A Canterlot Wedding-The Alternate Ending

by Firebolt Blitz

Chapters

• Chapter 2 - Remorse of the Faithful
• Chapter 3 - Baptism of Fire
• Chapter 4 - Scathing Criticism, Undying Regret
• Chapter 5 - Actions Speak Louder Than Words
• Chapter 6 - A Storm Is Coming
• Chapter 7 - Breaking The Ice
• Chapter 8 - Emotional Trauma
• Chapter 9 - Trouble and Strife

Chapter 2 - Remorse of the Faithful

Twilight dashed through the halls of the castle, passing by several Royal Guards, servants or guests. Despite being met with a series of gasps or long stares, she didn't care. All she cared about was just going back to her quarters, before crying her eyes out, packing her things and leaving Canterlot, wanting to get away from those who no longer cared for her. Before long, she had reached her old quarters from when she was living in the castle, still in her early days as Celestia's protege. After throwing the doors open and shut with her magic, the lavender unicorn threw herself on her bed, crying every fibre of her pain out of her. From the shock she felt when Shining disproved everything she thought she knew about Fake Cadance before stripping her of the role of Best Mare and even the privilege of being at the wedding, to the horror and abandonment she felt when all five of her friends, even Spike, walked out on her with their eyes closed and their faces morphed into indignant frowns, to the utter pain and heartbreak she felt when Celestia stabbed her with a verbal dagger. This was made worse with the memories of Fake Cadance sending her into the depths of the Canterlot Caves through a ring of burning green flames, followed by the former taunting Twilight about how nopony would think to look for her, considering nopony even knew the caves existed, and topping all of this was the memory of Twilight finding the real Cadance. In a sudden rush of sheer and profound joy, Twilight's suspicions about the Fake Cadance were finally cemented with her discovery of the real Cadance, because if she were wrong about Fake Cadance being evil, trying to defend her case would be a foal's gambit. All of this was going down a pair of raging waterfalls that flowed down the mare's face. As she cried, there were three audible, but gentle knocks on the door.

"Twilight, it's Cadance. May I come in?"

Twilight looked up at the door, which she had locked earlier after slamming it shut. Recognizing the voice of her foalsitter, she unlocked the door, allowing Cadance to open it. As the pink alicorn stepped inside, Twilight's heart melted at the sight of her face. It bore one of her greatest and most nostalgic hallmarks; a caring, sympathetic smile.  

"Oh Cadance......" Sobbed Twilight, who embraced the former in a hug. Cadance could do little more than stroke her mane with a free hoof while trying to soothe the unicorn with comforting words.

"Shhh, it's OK sweetie. Just let it out" Cooed Candace softly, still dutifully caring for the filly she was entrusted with. Each and every sob that Twilight sobbed made Cadance shake a little, but still she held onto the unicorn for all she was worth.

"Please......please don't leave me" Whimpered Twilight, still suffering from the intense effects her memories were forcing upon her.

"Never. I'll never leave you Twily" Said Cadance soothingly. However, Twilight seemed to only cry harder. Perhaps the word "Twily" sparked connotations between Twilight and the memory of her brother banishing her. Despite this, Cadance continued to console the distraught unicorn with all the love she had to give and more. Only the Creator knew how long they were going to be there, but that mattered little to Cadance. For now, it was just her and Twilight. Just them and nopony else who could disturb their peace.

Back in the wedding hall, there was little more than seven ponies with the responsibility of Canterlot's invasion laid on their shoulders, a baby dragon devastated by Twilight's revelation, while also disgusted at his own reaction to the lavender unicorn's outburst at the wedding rehearsal. To top it all off, there was an overbearing and very heavy feeling of speechlessness and regret hanging over the room. Oftentimes, an artist would find a scene worthy of a new painting, and it would fall to him to transfer that scene from real life to canvas, thereby creating a transcendent work of art. The wedding hall was one of those scenes at the present time: the picture of purest sadness. the Mane 5 could do little more than look at each other, speechless and shaken. Shining Armor was sat down on his rump atop the altar/throne, crestfallen and wallowing in self-disgust. As for Celestia, even though her mane still billowed proudly from her scalp, she looked very forlorn and remorseful. After a long moment of silence, Fluttershy managed to speak the question that hung on everypony's minds.

"Were we........really that cruel?"

Applejack could only look at her with a face that bore a very clear expression of horror. They were supposed to have learned their lesson after the incident they dubbed as "Lesson Zero", but in truth, they had learned nothing. How were they able to come to Twilight's aid the first time, when they did not the second time? How could they have no patience for their best friend the one time she was in the wrong, after all the times she helped them with their mistakes? How could they simply leave her hurt and alone after everything she had done for them? Just as the cowpony was about to reply, a voice rang out from across the room.

"Yes Fluttershy, you really were that cruel to her. You all were."

The Mane 5, Shining and Celestia turned their heads to the source of the voice. Said source was Spike, who was facing the wall with his head bowed not in reverence, but in sadness. In his hands he held his top hat. At first, the baby dragon did nothing, but then, in the corner of her eye Applejack spotted Spike's hands curl into fists, fueled by his disgust, anger and frustration. Suddenly, with authority Spike threw his hat on the ground, not caring in the slightest about whatever damage it suffered. Preceded by a chorus of gasps from the Mane 5, Spike turned to face them, his face contorted into one of outrage.

"I can't believe ANY of you! How could you walk out on your best friend like that?! How can you even call yourselves her friends anymore?!"

The Mane 5 were left speechless. First it was Twilight giving them a tongue-lashing, but now it was Spike. The difference here was that while Twilight was wronged, Spike was as much part of this disaster as Princess Luna was. Speaking of the latter, Celestia was wondering, on a side note, where she was during the Changeling invasion. However, that mattered little now, as she too was about to receive the brunt of Spike's fury. The latter turned to Shining Armor next.

"Shining Armor, how could you be so unspeakably cruel to your own sister?! All she was doing was trying to save your high and mighty flank from getting beat by the Changelings, and THAT is how you repay her?! You should be ashamed of yourself!"

Applejack had heard enough at this point. She decided it was high time Spike was given something to think about. Stepping forward, she spoke with newfound determination.

"Just who in the hay do you think you are Spike? How dare you lecture us on how to be Twilight's friends!"

Spike immediately shot Applejack a glare in hopes it would send shivers down her spine. While it failed to, that didn't stop him from opening his mouth.

"What gives you the right to question me, AJ?" Snapped Spike.

"We are Twilight's friends! We already apologized for our mistakes! We do not need this to continue! And as for you, you walked out on her too! All you cared about that whole day was playing with the wedding cake decorations! What gives you the divine right to lecture us when you are guilty of the same sins?!" Applejack retorted.

"I did not commit the same sins you did!"

"Then why did you walk out on her?!"

" BECAUSE I HAD NO CHOICE!"

Silence fell over the room once more. Whatever thunder Applejack was packing was quickly silenced. As for Spike, he was very much pushed to his limits here. He was just a boy. He didn't stay with Twilight not because he willingly chose to leave Twilight to wallow in her misery. The reason he left lay largely with popular choice, and that was to just leave Twilight to think about what she had done. He didn't like leaving Twilight so broken, but he didn't want to be cast out of the wedding either. Unfortunately, like the Mane 5, Shining and Celestia, he fell for the same delusions that Twilight was still in the wedding hall, wallowing in her misery. He had no idea that Chrysalis had imprisoned her in the caves, or that her life was in danger, but now that he did, it was taking a bad toll on him.

"Don't you get it?! Is your pride too stubborn for you to admit that the way you treated Twilight was wrong?! Did you, all of you, forget that Canterlot was under threat of an attack?!"

Applejack could not answer. She was failing to find words to counter Spike's arguments. Even if she had managed to find an answer, it didn't matter anyway. Spike was not finished yet.

"I left Twilight, because I had no choice! I wasn't comfortable with leaving her, but I didn't want to be cast out of the wedding either! Unlike you, I would never leave Twilight unless the circumstances demanded it, but you.......you were all so caught up in the wedding that it became all that mattered to you! Clearly you are the worst examples of friends I have ever seen, because you are all perfectly ready and willing to leave Twilight when it suits you, now am I right or am I not?"

The Mane 5 were completely stuck for words. Applejack had nothing else to say. Only Rarity found the courage to say anything, but even she knew it would be feeble.

"But.......Spike.......we became Twilight's friends for a reason. Surely you haven't forgotten, right?"

"No Rarity, I haven't forgotten, but let me ask you this. Did you become Twilight's friends because you liked her and wanted to be best friends forever? Or did you become her friends because you sought the fame and glory you would eventually gain from your numerous exploits as the Elements of Harmony?"

With that, Rarity had lost anything and everything she was going to say. Spike had her well and truly beaten.

"I'm sorry Rarity, but it seems Twilight was right. What kind of ponies are you? Princess Celestia, Shining Armor, Fluttershy, Pinkie, Rarity, Rainbow, AJ, clearly you are not worthy of the time of a pony like Twilight Sparkle, and by extension, you are not worthy of my time either. This time, I am willingly choosing to leave because I regret leaving Twilight at all. I am her number one assistant, and one of the few loyal friends she still has. Good day to you all!"

With that, Spike began marching out of the room, tearing off his tuxedo as a symbolic reminder of the corruptive power of the wedding. How it got the seven key ponies ultimately responsible for Canterlot's safety to drop every responsibility they had to the safety of the city in order to spend their time preparing for something as trivial as a wedding. Rainbow tried going after him, but Applejack raised a hoof to stop her; it was best that they did not disturb either Spike or Twilight at this time.

After a while of walking, Spike eventually reached Twilight's quarters, where he saw Princess Cadance closing the door leading inside. With authority, the baby dragon approached the Princess of Love to state his business.

"Princess Cadance, I'm here to see Twilight. I want to make up for my actions at the rehearsal."

Spike's request was greeted with a smile, but Cadance wisely remembered Twilight might not be too pleased to see him.

"You may see her, young Spike, but take heed. She may not be happy to see you, but if I know her, she will forgive you. After all, one cannot be mad at a child for simply going with the flow. Just make sure you knock before entering."

With that, Spike nodded and marched up to the door, Cadance stepping aside. He proceeded to knock on the door.

"Who's there?" Asked Twilight from inside.

"It's Spike. I'm........I'm here to say sorry."

There was a pause. Spike took it to mean Twilight rejected his request, until he heard the door unlock. Before his eyes, it opened to reveal Twilight, who was packing her saddlebags.

"Come in Spike."

Spike gently stepped inside, with intent to repent. Behind him, the door closed and locked again, sealing him away from the outside world. Twilight faced him, neither smiling nor frowning. Taking a deep breath, Spike proceeded to talk.

"Twilight, I'm here to say sorry for leaving you at the rehearsal. I did not do it on purpose. I did it because I was left no choice. Shining Armor had left you. The girls were leaving you........what could I have done? Please believe me, it didn't feel right to leave you hurting like that, but I didn't want to be ejected from the wedding either. I chose to go with the flow rather than get shouted at for believing you before getting left alone as well. Please, you must believe me. I'm your number one assistant. Had the circumstances been any different, I would've happily stayed with you, but........you know. I'm so sorry Twilight. Please forgive me."

Spike bowed his head, fearing whatever reaction he'd get from Twilight. What he got instead was nowhere near what he was expecting: a hug.

"Oh Spike, how could I not forgive you?" Replied Twilight lovingly. She was glad there was still somepony loyal to her. "You really are my best friend Spike. I'm so happy you still believe in me." Spike could only smile at that. He was delighted Twilight was able to forgive him, but the question remained; would she be able to forgive the others?

"What now Twi?" Asked Spike.

"Pack your things Spike. We're going home, considering I'm not welcome here anymore."

With that, Spike began packing his things. What awaited himself and Twilight now was a long ride home.

Chapter 3 - Baptism of Fire

The wedding hall remained as it was from the moment Twilight ran out crying; a room with an atmosphere crushed under the heavy weights of regret and sorrow. Shining Armor, in particular, was taking this harder than the others. It was because of him that the most recent events of the day transpired, and it wasn't just any old day. It was supposed to be the happiest day of his life since the day he had met Cadance. It was almost unfathomable, how far he had fallen from grace. One moment he was the groom, deeply in love with his bride and super excited for their wedding day. Now, he felt like the world's worst brother. Not only did he ban Twilight from this once-in-a-lifetime event, but he had to go and scar her mentally as well. There was no doubting it; his actions had inflicted severe damage on their relationship, damage that had clear knock-on effects as demonstrated by Cadance and Spike. To make matters worse, he knew that it wouldn't end there. The greatest evidence of a life-changing event is one's memories, and at the present time, the memory in Shining's head was fresher than a baker's dozen from Sugarcube Corner. The stallion was beginning to grow desperate, fueled by his intense remorse for his actions. Hoping that Celestia might help him, he turned to her for answers.

"Princess, is there anything we can do?"

"I don't think there's much we can do Shining. As it stands, we have done enough already. Perhaps it is best we take no further action".

"But Princess, we can't just sit here and do nothing!" Cried Rainbow. If there was one thing the cyan blue pegasus was known for, it was stubbornness. And once more that same stubbornness was driving her will to action. Meanwhile, Applejack was still trying to comprehend Twilight's revelation that their actions had put her life, as well as the lives of several thousand ponies including their own in danger. However, she was at war with her pride, which was trying to convince her that Twilight's actions were over the top and completely unlike her, not to mention rude and shameful. They had the matter well in hoof anyway, or so Applejack's pride, stubborn as ever, was trying to convince her. That was the question burdening Applejack's mind, however. Did they really have the matter under control, or were they too caught up in the wedding to remember what was at stake?

"Girls, tell me Twilight wasn't right. Tell me we didn't forsake innocent lives for a wedding".

The girls could only look at her with frank expressions. Were it not for Twilight and Cadance's intervention, Canterlot faced certain doom at the hooves of Chrysalis, and they would've been held responsible.

"Oh mah........." Said Applejack, horrified. She had finally come to terms with her mistake. Their mistake, which deserved a big fat mark of shame. Suddenly, the hall's doors opened to reveal Cadance, who had come bearing news for Celestia. If the Princess had guessed correctly, this wouldn't be good news in the slightest.

"Aunt Celestia, Twilight wishes me to inform you that she is no longer your student. Additionally, because you said she had a lot to think about, after taking a moment to gather her thoughts, she has resigned from her post as the bearer of the Element of Magic. That is all."

For the fourth time in a row, silence fell over the room as the Mane 5, Shining Armor and Celestia looked at Cadance in shock and horror. By the Creator, was Shining right when he guessed this wasn't over. Yet another price had been paid for their mistake, and one that was very, very costly. For Celestia and the Mane 5, this was very grave news. Without Twilight to lead them, the Elements of Harmony would become useless, and Equestria as a whole would lose its greatest means of defense. Unfortunately, in this scenario, there was no "would've". Instead, it was a case of "had".

