“Them.” Twilight growled. “STAND YOUR GROUND SOLDIERS! WAIT FOR MY SIGNAL!” She turned, bellowing to her army before returning her gaze to the pair.

“Wh-what?” Flurry gasped in confusion. She after all, didn't know what was going on and hearing that her mother was part of the reason why her aunt stayed away further confused her. “I-I don't understand…”

“I fear we haven't enough time for me to elucidate the betrayal that I've been through at the hooves of Equestria.” Twilight sighed, looking down at her niece with worried eyes. “But I can show you. That is, if you're willing to see.”

“How?” The younger alicorn pressed with hopeful eyes. “How can I see the past if it's already happened-unless!” Her eyes widened in anticipation. “Are you able to time travel?!”

“Yes.” The Empress chuckled at her niece, allowing herself to momentarily forget about the battle that advanced in the distance. “But also no. Time travelling is a...dangerous form of magic I can use, but decided not to. Messing with the past is a definite no-no as well, as the slightest mistake made can have a disastrous impact on the present.”

“Oh.” Flurry pouted. “Then how do I find out?”

“I'll share my memories of the events with you. But be warned, whatever I've done was always for the betterment of those I cared about.”

“I'm ready.” She stared up at her aunt with determined eyes.

“Very well.” Twilight replied calmly. “Close your eyes, clear your mind and tilt your horn in my direction.” She softly instructed.

The young princess did as she was told, breathing slowly as she awaited her aunt's next move. Slowly, Twilight stepped towards her, gently pressing her elongated horn’s tip onto Flurry’s. She then closed her own eyes in concentration, allowing a soft pink hue to envelop her horn, one that eventually enveloped her niece’s as well. At that moment, memories upon memories flooded into the young princess’s brain, her mind reeling at the new information. To Flurry, it felt like half a lifetime had passed as everything was shown to her. That is, till it came to the screeching halt that was the present. After the transference of memories was completed, the Empress stepped back slowly to peer down at the younger alicorn.

“You were always...there…” Flurry whispered, rubbing her temples before falling to her haunches in the snow. The frosty ice bit into her rump, but it did nothing to replace the turmoil of emotions that now flooded her mind. “All this time...you kept out of sight because of the way you felt about them...”

“I'm glad you now see that, my dear niece.” Twilight smiled sadly. “But please, just know that I did everything that I could to make sure you were safe. I made sure you had the best teacher, who was Sunburst, and I made sure that your lessons in magic were always up to date. I also ensured that my contacts in the empire reported to me on your health and how well you were developing. I realized that you were becoming a bookworm, just as I was, so I had Miss Maresbury relocate her grandson Leaf Scanner, somepony who was just like you, to make friends with you.” Twilight sighed to take a breath, watching as Flurry glared at Leaf over her last statement.

“Don't worry, Leaf Scanner didn't know a thing about this.” Twilight giggled. “I know I might have come off in a meddling kind of way, but I just felt the urge to protect you from them. I couldn't have them use you like they did me. I knew I couldn't be a part of your life, but I kept loving you from afar-”

Listening to everything her aunt was telling her caused her tears to build up. Of course, she was a bit angry that Twilight kept meddling throughout her life, but she also felt happy that she had an aunt who was constantly looking after her, even without her knowing. The memories she had been shown had already tapped her heart, but hearing this honest confession was almost too much. She couldn't help but collapse into her aunt's soothing embrace, relishing in the feeling of love and devotion that her aunt had placed in protecting her.

“Oh Aunt Twilight! I love you!” She sobbed in the embrace. “I'm so grateful for all that you've done...how can a mare that went through that much hurt still show so much compassion for somepony else?”

“Because...” Twilight sniffled, pulling the filly closer under her wing. “As ponies, it's our duty to not allow the pain of life to destroy our joy-it is our duty to rise above all.”

“Does this mean you'll come out of hiding?” Flurry asked, pulling away and pleading with hopeful eyes. “Does this mean you'll play a more open role in my life?”

“I wish I could say yes.” She sighed heavily, staring out at the slowly marching troops. “But it would appear that your mother and aunts don’t want that.”

“But from what I saw, my mother was always on your side!” She quickly countered. “Why would she now agree with aunt Celestia and Luna?”

“Because they fear she will not lend her aid against the dark lord.” Came a strong masculine voice. “Hello Princess Flurry Heart, Leaf Scanner.” He greeted softly.

“Flash...” Twilight gave a small smile, causing Flurry to cock her head in curiosity.

“It's time you gave the orders and return to the capital with Princess Imperial Fluttershy and the kids, my love.” He nuzzled her.

“I thought I made it clear that we would lead the army together.” She glared before turning towards Flurry and Leaf. “This is my husband, Flash Sentry.”

“It's a pleasure to finally meet the two of you.” He smiled, shaking their hooves. Flurry took note of his distinct appearance. The stallion had a silky brilliant gamboge coat, tucked away behind an intricately crafted shimmering gold-plated set of armor. He was the same height as his wife, but there was something quite different about him. His wings. They weren't the typical pegasus wings, they looked like they belonged to an alicorn. “Now honey...” He tried pleading with his wife again. “...I don't like the idea of you being on the battlefield, you could get hurt or worst...the foal.”

“I know. But so could you and the rest of our family.” She countered, rolling her eyes in annoyance. “And I thought we made a deal not to mention the foal until I started showing.”

Flash grinned sheepishly under the intensity of his wife’s glare. They both knew they were expecting a foal, but decided to wait a while before announcing it to their family and subjects. Dropping the subject entirely, he found a new way of reasoning with her. “Think about the kids, your parents, me-”

“Which is exactly why I'm doing this.” She raised a hoof. “It is my duty to protect them...I’m their Empress and quite frankly, that’s what Thorn would've wanted. Besides, you know I could obliterate them all in one go.”

“I know, And that's what I'm afraid of.” Flash draped a wing over her back. “I don't want your anger to run too rampant...You could hurt yourself.”

“I'll be fine.”

“Fine.” He quipped, sighing in defeat. His wife was hardheaded and they could be stuck arguing about this all day. “But please be safe…” He pressed before capturing her lips with his own. “I love you too much to even consider losing you.” He parted.

“And I you, my love-.” She smiled wearily, considering the fact that they could lose each other.

“-Um, Empress Twilight?” Leaf called with a slight urge in his voice.

“Yes?” She answered, looking over towards him.

“Now would be a perfect time to give your signal. Look!” He pointed. They all turned and gawked as they suddenly saw hundreds of fireballs being hurled in their direction.

“They're attacking…” Twilight whispered, her eyes scanning over the army before her pupils filled with anger. “Flurry Heart...” She called, her eyes still locked onto the scene. “You and Leaf must go inside the gates! Now!”

“What?! I can't leave now!” Flurry quickly countered the request. “My mother is a part of this! I have to stay and help you reason with her!”

“Yeah!” Leaf chimed in as well. “Maybe we can help you show them the problem.”

“That's not a bad idea, but-”

“Honey, look out!” Flash Sentry shouted in defense mode as his eyes locked onto a magically charged fireball closing in on them. Quickly, without an extra moment to spare, he closed his eyes and reopened them to reveal a set of slitted pupils. As if possessed, he leapt into the air without even a flap of his wings, ascending into the sky at top speed. The pegasus then clamped his wings to his sides as he began spinning like a top. Flurry and Leaf watched in amazement as Flash suddenly created a large tornado sparking with blue lightning just from the movement, sending it into the incoming fireballs, destroying them. “Give your command now Twilight!” He warned before creating several whirlwinds to counter the next volley of attacks.

“Very well.” She nodded, praying her love would be alright. She then turned to her niece, a calm yet focused expression on her face. “Flurry, I hope you now see the dangers that your mother and aunts are bringing. You must do as I ask of you.”

“But... I hate running away...I hate hide-” Flurry grumbled before Twilight put her hoof over the young alicorn’s mouth.

