Fairoh left Phebe for the excess of two days. Besides troopers who delivered food and water, no one visited her—not Ferris, not Artemis, not Black Star, and not I AM. Though she didn't know how, she had maintained peace about her situation, but she did wonder about her future.

The Guardians stole away the largest section of her thoughts. Apparently, her original opinion of them had been grossly incorrect. Originally, she viewed them as a mindless conglomeration of united beasts. Sure, they could speak, but there was a limited show of intelligence—that is, until the encounter with Vick. Unfortunately, little too late, she was proven wrong. The Guardians possessed intelligence and experience. Vick proved that. The Guardians would be more difficult to beat than she originally thought.

Additionally, a mystery shrouded them. Phebe possessed practically no information about them. She recalled a talk with Black Star. When he visited the Canterlot Library, he read about Guardians maintaining a land south of Equestria. The Badlands weren't as lush as the land described in what Black read, but the book could have been writing about Equestria's early days--a millennium ago. Much could have changed in that time frame. If the Guardians did come from the Badlands, then many questions popped up. The important ones were “how did the Badlands became bad?” and “what became of the Guardians in between the present and the past?” Other questions, regardless of the book, presented themselves. What did the Guardians want? Why were they stealing souls? She had a small answer; they feared her element. Even if the attack on Dodge was extravagant to simply retrieve one item, the Element of Perseverance was clearly their goal. Since wielders of the other Elements probably knew nothing of the Guardians, it was reasonable for them to do anything to get their claws on her Element. Nonetheless, after the discussion with Vick and the strange turnabout of the Timberwolf invasion, she had to wonder what the he had planned. Regardless, she knew she would not discover the answer for awhile.

The next most thought consuming subject was Black Star. He has been incredibly helpful and caring, but as she mulled over his actions, she had concerns about that. As far as she could tell, he followed I AM's commandments, but he wasn't perfect either. Black admitted himself he was a soldier; moreover, he seemed to have experienced an overabundance of conflict and combat. She wasn't sure if he was capable of being anything else. He was a good soldier; he maintained his cool in emergency situations, he fought with skills which would shame many royal guards, and he conjured make-shift solutions in the blink of an eye. These traits, alone, would have comforted Phebe, for he would be useful in the crisis she and the Changelings faced. Unfortunately, he had some questionable traits. Besides his sometimes offensive attitude and strange behavior, he had the knack for performing impossible feats, the most common being appearing and disappearing instantly. Though she had no proof, she knew within herself that he had secrets. Add to that, as Black Star admitted, I AM forbade him from helping her against the Guardians. Perhaps some of those secrets were the reason behind that decision. And yet, that brought up another issue. In aiding the Changelings against Vick and his Timberwolves, did not Black directly disobey his God? The first chance she got, she would inquire of the matter.

Besides these, Artemis floated about her mind. In such contrast to her first encounter with him, when she wanted nothing to do with him, she longed to see his appearance. Whether together or apart, she steadily grew in love with him. On the other hoof, part of her refused to be near him or to talk with him. Though other issues took precedence on her mind, she still feared the consequences of her mistake with Flame. What if Artemis did find out? If Fairoh kept her word, Ferris already found out. Artemis could catch wind of it too. She could not shake her worry, although this seemed to be a petty problem compared to the overall situation. Additionally, she, despite her previous assumption, did not have control over her Element. For some reason, the Element would not obey her will. Twilight and the others had no problem getting them to work, so why couldn't Phebe? This frustration made her more cautious of marrying Artemis. After all, she didn't want to disappoint him.

Lastly, the condition of the Changelings took the remainder of her considerations. The Guardians would after them so long as Phebe had the Element. Plus, now, all of Dodge City was against them. One way or another, the Princesses would hear of this. The Changelings couldn't return to the Badlands, but they couldn't stay in Equestria either. She knew she had no power over this, so she move on. I AM would provide a way out.