"She........she did what?" Gasped Celestia speechlessly.

"Has she lost her mind or something?!" Yelled Rainbow, equally as shocked as the Sun Princess.

"Without her, we can't be friends anymore!" Cried Pinkie.

"Uhh, Pinkie, that isn't entirely the case". Deadpanned Applejack. "Without Twilight, the Elements become useless!"

"Equestria becomes defenseless.........." Added Shining, the proverbial dots joining together as he spoke.

"And any enemy that attacks us will have free reign to wreak havoc." Finished Celestia. If this was the ultimate price they were being made to pay for their actions, it was

something they needed to rectify, and fast. With a look on her face that screamed "enough is enough", Celestia turned to Shining to issue orders.

"Shining, take four of your men and bring Luna to me. I need to know what she was doing the day of the invasion. Afterwards, I will update her on the situation".

"Right away your Majesty". Replied Shining without hesitation. Marching up to the doors, still wearing his ceremonial Mareish Guards dress, Shining motioned to four of the eight throne room guards standing before him.

"Hunter! Raider! Nightshade! Prowler! Come with me."

"Yes sir!" Replied the four guards in unison, following Shining down the hall as he trotted ahead of them. As soon as they got into formation, they broke into a canter, making haste for Luna's private quarters. In the meantime, Celestia turned to Cadance.

"Cadance, is there anything else you wish to tell me?"

"Yes Aunt Celestia. Twilight also wished me to inform you that she and Spike will be returning home as soon as they are done packing. They believe they are no longer welcome here, as regards the ban Shining forced on her at the rehearsal".

Celestia could feel her gut twisting with guilt more and more. They really had gone too far in their treatment of her.

"Very well. Cadance, can you and the girls try talking to her?"

"Why Auntie? To ask for her forgiveness and to get her to resume being your student, or simply to resume being your attack dog?"

Celestia sighed in annoyance. Cadance did have a right to be angry, considering how close she was with Twilight, but this was the equivalent of sticking thorns in her body.

"Cadance, I need you to talk to Twilight, because she needs to know I am extremely sorry for what I have done. I would do it myself, but I must oversee repairs to the city, as well as the immediate treatment of the injured. The ponies need a leader to unite them in this dark time, and I am more than willing to do just that. I need you, however, to talk to Twilight. In fact, let her know that if she wants an audience with me to gain her trust, I would be more than happy to meet with her. Just please try to bring her around. She must know that her resignation spells doom for Equestria and life as we know it".

"Very well" Replied Cadance. "Come on girls. We must catch the train".

Nodding to signal their replies, the Mane 5 followed Cadance out of the castle to the train station, leaving the Princess alone in the hall. For once, she could take a moment to truly feel the atmosphere in the room, the strongest layer being Twilight's anguish and rage during her outburst, which brought forth the revelation that she could have died due to her rejection by her friends and family that fateful night. As a teacher, Celestia was extremely disappointed in herself. She considered herself a hypocrite for having taught Twilight all those lessons about friendship and magic, only to show nothing by herself. Celestia had to face facts; everything that happened and everything that was going to happen was brought on by herself, Shining Armor and the Mane 5. The only thing she couldn't imagine happening, however, was a second invasion.

Somewhere in the outskirts of Canterlot, Chrysalis regained consciousness after suffering both a heavy defeat and a long fall from Canterlot Castle deep into the province's borderlands. Around her, some of her Changelings were also coming to, but their numbers had been severely depleted following the massive pulse of magic released unto them by Shining Armor and Princess Cadance. Grunting and groaning angrily, the Changeling Queen got up on all fours, before raising a hoof into the sky in damnation.

"You have not seen the last of me Celestia! I will return, and when I do, Canterlot will BURN!"

Growling with intense menace, Chrysalis looked around her in order to find something to tear apart. A house, a rock, anything would suffice. But what she saw instead was a small settlement, complete with an equally small garrison of Royal Guards. Dark and evil thoughts began to seep into Chrysalis's mind, but her thinking was quickly ceased by the yelling of a nearby farmer who fled to the village to warn the garrison. Thinking quickly, Chrysalis turned to her Changelings to rally them.

"On your hooves, quickly! If we are to regain our strength, we must feed. The time has come for Canterlot to learn the true strength of the Changelings".

Together, Chrysalis and her ragtag, yet respectable strike force hurried to the village, intent on razing it to the ground. Opposite them, the garrison of Royal Guards was also rushing towards them, with the mission to take down Chrysalis and exile her and her troops from Canterlot. A battle was on the rise, but before the already present hostilities could escalate, the two sides stopped just metres from each other. As was customary with the rules of war, both parties would first try to talk each other out of it. If no resolution could be reached, fighting could then begin.

"Listen up Changelings!" Yelled the lead Royal Guard. "Surrender now and you will not be harmed."

Chrysalis cackled evilly. To her, the Royal Guard were as naive as ever, but one should never underestimate their capabilities. That much was clear.

"Surrender? Hah! You fools, don't you know who I am?"

"Of course we do!" Said the youngest Royal Guard, a rookie by all appearances. "You're a love-stealing evil thug!"

The rookie's comment was met with a slap to the head by his commandant.

"Shut up Spark!" Growled the commandant in annoyance. Over-eager rookies were normally all it took to detonate a powder keg of tension.

Fortunately, this keg did not blow immediately, but it would soon.

"I see somepony is eager!" Chuckled Chrysalis, entertained by Spark's determination. "But nonetheless. You know why we are here. You know what we want, and if you do not surrender, then we will happily walk over you and anypony else who stands in our way to get it".

Chrysalis's threat was met with laughter from the Guards, angering her greatly.

"How typical of your lot, Chrysalis" Chortled the lead Guard, Defiant Aegis. "Royal Guards!"

Aegis's Guards stood to attention, poised to strike on his word. Chrysalis and the Changelings followed suit.

"CHARGE!" Yelled both commanders as their forces clashed. The battle was ferocious. Despite being armed with weapons and armor, the Royal Guards were finding it tough fighting the vicious and determined Changelings. Even Spark was having trouble dancing the ballet of clashed blades with his other, despite his high morale. But as time passed, the losses began to build as even though they had lost a lot of their troops, the Changelings were gaining a lead over the Royal Guards. Eventually, after a spree of incapacitating and harvesting the love of her opponents, Chrysalis was left with Aegis, who was a bedraggled mess. He had knocked one of Chrysalis's Changelings out cold with a swift strike to the pony's temple using his leg armor. Knowing his time was up, Aegis turned to face the victorious Changeling Queen.

"If you think I'm gonna surrender, you're dead wrong Chrysalis. I may fall, but I will fight you to the bitter end, because that is the reason I am a Royal Guard! We will never-"

"Oh shut up!" Boomed Chrysalis, who fired an ice spell at Aegis, freezing him solid. That was it, there was nothing left to stand in her way. Smiling evilly as she watched the villagers flee for their lives, Chrysalis gave her troops the command they had fought for.

"Take them."

The spree of devastation seemed to fly by as the Changelings stormed the village, smashing into ponies homes before harvesting their love and setting the place on fire. Those who tried to resist were quickly incapacitated and harvested. Those who gave themselves up were spared harvesting, but were taken prisoner. Within hours, the village was ablaze, and Chrysalis and her Changelings, with their prisoners in tow, proceeded to return to their hive in the mountain range known as the Black Widow's Peak.

Chapter 4 - Scathing Criticism, Undying Regret

For Twilight and Spike, it had felt like hours since they had left Canterlot for Ponyville, but in reality, it had only been a little over an hour and a half. The train had now reached the midway point on its journey and yet, Twilight still did not feel at peace. Everything that had happened over the past couple of days was still raging in her mind. How she, out of her friends, her brother and her mentor was the only one to notice the glints of Chrysalis's evil under the shroud of her poorly rehearsed masquerade, how helpless and shocked she felt when Chrysalis brainwashed Shining, how little her friends took her seriously when she tried to tell them her concerns about the impostor, how hurt and betrayed she felt when they walked out on her, following her brother to comfort a pony who was completely undeserving of any sympathy, regardless of the crocodile tears she shed, how lost everything seemed when Celestia was defeated and she and her friends were captured before they could reach the Elements of Harmony, and how justified she felt after Chrysalis was beaten. All of this was still cooking up a storm deep in the annals of her mind, and there was little she could do to forget about it. Spike, on the other hand, wasn't as troubled by the recent events of his life, but he certainly did still regret abandoning Twilight, and from the point where he was forgiven, he swore to himself that he would never leave her again. Spike looked up to see Twilight, her face as blank as stone. She seemed lost in thought, but to be sure she was OK, Spike decided to get her attention.

"Twilight, are you OK?"

The lavender unicorn looked at him, having snapped out of her trance. She smiled at him warmly.

"I'm fine Spike. I was just thinking about stuff."

"You were thinking about what had happened, weren't you?"

Twilight looked at Spike with a frank expression. If Spike could tell she was still conflicted with the events of the wedding, then there was no hope of hiding it. With a sigh, she chose to come clean.

"Yeah Spike, I was. I can't help it. It won't go away. Everything that happened.......it's all stuck in my head and I can't get it out!"

Spike frowned. Twilight was clearly still in anguish and self-pity. He could tell she was hurting badly from being abandoned, but there was something else. Something he couldn't quite put his claw on. Fortunately, he wouldn't have to ask.

"What if I was wrong Spike?"

"What do you mean Twi?"

"What if I was wrong? What if Cadance wasn't an impostor? What if she really was just going through a hard time? Do you have any idea........?"

Twilight couldn't finish her words. The pain in her heart had become too great. As she began to sob once more, Spike immediately took the mare in his arms, consoling her for all she was worth. He was still her loyal assistant, and as such he would follow up on his role's job description, as well as the promise he made to himself to never leave her again, following his forgiveness by Twilight.

"I know Twi. I know".

Just then, the conductor called out from the middle carriage.

"Next stop, Ponyville! All passengers, the next stop is Ponyville!"

"Twi, we've arrived".

Helping the unicorn to dry her eyes, Spike stood back as Twilight returned to her hooves.

"Let's go home Spike. I think I need to lie down".

Together the unicorn and baby dragon faced the left side of the train, looking out the windows into the station as the train rolled to a stop, steam hissing from it's every orifices. Once the locomotive had reached a complete stop, the duo disembarked, bypassing the station building before heading towards the Golden Oaks Library.

Back at the castle, Princess Luna was holed up in her private quarters, furiously trying to win a game of Team Slayer on Halo 3's multiplayer, the game being set in the map Valhalla. Her Spartan was camped in the Forerunner building to the right of the crashed Pelican, armed with a sniper rifle. From her perch on the wall next to the gravity lift, she was awaiting any intruders from the red team to cross the mound in the middle, as well as either up the river or across the mound to the left. She then smiled and clenched an eye as a red Spartan came into view on the river. She zoomed in on the Spartan's head, intent on sniping him clean through the skull. As she began pushing down the right trigger using her magic, there were three knocks on the door. Her focus instantly derailed, Luna had little choice but to let her guests enter.

"Come in!" Said Luna, who had little idea her guests would be royal guards with very specific orders. When they did enter, she wasted no time leaving the game before getting up off her beanie bag to face Shining, who had just walked in behind his vanguard.

"Captain Armor? What brings you here?"

"Princess Luna, we need you to come with us. Celestia has requested your presence in the wedding hall immediately."

With an instant feeling of urgency coursing through her body, Luna was quick to acquiesce to Shining's orders.

"Please Captain, lead the way. Whatever my sister asks of me, I will not hesitate to fulfill."

With that, Shining led Luna down to the throne room. Behind them, the guards closed the doors to her private quarters, before following after them. It was about midway into the journey when Luna picked up on the aura of tension that floated in the air around Shining and the guards, making her feel uneasy. Whatever Celestia wanted her for, it certainly wasn't anything light-hearted. Unfortunately for Luna, she would be proven right as the group approached the throne room. The doors remained open, allowing Luna a clear glance at her sister, who was watching her as the two sisters drew closer. The look on her face was neither smiling nor frowning, but one of concern. The former was pleased to see her, but also equally worried. The escort stopped just a few metres away from the Sun Princess, allowing Shining to step forward to address her.

"Princess, we have brought your sister as you requested."

"Thank you Captain. That will be all."

With that, Shining bowed, before turning on a dime and motioning to his men to leave the sisters alone, returning to their stations as the throne room's ceremonial guards. Before Shining could make himself idle, a unicorn Royal Guard sentry ran up to him, carrying a letter with his magic. Having opened the letter and read its contents, Shining learned of how Chrysalis and the remnants of her army had attacked a settlement near the border, burning it to the ground and taking the inhabitants prisoner. His face was initially grim with dread, but Shining recomposed himself, and dismissed the sentry. Meanwhile, Luna was first to break the ice between herself and Celestia.

"What is the matter dear sister? Why hath you summoned me before you?"

"Luna, I need to ask you some questions. The reason is that in light of my most recent actions, as well as those of Captain Armor and the Element Bearers, Canterlot nearly fell."

Luna gasped in shock. She knew Celestia had bad news for her, but this was beyond anything she had imagined.

"What?! What do you mean Canterlot nearly fell?!"

"Canterlot nearly fell, because of the collective incompetence of myself, Captain Armor and the Element Bearers. As you know, we had received word of a threat against Canterlot, which turned out to be true and more effective than we believed. An army of beings known as Changelings stormed the city, injuring many of our citizens and Royal Guards, while also harvesting their love for their own ends. Also, we did not know it at the time, but their leader, Queen Chrysalis, had managed to somehow infiltrate the city, taking the place of the bride after locking her in the Canterlot Caves."

"Canterlot Caves?" Asked Luna curiously. It was only now that everypony in the castle had learned of the caves, and ever since, Celestia had sent a scouting party of Royal Guards to investigate them, in order to find out how Chrysalis had managed to imprison both Cadance and Twilight in them, while taking measures to ensure they are never used in such a manner ever again. However, that was the least of her concerns. The tale that Celestia was spinning before her was intriguing her more and more.

"Following Twilight and the Element Bearers arrival at the castle, as well as the former's reunion with her brother and foalsitter, it was from that point that Twilight believed something was not right with the bride-to-be. According to testimony from her friends, she told them that she saw the impostor embarrass and humiliate them without them even realizing it, something that my niece would never, ever do. It was also revealed at the wedding that the impostor had put Captain Armor under a mind-control spell, with Twilight watching every second of it. Then, when she tried confronting the fiend openly, like indignant fools we chose to abandon her. Also, we didn't just walk out on her. Captain Armor disowned her, stripped her of her title as Best Mare and banned her from the wedding, her friends walked out on her, and I.............I said she had a lot to think about."