“-You won't be running Flurry.” Twilight forced a smile as she shook her head. “You'll be staying out of harm's way until I knock some sense back into your parents.”

“What?!” Flurry grimaced at her aunt's statement.

“Trust me...” Twilight placed a reassuring hoof on her shoulder.

“I suppose I should.” The young princess hung her head. “But is that all I’m ever going to do? Cower and be weak?”

“No.” Twilight smiled. “I have a very special mission for you.”
________________________________
The battle ensued after Twilight finally gave her orders. Spells were cast, blades clashed and blood poured. Both armies sized up to each other defiantly as they fought on the half frozen wasteland of the Badlands.

The New Edenian Army was as Sunset Shimmer said: Mighty. It had the largest collection of creatures from different species. Griffons, dragons, deers, manticores, changelings and zebras were just to name a few of this mass of varied creatures. The army was situated into six different legions, which were composed of the aerial legion, the right flank, left flank, center legion, and finally the backlines and frontlines.

The frontlines, lead by the Empress herself, consisted of mainly dragons, as they were one of the toughest and most formidable opponents you could ever face. The right and left flanks, lead by Sunset and Trixie, consisted of manticores, as they would pick off any opponent that the dragons might have missed. The aerial legions were led by Flash Sentry and Thorax, which consisted of a mixture of pegasi, changelings and griffons. They could easily spot any enemy, and with their incredible powers over the sky, strike first and hard upon the enemy. The center and backlines were the last line of defense, and consisted of a mixture of all the creatures and were led by Starlight Glimmer.

The Equestrian Army looked equally challenging, though it's members were not so diverse. The Equestrian Army consisted of three legions, though several sizes bigger than most armies for each legion. The aerial legion, made up of a mixture of pegasi and griffons. The frontlines, which were mainly unicorns. And the sidelines, which were just earth pony soldiers.

Leading the charge and slowing stalking through the battlefield was a pony that noone would ever want to face. As the land, which was once a place that was once only tainted by the blankets of snow, only to now be littered with blood and injured creatures, was one pony charging forward as if she were on the prowl for prey. This pony was none other than Twilight Sparkle, Empress of the South.

Her only source of weaponry was her magic, yet she remained unfazed as she blasted any guard that dared to size her up. With her legion of dragons attacking behind her, she wouldn't waste her energy on these weaklings, she had much bigger fish to fry.

However, despite this, the commander of the Equestrian Army saw it differently. He commanded the legion of earth ponies to charge her, trying everything they could to strike her. But this meant nothing to the purple alicorn. With one shine of her horn, half of them were swept away behind a massive anti-gravity field she created with her horn alone. With this, New Edenian arial legion easily picked them away, knocking all of the flightless ponies down in an instance.

As this happened, a bat-pony in the back of the earth ponies readied itself. The pony’s name was Raven Mist, a superb ex-warrior of Luna’s own guard. She was known for her dark blue-sapphire coat and well-pointed leather wings, along with her ember-red eyes. But these features meant nothing compared to her skills. Known by many as the ‘Blade Thrower’, infamous for her pin-point accuracy dagger throwing on the battlefield. It was this talent that allowed her to compete in even the Equestria Games, winning several medals before joining the military due to a suggestion from her old friend, Rainbow Dash. With this, Raven pulled out a small, black shard and spun it in her hoof, her eyes narrowing at Twilight as the empress defeated the last of the earth pony legion.

Seeing the last of the earth ponies fall, Twilight looked up into the air where she could see her beloved husband, Flash Sentry. He was side by side with Thorax, creating several magically enhanced whirlwinds and releasing them on the enemy. She marvelled at the sight. “Your training has come a long way, my love.” She gave a small smile to the occupied stallion, removing her attention from the battlefield momentarily.

A mistake that would charge her dearly.

“EMPRESS, LOOK OUT!” She heard a voice shout to her, but her reaction couldn't come fast enough. From the corner of her eyes, she saw a pegasus mare move like a shadow, before it all when black.

Her immediate unconsciousness prompted her dragon legion to quickly form a protective shield around her, trying to guard her from any other attack.

“Twilight!” Flash called in panic, catching the last glimpse of the attack. He quickly zoomed over to her, leaving Thorax and the other changelings to hold off Equestria’s aerial legions.

“Nice job lieutenant Raven Mist.” Iron Hoof smirked as he made his grand entrance through his halted army. The legion that he commanded had moved into a different position, one that was now trying to surround the dragons protecting Twilight. “Now chain her, the dark obsidia will keep her under control.” He grinned at the black shard wedged into Twilight’s left wing.

“Not so fast!” A dragon soldier snarled, spewing a barrage of fire at Iron Hoof and his comrades, forcing them to jump back.

“ATTACK WITHOUT MERCY! GET THAT TRAITOR!” Iron Hoof barked in retaliation as he recovered from the attack, causing the unicorns to fire several beams of magic towards them. “DESTROY THEM! DESTROY THEM NOW!”

“Not if I have anything to say about that!” Flash growled, twirling his body to create a powerful whirlwind-like tornado, absorbing the blast and smashing through the enemy before swiftly taking charge.

“Starlight Glimmer! Get the Empress to safety! We’ll finish this with without her!” Flash ordered, preparing for another round of attacks as the rest of the New Edenian Army arrived to their aid. “Provide some cover for them!”

“On it.” Starlight saluted, moving quickly to envelope her empress in her blue aura under the cover of their army. However, her magic evaporated. “This can't be right.” Starlight muttered, raising an eyebrow.

“You're wasting your time.” Iron Hoof smirked as he saw Starlight trying desperately to lift Twilight with her magic. “Give her to me. No power on Equus can withstand dark obisidia, it's a shard of Queen Chrysalis’ throne and a gift from Lord Blackhole Heart. You didn't think I came here unprepared, did you?”

“No!” Flash nearly screamed as a sudden realization dawned on him. This dark crystal is the reason why his wife went down this easily. Iron Hoof would pay for this.

“Garble! You must accompany Starlight back to the Capital.” Flash ordered as he spotted the red dragon. “You must carry Twilight while Starlight provides backup.”

“Fine.” Garble stated simply, setting about to lift the alicorn.

“Provide them with a clean path back to the gates!” Flash Sentry commanded, prompting the soldiers to immediately move.

“Trixie Lulamoon and Sunset Shimmer, you two take on Iron Hoof!” Flash instructed. “Raven Mist is mine.”

“Bout time this idiot got his rump whooped.” Sunset smiled lighting her horn.

“It's payback time.” Trixie snarled, gritting her teeth.

“Thorax! See to it that the enemy doesn't go through the gates.” Flash commanded. What's taking you so long Flurry? You should have activated the forcefield by now. He thought, casting a worried stare at the great gates. However, he shook it off since he knew Flurry wouldn't let them down.

“TO THE REST OF YOU, ATTACK WITHOUT MERCY! THERE SHALL BE NO MERCY FOR THE WICKED!” Flash Sentry boomed.

And so began another round of the battle. Though this time, Valdes drifted into Iron Hoof’s thoughts, preparing for his next move.
____________________________
Meanwhile, in the Crystal Empire...

“Everything is now under our total and absolute control, My Lord.” Sombra smiled as he strolled into the throne room. “It feels great to be home again.” He inhaled deeply . “Though I can't wait to turn everything dark again.” He groaned as he grimaced at the state of the throne room, as it was still untouched by his dark magic.

“Patience Sombra.” Blueblood soothed from his throne. “You'll have your fun soon enough.”

“Besides,” Chrysalis interjected, waltzing into the room as well. “If you turn everything into despair now, then my changeling army won't be able to feed. There'll only be fear and hatred, and trust me, those two taste the worst.” She stuck her tongue out in disgust.

“And what does any of that have to do with me?” Sombra snarled, glaring as she passed him. “My throne has been restored!”

“You haven't heard?” Chrysalis drawled, rolling her eyes as she settled down at the foot of the crystal throne.

