Opening the door the said alicorns were yelling at the general's, seemingly about the ponies we captured. I’ll need to listen in to make sure, but I didn’t get the chance.

Everypony stopped talking, or in this case yelling, and turn to me. The crystal ponies, both slave and dark crystal, bowed to me. Celestia, Luna, and Cadence just stared at me with a patience that was only rivaled by Sombra.

“Rise.” All obeyed “Now...what seems to be-”

“Twilight, these ponies are refusing to-”

“SHUT THE BUCK UP!!!” I screamed at Celestia, using my own version of the royal shout. She hastily backed up in fear. Her ears were pinned back, pupils shrunk, and she was in a position that made her look weak. It was adorable. “I...was...talking. General, what was it you were...discussing?”

“It was about the new slaves, my queen. The princesses want to take them away.”

“Well, Celestia? Care to explain?”

It took her a moment to gather herself. Not too surprised by her reaction. I never made any outburst directed at her and I always made sure never to swear around her. Key word here being ‘made’ sure. I couldn’t care less anymore.

“There’s...nothing to discuss. The ponies recently taken hostage are not ‘property’, nor do they belong here. I have seen your holding area for them and it has become quite crowded. It would be a favor to take them out of the Crystal Empire ourselves.”

“...”

After a minute of silence, and Celestia awkwardly looking around the room, I spoke up.

“Is that all you’re going to say or are you going to present a valid reason why you should take our new workforce.” Sunbutt looks back at me disgusted as did the other two alicorns. “What we have on our hooves is very correctable. All we need is for them to build a new barracks for the new slaves to sleep in and they can start working again.”

“Twilight...you can’t be serious?”

“I am. You are in my domain now. If you don’t like it then leave or shut up.” They take a look of defeat at this, while the generals grinned wide with a prideful smug. “I’d expect Cadence to be ignorant in these matters but not from you two.”

“As we've said before, we are out of practice in most ways of life. All we want to know for our subjects is harmony.” Damn it Luna, will you ever shut up with that Old Equestrian?

“And as I’ve said, start learning. Harmony is dead in the Crystal Empire.”

I see the prideful faces of the generals. I want to snap their necks just from looking at them. Before I step out the door, I turn to my former teacher and the other two.

“You three will want to come with me.”

Confused for a moment they followed all the same. I led them to my chambers where, upon opening the doors, we were greeted with the sight of a birthday party in progress. A couple ponies were dancing on a makeshift dance floor, some were having punch and making small talk, others were playing games Pinkie set up in the corner.

By the looks of things, the ponies who were attending consisted of all my friends, some apple family members, my slave, and some of her colleague slaves. What caught me off guard for a second were the few changelings that were present. But that didn’t really matter. As soon as everyone saw I was the one that entered the music stopped and the slaves bowed to me. My slave was the one to speak first.

“My queen, please don’t be angry with me. I meant no offence.”

“...” I paused for some tension, wanting to make her squirm a little. “Why are you bowing?”

"My queen?”

“This is your day. Don’t be so formal.”

“Yes my queen. As you wish.”

She painfully walked back to talk with her friends. Celestia walks up next to me and begins to speak.

“What’s this I spy? Haven’t changed all that much I see. Care to explain, my star pupil?”

“It’s not me who wanted this, at least not part of me. If you want to give credit to somepony, the credit goes to them.” I gestured towards my friends.

“Hmmm. It would seem your friends have a bigger influence on you than I anticipated.”

“Just...shut up and go...miggle or something. We’ll talk about the Equestrian ponies later.” They walked off but not before giving me a loving nuzzle. *blegh*

Now for the real reason I was here. I motioned for my friends to come over to a quietish part of the room, oddly enough on top of my bed, so I could talk to them.

“Darling, are you alright?”

“Yes I’m...well no...no I’m not so fine.”

“Oh goodness, what happened?”

“Come on. What could be so bad that the new badass Twilight can’t handle.” That was the last straw. I started to sob right there on the spot. “Wow-ok! Um, is it something I said?” Damn it Rainbow you're making it worse.

“I...it’s just that...I can’t help it.” They all smother me with a group hug. I can feel their loving embrace as they cling to me for dear life, almost as if they stopped loving me then I’d die from depression.

“Please dear, tell us what’s wrong?”

“Come on Twi, we’re here fer ya. You can tell us anythin. Ya know that right?”

“I...I…” Damn it, I can’t stop crying. I’m so pathetic.

“Twilight, spill what’s bothering you or I’ll beat it out of you!” Fluttershy made a death stare at Rainbow for saying that. Either way, it was enough of a push to finish.

“I’m scared.”

They all stopped to ponder those words. It’s almost as if they didn’t believe what I said. The quiet was starting to get me even more worried.