Luna gasped again. Something like this from her sister was unheard of. Ever since that Nightmare Night when Twilight restored her relationship with the citizens of Ponyville, Luna knew and recognized the fact that Twilight was nothing short of respectable, honorable and a true friend, deserving of everything she had achieved to this point. In fact, it was because of Twilight that she was freed from the clutches of Nightmare Moon, a deed that truly won her sister's praise and gratitude. But now, the teacher who had taught her student so much about magic and friendship simply walks out on her, as did her brother and friends when all she was trying to do was save them from a terrible fate? To Luna, that was both an outrage and a major injustice to the lavender unicorn, who had done so much for not only Equestria, but for them both. Before she could say anything, Celestia continued.

"If you're thinking about chastising me, I beg of you to reconsider. I have heard enough as it is from Twilight, Cadance and Spike even. I know I am guilty of nearly letting my subjects, my ponies meet their doom, I know I am guilty of nearly letting Canterlot be wiped off the face of Equestria, and I am especially sorry for betraying my student, who holds so much faith for me and has given everything to both ourselves and Equestria. Just please, do not chastise me. I have already been punished enough for my sins."

Luna could only watch as her sister lowered her head in shame. She could feel her eyebrows and face contort into a mask of pure disappointment, even anger at her sister for doing such a thing, and she had no intention of relinquishing the emotions that were taking over at present. Her next action defaulted, Luna glared at her sister sternly.

"Dear sister, I have known you for a long, long time. You may not be omnipotent, and on that matter, neither am I, but you of all ponies should know when something is wrong. Your capability to write off somepony's feelings as mere folly is of no surprise to me, considering it was what happened between us long ago, but in these circumstances I find it particularly hard to believe you could write off your student, the one pony besides me whom I know you care very dearly for and trust implicitly, as a jealous and overpossessive brat. Surely one like yourself would have learned from their past mistakes. Do you remember the day I became Nightmare Moon?"

Celestia clenched her eyes in pain. The memories of that dreadful episode of her life were rushing back into her mind. If that wasn't already a slash to her heart, then the knowledge that what happened then draws similar comparisons to the rehearsal would absolutely double it.

"I turned to the dark side for want of recognition of the beauty of the night by my subjects. As the days passed, and my hopes turned into bitterness, you ignored it for the limelight, leaving me to succumb to my demons. The price you paid was one which I know very well caused you immense grief. You had no choice but to banish me to the moon for 1000 years. A heavy price to pay, perhaps not one more heavy than that of death, but it was still a loss that affected you deeply. Knowing this, then one such as yourself should have learned the lesson to take others more seriously, especially those closest to you. How do I know? Well, when on that Nightmare Night I tried to connect with my subjects, it was Twilight who helped me to become more down-to-earth and kinder to my subjects than before. Indeed, it had been 1000 years since I last saw Equestria, and much has changed. But it was thanks to Twilight that I was able to "modernize", as the locals say. It is because of this that I understood why she was your student. You saw much potential in her. You believed that she was the perfect protege, and thus you took her under your wing in order to help her realize that potential. Yet, for somepony who holds so much faith in her student, and especially when that same student in equal measure believes in you, how could you let her down?"

Celestia could feel another slash tear through her heart as Luna hit her with another telling question. For all intents and purposes, this felt like an interrogation, and probably the most painful and harrowing encounter she had to deal with yet.

"I did not let her down Luna. I was only doing what I thought was right."

"So you thought it was right to break the heart of "your most faithful student", betraying her trust in the process? Have you forgotten just how much she believed in you? DId you not realize the potential ramifications your actions could've had on her?"

"I did not forget!" Celestia snapped in frustration. "I.........knew Twilight trusted me. I just didn't think that what I did would hurt her so badly. She is a mare now, not a foal. One would expect her to take it maturely. Furthermore, she did also upset the bride, my niece."

"But that wasn't your niece. That was an impostor with evil intentions, yet you let her facade fool you, and I know you sister. You're no fool. How?"

With that, Celestia was beaten. In the midst of her struggle to find an answer to how she failed to differentiate the impostor from her niece, tears began flowing from her eyes. The alicorn started crying, her stubbornness finally failing.

"I don't know Luna. I just..............don't know. I cannot explain how I believed that impostor to be my niece. She acted nothing like her.........the niece we know and love is warm, kind and caring, but the Cadance we saw at the wedding..........she was so cold and distant. Honestly Luna, I can't explain it. I just..........."

Celestia couldn't say anymore, and Luna could see it. Perhaps she had been a bit too scathing in her criticism of her sister. That wasn't the reason she was here. She was brought here to answer questions, and it was under those conditions that she decided to relent.

"I am sorry, dear sister. Like Twilight, Spike and Cadance before me, I find it hard to comprehend how you, along with Shining and the Element Bearers can dismiss the impostor's attitude as mere stress. We both know Cadance is capable of taking on any responsibility with the same good grace and warmth she is so blessed with. The one you saw at the wedding was a poorly rehearsed act of imitation, one undeserving of her very image. Still, that is not the reason you summoned me."

After pulling herself together, Celestia took a moment to compose herself before speaking.

"Yes Luna. I need you to answer some questions pertaining to the wedding. First off, when dawn broke over Canterlot, what happened when you left your post?"

Chapter 5 - Actions Speak Louder Than Words

As Celestia continued questioning Luna on her absence during the battle against the Changelings, Shining (who was standing away from them next to the throne room's massive doors) was getting anxious. Twilight was somewhere out there, hurt, alone, and for all he knew, lost. He was desperate to let her know how sorry he was for what he did. He even refused to recall what he did to her, considering the price his actions carried placed a heavy weight of shame on himself. If it was any consolation, however, he was able to channel that shame into willpower, and he intended to use it to do whatever it would take to find his sister. His attention soon returned to the royal sisters, who were just finishing up Luna's interrogation.

"So you were sleeping during the attack?

"That is correct sister. Additionally, I have information you may want to hear."

Celestia smiled responsively. Any information she could get at this time would be of great assistance to figure out how this happened.

"Following your departure to oversee the wedding rehearsals, I was manning the watch as usual, until Cadance flew up to me. She asked me if I knew a spell she had recently learned. I don't remember exactly what happened after that, but I do remember asking her what spell she had learned."

"Is that so?" Celestia remarked, raising an eyebrow in suspicion. Why would her niece need to see Luna during her watch, and only to show her a spell she had learnt? The answer seemed glaringly obvious; Chrysalis had magicked Luna to sleep, before taking her back to her quarters to make it seem as if nothing had happened. With a "mmph" of configuration, she smiled at Luna once more.

"Thank you Luna. I'm sorry if this interrogation caused you any inconvenience."

"You have nothing to be sorry for my dear sister. I understand what you are doing is for the good of our kingdom."

With that, the interrogation was over. Deciding to waste no further time, Shining made his move.

"Princess Celestia?"

"Yes Captain Armor?"

"I cannot hold my tongue any longer. I have to go and find Twilight. Every second of her absence is killing me. You must let me go with Cadance."

"As much as I respect and admire your loyalty to your family Captain, I'm afraid your duties lie elsewhere. Your first order of business is to split up every officer under your command into two groups. The first group is to form patrols with the orders to comb the city for any Changelings that may be still in the city. They have my permission to use tracking magic as well. Any Changelings they find, living, wounded or dead are to be brought back to the castle immediately for treatment as seen fit by me. As for the other group of officers, they are to take their men and assist with reconstruction efforts wherever they are needed."

"Yes ma'am." Replied Shining, who prepared to inform his officers via magical telepathy of their orders. Unfortunately, in his haste to leave, he wasn't prepared for what came next.

"And Shining? I believe that Twilight's parents should be informed of these events as soon as you are finished."

Shining stopped dead in his tracks, the equivalent of a spear slamming into his heart. That would mean telling his mother and father, Twilight Velvet and Night Light, of the events that had transpired since the rehearsal, and by the Creator, they would not take it well. Shining was snookered, and he knew it. How he wished that Death would be so merciful. Still, it needed to be done, and the stallion knew he could not forsake priorities for his own wellbeing. Such actions would be unworthy of his rank, as if he had not done enough to stain its honor already.

"Of course ma'am." Shining replied grimly. Even though he was going to have his flank handed to him, the last thing he would ever do, under pain of death, was defy his princess. With no time to lose, he headed off to carry out his orders.

Meanwhile, Cadance and the Mane 5 were aboard the train which followed Twilight's to Ponyville. Inside their carriage, the mood was quite grim. Cadance was focused mostly on how Twilight was going to feel seeing the girls again. While the latter would be pleased to see her again, the presence of the girls would equate to a presence entering her home that was never welcome from the day they had first met. Obviously, Twilight would be irked at the presence of those who betrayed her and left her for dead, so Cadance knew that somehow she would have to explain things in such a way that Twilight's anger would subside, and she would listen. It was fortunate enough that Cadance already had Twilight's trust, given that she had no part in the betrayal, but she still had to ensure the latter was convinced enough to let the Mane 5 be heard. Turning to the girls, she decided to test them, in order to prepare them for what they were about to face.

"Ok girls, I trust you are all aware Twilight will not be pleased to see you?"

"That kinda goes without sayin' Princess" Replied Applejack.

"Yeah. It's not like she didn't make that clear after we defeated Chrysalis" Added Rainbow in annoyance.

"Princess, I don't know about this. What are we going to tell Twilight?" Asked Rarity worriedly. She knew they couldn't afford to say something that would upset Twilight. That much was clear to the lot of them.

"I'll talk to her first Rarity, let her know you all feel terrible for what you did and you want to apologize. At the moment, Twilight only trusts me and Spike, so it's better if I talk to her. As for what you're going to tell her, I'm sure once the time comes, you will know what to say, and more importantly, how to say it. Twilight will forgive you girls. You just need to know how to get the message across."

"But that's the problem Princess." Rainbow cut in. "How are we going to get the message across with Twilight still mad at us?"

"If it is any help Rainbow, I would advise you do not beat around the bush with her. Trust me girls, I've known Twilight for a long, long time. She doesn't like being tricked or lied to."

"Princess, you are aware Twilight isn't exactly innocent of her crimes either?" Rarity quipped cautiously. Unfortunately, she still managed to surprise the pink alicorn.

"What do you mean by that Rarity?"

"Nothing sinister darling. What I'm asking is if you know Twilight did something wrong as well?"

Cadance sighed deeply. Rarity had a point; Twilight did upset the bride, even though she was an impostor. To complicate matters, nopony knew the truth at the time, so by a technicality Twilight was as much at fault as the girls were. However, Cadance did take into account that while upsetting a bride before her wedding is an undeniably despicable act, the knowledge that the fate of Equestria was at stake managed to outweigh her crime, but only a little.

"I know that what she did wasn't exactly noble of herself either, but Rarity, you must understand. Twilight was trying to warn you of an impostor, even if it meant making a bride cry. Believe me, I spent a lot of time with her when she was a filly, and she would never do something like that without good reason."

"That's not the point Princess! Twilight barged into the rehearsal and accused.....well, you, of being evil with no proof to back up her claim. Do you seriously expect us to have just believed her out of blind loyalty?"

"There is blind loyalty, Rainbow, and then there is experience. Has Twilight ever been wrong about something before?"

The girls fell into an uneasy silence. Lesson Zero was the first thing that came into their minds, a testament to the weight of their collective failure. Still, somepony had to say it, and it fell to Rainbow to take up that mantle.

"Well, there was the time Twilight went crazy about her friendship reports to Princess Celestia. I don't know a whole lot about what happened, nor do I remember, but Twi went completely insane trying to find a problem to solve so she could write to Princess Celestia about her friendship lesson."

"It even got to the point where Twilight had to make a problem herself." Said Applejack. "She bewitched her Smartypants doll with a Want It Need It spell which made half of Ponyville, including Big Mac, Applebloom, Sweetie Belle and Scootaloo rip each other apart trying to get it. Celestia had to personally go down there to restore order, not to mention speaking to Twilight about what happened."

"Did you defend Twilight then?" Cadance asked inquisitively.

"Of course we did!" Replied Rainbow confidently. "We weren't going to let Twilight be demoted back to Magic Kindergarten just like that!"

"We didn't listen to her when she tried to warn us" Added Fluttershy "So we knew we had to do something to help her."

"And anyway, that's what friends do!" Pinkie piped happily. "They forgive each other no matter what!"

This made Cadance lower a brow in question. "Then why did you not defend Twilight at the wedding rehearsal?"

Once more, the girls fell silent, unable to find an explanation for their actions. This was a very damning experience for them, but it was one they deserved for treating their best friend the way they did. Eventually, Applejack spoke up, having finally found something to say.

"I..........Oh Luna..........I don't know why we left her. I don't know what we were thinking. I....."

Applejack's voice began to waver as her normally iron will sagged, melting back into a puddle of regret. Everything she had been through, especially the part where Twilight drilled the thought of her untimely death into her head, had finally caught up with her. Unable to compose herself any longer, the cowpony started sobbing. Rarity moved to comfort her. They were all suffering equally as bad as she was, and thus they had to be there for each other and for Twilight especially. Cadance wasn't done though.

"Do you understand now why Twilight is so upset girls? Do you understand the motive behind her rage? Do you understand now that being the bridesmaids of the wedding corrupted your minds to the point where your cares and responsibilities faded into nonexistence?"

The Mane 5 looked at each other glumly, before nodding to Cadance. This make the pink alicorn smile warmly. The girls had succeeded in trying to understand Twilight's fury, and she had helped them to do it. Now they were ready to stand before her and say they were sorry. But most importantly, now they were ready to admit to the ponies of Canterlot they too were responsible for nearly letting the city fall to the Changelings, and now they were ready to do it with grace and humility.

"Then you are ready." Said Cadance firmly.

"Indeed we are Princess." Replied Rarity, who was still consoling the broken and remorseful Applejack. "Indeed we are."

"Next stop Ponyville!" Yelled out the conductor as the train whistled. The group was nearing Ponyville, and Cadance knew it was time for them to get ready.

"We're nearly there girls. Don't forget what you have learned!"

Before long, Applejack had managed to pull herself together. With a sniffle from her snout, she fixed her Stetson and turned to face Cadance, a look of firm and hardy readiness on her face.

"Let's go and get our best friend back".

Chapter 6 - A Storm Is Coming

After a long and hard trudge through the Black Widow's Peaks, Chrysalis, along with what remained of her army and the prisoners they took from the Canterlot settlement arrived at the Changeling hive, one of the tallest peaks in the entire mountain range. From the numerous cracks and windows that dotted the structure, a sickly green light glowed, with trace amounts of smoke rising from them. The valley through which the convoy walked was dotted with rocks and boulders of all shapes and sizes, with the surrounding mountains acting as a perimeter wall which surrounded the hive. Standing before Chrysalis was a tall and thick stone gate, which opened immediately to reveal an equally tall iron portcullis. The Changelings bowed to greet their queen, before casting hard and menacing looks upon the line of prisoners that were marched inside. It wasn't long before Chrysalis reached her throne room, where Captain Black Blade, one of the many mid-ranked officers in the Changeling Army was waiting for her, along with her royal guard.