Fairoh Tonto, accompanied by Ferris Wheel, came in the afternoon of the second day. After unlocking the door, she addressed Phebe, “We'll be talking in the Sheriff's office. Come on.” Fairoh's tone was surprisingly bland. Phebe would have expected some show of emotion. Regardless, she took the gesture towards freedom as a good thing and went with both of them to the office. Once there, the mayor locked the door and the windows. She spoke harshly, “I wish I could just-”

As if aware she would snap, Ferris interrupted, “We talked with Princess Celestia.” He brought the them to the matter at hoof. “We know the Changelings weren't responsible for the Timberwolf attack. As the princess explained, it's senseless for their kind to eliminate their food source.” Fairoh sighed and nodded, but Phebe tilted her head. “That brings us to a few different things, and we need to talk with you over each one.”

Phebe replied, “Okay.” She wasn't sure where the conversation was going, or if it would be beneficial or detrimental to her situation.

Having reclaimed her composure, Fairoh picked up where Ferris left off. “Princess Celestia told us not to look into who caused the attack. She said she would investigate.” She chuckled. “Even so, after having a meeting, the city board unanimously voted for us to investigate ourselves.” As the words flowed, Phebe began to wonder why she was getting all these details. She didn't need to know. Fairoh went on, “Seeing there is plenty you are hiding from us, we want to know everything you know about this attack.”

Hoshana shook her head. She would have to play this safe because whatever she might say could be used against her. “Are you actually willing to hear what I say? Or are you trying to find an excuse to imprison me longer?”

A growl left the throat of Mayor Tonto. “Ferris, let's forget formalities; I'm going to tell it like is.” This outburst was likely what Ferris was trying to prevent by interrupting early. “I didn't accept this job because I wanted power, Phebe. I genuinely care about the welfare of the people of Dodge. As you might have noticed, their home was wrecked. People got hurt. People died!” Fierce anger leaked out through a nasty attitude. “You and your Changelings are completely irrelevant to me; I couldn't care less if you get away scotch free or you end up mutilated dying a slow death. Rather, I want those mongrels who caused this mess, and when I can, then I will hang them myself. Therefore, tell me who caused this, so they can pay for their evil.”

Phebe hadn't liked Fairoh before. As far as she had been concerned, the mayor was a control freak suffering with depression. That opinion changed, however. I think I can get behind her. “All right. I'll tell you what I know.”

She elucidated the two of the details concerning the Guardians. In particular, she told them where they first appeared, what they were capable of, and who their leader was, but she withheld the information about what they were after. She was not certain how Fairoh would react if she discovered the Guardians wanted her Element. Perhaps, she would share later. “Unfortunately, I don't know where they are, how many they are, and if there are other things they can do. They are smart, though.” If they ask a couple proper questions, they could easily find out that I'm the target. The odd thing was neither of them asked about anything she shared. “In the few times I've encountered them, they learned how to work around their weaknesses. It gets harder to exploit them each time.” Mostly, she thought of how Vick used Artemis as a hostage to get a hold of the Element. “That's what I have to say.”

“Okay.” Ferris walked up to Fairoh and whispered in her ear. After they had a brief, quiet discussion, the sheriff stated, “We believe you. We don't have much of a choice, but what you said agrees with what your Changeling friend said.”

“Changeling friend?” Her eyes lids half-shut as she gazed askance at them. “You talked with a changeling?”

“Artmaze? I forget his name.”

“Artemis!” He's safe! She grinned.

Fairoh said, “That's it. I noticed you didn't mention that your Element was the only way to kill them, though.” She rolled her eyes. “I don't know how you of all people ended up with one, but I don't care. I also don't care that the Guardians came to Dodge to get the Element.”

Ah... so they do know.

“Yeah, Phebe, you caused the death of my Flame.” Phebe grew a bit nervous. Did Ferris know? She took a look at him, but he looked back blankly. She couldn't tell what he was thinking. Fairoh added, “But your intention was not death. The Guardians, on the other hoof, would kill many in order to claim what they want. Even if you were what attracted them here, your responsibility is your actions, not theirs. I'm not a fool, as you might think.” A sly smile formed on her face, as her chin tilted upward and her eyes tilted down at Phebe. Strangely, at the same time, Ferris shook his head as he mouthed 'no.' Fairoh did not see him do this.