“Heard what?!” The dark unicorn barked back at the changeling.

“We attack Equestria next,” Blueblood smiled darkly. “You didn't think that the Crystal Empire was my main goal, did you?”

“What?! That's preposterous! We need to take sometime to plan our strategy, before attempting to take down the royal sisters!” Sombra yelled. “We've just secured the Crystal Empire, that was enough fighting for now as it is.”

“True.” Blueblood replied nonchalantly. “Which is why Lord Blackhole and I devised a new plan. One the royal sisters will never see coming.”

“Oh?” Chrysalis raised an eyebrow in interest.

“Pray tell us what this plan of yours is.” Sombra muttered, raising an eyebrow as well.

Smiling at the fact that they were keen on hearing what he had to say, he rose from the crystal throne, descending the steps. He halted when he reached his minions. “As you two probably know, the only way for Lord Blackhole to fully return to this world is on the day of a solar eclipse.” Blueblood said, sitting down onto his haunches.

“That much I'm aware of,” Chrysalis began. “But he was able to leave the dream realm through the aid of the moon. Why can't he do the same to enter this realm?”

“Because of the sun.”

“The sun? What of it?” Sombra asked hesitantly.

“The Moon is connected to the dream realm, but the sun is not.” The dark alicorn continued. “Though Lord Blackhole was able to escape with the power of the moon, the sun keeps him from entering the real world. He can only fade into our thoughts and dreams.”

“Interesting.” Sombra muttered, rubbing his chin.

“Interesting indeed.” A new voice soothed as heavy hoofsteps were heard coming into the room.

“Ah, King Cypress,” Blueblood greeted the newcomer as he made his way over towards the trio. “How nice of you to finally join us.”

“I had to ensure my soldiers were settled, as well as to get a letter to my wife before I joined you all.” He replied as he fully entered the room. The stallion had a pale brown coat, a sleek raspberry red mane and fiery amber eyes. He was adorned in strong bronze armor, with the insignia of a rose on his chest plate. On the top of his head sat a bronze crown littered with jewels. His face wore a mask of solemn regret, one he tried to desperately hide.

“Always the noble kind.” Blueblood smirked. “Have you heard from my wife? She refused to speak with me after she found out.”

“No, I haven't.” Cypress sighed, shaking his head. He couldn't blame his sister for being angry at her husband. Fleur De Lis was a noble mare and she wouldn't stand to betray Equestria, but she wouldn't betray her husband either. Deep down, he knew what he was doing was wrong, but in the end, he had to. Blueblood promised him protection from Griffondel if he joined their cause, and as a king, he had to put his kingdom first.

Cypress never intended to attack the Crystal Empire, as for years, Prance and the Crystal Empire had maintained close ties. It was no surprise when Empress Cadance aided him in his war against the Kingdom of Griffondel. But things took a turn for the worst recently with the ongoing war. An opportunity had presented itself for him to assassinate Talonia Von’Claw, the Queen of Griffondel. She was the tyrant that had waged war against him for more territory, causing the war. However, despite this opportunity, he failed to kill the greedy queen. And his failure to do what was necessary resulted in the deaths of hundreds of crystalian soldiers and Cadance’s permanent redrawal of support.

His whole kingdom was left on the verge of ruin, an easy picking for the griffons. He would do anything to protect his home and family, causing him to sell his soul to the devil for his kingdom. After all, he had a wife and foal to protect, as well as his subjects. Yet, he felt guilt, guilt that plagued his whole being.

“Oh, what a shame.” Blueblood grumbled, barely shrugging at the news. “I do hope she comes around.”

“Me too.” Cypress lied, still staring at the ground.

“Is everything alright brother?” Blueblood cocked an eyebrow, staring at the stallion who still had his head down.

“Perhaps he's changed his mind.” Chrysalis snickered. “You know how weak minded you ponies can be.”

“You know them too well.” Sombra chuckled, rolling his eyes at the unicorn king.

“I'm sure Cypress is merely tired from the battle.” Blueblood stared with narrowed eyes at the stallion. “Right? After all, your whole kingdom is depending on your every move. Remember brother.”

For a moment, he chastised himself inwardly for even making a pact with these ponies. Everything within him screamed to cut ties with them now, but he knew Blueblood would call off his protection over Prance, leaving his wife and foal vulnerable to the griffons. Thus, he conceded, he just had to play along with this little game for awhile. Hopefully, he'd make it out alive and beg Empress Cadance for forgiveness.

Pulling himself together, he sighed, raising his head. “I'm fine,” He growled. “Us ponies have more fight in us than you think.” He snarled at the dark unicorn and the changeling queen.

“Good,” Blueblood smiled. “Then we can continue our discussion. But I'd much rather we all have seats.” He said, lighting his horn and directing his sapphire blue magic to the center of the throne room. After this, a elaborately decorated glass table with large rosewood feet appeared. It's chairs were equally majestic, and mimicked wooden thrones.

“Seriously?” Chrysalis shook her head. “Don't you think that's a bit too much?”

“This is nothing compared to what I have in Canterlot,” Blueblood huffed. “Besides, I hate standing and this drab throne room. It needed the touch anyways.”

“Whatever.” Was all Chrysalis could utter, rolling her eyes in annoyance.

“Now,” The alicorn began. “Lets all take a seat and get back to business.”

Without another word, the four sat at the seats of their choice before Blueblood cleared his throat to proceed where he had left off.

“As I was about to say,” Blueblood began nearly immediately after their sitting. “The power of the sun keeps our Lord from entering the real world, but this can change if an eclipse occurs. Normally as you all know, an eclipse happens once every year, and it's controlled by the sisters. It's only on a day like this, when the sun is completely blinded by the power of the moon, that our Lord can truly leave the dream realm permanently.”

“Well, isn't that simple enough-” Chrysalis began before being cut off by Blueblood raising a hoof.

“...It isn't,” The prince interrupted. “Blackhole believes that Celestia and Luna are wary of our plans. To top it off, only pure alicorn magic can move the solar bodies so that the eclipse can happen, which means the sisters or…”

“...Another alicorn.” Cypress whispered with knitted eyebrows of concern, barely audible, but Blueblood heard.

“Precisely.” Blueblood smiled. “Very good Cypress. Only another pure alicorn is able to complete this task. I would so graciously do it, but I'm not a pure alicorn. My power is corrupted by black magic.”

“But how would you come about that?” Chrysalis raised an eyebrow. “You said it yourself, the solar sisters are out of the question and I'm pretty sure that sappy love empress doesn't have what it takes.”

“Which narrows it down to one potential participant. The filly.” Sombra spoke as if the word was poison.

“I like the way you think.” Blueblood chuckled. “But no. There is still somepony we haven't mentioned. Twilight Sparkle.”

“What?” Cypress uttered in shock, staring at Blueblood as if he were mad. “Isn't she supposed to be dead?”

“Yeah!” Chrysalis narrowed her eyes in suspicion, before her eyes widened in realization. “Wait-Is that why you asked me for the dark obsidia?!”

“What are you yapping about?” Sombra growled in confusion at the pair. “And what's this dark obsidia that you speak of?”

“The Dark obsidia is dark and ancient gem that I've carved my throne from.” She glared at the dark unicorn. “It is capable of stealing magic from any creature that goes near it. A small shard can render even the most powerful being useless, forcing them into a coma. Also, if it enters the bloodstream through an opened wound, then the creature will die a slow death as it prevents the creature’s body from healing.”

“Interesting.” Cypress muttered, rubbing the small beard on his chin. “No wonder you've evaded Celestia and Luna so long.”

“Indeed.” She smiled, casting a look in his direction. “Can't have powerful creatures using their magic against me.” Chrysalis then stared back at Blueblood. “Though I am insulted that you literally had to take all of my dark obsidia besides the ones that make up my throne. I can’t use them as weapons now!”

“And what does it have to do with any of this?” Sombra furrowed his eyebrows in confusion.