"Welcome back my Queen" Hissed Blade. "I hope you aren't hurt?"

"Just a few scars" Replied Chrysalis. "They will heal. Now, I want the prisoners, all the prisoners, to be rehabilitated. The army is in need of replenishment."

"Of course your Majesty" Blade hissed in response. "Changelings! Prepare the prisoners for their rehabilitation."

Amidst the cries and pleas of the terrified prisoners, Chrysalis sat atop her throne once more, the wounds from her landing fresh, but unbled. Her throne possessed the ability to channel the love from her prisoners into her body, giving her extra magic power and increased strength, a much needed boost considering the toll Cadance and Shining's spell took on her. Having settled in, Chrysalis decided to pass on some fresh orders to her officers.

"Major Shroud! Come." Barked Chrysalis. In response, Dark Shroud, another of Chrysalis's officers, and one of the most experienced in her army stepped forth.

"Your Majesty?" Asked Shroud, preparing his mind to take mental notes, regardless of length.

"You are in charge of the armory. I want my new Changelings to be equipped with the finest armours and weapons my blacksmiths can forge. Last time we merely harvested the love from the ponies and kept attacking. This time we harvest, and then we kill. This time, there can be no resistance to the might of the Changelings. You will also be in charge of drilling. I want the new army to be deadlier than before. Merciless, unforgiving, unwilling to spare even the smallest quarter."

"Thank you your Majesty." Hissed Shroud. "I will not fail you."

With that, Shroud left to get the blacksmiths to work. Chrysalis, on the other hoof, was not quite finished. Now that she had a man in charge of drilling and equipment, she needed somepony to command the home defense. There was no doubt in her mind that Celestia would retaliate for this particular assault, should it fail, but for whatever she would send to attack the Hive, be it her Guards or the Element Bearers (the latter being the more likely), or even if Canterlot was conquered but a small resistance movement had managed to infiltrate enemy lines in an attempt to assassinate her or even to attack the Hive, it was necessary to ready the home defences.

"Lieutenant Fang! Come forth at once!"

Fang stepped before Chrysalis, his eyes shimmering with anticipation.

"How may I serve you your Majesty?"

"Lieutenant Fang, let it be known that this operation will be enacted on a size and scale greater than that of the first. We may either succeed and conquer Canterlot, or we may fail and be evicted once more, but once thing is for certain. Celestia will retaliate, and it will be her intent to destroy us as a force once and for all. The first step will be to attack the Hive, and therefore we must set up a home defence. I want you to lead it. Can you do that Fang?"

"It would be an honour, my Queen."

"Excellent. Lieutenant Fang, you are hereby dismissed."

With that, Fang departed the throne room, but not before bowing to Chrysalis, who prepared to issue the day's final orders.

"Captain Blade!"

Almost instantly, Blade returned to the throne room, always ready and eager to serve his queen. With no words, he awaited his orders.

"Captain, I hereby bestow upon you the order of leading my forces in the assault on Canterlot, and any other town or villages I decide to conquer. As my most trusted lieutenant, I am sure you will not fail me."

"Your Majesty, the word "failure" does not exist in my vocabulary. It never has and it never will, for as long as my heart beats, my brain thinks and my allegiance lies with you. I will run Canterlot into the ground, even if it takes my life."

An evil and satisfied smile crept across the Changeling Queen's mouth. Black Blade's loyalty to her has never failed to impress. The only question that lingered, however, was how long would that loyalty last?

"You are dismissed. Go now and assemble the army. I think they have marinated long enough. You will also find me your finest spy. I have a job for them."

"Immediately!" Barked Blade, who ran off to prepare the freshly replenished Changeling Army. Chrysalis then stared into a green flame that burned at the side of her throne. Glaring into it, the flame produced a vision of Twilight in her library, reading through the lumps of friendship reports she and her former best friends had written over the months. They were nothing more than relics to her now, relics that celebrated a friendship she thoroughly enjoyed.

At least, while it lasted anyway.

Grinning evilly, Chrysalis held little care for such a plight. The only thing she cared about was how Twilight had provided her the perfect setup to launch a perfect, foolproof and failsafe assault on Canterlot. The Princess of Love, accompanied by the other five Element Bearers were heading to Ponyville in order to mend relations with the lavender unicorn, leaving Canterlot vulnerable to attack. Chrysalis had her enemies right where she wanted them, and it was all thanks to Twilight that this was possible.

"Oh little Twilight Sparkle, I cannot imagine how much it must hurt to have been betrayed and left for dead by those you held close to your heart, those you loved. The pain must be excruciating, for want of a fitting word. On the other hoof, I can imagine how glorious victory will be when we storm the gates of Canterlot, and it is all thanks to you that this is possible! Now, do me a favour and try not to cry while I'm spying on you."    

In the background, Black Blade had returned with one of the best spies in the army, Snake Bite. Snake was renowned for his effectiveness on the field, particularly in espionage and marking targets for the army to eliminate. Entire towns and villages had fallen mostly by his hoof alone, hence why Blade saw fit to pick him for this job.

"Your Majesty, may I present Snake Bite. The finest spy in my intelligence corps."

Snake Bite bowed without a word. Chrysalis turned to look at the pair, before returning an affirmative nod to Blade.

"Thank you Lieutenant. You may go."

Bowing to his queen, Blade departed the hall, leaving Snake Bite alone with Chrysalis.

"Snake Bite, I have summoned your presence for a task of great importance. What you are about to hear is top secret, and absolutely nopony can know of it."

Bracing himself, Snake Bite cued to Chrysalis he was ready to receive the intel.

"My magic torch has revealed to me that the leader of the Element Bearers, Twilight Sparkle, has returned to her home in Ponyville following a fallout with her friends, her brother and Princess Celestia, her mentor, feeling hurt and betrayed by all of the previously mentioned. Celestia has since sent a delegation, made up of the Element Bearers, to Ponyville. They are led by Cadance, the Princess of Love and their mission is to broker a renewed peace with Twilight. I want you to go to Ponyville to keep an eye on the meeting. Once the Princess of Love has entered the treehouse, I want you to signal the battalion, which will be following you, to storm both the treehouse and the village, capture the Princess and bring her to the Hive. Anypony who attempts to resist or to rescue her is to be dealt with immediately. Once the Princess is captured, you are to flee the village and return to the Hive. In your disguise, try to look panicked and terrified. I don't care how you do it, just get out of Ponyville, but only when we have Cadance. Am I clear Snake Bite?"

"Transparently." Snake hissed gently.

"Excellent." Replied Chrysalis. "Go now Snake Bite. The battalion will be waiting in the Everfree within moments of your arrival.

With a quick and curt bow, Snake Bite flew off to Ponyville.

Back in Canterlot, Shining Armor had arrived at his and Twilight’s old family home with the orders to inform their parents, Twilight Velvet and Night Light of their current situation. The shamed former groom felt antsy about the whole ordeal; now he was beginning to wish he hadn’t taken on the extra order from Celestia.

He knew he'd have to tell them everything that happened including their betrayal and the invasion that followed their naivety and ignorance to her. He couldn’t bear to think of it any longer but he wanted to get it over with so they can quickly make amends to his own sister, the Element Bearer's best friend and Celestia's student they all scarred for life.Still, they had to know, so Shining knocked on the door and it opened to reveal his father Night Light.

"Why Shining! So good to see you again!"

"Is that my Shining Armor?!" screamed Twilight Velvet from the kitchen. The unicorn mare, bearing a mane almost similar to Twilight's, raced to the door to greet her son. "Oh honey! I'm so happy to see you, but shouldn't you be at the wedding?"

Shining’s heart sank deeper into his stomach. Night Light and Twilight Velvet were clearly delighted to see him and that made breaking the grave news of Twilight and Spike even harder to bear.

"The wedding's been called off", said Shining, trying to keep a straight face.

"Oh, well that's a shame", said Night Light, disappointed.

Shining knew his parents wouldn’t take the wedding rehearsal incident and the invasion well but he knew they would have to know sooner or later, even if it meant him, Celestia and Twilight’s friends all getting another tongue-lashing for their actions, not to mention it would be the third time in total he got criticism over it. Knowing that there was no escape, he took a deep breath and made his decision with a heavy heart.

"Mom, Dad, I have some bad news".

"What is it honey?” asked Velvet, feeling concerned.

"It's......I’ll fill you in on everything inside", said Shining as they went into the living room.

Having settled himself in the living room, Shining gathered what remained of his steely nerves and what was left of his resolve to break the news to his parents.

"Mom, Dad......"

Night and Velvet leaned in close; whatever news he had was obviously bad.

"What’s wrong, honey?" asked Velvet.

Shining dug deep before finally letting it roll off his tongue. "Twilight has left the city with Spike".

The aura around the room and the three ponies inside it shattered to pieces like a sonic boom. Velvet and Night could barely comprehend the news given to them.

"Oh my Celestia, my poor Twiley!" cried Velvet.

"How did this happen?!" asked Night.

"Well, it's best that I start from the beginning….."

Shining proceeded to tell his parents of the events of the rehearsal, doing his utmost to retain his composure. On the other hoof, the levels of disbelief grew for both Night and Velvet as they took in every little bit of Shining's story. The part that struck them the hardest was when he scornfully scolded Twilight and cut her off from his life, Twilight's friends leaving her to melt into a puddle of misery and Princess Celestia stabbing the final dagger into her heart by saying what she said.

"And that's why all this has happened." said Shining. "Twilight and Spike left, my bride hates me and called off the wedding and now I'm left to wonder if I really deserve to be Captain of the Royal Guard and be with Twilight.........my LSBFF, the pony I loved so much and missed every day before she returned........."

Shining couldn't keep it together anymore and slowly wept. No one said a word until Velvet finally cut in, it was all too much for her to take.

"Shining......how could you? How could you do such a thing?! Twilight was your own sister, your own flesh and blood! Why did you all push her aside for your own wedding and Cadence? You, her friends and her princess put her and all of Canterlot in jeopardy! You didn’t even give Spike a chance to choose the wedding or her!”

"Mom, please!" pleaded Shining in protest. "I didn't know that she wasn't the real Cadence! And for Celestia's sake, Twilight was ruthlessly accusing her of being evil to the point where she upsets her! How could you think I wouldn't stand against that?!"

"Either way Son, you have shamed your family." said the recomposed Night Light. ”Two wrongs never make a right and when I say that, I meant it doesn’t matter how out of order Twilight was when she confronted the queen. You  had no right to berate her like that and that goes double for her friends and the Princess herself. The only reason we supported the wedding was so we can welcome Cadence, ours and Celestia’s own foalsitter and niece into the Sparkle family. She made a difference in Twilight when she forgot about friendship after becoming Princess Celestia’s star protégée and you took her love for you for granted. By cutting off your ties with her and brushing off her warnings, you nearly brought upon Equestria’s ultimate destruction."

"I know Dad", sighed Shining. “But what was I supposed to do? I mean, I know Twilight was only looking out for us and she was worried for me but the way she barged in with no proof to back up her reasoning, I couldn't tell whether or not she was trying to destroy the wedding or shatter our friendship.”

“It doesn’t matter anymore. You have already done enough as it is to destroy our daughter and so did the Princess and her friends”, reminded Velvet, still in tears. Shining could only hang his head deeper from the truth in her words.

“Mom……”

"Son, if I were you, know this: I'd be thinking about the apology you’ll say to your sister when the time comes and you’ve plenty of time to do it. If it comes without heart or feeling, I promise you that she will never forgive neither you nor her friends and the Princess. You’re all responsible for this and it’s only fair that a truly heartfelt apology is delivered if you want her and Spike to come around. Because of your foolishness, our dear Twilight will be lost. Do you understand, Shining Armor Sparkle?" asked Night with a hint of disappointment.

"Yes Dad." Replied Shining sadly. Night Light turned to comfort his wife and left Shining to return to Celestia and carry on with his orders in shame. His parents literally didn’t take the news well and with the warning still buzzing in his head like a flock of angry parasprites, Shining began walking back to the palace, knowing he'd have to report to Princess Celestia Night and Velvet’s warning. The reality was obvious: While they thankfully hadn't signed their death warrants, Shining, the Mane 5 and Celestia had condemned themselves to this hell they were living.

Meanwhile, Cadance and the Mane 5 had arrived at Golden Oaks Library, only to find the tall but humble treehouse shut up tight and covered by a large shield, which Cadance was quick to recognize as a spell cast by Twilight to keep out any unwelcome visitors, namely her former best friends. However, Cadance sensed there was something off about the shield. The colour was the same as Twilight's magical aura, a reddish hue of purple, but it also contained a dark tint. The pink alicorn could tell this shield was no ordinary shield spell. When it was cast, the shield was laced with traces of hatred and anger. Not only did it give off the obvious signs all was not right with Twilight, but it also made the shield stronger. The group was intimidated, but only a little.

"Whoa nelly, would y'look at that?" Said Applejack, admiring the sight.

"This shield spell contains traces of Twilight's anger, hence it's dark coloring" Said Cadance grimly. "The poor mare must be a mess in there."

Taking a moment to test the shield's strength, Applejack knocked a hoof against it. Indeed, it was rock solid.

"Eeyup, there ain't nothing in Equestria that's going to break this shield." The cowpony confirmed glumly.

"To Tartarus with the shield! Twilight needs us, and we're getting to her one way or another!" Yelled Rainbow, who proceeded to charge the shield at lightspeed.

"No Rainbow!" Cried Cadance, but it was too late. The group cringed and groaned in unison as Rainbow hit the shield with a sickening thud, before sliding down to the ground. While she failed to break the shield, Rainbow had certainly gained somepony's attention as the doors to the treehouse balcony opened. Stepping through them was Spike.

"What's going on here!? State your business!" Spike barked firmly. The Mane 5 were shocked to see that the baby dragon had taken on such a strict form, but Cadance remained unbowed by such an appearance.

"Spike, we'd like to speak to Twilight."

"Sorry Cadance. We'll let you in, but they are not allowed on this property!" Spike roared, pointing a finger at the Mane 5 as he did so.

"Spike, please understand! The girls are sorry and they wish to apologise to Twilight personally!"

There was a brief pause as Spike registered what he had just heard. While his stance remained unchanged, he was willing to lend an ear to Cadance's plea.

"Is this true?"

"Yes. We have gone through much deliberation together, which led to the conclusion that because of the girl's collective incompetence, along with that of my husband-to-be and my aunt, Twilight would have very much gone to her death, followed by the ponies of Equestria. They now recognize that they made a terrible mistake and they wish to make amends however possible."

Another brief pause followed, before Spike made the decision to report to Twilight.

"Wait here. I need to check with Twilight."

"Take as much time as you both need Spike. We'll be waiting."