Phebe wanted to go see Artemis, so she tried to press the discussion further. “What else did you want to talk about?”

“A lot...” muttered the mayor.

A glum expression came over Ferris. He said, “I hate to bring bad news, but you've been banished from Dodge City. You cannot stay here any longer.”

“Huh?” Phebe jerked back lightly. Confusion surrounded her. “I thought we already affirmed that the Changelings didn't cause the attack. I side with them, but-”

“I don't care that you're an enemy of Equestria.” He moved up to Phebe, put a hoof on her shoulder, and looked her in the eye. “But, the people of Dodge city think you and the Changelings are responsible, and Celestia strictly told us not to tell them the truth. Unlike the investigation, if we disobey here, she'll find out.” He turned his head away. “News has spread too. Canterlot already is talking of about the 'Second Great Changeling Attack.' Soon, all of Equestria will believe the lie. Fairoh and I can't make you leave Equestria, but we recommend you do.”

“But-but!” Fear suddenly grasped Phebe by the neck. “We don't have anywhere else to go!” And what about Dark Shade and Kirk Briar?

Ferris removed his hoof and said, “We know, but our hooves are tied. Equestria isn't safe for you anymore. I'm sorry.”

“Actually, I have a favor to ask in regards to your travels,” Fairoh interjected. Her following words leapt off her tongue with ferocity. “Go back to the Badlands. Find the Guardians. Destroy them.” Her eyes became glossy. “I'm not talking about simple destruction. I want you to rip them apart. Make sure that by the time you finish that nothing is left of them to recognize. And, if you remember, tell them-” She choked, and a tear fell down her face.

Ferris briefly looked back at his boss before moving up to Phebe's ear. “I don't blame you for Flame's death. You're forgiven.” With that remark, he left the room relocking the door on his way out.

Phebe wasn't expecting Ferris' forgiveness. In fact, she wasn't expecting him to bring up his brother at all. Either was she expecting the next incident. She turned her attention to Fairoh who had her back to Phebe. “Hey?” What's going on? Why did he leave us in the room together? “Fairoh,” she called out. No response. “Fairoh?”

“They killed them,” a weak voice replied. “Forget it.” Having her face hidden behind her mane, Fairoh marched to the door. When she looked out its window, she realized a desk had been slid in the way that the door could not be opened. “Ferris!” She growled. “I'll kill you for this!” Despite a clear attempt at being angry, she could not maintain her fury. Finally, after wiping her face, she faced Phebe. “Ferris wins. Phebe... I forgive you. Grah.” She moved to the door and motioned to Ferris who had was walking away.

Just like that? Phebe felt partly relieved. “Thanks.” What is going on? She was thoroughly confused. “Well, we can push the door open together.” Coming up beside Fairoh, she began to push the door open, and once the mayor caught on, she mimicked the action. By the time they managed to crack the door enough for a pony to fit through, Ferris slid the desk out of the way.

“Finally!” Fairoh glared at her sheriff before storming off.

Revealing the purpose of locking the two of them in the room, he inquired,“Did she forgive you?”

“Y-yes...”

“Good.” He looked each way. “When this all passes, we will all welcome you back to Dodge City. We owe you a great debt. I owe you a debt that is more than life.” Without any warning, he embraced her—the grip tight. “I would not know peace and forgiveness if not for you, nor would I know he who provides them. Thank you.” He let loose. “You'll have to take the waterway to get out of Dodge. The Changelings are waiting down there. And don't worry. We have officers down there already to protect your people. They'll accompany you until you leave the city's territory.”

“All right.” Phebe gave a return hug. “We'll see each other soon.” She left to the basement. There, she came to a hole with a ladder leading to the waterway below. This was fitting, as she had ordered the creation of this ladder when she was sheriff. Before she could reach for the first rung of the ladder, a thought interrupted. “I owe you a debt that is more than life. I would not know peace and forgiveness if not for you, nor would I know he who provides them.” She visualized Ferris as he spoke those words. He must be talking about when I AM resurrected him. Hah, I can't believe I screwed that up too. He would never had died- A shiver scurried down her spine.