“But how can you be scared? What are you scared of that you of all ponies can’t deal with? A ghost clown? Sombra being a meanie to you? Is he being a big meanie pants! Say the word Twilight and your good pal Pinkie Pie will take care of him for you!” Before she continued her rant she was interrupted by Rarity.

“Pinkie, please. Twilight needs us to be serious. Plus I don’t think it’s him that’s the problem.” Her attention is redirected back to me. “Go on Twilight. What is it you’re scared of?”

“I’m...I’m scared of losing you girls. You’re the best ponies that came into my life. I don’t want to lose you.”

“Why would we abandon you?” Rainbow chimed in sending a bit of shock my way, even in my emotional state.

“Because of the pony I’ve become. I’m a monster now. How could you care about something like me?”

“You're still Twilight aren't you darling? Sure you've made some questionable decisions-”

“But none of that matter’s. Deep down you’re still the pony we know and love. No amount of time can change the way we feel about you.”

“Fluttershy is right sugercube. No matter what happens, we’ll always be yer friends. Ya got that partner?”

“Yeah...thanks girls. I guess I just needed to hear it for myself.” They gave me an even tighter, more passionate, hug, if that was even possible.

“Don’t forget about me. As awesome as the element of loyalty is, I think we all know I’m not going anywhere anytime soon.”

Ok, that was a little funny. To my disapproval, they receded the hug. We talked for some time afterwards. It was mostly small talk, but it really helped to calm my nerves. At some point, Discord and Shining managed to make their way into the party. I was feeling better so I thought of mingling.

The slaves provided an extreme lack of conversation. I guess that’s to be expected. I just need to give it time until they warm up to me in that way. The changelings were a lot better conversationalists. We even gathered facts about each other to strengthen our relationship in our species gap. The princesses only tried to get info on Sombra. Figured as much.

They were impressed on how I was able to take care of Discord so easily so I gave them three tips. Know your enemies weakness, know how to exploit that weakness, and most importantly, have the guts to cut off any source of power your enemy has access to. In Discords case, his limbs to cast magic. Needless to say they were repulsed by the idea. They mentioned something about me returning or something but I wasn’t really paying attention. It wasn’t five minutes later that ‘he’ showed up.

The music stopped, due to my slave taking it off the needle. Must I beat the meaning of ‘your day’ into her as well. Oh well. I use my magic to put the needle back into place then walk up to the handsome stallion-I mean ugly monster. Yep, can’t even get my mind straight.

“If you’ve come here for trouble then you can turn around and walk away.”

“On the contrary, I was expecting something like this to occur.”

“Wait...you expected a party?”

“Maybe not a party specifically, but an event with you and your friends. You’re fond of them too much to not be doing something with them.”

“You knew...You knew about this and you didn’t stop them or kill them?”

“I thought you’d know me by now, Whatever makes my queen happy is what I will provide.”

Screw you. Screw you to Tartarus. I hate it when you do things like that. And by hate, I mean love you so much I want you to take me right here and now. But a hug will do. As I felt his warmth around my front quarter’s I felt a few tears begin to develop. He was kind enough to wipe them away for me once our little embrace was done.

“Are you going to join us?”

“No. This is for your slave. Me being here will only complicate things further.” Yeah right. You just didn’t want to associate yourself with the slaves and act soft. “I’ll be around the castle if you need me.”

That was that. Now back to the party. It started to die down seeings how Sombra showed his face. With everyone one retiring back to there own rooms it was time for me to get some shut eye. I was just missing one thing.

My pleasure tool of a stallion.

The smoke cleared to reveal Sombra standing there as normal. I don’t get it. What was the spell supposed to do-

Oh my goddess. I have a feeling I’ll be saying that countless times within the next hour.

“Do you like it?”

“I had to alter the spell a few times to perfect the final project.”

“But I think you’ll find it to your liking.”

Each of the two Sombras spoke without missing a beat. It was as if they shared a mind. There go my wings. I felt them pomf out in less then a second. I was that turned on.

“Do my eyes deceive me?”

“Or are you that excited already.”

Oh dear, one of them was starting to circle around me. One behind and one in front. I-I-AAAHHH!

…

I came. He didn’t even start and I came.

The Sombra in front pushed me onto my hind legs only to be grabbed by the second Sombra so I was standing upright. I can feel it now. Double penetration. The thought is enough to get me off. Ah! I could hardly notice the Sombra in front lunge at me.

“Shhh. If you’re a good mare,”

“I’ll conjure up one more to plug that pretty mouth of your.”

In no time they both dug into me filling me up with gusto. As they begin to thrust back and forth I feel them sandwich me between them. I was caught between them with no chance of escape, just like it's supposed to be. With the combined might of my handsome stallions muscles, their length deep in me, and the warmth between the two, I couldn’t help but let it all out.

“Oh my goddess! It feels amazing!”