With that, Spike went back inside, the doors closing behind him. This left the group with little else to do other than ironing out any flaws in their apology speech. Unbeknownst to them, a Changeling disguised as a tanned yellow pegasus stallion, replete with a brown mane and tail had walked into town, and was quietly observing them. The minutes passed by, and eventually the balcony doors re-opened, Spike emerging from them once more.

"Everypony can come in, but no tricks or merriment. Twilight is not in the mood to be messed with."

With that, Spike walked back inside. As he did so, the balcony doors shut and the shield disappeared into the thin air. The girls proceeded inside, the front door open, but Cadance could still sense the traces of rage embedded within the shield's structure. It was making her apprehensive, but her overall mood was not shaken. Equestria needed Twilight back at the helm of the Elements, and this was probably the only chance they'd get to fix things. The Mane 5 did indeed regret everything; now was their opportunity to prove it.

Chapter 7 - Breaking The Ice

The Mane 5, with Cadance in tow, entered the main room of the library. Spike was standing atop the stairwell, his face clearly marked with suspicion. There was no trusting the girls, considering the magnitude of what they had done to Twilight at the rehearsal, but it remained to be seen if there was any credibility in their desire to apologize, and even if their apology was solid enough to prove their remorse.

"I'll go and get Twilight. Please wait here."

As Spike left to fetch Twilight, Cadance decided to ensure that the girls knew what they had to say, and more importantly how to say it.

"Feeling nervous girls?"

Four voices hummed in agreement. One did not, and that was Rarity.

"Nervous?" Replied the alabaster unicorn. "I'm shaking like a leaf. Could this be the most important moment in our lives? Celestia please help us."

Cadance's face produced a frank expression. Not only was this the most important moment of the Mane 5's lives, but it was quite possibly the most important moment in Equestrian history. The fate of all ponykind depended on these talks, and Cadance could only wonder how this fact couldn't be more obvious to anypony in general apart from herself and the girls. Just then, Spike stepped down the stairs. Following behind him was a sight that made the group tense up nervously.

It was Twilight.

Her expression was calm, but serious. There wasn't a hint of delight or joy traceable on her face or in her soul. Nothing could get past the stony hardness of her gaze, but the worst of all? The obvious coldness that the group could feel radiating off her. She was still very ticked off at the Mane 5, not just because they were invading her space, but also because she couldn't trust them to walk out on her again. Still, her mindset was very much like Spike's; it remained to be seen if the Mane 5 regretted their actions at all, therefore now was the time to prove it. The first gaze she cast was at Cadance, to whom she smiled.

"Hello Cadance."

"Hello Twilight." Cadance replied calmly. A small part of the pink alicorn was disappointed about the lack of a hoofshake, but it was completely understandable. Furthermore, the want of a hoofshake at this time would have been utter folly. Greater matters such as this always overruled the minor details, a fact Cadance did not forget. Returning to the matter at hoof, Twilight spoke up next.

"You need not explain to me why you and them are here. Spike filled me in on everything, especially the part where those five backstabbers wish to apologize."

"Take that back Twilight! That was uncalled fer!" Applejack barked angrily.

"Everypony calm down!" Urged Fluttershy. "Twilight, have you forgotten why we're here?"

"No Fluttershy,  I haven't. While I will not apologize for that remark, nor will I take it back, I will listen. You want to say sorry? Go ahead."

"Ok Twilight." Cadance interjected. "Girls, remember what you learned. Oh, and by the way Twilight. Aunt Celestia asked me to tell you that if you wish to seek a private audience with her, you are more than welcome to do so. She, too, is sorry for betraying you, and she is willing to settle the matter using any method possible."

"Thank you Cadance. Tell her I will seek an audience when the time is right."

Nodding in response, Cadance signalled to the Mane 5 for somepony to make a move. Despite being originally hesitant, Applejack quickly swallowed her sorrows and stepped up to the plate.

"Twilight, I won't fool around with you. It was my own darned pride that led me to abandon my loyalty. It was my pride that convinced me to leave my best friend so I could follow after the Queen of them Changeling thugs, who I foolishly believed to be the real Princess Cadance. It was my pride!.........that made me betray you Sugarcube. Fer that, I will never forgive myself. I don't deserve your forgiveness, heck, I don't deserve nothing from you. When I betrayed our friendship, I betrayed everything I stood for, and I deeply regret it."

"It wasn't just you that betrayed our friendship Applejack." Rarity added. "We all betrayed it. We all betrayed you Twilight. It was thanks to Cadance, in part, that we now realize the magnitude of our sins. Everything we had been through together, all those friendship lessons we had learned, we threw them out the window as if they were trash. Applejack wasn't the only one who betrayed everything she stood for, we did as well."

"Of course, the damage that was caused to our friendship is only half the battle." Rainbow added. "The next part is much worse, and it is dreadful to even contemplate. When we betrayed you, the connection between us as the Elements of Harmony was critically damaged to the point where they could not be used. If you and Cadance hadn't intervened, there would have been no saving Canterlot. Chrysalis would have revealed her deception and conquered the city in one swift stroke, and the blood of thousands of innocent ponies would have been on our hooves."

"We also failed our Elements." Said Fluttershy. "The Elements chose us because we were supposed to be the physical representations of what they stood for. I failed the Element of Kindness because I failed to show you any compassion."

"I failed the Element of Laughter because I chose not to cheer you up." Added Pinkie. "Which is something I intend to fix immediately, because I'm planning a super special We're-Sorry-For-Betraying-You party just for you!"

"I failed the Element of Loyalty because I did not stand by you when it was needed most." Said Rainbow. "Instead, I let the glamour of being a bridesmaid and the excitement of doing a Sonic Rainboom go to my head. I wasn't going to let them go, so I chose to betray my best friend in favour of a bug."

"I failed the Element of Generosity because I was not generous enough to show you that I still cared about you." Added Rarity. "All I cared about at that point was being a bridesmaid, and the added honour of mingling with Canterlot's nobility."

"And I failed the Element of Honesty because when we wrote that friendship report, we were supposed to have learned an important lesson. That lesson was to never ignore the concerns of your friends, no matter how small. But we did, so in all honesty, we can chalk that up to being a big fat lie. Twilight, we stand here before you, remorseful and ashamed of what we have done. It is with honest hearts that we apologize for abandoning you when you needed us most. We hope you can forgive us."

In unison, the Mane 5 bowed their heads sadly. Tears began to flow from their eyes and everything, but most importantly, the last word had fallen to Twilight. There was silence, and for a time, nothing seemed to be happening. That was until the nut finally cracked.

Twilight bowed her head as well, Spike and Cadance looking up to notice her movements. As she did so, tears began flowing freely from her eyes. She was sobbing, just loud enough for the Mane 5 to look up one by one in surprise. They did not know that Twilight, too, had something to apologize for. The latter looked back up again, her stony facade pulled down to reveal the same broken mare they had last seen in the wedding hall.

"Girls......" Sobbed Twilight. "You have nothing to be sorry for. It is I who should be remorseful and ashamed."

"Why is that darling?" Asked Rarity.

"Well.......what if I was wrong?"

"About what?" Spike piped up.

Taking a moment to sniffle again, Twilight laid down her sins before them.

"What if I was wrong about the impostor? What if that really was Cadance? Do you have any idea what would have happened to me if..........."

Twilight sobbed harder, the group watching on in stunned silence. Now it was clear to them just how much Twilight valued her friendship with them, as well as her relationship with her brother and with Celestia. She loved them all very dearly, which explained the great pain she was feeling. Suddenly, Fluttershy walked over to Twilight. The latter looked up at her, waterfalls flowing down from her eyes. With little hesitation, the yellow pegasus embraced Twilight in a hug, silencing any further sobbing. It was as if time had stopped completely, the pain and trauma of the world melted by the warmth of Fluttershy's kindness. This was the latter's ultimate redemption.

"Twilight, it doesn't matter anymore. What matters is that we are sorry for what we did, and all we want now is for us to be friends again. We want this to end on good terms, that is all. There is nothing more we desire than this."

With those words, Twilight melted into Fluttershy like ice over a warm fire. She was crying tears of both despair and joy. The rest of the Mane 5, along with Cadance and Spike, joined the hug, doing all in their power to console the distraught unicorn.

"Please don't leave me." Twilight whimpered sadly. "Please don't leave me......."

"Shh Sugarcube." Said Applejack soothingly. "We won't leave you ever again."

That was the way things were for the time being. The outside world didn't matter anymore. For now it was just Twilight, huddled in a warm embrace with those she loved and held dear. There was nothing that could ruin this moment, absolutely nothing. It was just them against the world.

Meanwhile, Snake Bite was maintaining his cover from outside. He had witnessed Cadance and the Mane 5 enter the treehouse, and had also contacted Black Blade for permission to engage. However, Blade ordered Snake to hold position for a little while longer, so as to not make things seem suspicious. Fortunately enough for the elite Changeling spy, he did not have to wait long as around the same time Twilight and company had embraced each other in a hug, Blade soon reported back via telepathy.

"Snake, this is Lieutenant Blade. Engagement at this time is a no-go. Maintain your cover and I will report back when the time to attack is right."

"Understood Lieutenant. Should we find somewhere to billet for the time being?"

"Affirmative. Same goes for Sergeant Tone and his men."

"Roger. Snake Bite out."

With that, Snake turned his attention to Icy Tone, who was comfortably hidden in the brush behind him.

"Sergeant, Lieutenant Blade has given us orders to billet here for the time being. We cannot attack until he says to. Disguise yourselves and your men, and we will go hide somewhere nopony will find us."

"What place would that be Snake?" Tone asked flatly. "There's nowhere in the town we can hide. Somepony would probably catch us."

"Exactly." Replied Snake. "Which is why I suggest we hide in the Everfree Forest. Nopony usually goes in there, and it would provide the perfect cover for us to carve out a plan while we wait for the moment to strike."

"I like your thinking Snake." Tone replied, convinced. "Ok men, engage your disguises. We make for the Everfree. Try not to look suspicious. Remember, we are tourists visiting the town. If anyone asks, we are from Baltimare."

Nodding to their sergeant, the Changeling troops assumed their disguises, as did Icy Tone and Snake Bite. Together they moved out of the brush, making their way southeast toward the Everfree. As they made their way past Town Hall and through the daily market, nopony even paid them a passing glance. Snake grinned. Their disguises were as solid as their nerves. It wasn't long before they reached the bridge that crossed into the treacherous woodland. Whatever perils lay inside did little to faze the nerves of the Changelings. They had a job to do, and they would get it done.

Meanwhile, Canterlot was buzzing with activity. The Royal Guard was out and about, not only patrolling the streets to find and arrest any Changeling stragglers, but to assist with repair and resettlement efforts. Many of the city's buildings were damaged in the fighting, particularly by Changeling pegasi divebomb attacks, and much of the populace was displaced in the chaos. Celestia had tasked Luna to occasionally broadcast an announcement for any and all displaced ponies to meet inside the castle's Hall of Neighyeux, where they would be briefed on the situation of their household. If the damage was too great, they would then be assigned a temporary settlement, and led there by a designated Royal Guard soldier. If the damage wasn't so substantial, then the ponies in question would be allowed to return home. All this was as per Shining Armor's orders to get Canterlot back to working capacity. As for the stallion himself, he and his officers were gathered in the castle's war room, where they were coordinating patrol routes, reconstruction efforts and new areas of temporary resettlement. Shining was talking with one of his officers, Lieutenant Blue Hue, when a runner came up to him and handed him a letter. After thanking the runner, who left the war room immediately, Shining read the letter, which was sent from the village attacked by the Changelings moments earlier. It described how Chrysalis and her Changelings had attacked the village and completely incapacitated and harvested the Royal Guard garrison stationed there before setting the village's homes alight, capturing the residents and harvesting those who tried to resist. Unnerved, but not visibly so, Shining decided to make an announcement to his officers. Stepping up on the pedestal, Shining braced himself as the personnel present in the room began to look up at him.

"Attention everypony! One of our garrisons was attacked and defeated by Chrysalis and the remnants of her army. According to intelligence that was given to me just this very moment, I believe the Changelings are planning a revenge assault on the city. If you know of any of their movements, let me know immediately! We must plan for a defensive operation in advance. Understood?"

"Yes sir!" Was the collective response from the gathered war room personnel.

"Good. Back to work everypony."

With that, the war room returned to its usual activity. As for Shining, he felt it was best Celestia was informed of this development. He decided to give Blue Hue the directive to watch over war room operations while he was gone.

"Lieutenant, I must inform the Princess of the attack on the settlement. Can you take care of things here?"

"With pleasure sir!" Replied the lieutenant happily.

"Thanks Hue. I won't be long."

With that, Shining left the war room. Trotting through the castle's long and myriad hallways, he finally came across Celestia's private study, guarded by two of his men.

"State your business." One of the guards said gruffly.

"I wish to inform Princess Celestia of an attack on our subjects." Replied Shining.

"Proceed" Answered the Guard, who proceeded to open his door to the study. His partner did the same, before stepping back to allow Shining access. The latter walked inside the study, where he found Celestia at her desk, filing through a mess of papers which lay before her. She was deep in thought, as well as misery. No doubt the events from earlier were still taking a hefty toll on her mind. Just before Shining could salute the monarch, he heard her quill stop writing.

"What is it you want?" The sun princess spoke glumly. Shining proceeded to salute before answering.

"Your Majesty, I wish to inform you of an attack on one of the settlements outside the city."

"Were there any survivors?"

"Only the Royal Guard garrison ma'am. However, they were completely harvested. A search party found their commander frozen solid. There were no villagers though. It was apparent that the Changelings had taken them prisoner."

A brief silence took hold as Celestia registered the news, before resuming her job.

"Any other news captain?"

"No ma'am. Aside from that, there's nothing else to report."

"Very well. Captain, may I talk to you in private?"

"Of course your Majesty."

Shining expected Celestia to begin talking, but instead the solar alicorn rose from her perch before motioning to the stallion to accompany her out of the study. With little hesitation, Shining followed Celestia through the doors, the guards saluting as she went. With a reciprocating nod and salute (respectively), the two ponies proceeded through the halls of the castle up to Celestia's private bedchambers, two rows of guards watching over the hall leading to both Celestia and Luna's rooms. The two princesses stayed close so that one could be there for the other in times of distress, but for now that was not to be as Luna was monitoring reconstruction efforts down in the city. Passing through the massive double doors that led to the junction connecting both sister's bedchambers, Celestia led Shining through the door on the right. What greeted the Guard Captain was a sight he had seen often enough, but still awe-inspiring in it's visage.

The walls, floor and roof were cast marble, a red carpet stretching from the door to Celestia's bed, equally an impressive sight as the room itself. Furnishing the room was Celestia's wardrobe, a study where she kept endless amounts of correspondence, particularly from Twilight and her friends, a mirror as high as the tip of the alicorn's horn and a rather extravagant grandfather clock, designed using the wood from an oak tree to create a working celebration of the sun, which crowned the head of the clock. Shining's thoughts were soon interrupted by the sound of Celestia throwing herself atop her bed, dispirited and miserable. The dreadful events of the rehearsal were still eating away at her heart, not least that of Shining or any of the other parties involved in the fiasco.