“I swear, you are the most clueless creature on this planet.” Chrysalis shook her head in disgust. Did you not hear anything I just said?!”

“What did you just say bug?!” Sombra glared daggers at the Queen, who only smirked.

“You heard me.” Her smirk grew larger.

“That's it! I’m done here!” Sombra shouted, slamming his armored hoof on the glass table, causing a small crack to form. “I won't sit here and be insulted by her!”

“Be quiet you two!” Blueblood snarled, raising from his seat, a firm scowl on his face. “I will not tolerate your stupidity this far into the game!”

“She started it.” Sombra growled.

“Because you're dumb.” Chrysalis snickered.

“I don't give give a buck who started it!” Blueblood snarled, glaring at the two. “Suck it up and listen to what I have to say or both of you will answer to the dark lord!”

“Fine.” Chrysalis conceded, crossing her hooves.

“Whatever.” Sombra growled sitting back into his chair.

“Good,” Blueblood sighed. “Now that you are both acting like adults again, I can proceed. Blackhole found out that Twilight Sparkle was alive and has devised a plan to capture her and use her to control the sun and moon.”

“Isn't that the same mare that nearly killed Celestia and Luna?” Cypress broke his silence, earning murmurs from the others, urging them to voice their opinions.

“The very same pony that stopped my plans years ago.” Chrysalis snarled. “I hate that brat!”

“Talk about a nuance! I had my hooves so close to my empire! She was the only pony who was powerful enough to challenge me.” Sombra grimaced at the memory. “She was powerful the last time I met her on the battlefield, and now fifteen years have passed. She’ll have to be several times more powerful now. How will this plan not backfire?!”

“It won't.” Blueblood replied, his expression stoic. “The Lord and I have thought this through. Lord Blackhole has temporarily left my thoughts in pursuit of somepony he can brainwash into stirring trouble between Equestria and Twilight's Empire.”

“Explain.” Sombra smiled with interest.

“The solar sisters want Twilight to aid them by wielding the elements of harmony.” Blueblood paused staring down at his reflection in the table. “Make no mistake, Twilight Sparkle still hates Equestria, but the sisters are acting passive.”

“Is that so?” Chrysalis murmured in a low tone, her eyes closed in thoughts. “So this means the slightest movement can tick her off?”

“Precisely!” Blueblood smiled. “This will lead to a war that the sisters will have to leave Canterlot to break up. And when they do, we'll take Canterlot. There won't be much of a fight there as most of the soldiers are now attacking Twilight’s Empire.”

“Impressive,” Sombra muttered, glancing at the stallion. “But you've yet to explain how Blackhole Heart will escape. Didn't you say an alicorn was needed to align the sun and moon? You said Twilight Sparkle, but how can we possibly control her?”

“Twilight Sparkle is the perfect pony.” Blueblood grinned. His announcement still didn't sit too well with his co-conspirators though, as their faces were contorted in a parade of frowns and confusion.

“Please,” Chrysalis began, her face fixed in a tight frown. “This isn't the time for being humorous. Tell us of your plans now and stop horsing around!”

“That was my plan.” Blueblood rolled his eyes at their expression.

“Are you mad!?” Cypress barked raising from his chair in anger. “She'll destroy our armies before we have a chance to use her!”

“Cypress is right!” Sombra boomed equally agitated. “Is this some sort of suicide mission? Because if it is, I'll take my leave now!”

The alicorn chuckled at their faces. Of course he wasn't stupid enough to approach her like that. “I'm no fool, this is where the dark obsidia comes in. While the armies clash, Blackhole will use a pony to stab Twilight with the gem when she least expects it. She should go unconscious, rendering her magic defenses useless and her mind open. When she does, Blackhole will enter her thoughts and influence her to help us. By the time that happens, we'll already be waiting in Canterlot. By tomorrow, Blackhole should be free and we'll all be richly rewarded for helping him.”

“Hmm...I like the sound of that.” Chrysalis grinned. “Canterlot will be mine, The Crystal Empire will be Sombra’s and you'll be the emperor of the world.”

“Indeed.” Blueblood smiled. “And Blackhole will once again assume his title as ruler of the Galaxy-”

“...but there is still a problem.” Cypress interjected. “Won't Laufaustia be freed from the dream realm too?”

“I forgot about her.” Chrysalis hissed. “She may put a dent in our plans.”

Again Blueblood giggled, as he had already thought ahead. “Oh don't worry about her. As soon as Blackhole is completely free, he'll destroy the dream realm forever.”

“And you're sure Blackhole will keep his promises?” Cypress asked, skeptic of the being. Blackhole was evil and Cypress wouldn't be tricked so easily.

“Of course he will.” Blueblood glared before pointing to the two others in the room. “Sombra and Chrysalis are living proof of his helpfulness.”

“I see.” Cypress cast a wary eye at Sombra and Chrysalis. “Very well then.”

“Good. Now rest up. It's getting late and I want us to secure Canterlot by daybreak tomorrow.” The alicorn announced, standing to his hooves. “Tomorrow, we make history.”

“Indeed we will.” Chrysalis smiled, leaving the table.

“Those ponies will finally feel our wrath.” Sombra declared, leaving the table as well.

“May Laufaustia have mercy upon us all.” Cypress whispered, slowly taking his leave.
________________________________
Back at the battle...

The sun had began its slow descent from its heavenly throne in the sky, sparking the end of the day. Yet the battle still waged on.

The once flawless snowfields that dwell on the outskirts of the gates were now defiled. All that remain of its purity were bits of armors, unconscious soldiers, blood puddles and an unending battle.

The New Edenian Army was strong as well as it had diversity, but the Equestrian Army had more tricks up their sleeves than was bargained for. Shortly after Twilight was taken to safety behind the walls, things took a drastic turn for the worst. This was even despite the fact that Flurry Heart had successfully summoned a forcefield around the Gate of Silent Eyes, forcing all Equestrian soldiers out like Twilight had planned. Despite this, things were still bad.

First, Flash went with his original plan and led the New Edenian army against Equestria. He personally took on the Equestria’s aerial legion of pegasi and griffons, quickly showing his might. Even though he originally was going after Raven, she had quickly retreated, hiding behind the legion as she tried to obtain a new shard of dark obsidia. As she did, Flash dove into the army, magic flowing out of his wings as he summoned whirlwinds and tornadoes with just a flap of his wings. One hundred, two hundred, ponies after ponies fell to his attacks, his strength showing no limit. However, as he took out the five-hundredth pegasi in the sky, Raven struck once more. She snuck a blow to his back leg with a blade poisoned with dark obsidia. This caused him to begin bleeding profusely, causing his energy to slowly drain from his body. He was immortal, but not beyond death, casuing him to fall down to the ground with a ‘thud’.

Seeing how this blow basically took out the Emperor, Iron Hoof discovered a new attack strategy. One by one, they took down the rest of the New Edenian soldiers by putting the dark obsidia crystals onto arrows, sending a volley of the toxic weapons onto the opposing army. The sky became of rain of black shards, all of them striking the New Edenian army. As they did, the crystals instantly knocked out anyone they touched. Soon, all that was left were Flash, Thorax, Sunset, Trixie and a handful of soldiers.

“Had enough so-called Emperor Flash Sentry?” Iron Hoof snarled at the panting stallion that laid exhausted in the snow, his back leg refusing to stop bleeding. His friends and soldiers surrounded him in a protective stance, calculating Iron Hoof’s every move. They were all that stood between Iron Hoof’s army and the gates to New Edenia. “You're all vastly outnumbered. Give up that disgusting filthy traitor you call an empress and I might just spare you all.”

“Never!” Flash Sentry spat, mustering all the strength he had to defy Iron Hoof’s desires. “I'll never stop fighting until the last breath leaves my body!”

“And I’m with you until the very end emperor.” Thorax declared, standing proudly at his side, though battered and bruised.

