“Are all units at their designated position?” Mayor Mare inquired for what felt like the fifth time.

Hearing and reading about war was one thing, but to actually experience it first hand was another matter entirely.

Everybody in the improvised war room, also known as Mayor Mare’s spacious office, meaning Spitfire, Soarin, Iron Will, Mayor Mare, Cadence, Dr. Noble Heart, Celestia and Luna, stared grimly at the town’s map in front of them, knowing that the brave politician tried to play it down in order to give them confidence. Many lives would perish today, young, old, women and men. No soul would be spared.

Captain Spitfire and Captain Iron Will prepared their troops mercilessly, making sure that every soldier knew exactly what was expected by him.

The leader of the troops from Cloudsdale was giving the marked posts another critical check before she replied, “Yes, Mayor. 500 Wonderbolts and 200 of the more capable recruits from the Clouds Guard are split evenly between the main entrances in the south and the north.” Spitfire pointed along the drawn walls with a finger, “They are the vanguard to keep the Adepts of Khom occupied for as long as humanly possible.”

“And the relocated military vehicles?” the middle-aged woman asked immediately after.

Now it was Soarin who answered quite seriously, “They would have been lost for us in the open, so we positioned them in the inner city as a second line of defense, using them as heavy hitters when push comes to shove in the main streets. Even a tough demon shouldn’t be able to simply shrug of the bullets of heavy machine guns.”

At least they hoped so.

Spitfire nodded and continued, “Then there are the side roads, which are closed off by multiple layers of enforced fences, bollards and old trucks to keep eventual surprise attacks from breaking through too fast.”

Iron Will took that as his cue and added with crossed arms and a frown, “At least 8000 citizens volunteered to fight, Ponyville’s own militia included. They are to guard the town’s borders at every corner and to guarantee a supply chain for the professional military, as well as the Ponyville Hospital. Of course they will aid at the main gates as well.”

Luna noticed his very sour mood first, “Don’t worry my friend. I know it will be a great challenge for all of us, but-”

The minotaur in disguise shook soberly his head, silencing the former vice-principal, “It’s not that. If the reports are to be trusted, then the enemy is outnumbered nearly one to nine, but it won’t do us any good in the long run.” He sighed strongly, “We are talking about trained magic users, demons and other forces, who have at least a proper drill under their belt. It feels like Iron Will is sending children into battle against trained veterans. In some cases, we do that, literally.”

Alone thinking about these huge, flying, overgrown beasts he had heard about so much made him sick to his stomach, they would just tear through their troops like they were nothing.

It seemed like Celestia already knew what he had in mind, “Let the stronger opponents be our concern, Iron. Focus on your own task,” she advised in deep sympathy, “I don’t like it either that our former students are running into mortal danger, but sadly we don’t have the luxury to do it alone.”

Mayor Mare had to stop herself from pacing around to calm her nerves. One could give her the task to deliver a speech in front of thousands or to hold an opening ceremony and it wouldn’t be a problem. But she had absolutely no idea how to behave in a situation like this when a gruesome battle was approaching, except trying to appear confident.

She switched her gaze between Noble Heart and Cadence, “And you are sure that you have everything you need?”

The former dean of Crystal Prep answered determinedly, “Yes, we are prepared to handle many casualties at the same time. Especially Fluttershy’s Druid Magic will come in handy.”

She was certain that the ones injured, most notably the worst cases, wouldn’t mind a miracle or two.

Dr. Noble Heart chuckled warmly, “I still can’t believe that the little angel is blessed with such a gift, how oddly fitting.” Then the veterinary shrugged shortly, seeing the cruel irony in finally getting the chance to display her broad set of skills, if not for the worst reason possible, “I can promise you that we will take care of everybody to the best of our abilities.”

Noble Heart had studied human and animal anatomy alike, in the end she decided to take the later as her profession. However, the doctor was confident that she would be able to fulfill the by her expected duty nonetheless.

It was Tree Hugger’s idea. She suggested that it would be good for the people’s morale when they saw one of their political leaders in action. The happy-go-lucky woman just said it much more empurpled, mentioning something about positive chakra.