"How could I have been so blind Shining?" Celestia moped, acknowledging her captain's first name for the first time in a long time.

"That is a question I am tormented with every day ma'am." Replied Shining, equally as sorrowful. However, he was met with no answer as it turned out Celestia had fallen asleep. The captain was debating whether to watch over her or leave her in peace, but before he could make up his mind, Celestia suddenly let out a distressed whimper. Unbeknownst to Shining, the Solar Princess was entering a nightmare.

You have a lot to think about.......

Celestia started tossing and turning, her hooves planting themselves against her temples. Her eyes and teeth were clenched shut in pain and she was letting out groans that would rend one's heart irrevocable. Concerned for his princess, Shining tried waking her up.

"Princess! Wake up! Please wake up!"

You have a lot to think about......

"No, please!" Celestia cried. "There was no way I could have known...........I did everything I could!"

"Celestia, please wake up!" Cried Shining.

You have a lot to think about-bout-bout-bout-bout-bout..........

Things were building to a climax as Celestia's eyes and teeth clenched tighter and tighter with every passing second.

"No........no!"

Suddenly, a voice that sounded like Twilight ripped through the Princess's ears.

HOW COULD YOU BETRAY ME?!

Celestia screamed in her Royal Canterlot Voice as she woke. The sound was so loud that it caused everything made of glass in the room (along with Shining's eardrums) to shatter. The Guard Captain immediately tried to calm down Celestia as best as he could.

"Princess! Please calm down! I'm begging you!"

Eventually, Celestia got a hold of herself. Panting heavily, she turned to face Shining, tears streaming down her face.

"It's OK Princess, I'm here for you."

That was all it took for Celestia to collapse into Shining, sobbing in despair. Although taken aback, Shining settled into his role, doing his best to soothe the tormented alicorn. Behind him, the doors flung open to reveal Celestia's Royal Guards, with Luna following closely behind.

"We heard the scream............" One of the guards panted gruffly. "We hurried......."

"It's alright everypony." Shining assured the company. "The Princess just had a bad dream."

"Let me see my sister captain." Luna spoke softly.

"Of course Princess." Said Shining, who stepped aside to allow Luna to comfort her distraught sister.

"Why?" Sobbed Celestia. "Why did I ever doubt her?"

"Shh, it's OK big sister." Whispered Luna, comforting her sister. "It's going to be OK."

After a little while, Celestia managed to recompose herself, with a request to boot.

"Luna, guards, I wish to talk with Captain Armor alone."

"Is there a problem sister?"

"No Luna. Shining shares the same pain I do. Only he knows why I grieve at this time, and therefore I request that we be given our peace."

"I understand." Replied Luna respectfully. "Guards, let's go. The Princess requests a moment alone with the captain."

The guards immediately saluted, before giving Luna the lead out of the room. They followed behind her, closing the doors as they left. Sniffling her tears up her nostrils, Celestia turned to face Shining.

"I am sure you do not need an explanation as to my sadness, Captain Armor."

"No ma'am. I understand why you are upset."

With another sniffle, Celestia recalled what she had sent Shining out to do.

"Have you completed your missions Captain?"

"Yes ma'am. my commanders are deploying their troops to assist construction efforts and seek out any Changeling stragglers. I have also informed my parents of Twiley's situation."

"What was their reaction?"

Shining sighed deeply. It was a difficult task to remember what Night Light had told him. Not the sort of difficult where Shining could not recall Night's exact words, but the sort of difficult where emotions and mentality were concerned.

"They were shocked and angered by what I told them. They even issued the warning that if we fail to apologize to Twilight properly, then she may never forgive us again."

Once more Celestia felt her heart shatter, and this made her feel worse; she and the Sparkle couple had been great friends since the day after they first met, but when it was announced to them that Twilight was to become her star pupil, Velvet had immediate reservations as Twilight was so precious to her as well as Night. Celestia assured her she would be fine under her tutoring and she held that for years but the moment she and the others betrayed Twilight, she broke that promise. It did not take much to deduce that the trust a student held in her teacher now lay in tatters.

"Is there anything we can do to make them realize we truly regret our mistakes?”

“I don’t think so, I destroyed my family’s honor because of my betrayal and our naivety. I think the best thing to do right now is to leave them alone until they had time to take in what I told them. I only hope we can all come up with an apology sincere enough to save Twilight from her grudge against us, all of us…..”

Celestia wanted to personally tell Night Light and Twilight Velvet that she, Shining and her student’s friends are all sorry for what they did to Twilight and assure them of their rekindled friendships as soon as possible, but the chances of their blessings and for the chat were slim.

Meanwhile, very much unbeknownst to Celestia, Luna had taken the decision to head off to the Sparkle family home. Her ability to see into ponies dreams had also refined her ability to sense their emotions as well. At present, Luna could sense that the Sparkle parents were distressed and angry. Shining's actions had badly damaged their honor, something the family had proudly carried and improved from generation to generation. This had left them both hurt and furious, emotions which Luna knew full well would suppurate and fester within their souls. Emotions which, once they took hold, would give way to malice, evil and nightmares, an experience which consumed the Lunar Princess herself. Knowing the Tartarus she went through, Luna felt that it would be wrong to leave them fall into the cold icy grip of darkness without so much as a hoof to pull them out. Thus, she decided to take it upon herself to talk things out with them.

"I will not leave anypony to fall victim to the same force that once held me, certainly not this night, nor any other. I will ensure that the Sparkle parents do find peace, or may I be damned to Tartarus for my failure."

With that, Luna spread her wings, before flying off into the distance.

Back at the library, Twilight's sobs were beginning to slow. The Mane 5 backed off to give her some breathing space.

"So Sugarcube, will y'have us as friends again?"

Twilight had eventually stopped sobbing, her emotional wounds partially healed by the warmth handed unto her by the Mane 5. However, her memories did not betray her. It was still clear within the depths of her mind; how harsh her brother was toward her, and how her so-called friends thought it right to walk out on her with no sign of pity or consolation. The worst of it was from Celestia, whom Twilight idolised and worshipped even as a foal. One could even say Twilight loved Celestia just as equally as she loved her mother. But in that fateful moment, everything changed. Not only did Celestia abandon her, but she stabbed her with a proverbial dagger through her heart. The words "You have a lot to think about" continued to ring throughout the young unicorn's head, a constant reminder of her loved one's betrayal. It was because of this her mind was made up already.

"Applejack, you should know it's too early for me to forgive you. I appreciate you've come all this way just to try to make it up to me, but I'm not ready. It's too soon."

The Mane 5's ears collectively drooped in disappointment.

"We understand darling." Replied Rarity. "Take as much time as you need."

"But it can't be too long, right?" Pinkie piped up. "After all, we need you to lead the Elements of-mmph!"

Pinkie's mouth was immediately sealed shut by the force of four hooves desperate to stop her from making things worse. Unfortunately, it was too late.

"Is that it?" Asked Twilight, shocked. "Is that why you've come here?! To make me be Celestia's attack dog again?!!"

"Twilight please! It's not like that!" Cried Applejack, trying to defuse the situation.

"I knew it. I knew I couldn't trust you, yet I let my merciful nature get the better of me! I want you, ALL OF YOU, to get out of my house at once. And don't come back unless you want to be my friends again!"

With that, Twilight galloped back upstairs, utterly offended. Spike looked back at the girls, angered. His strict side came to the fore once more. Before him, the girl's faces were clear expressions of shock and dismay, so too was Cadance's. The pink alicorn was hoping for a better outcome than the one which had transpired.

"You heard her. Don't come back until you're ready to be Twilight's friends again."

The girls did not move a muscle, stuck in a shocked trance. Cadance was left with the job of escorting them out.

"Come on girls, let's go."  

With that, the Mane 5 began to move out of the treehouse, one by hesitant one. Once they had walked clear of the structure, Twilight's shield spell covered it once more. From her bedroom, the unicorn could be heard sobbing.

"Oh Celestia, how are we going to fix this mess?" Fluttershy whimpered anxiously.

Chapter 8 - Emotional Trauma

Things did not go as hoped for Applejack and the rest of the Mane 5. They were doing so well to get back on Twilight's good side but then Pinkie (unintentionally) opened her big mouth about the Elements of Harmony and now they were back to Square One. Cadance was taken by surprise at how quickly the plan went belly-up, but as a firm believer in Twilight, she knew the latter would still allow room for a second chance. They had to try again, but it was just a matter of how.

"Come on girls, you did well the first time. It was just a slip of the tongue. Accidents do happen. There's still a chance for you to make up with Twilight. All you need to do is think of a Plan B, something that can make and have Twilight understand how sorry you really are."

Applejack cried silently. She looked about ready to give up "But we were so close to getting her back! I know we did try but it's just not enough. She's even madder now."

"Yeah, we screwed up big time." Added Rainbow. "It's as simple as that. We all chose that stupid bug over our best friend, that's how we repaid Twilight for all the fun times we've had together. How are we gonna be friends with her again if we can't forgive ourselves?!"

The other girls silently nodded as they cried; even if they were to try again, the same result will be apparent and they didn't want that if they were going to get Twilight to be their friend once again.

Cadance knew they had to do something and fast; the changelings and Chrysalis were still at large and if they don't get Twilight back as their best friend and the Element of Magic back in full swing, the Elements would remain inactive and Equestria would still be open to attack.

Meanwhile, Rarity had managed to pull herself together. Not forgetting her strong sense of generosity, she decided to offer Cadance somewhere to sleep for the night.

"Princess, it's getting late. Would you care to stay with me for the time being?"

Cadance took a moment to consider Rarity's offer. She wondered if she should stay with Twilight, just to watch over her, but she felt that perhaps it would be an invasion of her privacy, and anyway, Spike was there for her, so it was best she served only as a mediator between the two sides.

"I'd love to. Thank you for the offer Rarity."

"Anytime darling. We couldn't be more grateful for your help."

"First thing's first though, I should probably go check on Twilight, make sure she's OK. As for you girls, you should probably go home and get some sleep. You're going to need it, because there are long and trying days ahead. Rarity, I'll meet you at Carousel Boutique."

With that, the girls bade each other farewell, before returning to their homes. Cadance headed back to the library to help Twilight and Spike cool off, Rainbow went back to her cloud house in Cloudsdale, the mission to repair the broken bond with Twilight stuck firmly in her mind. However, despite her sureness Rainbow could not shake off the nagging of her conscience, which continued to question her loyalty towards Twilight. No matter how hard she tried to ignore it, it throbbed away in her mind like the many bruises she sustained from her numerous crash-landings. Rarity, meanwhile, had a relatively peaceful journey back to her place of business, but she also had a feeling it would be a while before Twilight will forgive her and the other girls.

Pinkie Pie went back to Sugarcube Corner and her spirits were lifted by the Cakes and their children greeting her happily. Unfortunately her mind would not serve the same purpose, constantly tormenting her with the still fresh memories of herself and the girls abandoning Twilight at the rehearsal and her subsequent reaction following the victory over the Changelings. Fluttershy returned to her cottage and carried on her duties to her animal friends but all the while, she thought about Twilight and how much she had been hurt behind her and the others' backs. Just thinking about her down in the caves, cold, heartbroken, alone and dying while they were all caught up in the happiness of the false wedding and then Chrysalis taking over and her army wreaking havoc across Equestria, especially Ponyville, without their best friend to help stop their greatest enemy brought tears of shame to her eyes. Worse still, she couldn't comprehend just how little she cared for Twilight, compared to the amount of love and attention she gives to her animal friends daily. It left a horrible panging feeling in her heart as once more, the magnitude of her and the girl's collective actions hit home. Angel tried his best to comfort her, not knowing the reason behind his master's sorrow.

Applejack, meanwhile, slowly trudged back to Sweet Apple Acres, saddened and dejected. Her efforts to try to pick herself up were in vain, as no matter how hard she tried to put it behind her, temporarily or otherwise, her own memories always found a way back to the forefront of her mind. It was frustrating her to no end. Eventually, she reached the gateway to the family's apple orchard, most of the trees lacking the apples which commonly hung from their branches. It was obvious to the cowpony that Big Mac had been busy. As quietly as she could, she made her way back to her bedroom. Interestingly enough, neither Granny Smith nor Big Mac were anywhere to be seen, but that mattered little to Applejack. She just wanted to cry, if it meant getting all of that stress out of her system. Eventually, she reached the door to her room and opened it. Wracked with grief, Applejack flopped onto her bed in tears, but not before hurriedly hanging up her trademark Stetson. The poor mare was exhausted, having gone through so much up to this point. If it was any consolation, although she did not know it at the time, Applejack was not the only one experiencing a restless night. Pinkie and Fluttershy were also crying in their sleep, Rainbow was tossing and turning, her attempts to wear out her body coming to nothing. Rarity was the only one who was sleeping the easiest of them all, but only because she had managed to maintain her composure. One thing was for certain, the girls had a tough job ahead of them, and it did not seem likely they'd succeed, given the charges against them.

Meanwhile, Princess Luna had flown out from Canterlot Castle to the home of Twilight Velvet and Night Light. The aura she was sensing was undeniably strong, and bitter in feeling. The couple were furious at Celestia and the Mane 5, and respectively angry at Shining for treating Twilight the way they did, and Luna could tell the level of anger they felt was potent enough to allow the Nightmare Forces to exploit it and subsequently corrupt them, therefore she had to act quickly so as to deliver them from evil. The Lunar Princess knocked on the door, Twilight Velvet wasting no time in answering. However, the pony she opened the door to was unlike anypony she could've possibly expected, her eyes going wide and her jaw dropping to denote her shock.

"Good evening Lady Velvet. May I come in?"

Something snapped in Velvet's mind, and at once the unicorn bowed before the slightly bemused Luna.

"Princess Luna? What....why are you here?"

"Be at ease, Lady Velvet. I have come here to undertake important business. May I come in?"

"Please, by all means!" Replied Velvet, making room for Luna to enter. "Night Light! Princess Luna is here!"

Night Light immediately hurried to the front door, before bowing to greet the princess.

"Good evening Princess Luna. You honour us with your presence."

"Thank you for your gratitude Sir Light." Replied Luna, who walked inside.

"May we bring you anything Princess?" Asked Twilight Velvet.

"That will not be necessary." Replied Luna. "I have no time to lose. I must speak with the both of you immediately."

Both Night and Velvet looked at each other nervously, before returning their attention to Luna.

"Of course your highness. Please follow us to the living room." Replied Velvet anxiously. She wondered what could be so important that the Princess needed to speak to her personally. The elephant in the room (Shining's betrayal of Twilight) seemed the obvious reason, but it was anypony's guess. Anyway, the three ponies seated themselves in the living room, both Night and Velvet bracing themselves for whatever Luna had to say.