“So will we!” Sunset seethed, pointing to Trixie and the rest of the soldiers, who all had equally determined looks on their faces. “Equestria will pay for what it's done to our land and so will you Iron Hoof! Why don't you fight fair and remove the dark obsidia from our soldiers and see what happens!”

“Hah! Why should I against a bunch of filthy traitors like you?!” Iron chuckled, licking his lips. “Very well then, I'll just kill you all, your children and all your subjects until I get to her. She will face Equestrian justice.”

“No…” Flash gasped, trying to stand to his hooves, but they didn't budge. The open wound on his left leg oozed with crimson liquid. “The forcefield will keep you out!”

“You have no choice.” Iron grinned widely. “Show me the spell to enter the forcefield so I may go through the gates, and I'll withdraw the obsidia from your bloodstream. It's not too late.”

“Never! I'd rather die knowing my family is safe than letting a monster like you hurt them!” Flash smiled weakly, slowly losing his grip on life. “The forcefield that has been erected is engineered to keep ponies like you out. You'll never enter my city, and you'll never take my wife!”

“Then I'll just have to batter it with dark magic until it weakens and crumbles! Then, you'll have died for nothing!” Iron Hoof glared, his anger rising and threatening to bubble over. Despite this, Flash Sentry smiled victoriously.

“By the time you enter the gates to my city, the empress will have recovered and be waiting for you.” The pegasus smirked through tired eyes. “You're done.”

“We'll see who has the last laugh when your head rolls in the snow!” Iron Hoof growled before turning to Raven. “Raven Mist! Sever his head.” He grinned, summoning a dark obsidia encrusted blade and passing it to the mare. The same one Raven used to inflict the wound on Flash.

“You'll have to go through all of us to do so.” Sunset challenged, stepping in front of Flash.

“It's ok Sunset...at the rate I'm losing blood, I won't make it…” Flash whimpered weakly. “There's no sense in any of you sacrificing your lives for me...when my death is inevitable.”

“But you're immortal!” Trixie screamed in panic. “Surely a wound like that won't take you!”

“It can…” Thorax whispered hiding the tears, glancing down at the wound. “Dark obsidia can weaken a powerful being, but it can also kill it if it enters the bloodstream…”

“It's true...the blade that cut me was enchanted with that crystal...it's hopeless now.” Flash answered in a raspy tone. “Leave me here and go back inside the gate...the forcefield should keep you all protected until you find a way to revive Twilight. Protect my wife and kids at all costs…” He whispered before slipping away.

“No…” Thorax whimpered, allowing the tears to flow as he watched his friend slip into an unconscious state. “He's right...it's hopeless. Only Chrysalis can reverse such an effect.”

“Right you are.” Iron smiled crookedly at the fallen stallion. “Now finish him off Raven.”

“What?!” Raven Mist gasped in surprise. “We can't do that and I'm not going that far!” she yelled before throwing the blade back at Iron. “You told us these weapons would disable our opponents, not kill them!”

“Yeah!” Another soldier pointed out, sparking the other soldiers to voice their opinions as well. “The princesses would never permit you to do that-”

“Quiet!” Iron Hoof barked in agitation, causing them to clamp their mouths shut in fear. “I'm in charge here! That traitorous Twilight Sparkle will face judgment at my hooves at all costs! These ponies hid away from the world in order to make a new empire to attack Equestria! They must all die for the sake of Equestria!”

“No.” Raven Mist sighed as she took off her helmet and stepped in front of the group. “I now see how wrong I was to even come on this mission. You told me that we were to bring her to trial...but you only want to kill her, don’t you?” Raven just shook her head before glaring at Iron with a viper like expression. “I won’t follow you any longer. Equestria is doomed for a hard and perilous end because of ponies like you!”

“Is that so?” Iron Hoof cocked his head in rage.

“Yes! I'm done serving Equestria! These ponies don't deserve such a fate!” Raven screamed, her rage showing with flared wings, before turning to face the opposing party with a heavy heart. “I'm sorry for what I did to you and your wife Emperor Flash Sentry. Even though I might be too late, I’m sorry-ugh!”

“Traitor! You can tell him that in death.” Iron Hoof smirked, pulling the blade that he just plunged into her body from her side, watching as she fell to the ground without a breath. As her body hit the snow, he spat on her. “Go to Tartarus, you piece of trash.”

“You're a-a m-monster.” Raven barely said as blood filled her mouth. “May Laufaustia for-forgive you-you…”

“Don't flatter me.” He rolled his eyes in disgust. “Does anypony else here have a problem with my methods?” Iron asked, cleaning his sword, eyeing the remaining troops. When all remained silent, he continued. “Good! Now I can get back to ripping the information out of-”

“-Not on our watch!” Came a familiar raspy female voice from the skies above. “Nopony hurts my friends!” She shouted, swooping down while creating her signature sonic rainboom. The shockwaves from the stunt quickly stunned some of the soldiers and cut a path through them to the unconscious Flash and his friends.

“Yeah!” Came another female voice, though her voice was freakishly energetic. “Nopony picks on our Twilight without going through us! Right Cheesey Weezy?”

“You bet Pinkie Winkie!” Her husband agreed, firing his party cannon and unleashing dozens of rocks at the stunned soldiers. “Let's get this party started!”

“Eww! You guys couldn't come up with better names to call each other?!” Rainbow Dash facehoofed herself in disgust. “I swear that's the cheesiest names I've ever heard!”

“I've gotta agree with ya Rainbow, that was kinda cheesy.” Applejack snickered while bucking a soldier, sending him flying. “But you're not one to talk, cuz you and Soarin sure aren't far from the cheesiness.”

“Eaaaxactly!” Pinkie smirked, joining her husband in firing more rocks at the soldiers.

“We do not!” Rainbow blushed, glancing at her mate who was already preoccupied with bucking several of the enemy soldiers.

“Keep telling yourself that.” Applejack rolled her eyes, focusing on a clear path to the gate.

“Well maybe if you actually started dating, you'd find out that the cheesiness isn't that bad.” Rainbow grinned, knocking a few soldiers out.

“Rainbow’s right!” Pinkie chirped. “I think it's time you found that special somepony-Oh no…” Pinkie Pie gasped when she saw Flash’s body.

“We're too late…” Cheese added.

The small group of ponies bolted towards their allies upon seeing their friend’s broken form. However, Iron Hoof didn't take too keenly to their interruption and growled at them in anger.“How dare you interrupt my plans!” Iron Hoof bellowed in anger upon seeing the new faces. “Kill them all! They won't interfere with plans, not when I'm so close to victory! Anypony that fails to execute my orders will end up like Raven!”

“No…” Soarin whispered in shock, softly fluttering to his wife’s side. “He's won, we're too late.”

“This can't be.” Rainbow Dash narrowed her eyes in anger. “She was a good mare!” Rainbow glared staring at Raven’s dead form, threatening to attack Iron Hoof. “You monster!”

“Calm down Rainbow.” Applejack soothed, holding her back. “You can't attack him alone.”

“Alone we can't, but together we can.” Sunset said, clutching unto Flash Sentry's body.

“You won’t beat me.” Iron Hoof smirked defiantly. “With the power Lord Blackhole has bestowed upon me, I was able to take out this bastard emperor and his empress. You traitors are now nothing but fodder for superior ponies like me!”

“Now I see what you've done…” Sunset gasped, realization dawning on them all. “You're not here on behalf of the princesses, you're working for Valdes!”

“Tsk,Tsk,Tsk.” Iron Hoof mocked, slowly strolling towards Sunset who was still clutching the unconscious Flash. “You're more smarter than you look. Indeed, I work for Valdes now, though he now calls himself Blackhole Heart.”

“But why…” Sunset asked, trying to see sense in his alliance.

“Simple.” Iron Hoof grinned. “Why serve a kingdom, when I can have an empire!”

“What are you talking about?!” Rainbow glared daggers at his insolence.