All other politicians were to be guarded by Spitfire and a few selected Bolts in the town hall created safe room. The plan was to retreat to Cloudsdale in the worst case scenario, Ponyville’s fall. At first the Wonderbolt captain insisted on fighting alongside her fellow soldiers, but Soarin, Fleetfoot and even Rainbow Dash convinced her that they couldn’t risk it. It would demoralize and affect the troops immensely, should their leader die in combat.

And then there was another reason, someone had to keep a cool head in the heat of the moment and to provide the units with orders, considering the circumstances.

Spitfire glanced at the various enchanted, fist-sized gems on the table, made by Moondancer and her assistants. Or as they were called by their creator, MEVT. The counterparts were in the possession of the magicians or none magic users, who knew about them. On this way they could communicate in a certain range, only drawback was that they had to stand close to each other, so that the range wasn’t strained too much and eventual change of plans or unpleasant surprises could be circulated in time.

The soldiers who didn’t know about their new devices, yet, had voiced their discontent about their situation regarding the missing efficiency in terms of communication. They had to be fobbed off with excuses and orders to improvise, like sending scouts. Hopefully this problem could be resolved throughout the night.

“I’m still not sure if we tasked the right people with defending the civilians. Shouldn’t our own troops do this?” Soarin said critically.

All remaining citizens, who couldn’t or didn’t want to fight, specially the children, elders and sick, were evacuated and distributed over the town hall, as well as nearby assembly halls and the Ponyville Cathedral. Those were the most central locations the city had to offer, buying them time to prepare multiple courses of action in cases of combat inside Ponyville.

“Technically, there will be a few squads of the Ponyville Militia at each location, so they are not alone. But I am sure that they will do their best. Besides, they have the moment of surprise on their side,” Celestia gave to consider faithfully.

Luna stepped beside her sister, as if supporting the woman’s statement, “And it is not like we will let them through, if it can be helped.”

Silence.

“Well, at least I don’t have to endure High Fame’s whining for the time being,” Spitfire stated smugly to nobody in particular, staring in the direction where the politicians were hiding.

Iron Will smiled broadly, “Her sacrifice won’t be forgotten.”

They all laughed at his cheerful response, even Spitfire. Everything that took their minds of the upcoming slaughter was desperately welcomed.

Fleetfoot sneezed, stupid pollen allergy.

“We shouldn’t be here,” High Fame said frantically, drying his face with a handkerchief. He was sweating, too, “We should have gone to Cloudsdale, instead of staying in this death trap.”

Political Drive, who was enjoying a nice cup of blueberry tea, rolled his eyeballs, slowly, “I always knew that you are a coward, Mr. Fame.”

High Fame scowled fiercely.

The safe room was once built in case of a terrorist attack during more dangerous times many years ago. Its walls were hard to overcome, made of four meters thick cement, same for the large steel door, only accessible if one had the key. The inner walls were only decorated by pictures of the country’s landscape. It was a big room, too, at least with enough space to accommodate 20 people. Many smaller tables were standing next to each other, creating a long row, comfortable, cushioned wooden chairs gave the opportunity to sit. In the back right corner stood two modern refrigerators and a kitchen cabinet, containing many different drinks and already edible food, what one would need to stay for quite some time. There was even a small area, separated by a normal door, to be able to conduct the private business. In the back left corner was the emergency exit, a hatchway with a ladder beneath, which was leading into a tunnel, and from there into freedom near White Tail Woods. A last escape in case of a hostile take-over.

“C-can you truly blame me, Mr. Drive?! Everything is about to go down, and we are waiting here like sitting ducks!” the slightly pudgy man tried to defend himself in indignation.

Now it was the normally peaceful Tree Hugger, who was giving him something alike a soft glare, “Dude! Be thankful that you are here with us. Those poor people outside of this room are preparing themselves to fight a senseless battle nobody ever wanted. You have no reason to complain at all. Imagine yourself in their shoes, how they must feel.”