"Lady Velvet, Sir Light, the reason I am here is of great importance. As you know, my job as the Princess of the Night is to watch over my subjects as they sleep, and ensure their dreams do not cause them distress or harm. This has refined my ability to also sense ponies' aura."

"Aura? What is that?" Asked Velvet curiously.

"Aura is the energy which is generated from a pony's emotions. It changes depending on how they are feeling at any given time."

"I see. Please continue."

"Lady Velvet, Sir Light, the reason I am here is because of your aura."

Luna's remark made the couple raise their brows in surprise.

"I understand you are both angry because of a recent incident involving your son and daughter, plus her friends and my sister. Could you explain the basics of what happened?"

Velvet and Night looked at each other, shuffling anxiously as they did so, before deciding it was best if the former explained what happened. Taking a deep breath, Velvet braced herself.

"Well.......basically what happened is that Twilight was concerned about Princess Cadance, who was due to be married to our son, Shining Armor, at the time.You see Princess, the Princess Cadance that Twilight was so concerned about was not the real one. She was the Changeling Queen in disguise, and she was secretly preparing an invasion of Canterlot by her army. She tried explaining to her friends, but they dismissed her concerns as mere wedding stress. Twilight then tried to confront the impostor openly, but the impostor pretended to cry so as to maintain her cover. It worked to dreadful effect; Shining disowned Twilight as a sister and Best Mare, all five of her friends walked out on her and even Celestia showed no compassion. Not only did they emotionally scar our beloved daughter, they left her vulnerable and helpless. The Changeling Queen later returned to dispose of her by sealing her in the caves beneath the castle, so as to ensure she would not meddle with her plans again. Do you realize, Princess, that had Twilight not found the real Cadance, who was also imprisoned down there, they could have both died? And in Twilight's case, alone, afraid, and very hurt?"

Luna nodded firmly. She knew what it was like to be cast aside into the background, although that technically wasn't what really happened between her and Celestia. Nonetheless, it was easy to see why this was such a serious incident.

"The wedding did go ahead, with Shining absolutely under the Changeling Queen's grip. Luckily, Twilight's timely appearance, with Cadance in tow, blew her cover. She would reveal her true identity, before going horn-to-horn against Celestia. It seemed for a moment she had the upper hand, until Chrysalis turned the tables and defeated her, an event which shocked us all."

"Chrysalis?" Asked Luna.

"That's the Changeling Queen's name, and it sounds every bit as evil as she is." Added Night Light.

"And she beat my sister?!"

"Indeed she did, your Majesty." Replied Velvet. "I don't know what happened after that because we were ordered out of the hall by the Royal Guard, but I have every faith that Twilight played a part in the victory over the changelings. I don't know how, but I just do."

"The point here, your Majesty" Night Light continued "is that our daughter was the key to stopping the invasion before it ever began. She tried alerting her friends to the impostor's cold and condescending behaviour, compared to Cadance's warmth and benevolence. But they refused to believe it was anything more serious than wedding stress. It is unknown to us what became of Shining and Celestia at that time, but Twilight had nopony else to turn to, hence why we believe that her friends basically betrayed her just for the comparably petty glamour of being the bridesmaids of the wedding. Furthermore, we find it impossible to understand how the group failed to grasp the realization that Twilight had a very close and personal relationship with Cadance, something that we are very keenly aware of, and therefore could not connect the dots that would have exposed the usurper from her veil. However, it is not just her friends who had failed Twilight. Her brother, Shining Armor, somepony she held very dear, disowned her before abandoning her in her hour of need. If that wasn't enough, Princess Celestia, your benevolent sister and the object of Twilight's idolisation and inspiration, did not even look her in the eye when she crushed her spirit. That is what Shining told us when he came here, and it is the reason Velvet and I are so furious. Twilight could have stopped the Changelings from wreaking havoc, but she was never given the chance! And in the process, the seven ponies whom she held dear, particularly her brother, showed their true colors. They betrayed her trust, they crushed her spirit and left her to die all in one fell swoop."

Luna was dismayed. Celestia did mention something about betraying somepony when she was crying in the former's embrace, but it was only after she put two and two together did she see the horrible picture that was painted in her mind. However, as enraging as that picture was, she was not here to condemn those responsible. She had a job to do, and that was to ensure the Nightmare Forces could not corrupt the souls of Night Light and Twilight Velvet, who had suffered enough just to know not only was their daughter betrayed and treated like a common criminal, but she could very well have died in an unmarked tomb which nopony even knew of.

"I understand your grief completely now, Sir Light and Lady Velvet, but while I empathize with your plight, I am not here to promise swift vengeance. I am here to save you from the Nightmare Forces that once corrupted me."

"What do you mean your Majesty?" Replied Velvet.

"My story is not so different to Twilight's, Lady Velvet. You see, before I became Nightmare Moon, I shared rule of Equestria with my dear sister. Under our leadership, there was peace throughout the land, nary a trace of conflict or discord to be found outside. But that was the thing. While there was no conflict outside, there was conflict deep inside. To be precise, the only traceable source of conflict to be found in Equestria.........was in my heart."

Velvet and Night looked at each other in surprise, before returning their gaze to Luna.

"You see, while my sister did care for me, and while my subjects worshipped me in equal measure, Celestia was the only one between us who witnessed the ponies celebrating her day and singing her praises. But when it was my turn to wake........they were nowhere to be found. While I watched over my night, the ponies were asleep in their beds. I was left feeling alone and betrayed, believing the ponies did not celebrate my night like they worshipped Celestia's day. At the same time, I felt Celestia wasn't paying any attention herself, which only made me feel worse. As a result, my thoughts and feelings turned to darkness, and it was not long before the Nightmare Forces found me languishing in my bitterness and hatred. They offered to help me get the respect and attention I deserved in exchange for taking over my soul, and without much hesitation, I accepted. The Nightmare Forces possessed my body, transforming me into the devil known as Nightmare Moon. Together we would go on to do many unspeakable things, including attacking my sister and attempting to thwart the Element Bearers' search for the Elements of Harmony. But worst of all, we threatened to plunge Equestria into eternal night, just so I could get my own self-gratification from watching the ponies celebrate my night. And all this came from me feeling alone and abandoned, just like Twilight was."

Both Velvet and Night were awestruck.  However, the former could not help but wonder why if Luna was so badly affected that she allowed the Nightmare Forces to take her over, then why did the same not happen to Twilight?

"Princess, I'm curious. Why was Twilight not corrupted by these Nightmare Forces you speak of? We're both aware of how badly her friends, Shining and Celestia emotionally damaged her, but how is it she was not taken by them?"

"I have no doubt Twilight was gravely hurt by what her friends, her brother and Celestia did to her," Luna replied, "but what prevented the Nightmare Forces from corrupting her is that she had no bitter feelings towards them or desires of their destruction. The Nightmare Forces feed off negative emotions, such as the two I just mentioned. Without them, they cannot corrupt a host, hence why Twilight did not fall victim to their temptations."

"I see." Replied Velvet.

"However, for as long as you remain bitter toward those responsible for her emotional trauma, then you will remain susceptible to corruption. Therefore I must inoculate both you and your husband using a special spell which will hinder the Nightmare Forces' ability to sense your emotions. However, I cannot cast it without your permission, which is why I am here. Do you want me to cast this protection spell?"

Velvet took a long look at Night Light, who nodded firmly in response. If they were going to be of any help to Twilight at this time, they needed to be safe from anything, therefore Night felt this was for the best. It didn't take long for Velvet to catch on either.

"It will not help Twilight if both Night and myself are turned to the dark side. She has enough on her hooves without us being attacked.......you may cast the spell Princess."

"Very well." Luna responded. "Prepare yourselves."

Luna's horn lit up as she prepared to cast the spell. Night moved closer to his wife, who leaned close to him in response. Whatever this was, they hoped it wouldn't be of any discomfort. Finally, Luna cast the spell, and it encapsulated both Velvet and Night in two white bubbles filled with interlinking particles of magic. The bubbles began to increase in brightness as the energy of the spell increased, the forms of both Velvet and Night becoming obscured by the brightening light. Eventually, the spell reached its climax as both Night and Velvet were completely enveloped by the light. Then, there was an explosion; the spell was completed. Night and Velvet gently descended to the ground, their bodies embraced by Luna's inoculation spell.

"Now, the spell should protect you from any attempt at intrusion by the Nightmare Forces. But be careful. If your levels of bitterness increase, so too will the strength of the forces, to the point where the spell cannot protect you. You can still be angry at Twilight's friends, Shining Armor and Celestia, but not too much."

"Thank you Princess." Replied Velvet. "We appreciate your service."

"Anything to preserve the welfare of my subjects." Luna responded. "Now I must return to the palace. My sister needs me."

With that, Luna walked out the household door, before spreading her wings and taking off into the darkness, the moon (which she had lifted prior to flying to the Sparkle family home) lighting the way ahead. Now she knew what was going on, but then came the million-bit question; how would the events of the wedding affect her, and what would come in the future relating to that event that would also affect her? Only time would tell.

Chapter 9 - Trouble and Strife

A storm was crashing down upon the Black Widow's Peaks, rain as thick as glass soaking the jagged mountaintops. Coupled with it was the occasional flash of lightning and clap of thunder, giving the charcoal-black landscape an ominous appearance. Inside the Changeling Hive, which too was being lashed by the ferocious rainfall, the leaders of Queen Chrysalis's army were gathered inside the war room, studying a strategic map of Canterlot which was spread out on the table. Among them was the only General in the entire officer corps, a rank befitting his position as the top commanding officer, and his name was so fearsome and infamous among ponykind that even the toughest of them could not speak his name and remain unafraid. This was General Skoula, and his physical form was as intimidating and dominating as his reputation among even his own men. While the Changeling Army may not have been ready to assault the city, the process of finding new recruits gave Skoula time to plan the next great attack. The lieutenants of his army were made up of one of the three pony species, one for the Earth ponies, the pegasi and the unicorns. All three had very well-developed and clever minds, which could use the full capabilities of their respective species to full advantage. Leading the Earth ponies was Commander Barbarousis. Beside him at the war room table was Commander Alkaios of the pegasi, and Commander Maugrim of the unicorns. Thus far, they had tasked their forces with the mission to raid every single one of Canterlot's outlying towns and villages, taking everypony residing in them prisoner and killing those who tried to resist, as per Chrysalis's new policy. In the last invasion, Chrysalis tried employing a policy wherein her troops would not kill, even those who fought against them. This time, she would show no mercy. The army would be trained hard in the killing of Royal Guards and civilians who attempted to assist in the defence of the city. But for now, the three leaders were to help Skoula in planning the attack on the city, before it could be presented to the Queen. As they were doing this, Commander Barbarousis had come up with an idea, one he thought would benefit the operation and the army immensely.

"General Skoula, I have just come up with an idea which could supplement our forces and bolster the success of the assault on Canterlot. If you'd allow me, I will describe it to you in detail."

"Proceed Commander." Replied Skoula, interested in the Commander's proposal.

"As you know, General, the Hive is situated inside the Equestrian Badlands, a place which is infamous among ponykind for being home to the bad apples of the Equestrian bunch. Criminals, thugs, dissidents and individuals who resent the treasured Equestrian values of friendship and harmony. My proposal is to send emissaries to towns and villages in which they live, so that we might entice them to join our cause. They would act as a second echelon, coming in from behind to support the main force. In exchange for their services they would be allowed to do whatever they please. What do you think of that sir?"

"It is a good plan, Commander." Replied Skoula, having taken some time to analyse the proposal. "But what if this second echelon decides to rebel against us?"

"I was well aware of such a situation unfolding sir." Barbarousis answered assuredly. "In the event the second echelon goes rogue, our Changelings will enclose and crush them, while hunting down any stragglers. Those who escape into enemy territory will be left at their mercy. The troops must stick to the mission at all times, and at all costs."

"Very good Commander Barbarousis. I like this plan. The Royal Guard and those who try to help them will be caught up in a frenzy of thuggery and murder. You may proceed with the mission."

"Thank you General." Finished Barbarousis.

"Attention!" Yelled a voice from outside the door. Everypony in the room stood to attention as Chrysalis stepped inside. She glanced at the three commanders, before looking at General Skoula, whom she greeted with a nod. The Changeling Queen took her place at the top of the table, flanked by her loyal general.

"At ease." Said Chrysalis, her men following the command.

"Your Majesty, we have created a new plan formed from the coordinates of the previous assault on Canterlot." Said Alkaios. "Instead of waiting outside the city to attack, our forces will infiltrate the city in disguise en masse, and blend in with the locals. Once our specialist crack team in Ponyville captures the Princess of Love, we will proceed with the attack by coming out of disguise and making our way toward the castle while dispatching any resistance."

Chrysalis made no response, physically or otherwise. She was still listening, despite this.

"Now, we are aware that at this point, the Canterlot Royal Guard will come out of the castle en masse and attempt to form a defensive perimeter around the castle walls and entrance. They will no doubt be complemented by cavalry and supported by archers from the castle's parapets. However, teams of my pegasi will dive bomb the Guards and engage them from behind, allowing our troops to move in and finish them off. At the same time, more dive bomber teams will hit the enemy's archers, attacking them from behind before entering the castle. To support them, specifically assembled and equipped pegasi teams will also dive bomb the castle in an attempt to defeat the two princesses, Celestia and Luna."

"It was I and Alkaios who came up with a separate plan of attack to deal with the princesses, your Majesty." Added Maugrim. "The aim of the pegasi attacking the castle is to cut off the princesses from their guards and divert them somewhere we can corner them. Once that is done, my unicorns will then teleport into the castle en masse, where they will begin to harvest the Princesses' love simultaneously, so as to increase their powers and give them extra strength in close combat. Many of my unicorns will experience an incredibly tough battle initially, given the Princesses' powers, but over time they will weaken, and my troops will gain the upper hoof. With the defeat of the princesses, the pegasi and unicorns will then exit the castle through the main entrance and over the walls, so as to engage the Royal Guards from behind. Meanwhile, a second echelon, made up of thugs and lowlives from neighbouring towns and villages in the Badlands will advance northeast towards Canterlot, where upon arrival they will smash their way through the city and, through sheer brutality, cripple the Royal Guard's defensive perimeter."

It then fell to Commander Barbarousis to conclude the briefing.

"The operation should take 8 hours maximum, but it is currently unknown what kind of defensive capabilities the enemy possesses. If they are sufficient enough to keep us from entering the castle, then the operation may last longer than estimated. Still, we are confident there will be no problems with the execution of the mission."

Chrysalis delayed her response, taking a moment to ponder the plan. After a while, she grinned confidently, settling Barbarousis's nerves. From the sound of the plan, this new operation would succeed where the previous attempt failed. There was no known reports or rumours of a wedding or any other high-security event this time, according to reports from her spies, thus there wouldn't be a shield to deal with. The Changelings could just walk right in, disguised and completely invisible to the ponies' eyes, and then strike when the time was right. It was a plan she was very much impressed with. However, Sharp Fang, who was also present in the war room, raised a matter which would have concerned the Changelings, were the situation any different.