“Oh Rainbow Dash, so naive. I wonder how you even ended up marrying.” Iron Hoof mocked. “Lord Blackhole has offered me so much more than guard duty! He's offered me Twilight's Empire in exchange for capturing and subduing her, that traitorous piece of filth.”

“You fool!” AppleJack shouted in shock. “You can't possibly believe that a dark God will stay true to his words!”

“And you know anything about honesty?” He shot back. “Was it your honesty that turned you to betray your friend all those years ago?”

“Twilight and I have moved past that! And-”

“-Please spare me your sentimental drama. I have no need to listen to filth like you, not when I’m superior to all of you in everyway.” Iron cut her off. “Soldiers! Attack without mercy! Kill every single one of these insects so that may acquire my crown that I alone deserve.” Iron then took a deep breath. “KILL THEM ALL!”

Sunset awaited the impact of dozens of blasts while shielding the the unconscious stallion, as did the rest of the group. However, nothing came. All that attacked was silence. Sunset and the rest of her group peered up, only to meet cold narrowed eyes from the Equestrian Army, coldness directed to their leader.

“What are you idiots waiting for?! I said kill them!” He wailed in agitation.

“No…” A soldier stated boldly with determined eyes. “We’re done following your mad orders. You're a sick twisted stallion! Look at what you did to Raven Mist.”

“YEAH!! The rest of the army bellowed in agreement, before beginning to chant their disgust towards him. “DOWN WITH IRON HOOF! DOWN WITH IRON HOO-

“SILENCE YOU FOOLS! OR I WILL-”

“Or what?” The soldier shot back. “We're tired of your orders! The princesses would have never allowed this.” The guard glared, taking off his helmet as well. “It's over Iron Hoof.”

“It's not over until I say so!” He spat. “You will all pay for this.” He growled, his horn shined as he fired a beam of magic at the stallion that spoke, only for Trixie to quickly teleport in front of the soldiers and blocked the attack with a spell of her own.

“It's over Iron Hoof.” Trixie snorted. “Stand down and face punishment.” She added lowering her horn as she prepared to fire at him if need be.

“Never!” He snapped, lighting his horn again. “I am superior to garbage like you! I am Iron Hoof the supreme! Your empire will belong to me!” Iron then patted his chest as more and more magic began to cover his horn, all of it showing a distinct jet-black color. “I am Iron Hoof, and I will claim the empire as my own. If you pathetic soldiers will not follow me, then I will have you and your families’ heads on a plate! You will all adore me! I am Iron Hoof the mighty!”

“Then have it your way.” Trixie shook her head in disgust. “You heard him soldiers. Fire!”

Within an instant, all Iron Hoof’s soldiers fired at him, causing a wave of fire spells to engulf his body. In that instant, the snow covered battlefield became a pyro ball of flames, burning the spot where Iron stood. After a few minutes of fire magic, they presumed him to be dead, and they held up their assaults.

“It's over…” Sunset whispered at the smoking spot that Iron Hoof once stood. “He's dead.”

“Not until I say so.” Came Iron Hoof’s voice. “You think I'd go down so easily? Well think again!” With that said, the smoke around the area where the unicorn once stood began twisting and morphing until it revealed an horrific sight before their eyes.

Iron Hoof.

Standing before them was Iron Hoof in all his glory, but he was different...his coat had a darker shade of grey. He stood taller, had more muscular hooves, and his horn’s length now rivaled that of Luna. Not only that, at his side now rested a pair of large gray bat wings, and his eyes were pure black.

“Missed me?” He grinned sinisterly, revealing his vampire-like looking teeth while flexing his new pair of wings.

“No.” Rainbow’s pupils shrunk in horror. “You d-died!”

“I did.” He chuckled. “But when you have the God of death on your side, then exceptions can be made.” Iron then stared at his new coat, his grin growing bigger and bigger. “Ah...I like this new form. It makes me look...majestic. Like the true king that I was born to be. With this power….I can do anything! Be anything! I am now truly superior to all you neophytes! I am worthy of being worshipped! AHAHAHAHAHA!!!”

“I can see your treason knows no bounds.” Trixie snarled. “But just like before, we will destroy you!”

“You can try! But you're attempts will only prove futile.” He jeered, making a slow waltz in the direction of Sunset and the others. “Now that I've assumed the true form that I've always meant to have, I can do this!” He cackled as black and gray clouds formed around his elongated horn. With a mighty motion of his new wings, he reared up on his hind legs, forcing Sunset and Thorax to quickly take cover with Flash’s body. He then unleashed a powerful blast of dark magic at the forcefield. For a moment, the forcefield stood it's ground against Iron Hoof’s assault, but with a final outpoor of magic, it shattered.

“The shield!” Sunset screamed in horror.

“But how?!” Thorax screamed as well, equally panicked.

“That's impossible!” Trixie yelled. “Empress Twilight invented that spell to keep out ponies who harbored ill intentions for her country and subjects!”

“But if that's the case, then how is Iron Hoof strong enough to do this?!” Rainbow threw her hooves in the air.

“Thanks to you all killing me, I've now been reborn into a strong new body, one infused with dark obsidia, courtesy of the Dark Lord himself.” Iron Hoof smiled mischievously, walking towards the The Gates of Silent Eyes. “The only ponies who could rival my power are either wounded or unavailable. Twilight Sparkle is mine now.” Iron then rubbed his chin as he thought up a new wicked idea. “In fact, I think I’ll go get her now and kill her kids. After that, I’ll start by having some fun with the mares of this new empire of mine. That’s a fun idea.”

“Not another step you freak!” Trixie challenged, recovering from her shock. She then pawed the snow with her hoof like a bull, charging her horn as she did.

“Or what?” He grinned, continuing his slow pace towards New Edenia. “You insignificant lowlifes are gonna try and stop me? I am a superior being now! You are nothing but trash that has no right to exist! I am a cut above you insignificant fools!”

“Guess again slimeball! We’ll kick your flank right here!” Sunset Shimmer bellowed, firing a powerful blast of magic at the dark alicorn, striking him on his left flank.

“You'll regret that!” He whirled around with bared fangs, charging his horn with another dark spell.

“That's our cue!” Rainbow called. “Fire with everything you've got! He can't get to Twilight!”

Quickly as the words left her lips, hundreds of spells were immediately cast at the alicorn. Iron quickly summoned a magic barrier, which guarded him from every attack. However, despite this, he could not move, locking him into a deadly impasse.

“None of you are a match for me!” Iron growled, fighting to hold back the hundreds of spells that attacked him at once. “You c-can't ke-keep this up for-ever-r! I...I WILL WIN!”

“Neither can you!” Sunset shot back. “We'll be right here when you falter!”

“Never!” Iron spat, forcing more of his strength into the spell, pushing the unicorn's magic back. “I'll not be defeated by a piece of trash like you! I am Iron Hoof the supreme! Only I deserve to have my own empire and crown!” Iron then smirked as he focused on his horn once more before thinking, Don’t you think my lord? This power will soon defeat them, all thanks to you!

However, Blackhole had other thoughts. She's weak and submissive now. Blackhole whispered into the back of Iron Hoof’s thoughts as the new alicorn continued to enforce his new barrier. This is the perfect time for me to infiltrate her mind and bring her under my will, now that the forcefield is no more.

What?! Now? You can't leave my thoughts now! I'll be doomed if you do! Iron Hoof yelled back at Blackhole Heart.

I've already granted you more power than you could ever wish! These ponies are nothing to you now. Once they’re done and exhausted from attacking you, you’ll have no problem destroying them.

Are you sure My Lord? Iron Hoof whispered.

Yes. As long as you use the power that I gave to you wisely, then you have nothing to fear.

Very well My Lord, you may go. I believe I can take them on my own. Iron Hoof replied confidently.

Good. Now as soon as I take over her mind, I'll rejoin you. With that, the being left his host, once again entering the dream realms while Iron Hoof was left to resume this battle on his own. As he did, the spells stopped, as the unicorns on the field had to recharge their magic, as did Iron Hoof. That is, except for one being.