Second Lieutenant Fleetfoot remained silent and simply let them talk, showing no reaction to what was said. Who knew, maybe it would help to fight off her own anxiousness? Though there was another person in the room who didn’t utter a single word, yet, “Ms. Prismia? You are quiet since we got here. Is there something on your mind?” She had to hold herself back from growling at the infatuating founder of Justice.

Mentioned woman didn’t do anything else than sitting on her own chair, at the other end of the table row, with her arms crossed and leg over leg. She had her eyes closed, so the Wonderbolt wasn’t sure if Prismia was resting, or thinking.

Finally, the youngest politician in the room opened her closed lids and looked with a soft smile on her lips at the lisping soldier, “Oh my, it seems I lost myself in my thoughts. Please excuse my rudeness, Lieutenant. But I don’t really have an opinion about our situation, because in the end, we have to count on the ones fighting in our stead anyway. We can only wait for the conclusion and hope for the best.”

Everybody, except High Fame, though nobody noticed it, stared in bafflement at the leader of Justice. Her reasoning sounded simple, pragmatic, almost too pragmatic. Wasn’t she scared of what might happen to them if the Adepts broke through their defenses?

Prismia suppressed a chuckle and just wanted to return to her own musings, but then she remembered something she needed to know first, “That reminds me. What about our little conversation earlier?”

The Wonderbolt’s distrustful expression returned with a vengeance, “Ms. Prismia, are you sure that this is something you really want to do, still? As your assigned protector, I must insist that you stay put. Why do you want to leave this room anyway? After all, it is for your own safety.”

Prismia’s fellow politicians were certainly surprised to hear about her suicidal plan, this time High Fame included.

Before they had entered the room, Justice’s founder pulled Fleetfoot aside and announced that she would have to check out something important. And even after it was explained to the woman that she should postpone it, like after the battle, she remained firm.

It was very suspicious. For one, why now? Why didn’t Prismia do it before the lockdown? Whatever it was? And why did she insist on having the authorization to give the members of the Ponyville Guard orders, when it was only something as simple as playing bodyguard?

Fleetfoot was certain, she needed to talk to Spitfire as soon as possible. But she didn’t want to let this snake out of her sight either.

“I am a grown woman. Shouldn’t I be free to go where I want? Or are we your prisoners?” Prismia asked innocently, a coy smile playing on her lips.

The Wonderbolt chuckled nervously, trying to play down her own emotions, “Please understand, Ms. Prismia. You are one of Ponyville’s most important politicians. Captain Spitfire would have my head, if I let you leave now.”

Prismia’s sweet smile vanished like it never existed and was replaced by a cold and calculating frown, “I guess it can’t be helped then.”

A slight change of plan it was.

Before anybody could ask why she touched the raven around her neck multiple times, they had to protect their eyes from the bright light that suddenly illuminated the woman. When the others were able look again, they couldn’t believe what they saw.

Depths Seeker Prismia had revealed herself.

“What is the meaning of this?!” Political Drive exclaimed fearfully and backed away from the half elemental. Tree Hugger did the same, eyes greatly widened.

Fleetfoot was partly mesmerized by the new look, but mostly alarmed. She tried to reach for her weapon.

“Chaines of Stone.”

Thin tendrils made of the cold floor shot straight for her hand, more were helping immediately, completely immobilizing the Wonderbolt. The same happened with Tree Hugger and Political Drive.

“Who- What are you?!” the second lieutenant demanded to know, trying to escape. But she was pretty much stuck.

“And why is High Fame still free?!” Political Drive added furiously, glaring at the now grinning founder of the Noble Reformer Party.

The chubby man laughed mockingly, “Well, isn’t that a nice surprise?” Then he sneered, “What’s wrong? Too tight, Mr. Drive? That happens when you play for the wrong team.”

Instead of backing down, or pleading for mercy, as High Fame had gleefully expected, the other politician did something else entirely. He scoffed, “Oh, that is rich! You are not only a sniveling worm, but just a mere pawn, too. And even better, you are too blind to see it!” Drive laughed.