"But Commander, what of the Element Bearers? Surely they won't allow themselves to be defeated as easily as last time! How are we going to deal with them?"

"Gentlecolts, it pleases me immensely to announce the Element Bearers will be of no concern to our operation." Said Chrysalis confidently. "Using my magic, I have been able to observe the movements of our enemies. Apparently, the Bearer of Magic has distanced herself from her friends, convinced they had betrayed her and left her to die by my hooves. The other Bearers, accompanied by the Princess of Love now seek to repair relations with the Bearer of Magic, in hopes of the restoration of the Elements of Harmony to action. Without them, Equestria is defenseless."

"And that means our forces will be unstoppable!" Maugrim added jubilantly.

"My Changelings, the time is ripe. The hour is nigh. We will take our revenge on Celestia and the ponies of Canterlot, and there's nothing that they can do to stop us! Barbarousis! Alkaios! Maugrim! Prepare your troops for battle!"

The Changelings roared in unison, their thirst for blood amplified beyond comprehension. Everyone in the Hive could feel it: nothing was going to stop them now.

Back in Ponyville, morning had dawned over the town, birds chirping happily to mark the occasion. Rarity had awoken from her sleep, groggy but quite well-rested. However, despite the fact her mind was still full of memories of what happened in the library with Twilight, she was determined to put it behind her and focus on the task at hoof; reconciling with Twilight using whatever means necessary. The first, she imagined, would be giving her a gift of a simple, but beautifully made dress. After all, she recalled the birthday party in Canterlot Castle where Twilight was quite pleased with the dress which Rarity had not even half-finished. Nevertheless, if Twilight was happy, Rarity was happy. Thus she knew what she needed to do. But for now, the main objective was to meet the girls and Cadance at Sugarcube Corner to form a plan. So, after checking to make sure Sweetie Belle was still sound asleep, and after spending roughly 15-20 minutes fixing up her mane and tail (and applying her make-up), Rarity left for Sugarcube Corner, but not before eating breakfast and leaving a little something for Sweetie Belle to eat herself.

Meanwhile, Pinkie had also just woken up. Her mane was half-inflated, a sign of her misery, and her eyes had bags, an obvious indicator she did not sleep well. Still, she tried her best to remain perky, and after having breakfast herself, she set to work stacking Sugarcube Corner's display case with treats and confectioneries of all shapes and sizes. In the meantime, she was drinking a cup of hot cocoa, trying to drown her sorrows. Just then, Rarity entered the building, the doorbell signalling the alabaster unicorn's arrival.

"Good morning Pinkie Pie. Sleep well?"

Pinkie rose her head above the display case, her expression a concerning mashup of a forced smile coupled with a miserable upper-half, which left Rarity mildly disturbed.

"Morning Rarity...." Groaned Pinkie, yawning as she spoke. "I slept just fine."

"You don't exactly look like it darling. Are you sure you slept well?"

"As well as the sound of a bell!" Pinkie chimed, albeit half-heartedly. Rarity's expression remained unchanged, but she decided it was best she did not dwell on it.

"Well, OK, I'll take your word for it. But if there's anything wrong darling, just talk to me, alright?"

"No problem Rarity!" Replied Pinkie, trying her best to make her reply sound genuine. Just then, Fluttershy entered the bakery. She, too, looked no great shakes. In fact, she looked about the same as Pinkie. Baggy eyes filled with regret, a weary expression, plus her mane and tail weren't very well groomed.

"Good morning girls. I hope I'm not interrupting." The yellow pegasus croaked tiredly.

"Not at all darling." Replied Rarity. "But goodness me, you look terrible."  

"Yeah.....I guess...." Fluttershy said before yawning mid-sentence. "I guess I didn't sleep well last night."

"Funny you should mention that Fluttershy, because I didn't either." Said Pinkie. "I can remember spending most of the night cr-"

Before Pinkie could finish speaking, the girls heard a loud thump outside, followed by the sound of something being dragged through mud. Rarity opened the bakery door to find what looked like the twisted body of Rainbow Dash lying in a grave she had dug herself, not to mention it wasn't exactly a neat job either.

"Rainbow!" Cried Rarity, who immediately galloped over to the aforementioned pegasus to make sure she was OK. "Are you alright?"

Initially, Rarity was met with no answer. But then came the sound of snorting mixed with snoring. It didn't take long for Rarity to put two and two together; Rainbow was asleep when she crash landed, and now she was only just waking up.

"No Mom, I don't wanna go to flight school...." Rainbow groaned groggily. Following an unbridled facehoof, Rarity used her magic to lift Rainbow out of the mudhole and brought her inside Sugarcube Corner.

After being laid down gently on the floor, the blue pegasus came to.

"What.....what happened?"

"You crash-landed, pretty hard too." Answered Pinkie, her voice, for once, devoid of any jubilance.

"Darnit..." Rainbow grumbled in annoyance. After taking the moment to scratch the remaining figments of dirt out of her mane, she took a seat opposite Fluttershy. "So, what's the plan?"

"We're waiting for Applejack and Princess Cadance. Only the Creator knows where they are right now." Mused Rarity.

Cadance had just recently left Carousel Boutique to check up on Twilight, as she had planned previously. There was no doubting the alicorn's mind that yesterday's fiasco had taken a toll on Twilight's already haggard mind, therefore she felt the best course of action was to ensure she was looking after herself that morning. Cadance arrived at Golden Oaks Library, the dark purple shield still encasing it.

"Twilight? Spike? It's Cadance! May I come in?" Cadance called out, hoping to hear from either the lavender unicorn or the baby dragon. To her surprise, it was the former who answered the door. Cadance figured that Twilight would only answer personally to her; anypony else fell under Spike's jurisdiction.

"Hi Cadance! What is it?"

"I just wanted to check on you, make sure you were doing OK after yesterday. May I come in?"

"Of course! Just gimme a second." Replied Twilight, who headed back inside. After a brief moment's waiting, the shield disappeared, and the front door to the library opened, revealing Twilight.

"Come on in Cady. You're always welcome here."

Cadance smiled, but whatever it was that was compelling her to smile felt incomplete. The reason was obvious; Twilight would be welcoming to everypony else but her former friends, her Big Brother Former Best Friend Forever and as of late, her former teacher. One could even dare say the latter was no longer her favourite princess as well. However, she had to put that behind her, in order to stick to the task at hoof. Stepping inside the library, she made herself comfortable.

"May I get you anything?" Twilight quizzed.

"No, thank you. I have to be elsewhere, so I must make my stay here as brief as possible."

"No problem Cadance." Replied Twilight, who lay down on her hindlegs as she crossed her forelegs under her head. "So, what was it you wanted to talk about?"

"I just came to see how you were after yesterday. You doing OK this morning?"

"Yeah Cadance, I'm fine. I'm just wondering why the girls are trying to make it up to me. Don't they realize what they've done?"

"Of course they do Twilight, that's why they're here."

"But they shouldn't be here in the first place Cadance! Those girls have no right to even look me in the eye! After everything we've done together, all the good times we shared and the challenges we encountered together as friends, they betrayed me and left me to die! The worst thing about all this is that they didn't even care! They were perfectly content to leave me to fade out of existence like I was nothing to them, and then, after risking my neck once more to save both you, them and Equestria, they expect me to put together the wedding?!"

"Listen Twilight, I know how much you feel they betrayed you, and I fully understand how much they hurt you. But the past is the past. Everypony has learned from their mistakes, not least the girls. In fact, I'm sure Shining and Celestia have realized just how badly they screwed up by now. The point here is that the girls are sorry for abandoning you and they want to make things right! Can't you find it in your heart to give them another chance?"

Twilight's head drooped sadly. She understood that Cadance was trying to play peacemaker, but the odds were against her, and the Mane 5 too.

"I'm sorry Cadance, but it just isn't that simple. I don't think I can trust them again, not after that. I mean, what are the chances they could screw up again? And for Luna's sake, I nearly lost my life because of them! How can you expect me to just forget what happened?"

Cadance was about to speak, but her train of thought instantly derailed. Instead, she opted for a conciliatory defeat. Trying to get Twilight to come around was not the reason she was there. She had come to make sure the lavender unicorn had a good morning, and it looked like she had.

"Ok Twilight, I understand. Remember, I'll be staying in Carousel Boutique while I'm here, so if you ever need me, I'm here for you. Take care of yourself."

"You too Cady, thanks for coming. Will I let you out?"

"No, it's OK. I can let myself out. See you."

With that, Cadance gently closed the door behind her. As she walked away, she heard the familiar sound of a shield spell being cast. She glanced behind her to see Twilight's treehouse/library encased once more in a dark magenta coloured bubble. With a sigh, she continued onward to Sugarcube Corner.

Meanwhile, Applejack had woken up from a deep slumber. She didn't know it at the time, but she was late for the meeting. After taking a look in the mirror to check her face (and after briefly washing it), that's when it clicked.

"Oh mah Celestia, I'm late!"

As quickly as she could, the orange cowpony mounted her Stetson atop her head before flying downstairs. She made a run for the front door, until a voice stopped her.

"Applejack?"

Applejack stopped dead in her tracks.

"Yes Granny Smith?"

"Can we talk to ya fer a minute?"

"Y-yeah, sure." Replied Applejack, slightly unsure of what was about to happen. Slowly, she walked into the kitchen, where Granny Smith and Big Mac were both waiting. Applejack couldn't help but notice the way they were looking at her. They were happy and content, but there was something in their eyes that Applejack could see. After sitting down and taking the first bite into her breakfast, the elder Apple spoke again.

"Applejack, there's something Big Macintosh and I want to ask you."

"What is it Granny Smith?" Asked Applejack.

"Last night, Big Mac heard y'all crying harder than a timberwolf who had both legs cut off."

"Eeyup. Loud, too." Added Big Mac.

"Applejack, is everything OK?"

Applejack stopped eating. She was cornered, and it could have been any more obvious to her. To make matters worse, she was the Element of Honesty (or rather, the FORMER Element of Honesty) and therefore she couldn't tell a lie. With a deep sigh of resignation, Applejack prepared to bite the bullet.

"No Granny Smith. ah' was crying last night because of something terrible that ah' did. Something ah' will probably never forgive myself for. Do y'all remember the day I left with Twilight to go to Canterlot for the wedding?"

"Yes. Applebloom told me about it, y'all were attacked by the Changelings."

"Well, things happened, concerning a few ponies including mahself, Twilight and the other girls. It all started after we had arrived at Canterlot. Twilight had just reunited with her brother, who also happened to be the groom. Moments later, Princess Cadance, the bride, Twilight's former foalsitter and somepony with whom she was very close, appeared. Twilight tried sharing a hoofshake with her from when they were young, but the Princess didn't recognize it."

"Well, why would she do it? It ain't right of a princess to do something as foalish as a hoofshake." Granny Smith mused.

"That is true, but here's the thing Granny Smith." Applejack replied. "Cadance and Twilight were so close that they did everything together, even the hoofshake. The Cadance which Twilight had just met did not recognize said hoofshake."

That was when the two elder Apples understood Applejack's point. This was starting to sound strange.

"According to what she told us one evening, Twilight saw this Cadance doing things the real Cadance would never do. She mocked and belittled my efforts to prepare for the wedding, as well as those of the others. In fact, Twilight even saw her dump a bag of muffins ah' gave her in the trash! Muffins which ah' and the royal cooks had spent so much time working on! Now ah' know it may seem pointless to be getting upset about trashed muffins, but the point ah'm making here is that the real Cadance would have loved what we did for the wedding. How much she cared for Twilight was made obvious after she scolded us for betraying her, and we didn't realize it until then just how much everything made sense! Not to mention how foalish we had all been!"

"And just how did all y'all betray Twilight?" Asked Granny Smith.

"Well, it happened during the wedding rehearsal. Twilight was ravin' about Cadence being an impostor and repeatedly called her evil, which made her cry. Now at the time, we didn't know that she was a fake, so we thought Twilight was being mean. Ah' told the girls we should go and check on the princess, and with that, we walked out on her. None of us even looked her in the eye, nor did we show the slightest sign we still cared about her. We pushed Twilight aside like she was nopony. Twilight's brother and Celestia also walked out on her, which left her emotionally devastated. Worse still, and we did not know this at the time either, but the impostor returned and sealed Twilight in the caves below the castle. If she hadn't found the real Cadance, they could have both died down there, so in fact, me and the girls straight up betrayed Twilight and left her to die."

Both the senior Apples looked at Applejack sternly. They were not impressed at all.

"If it helps, none of us wanted Twilight to die. We thought leavin' her alone to think about what she had done would be best for her."

Granny Smith slowly stood up, Applejack watching on as she did. The elderly Apple took a deep breath before she spoke.

"Applejack, ah' have lived a long, long life. Ah' have experienced many things both great and terrible, but what y'all did is the worst thing I have ever heard in my life, and that's sayin' a lot. Y'all have brought shame to our family something fierce. And if that isn't bad enough, ya did not even say sorry to Twilight."

"But that's not true Granny Smith! Ah' did apologize to Twilight, twice! Soon to be thrice once ah' meet up with the girls to discuss a plan."

"Is that so?" Asked Granny Smith. "Well, if you're lookin' at apologizing a third time, it better be pretty darn good! You have not only brought shame to our family Applejack, but you have brought shame on yourself and your Element. Once you finish breakfast, you had better go and fix this mess, understand?"

"Yes ma'am!" Replied Applejack spiritedly.

Back at Sugarcube Corner, time had ticked away since the girls had arrived. They had spent the time chatting, while idly wondering where Applejack was. Just then, Cadance walked into the bakery.

"Hi girls." Said Cadance, her usual mirth waning when she saw how the girls had fared since the previous night. Only Rarity, who looked the better pick of the bunch, greeted the pink alicorn.

"Hi Cadance. Sorry you had to see us in this state."

"That's OK Rarity. It's been tough on all of us."

Rarity nodded in agreement.

"Hey, where's Applejack?"

"I'm not sure darling. This actually isn't like her. Applejack's always been very punctual."

"I'm sure she's close."

As if on cue, Applejack opened the door.

"Howdy girls, hello Princess. Sorry I'm late."

"It's OK Applejack." Said Rarity. "What happened?"

"I got called into a meetin' with Granny Smith and Big Mac. They heard me cryin' last night and wanted to know what was wrong. I told them what happened, and well......y'know."

Cadance and Rarity exchanged glances. Now the former was definitely sure not everypony had a good night's slumber. But in order to keep up appearances, she smiled warmly.

"It's alright Applejack. You're not the only pony who's having a rough time."

"That's comforting." Applejack replied. "Anyway, shall we get onto discussing the plan?"