“You're a traitor to Equestria Iron Hoof, and you'll be brought to justice for the evil you're causing to our home!” Thorax snarled as he continued to fire spells at Iron, who lessened his barrier so they would still deflect minor spells. “We won’t let you touch the empire!”

“Please.” Iron Hoof smirked. “Don't compliment me when you're nothing but a traitor yourself. Tell me Thorax, do you sleep well at night, knowing you turned your back on your queen?”

“The changelings were never truly loyal to Chrysalis!” Thorax shot back at him. “We were fine living in the enchanted swamp as insects, before your Lord trapped us in those disgusting bodies!”

“She was still your queen and you betrayed her.” Iron cackled, licking his lips as he did. “And for your betrayal, you’ll die all the same.”

“Yes! I did betray and I would do it again to free the others from her tyranny!” Thorax shouted, pouring his magic into the barrier. “I will beat you!”

“Rainbow! Now would be a good time for one of your tornadoes.” Applejack shouted as she noticed Thorax was starting to get tired as well. That is, till the other unicorns began firing spells again, causing Iron to strengthen his shield once more. “We can take him out while he's preoccupied. See if you and Soarin can create a large enough tornado!”

“That's a great Idea AJ.” She furrowed her brows. “Why didn't I think of that?”

“No time for thinking now babe! Let's go, they need all the help they can get.” Soarin said, leaping into the skies with a flap of his wings.

“Right behind you!” She grinned, darting after him.

Together, Rainbow and Soarin flew high above the clouds, until the battlefield looked like a mere ant nest.

“Are you ready?” Soarin asked, flapping to remain in the air.

“As I'll ever be.” She reassured.

“Good.” He smiled, causing her heart to flutter in delight. “Now follow my lead.” He said before clamping his wings to his side and diving snout first to the ground.

“Soarin! What in the world-augh! I’m in love with a mad stallion!” Rainbow yelled in shock at his fast descending body.

“We need to create a double sonic rainboom if we want a clean shot at him.” Soarin shouted over the wind. “Come on!”

“What about the tornado?” Rainbow asked, still shocked at his fast descending form.

“We need to hit Iron Hoof tenfold! A mere tornado won't do that!”

“Oh…” Rainbow grinned sheepishly. “That makes way more sense. This does feel dangerous though, even for me.” She added, quickly diving snout first to catch up with her husband.

“It is…” Soarin smiled softly. “But as long as we're doing this together, I know we can pull this off.”

“Ok…” She blushed, falling in sync with her lover. “Let's do this!”

“What in tarnation are those two doing?!” Applejack yelped at the fast descending sight of her friends.

“They're too high up for a tornado!” Cheese Sandwich stared up with disbelief. “They won't pull up in time!”

“What are they thinking?! They'll die!” Sunset yelled, stunned at the sight as well.

“No they won't.” Pinkie smiled. “Just wait for it…”

“Wait for them to turn into bloody pancakes?!” Applejack shot back, her left eye twitching. “I know laughter is kinda your thing Pinkie Pie, but I find little humor in what those daredevils are doing!”

“Just wait for it.” Pinkie continued smiling. “They know what they're doing.”

“If you say so.” Applejack said skeptically, until she saw it. Rainbow Dash and Soarin were diving gracefully towards the earth, looking into each other's eyes, but their bodies’ were completely enveloped in a pulsing blue lightning. Everyone who wasn't involved in the impasse with Iron Hoof shut their eyes in horror. Pinkie only smiled brightly as she knew what the two were up to.

Making a swift beeline before they pummeled into the ground, the two picked up more speed, zooming over the heads of their friends. They headed straight towards Iron Hoof, who was still struggling to hold off all the energy that threatened to overpower him. By this time, the pair’s entire bodies’ were completely consumed by the electric blue lightning. With one final determined glance at each other, they joined hooves and smashed into Iron Hoof, causing rainbow energy to fly in every direction, forcing everyone to shield their eyes from the intense light. The double rainboom combined with the spells of the unicorns destroyed the dark alicorn’s barrier, instantly knocking him away from the gates and into a smoking mess across the battlefield.

“They did it.” Applejack whispered, her mouth hanging agape. “They really did it.”

“Yeah they did! I told you that they knew what they were doing.” Pinkie grinned. “Now let's make sure they're alright, that impact was pretty strong.” She said, bouncing towards the spot where the couple landed.

“Did it work?” Soarin asked, standing to his hooves as they shook like jelly.

“Yeah…” Rainbow added, also standing to her hooves with the help of her husband. “Did it work?”

“It sure did.” Pinkie giggled. “Iron Hoof is knocked out, at least for now.”

“Good, because if that didn't, then I don't know what would've.” Rainbow sighed in relief.

“But it's only temporary.” Trixie said, walking towards them. “You heard what he said. Only an alicorn can truly size up to him. Your rainboom was powerful, I’ll give you that, but it's not the blast of an alicorn.”

“Trixie has a point.” Applejack said, catching up to the group. “We need to revive Twilight, only she can end this.”

“You're too late.” Came Iron Hoof’s voice from a few meters away. “Blackhole Heart has already taken over her mind. You've lost!”

“Twilight is stronger than you think.” Sunset spat. "There's no way your God can even touch Twilight. She'll destroy him in an instant."

"HA! You think that pitiful pathetic traitor that I easily beat with dark obisidia can defeat him?! You must be mad! She, just like the so-called emperor are nothing but garbage compared to me and Blackhole Heart! We are superior beings, unlike the filth that you are." Iron laughed as he began to charge his horn. "Now, who shall I kill first of you disgusting-" Before he could say another word, the participants on the battlefield felt a certain change in the air. As they did, they all looked up, seeing a lone figure approaching them from behind the gate. Then it landed in front of them.

THOOM!

The sound of the landing rumbled the ground, but it didn't faze anypony. Instead, Iron spoke up again as he saw the now landed figure. "Heh heh heh...AHAHAHAHA!" Iron laughed as he pointed at the figure. "It seems you were wrong! Look at Blackhole's amazing work! Look at her new dark form!"

The figure looked like Twilight Sparkle, but it wasn't. She stood at the same height as her, and the majority of her coat was still light purple. But her wings were now several shades darker and her ethereal mane had a dark tuft of hair in it now. A whitish aura covered the sides of her eyes, dark purple hoofshoes on her hooves, and her horn was no longer purple, but instead looked like the whitish aura that surrounded her eyes. The sight made all but Iron eyes widen, all gasping at the sight as the alicorn just stood, unmoving and unresponsive.

"No...that's..." Sunset muttered, putting her hooves over her mouth as she did. "It can't be..."

"AHAHAHA! Well done Lord Blackhole Heart!" Iron exclaimed as he walked up to the new-looking Twilight. "I must say, I like the look! Especially the wings, they look truly menacing! She will be a worthy addition to your forces!" Iron then glanced at Sunset, seeing the still frightened look on her face. "My my...still shocked? You shouldn't be surprised, your traitorous so-called empress stood no chance to Blackhole Heart."

"You're a fool." Trixie interrupted, standing in front of Sunset. "Blackhole has failed to take over her highness."

"What are you-" Iron glanced at Twilight and back at Trixie, pointing at Twilight as he replied. "What are you talking about? Look at her! Look at her magnificent dark form!" Iron looked back at Twilight. "Master! Tell them that you have beat her! Show them the new power you have acquired!"

Twilight just stared at Iron, giving him an almost stone-like stare. A few seconds later, her mouth finally opened. A low, droning voice followed as she said one sentence. "I shall now destroy the enemy." With that, her horn began to shine.

"Good! Destroy these fools!" Iron cheered, pointing at the Equestrian army. "Please, start with the traitorous soldiers that said they would follow me! Show them that you are-"

BLAM!