Finally, she realized how wrong she had everything. The incident when Ferris died because Phebe ran away from I AM's plan was meant to show her that her God was gracious, compassionate, and forgiving. I AM wanted her to learn that she couldn't keep him from succeeding; she couldn't make I AM's plan fail. Ferris not only regained his life; he got a better one than he had before. Phebe's Lord transformed failure into success, the ugly into the beautiful, and the evil into the good. Unfortunately, for the past few days, she had been pinning herself with blame. She deserved some blame, true, but her God had forgiven her, and yet she would continue to condemn herself. She thought she had nullified I AM's plan. The truth was she couldn't make his plan not happen, and in fact, I AM used her running away to bring Ferris to a position of new life. Her mistake ended up beneficial for somepony else.

Her brain began to crank. What does that actually mean? Can I do anything I want? She looked behind her to see if anyone was watching. When she saw that no one was there, she decided to sit. When I've wanted to kill myself, did I really want to? No. Instead, she wanted to marry Artemis like I AM had told her to. I want what I AM wants for me. I was miserable before, but I wasn't stopping his plan. He kept me from killing myself, though I tried. The only thing I caused for myself was unrest and misery. She laughed. I don't need to be perfect, and I won't be. That's okay. She began to go down the ladder. And, in reality, he'll protect us. The Changelings are his people, and for him to abandon them does not fit his character. Why do I have to worry? What is there to worry about when I AM is in control? In an instant, any and all anguish and fear vanished like a vapor. I'm sorry, my Lord. I didn't believe what you had said, but I believe now.

Satisfied with the resolution, she slung herself down the ladder. You know, the Changelings didn't have anywhere to go when they were in the Badlands. When she reached the bottom of the ladder, a small fact struck her brain; she still had no horn. Ah... right. I'll just have to walk slowly through the dark tunnels. Anyway, the Changelings will be fine. If we have to go back the Badlands, then I AM will protect us, or he will provide another place for us. She stopped when she heard a splash. Someone else is down here. Well, they did tell me the Changelings were down here.

“Phebe!” The voice of Artemis lurched from the darkness. The Changeling flicked on his horn, as to light the way for her. “Great, you made it.” Joy rippled from his tone. “Come this way.” She nodded and walked up to him. “I missed you.”

“I, uh... missed you too.” She gave an awkward smile. She readied to start walking, but he stopped her by giving her a hug. Her heart skipped a beat. Though his touch was initially shocking, it ultimately soothing. She returned the hug and rested some of her weight on him; nevertheless, she broke away after several seconds. “We should, uhm... go.” Some nervousness shook her, but she managed to keep talking and to point down the tunnel.

“Yeah.” Artemis succeeded in a nod.

The two of them soon came to the meeting place where the other Changelings had gathered as well as the police guard. Before long, they all journeyed to the outer limits of the city. Once at the end of the tunnels, the policestallions saluted Phebe and her people and left. From there, they would have to travel above ground. “We need a plan,” said Artemis. “We need to know where we're going and to know how we'll get there. Phebe?” He looked to her future bride; she would have the best knowledge for the area.

“Well... there are three places we can go to that are nearby.” She sat down. “We can go east to Dodge Forest. They are nearest. After that, the badlands are closest, and lastly, the Everfree Forest.” Frown overcame Phebe. “The thing is... the Guardians are in the badlands, and I'm fairly certain they are in Dodge Forest. Honestly, the best choice would be Everfree. It's not safe there either, though.”

“All right. We go to Everfree,” Artemis declared as he looked at those around him. “We'll change into forms we haven't used before, but remember, they'll still be able to recognize Phebe.” The Changelings began to take pony forms. It seemed whatever strange magic that had held them back before no longer bothered them. “We go. Phebe, once above, we'll let you lead the way.”

“All right.”