Not everypony was sure what happened as Iron tried to compliment Blackhole again. Most saw it as nothing but a bright shine of light, a glare of white that glowed into an explosion of shining magic. Others saw what happened in the bright light, seeing what had happened when Twilight had done a single spell with her horn.

But all of them could see what happened next. What they saw however, horrified them all.

It was Iron Hoof. And yet, it wasn't. Instead, what was once a large towering, newly made dark alicorn...was now nothing but a pure white standing skeleton. Not a bit of flesh or fur was on him. He was nothing but bone, not an inch of skin on him. That is, till a second later, he turned into a pile of dust. A barrage of gasps followed as the clump of dust quickly got picked up by the nearby wind, dissipating the ashes of the 'alicorn'.

"The enemy is now gone." Twilight said in a deadpan tone. As she said this, her horn began to shine one more time. "Now, let's get rid of the damage that insect caused."

Before anyone could say something, her horn's glowing stopped as she summoned a large ball of white-yellowish light. As the others all stared at what she had summoned, the ball of light quickly burst open, like it was a balloon. What followed was a rain of beams of light, all of them covering the field. Every single one of them hit all of the dark obsidia on the battlefield, rather it be a weapon or an injury caused on the New Edenian army. One of the beams even hit Flash, curing him of the dark poison in an instance. As the beam shined over him, he let out a series of coughs, causing him to wake up.

“Your majesty!” Sunset gasped, tears running down her eyes. “You’re okay!”

“What is...what the-” Flash muttered as he blinked several times, his hoof rubbing his forehead. A second later, the orange pegasus got up as if nothing had happened, as if all his blood had returned to his body. “I feel...fine. What happened to me?”

“The Empress...she healed you!”

"Twilight..." Flash gasped, looking at the injury that was previously there. As he glanced back at his wife, his pupils shrunk as he stared at her. "No...that's not Twilight. That's-"

"Army of Equestria!" Twilight yelled, her voice now booming. The army she had just yelled at was now just staring at the sight, just like Flash. All of them were now shivering, shaking in pure fear at the alicorn staring down at them. "I am Midnight Sparkle, and I am here to end this battle. You will now pay for the pain and suffering you have given to my people. Though I have now healed them from the dark obsidia, there are many of you who still tried to kill them because of your allegiance to Iron Hoof and to Equestria."

As these last words exited her mouth, the army felt the ground shook. Her horn began to glow once more, causing the ponies to tremble, some of them now bowing down to the alicorn before them.

"Please! Please spare us!" they exclaimed, more and more bowing down as the ground kept shaking. Hundreds of weapons littered the ground as they cried out in fear. "Iron Hoof tricked us! Please don't do this! Please don’t kill us!"

"You will pay for what you have done here." Sparkle countered, her eyes narrowing. "And you will-"

She words stopped as she looked up to the sky, seeing something in the corner of her eye. A second later, her horn stopped shining as she began to grit her teeth. "Nevermind. It seems the true culprits are now here."

And the culprits she had just mentioned, landed on the battlefield. It was the Royal Sisters and Empress Cadance, three alicorns now standing in between Equestria's army and Midnight Sparkle. As they did, all three gasped at the sight, shock overflowing them as they saw somepony they had believed to be dead for over a decade.

"Great suns...is that you Twilight?" Celestia muttered, her voice shaking.

"What has happened to you?" Luna followed, wanting to backpedal from the sight.

Tears were already appearing under Cadance's eyes. "Twilight...so it is true. You really are alive."

"No. I am not Twilight." Sparkle replied, flaring her wings as she did. "I am Midnight Sparkle, and you will pay for what you have done here."

“What are you-” Cadance tried to say, only for Midnight Sparkle to slam her hoof into the ground, causing it to shake.

“BE SILENT!” she boomed, her voice even louder than the Royal Canterlot voice. Midnight then pointed at the three, her eyes filled with pure rage. “I have watched this entire battle while I was injured. It has something that I have acquired over these years. And look at what has happened.” Midnight then pointed to her army behind her, some of them still knocked out or dead due to regular injuries on the battlefield. “You allowed Iron Hoof to do this, to lead an army to destroy everything I love and cherish. To destroy that which I swore to protect.”

“We did not-” Celestia tried to reply.

“But you did.” Midnight interrupted. “I know you did because I have had Rarity watch you for years Celestia. I have always known what you were doing.” Midnight then let out a low, growling hiss. “You let him rise up the ranks until he was the main general of your army. And then what happened? He immediately went to Blackhole Heart without a second glance! He threatened to kill my foals, along with threatening to destroy and violate my subjects! If it had not been for me, he would have killed my husband!”

As Celestia, Luna, and Cadance heard this, they all let out a gasp. Even Cadance, who knew he was a bad pony, was shocked at what she was hearing. But Midnight was not done. Her eyes narrowed as she said one last statement. “And because you let this happen with no regrets, you will pay. You will pay...in blood.”
_____________________
Meanwhile…

"Amazing." Leaf Scanner gasped, still looking the Gate of Silent Eyes over. "Incredible. To think that this gate is what hides a whole kingdom away from the world."

"Leaf...could you please be quiet?" Flurry grumbled, her eyes slightly closed as she continued to concentrate on the forcefield spell. The original had been destroyed, causing her to have a huge headache. Thankfully, it didn’t take her too long to start reforming the spell, and she was almost about to resummon the barrier when Leaf spoke up.

"Sorry." Leaf put his hooves over his mouth. "I didn't mean to distract you."

"It's fine." Flurry muttered back, slightly blushing. "Sorry for sounding mean." After that, she remade the forcefield, smiling at the sight she had just made. “There we go.”

"Its cool, it's cool. You're saving us right now, aren't you?" Leaf replied to her ‘mean’ comment before pointing to the forcefield. "I mean, you're making that spell. That's amazing!"

"Thanks." Flurry's blush increased a little.

"Yeah..." Leaf said before he moved slightly away, trying to figure out what he should do next while Flurry looked back at the forcefield. Seeing this, he crossed hooves in thought, trying to think of what he should do now. That is, till he felt an odd sensation over his entire body. As the sensation happened, the young colt fell over for a second. However, Flurry didn't notice, and continued to maintain the forcefield.

That is, till Leaf stood back up. A low raspy voice followed as he said to himself in a whispering tone. "It seems Twilight was too much for even me. Good thing this young colt didn't have much resistance." With this, Leaf turned and walked back up to Flurry. “Now, let's put my plan back on track.”

"Leaf? You okay?" Flurry asked, watching her friend trot up to her. As he did, Flurry watched his walk, instantly noticing something was off.

"I'm fine my dear." Leaf replied, a giant grin popping onto his face.

"My dear? What are you-mmph!" Flurry tried to say, only for her lips to now embrace Leaf's lips. He had leaned, kissing her in a long embrace. As they did, Flurry tried to talk again. "Leaf, what are-mmph...are...you..." Leaf kissed her again, this time fully interrupting her. As they kissed, Flurry felt a rush of heat in her, and then nothing. It was nothing like the kiss she had done with him before.

A second later, she couldn't feel anything. Her eyes rolled into the back of her head, causing them to go completely white.

Then, both the forcefield and Flurry fell, the young alicorn now embracing the snow-filled ground. As she did, Leaf just let out a small laugh before grabbing her hoof. "Heh heh heh...I may have not been able to get Twilight Sparkle, but I still win. After all, I now have you, Princess Flurry Heart."
...........

Author's Notes:

Terribly sorry for how long this chapter took, however my editor and I had to ensure that it was perfect or at least close enough.

Also my editor and I will be collaborating with each other to create spin-offs to this story. They are called or will be called: Rising Above All: Origins of New Edenia, Rising Above All: Midnight Rising and Rising Above All: Dragon Kingdom. All of these stories will explain all the references made in this story such as: Thorn, Queen Windera, Sunset Shimmer's return to Equestria, Starlight Glimmer's alliance, Trixie's alliance, Spike becoming dragon lord, Twilight's forgiveness to her friends...oh and her mastery over Magic.