High Fame saw red, feeling embarrassed and angry. He was crunching with his teeth. Nobody made a fool out of him and mocked his intelligence without paying the consequences!

“I’m warning you, don’t do something stu-” Prismia tried to threaten him, she knew about his violent tendencies when High Fame thought that someone felt no respect for his position.

But he didn’t listen.

The founder of the Noble Reformer Party was normally nobody who made his own hands dirty, because of the potential backlash of the struggling victims. However, he felt confident, haughty even. Political Drive was at his mercy.

And it helped that Prismia was on his side. He was certain that she would protect him, in exchange for his help that was.

He took a way too decorated sheath out of the inner pocket of his tuxedo and pulled a golden knife and stabbed the younger man in the chest, staring mercilessly into Drive’s fading eyes, “Suddenly you don’t feel so smart anymore, do you?! Who is the bigger businessman now?!”

Tree Hugger wanted to scream after witnessing the committed homicide. Another chain of stone made it impossible.

Fleetfoot shouted muffled words in High Fame’s direction, silenced as well.

Prismia facepalmed with force, creating the sound of stone meeting stone. She never knew before how much she truly despised the older politician, “I can’t believe you!” The Scion of Earth glared with glowing ice blue eyes at the remaining prisoners, “Sleep!”

They couldn’t withstand the half elemental and lost their consciousness. The chains retreated on mental command and Fleetfoot, Tree Hugger and the bleeding corpse of Political Drive landed on the stony ground. A pool of blood was slowly gathering itself under the founder of the New Amarerica Party.

High Fame felt no remorse and was laughing arrogantly, “Well, that should take care of-”

Prismia cut him off, rather violently. She hit him with a by her magic illuminated fist into the stomach and let him ungracefully fly into the nearest wall, the man was groaning in pain, “You giant idiot! We have no time for your petty actions. The others could come back at any moment. We have to leave, now!”

The Scion of Earth changed back to her human form, opened the steel door and swiftly left the crime scene. High Prime tried to stand up, collected his custom-made dagger after he succeeded and limped after her, mumbling how sorry he was for losing his temper.

“And you are certain that you can convince her to listen? Because I have my doubts,” Spitfire commented pessimistically. From what she was told, the odds weren’t in the former dean’s favor.

After the meeting was concluded, they had all left to make last preparations themselves, only Mayor Mare stayed in her office. The Wonderbolt captain wanted to speak with Fleetfoot one more time before she would return to the mayor, when Cadence suddenly asked for permission to accompany the alumni of CHS.

The beauty looked down at her fingernails with a worried expression, while continuing to walk, “I have to at least try. Prismia and I were once friends before we broke up contact after our disagreement. I have to know why she founded Justice. Pris was many things, but never an extremist.”

Spitfire shrugged uncaringly, “Well, I won’t stop you.”

They entered the antechamber in front of the safe room and stared with open mouths at the scene in front of them. The two Bolts who were tasked to guard this room were lying motionlessly on the ground, one of the chairs was fallen over, too.

“Rapidfire! High Winds!” the higher ranked officer exclaimed, worried for her friends’ lives, and ran immediately to their side. She checked for a pulse and sighed in great relief, “They are just unconscious.”

Cadence, who already took the key on the table and ran inside the safe room, screamed out in shock, “Captain!”

Spitfire didn’t need be told twice and entered their goal, ready to face the worst. In the end it wasn’t as bad as feared, but she certainly wasn’t disappointed. Cadence was kneeling alongside a pretty dead looking Political Drive.

“Is he…?” The Wonderbolt didn’t need to finish her sentence, the White Magic user confirmed what she already knew with a saddened head shake.

“He is gone, but Ms. Tree Hugger and Fleetfoot are fine. Though Prismia and Mr. High Fame are missing.” Cadence looked up at the younger woman in uncertainty, hoping to find a hint by asking the fiery soldier for her own opinion, “What just happened here? Who would do such a thing?”

“Your guess is as good as mine,” Spitfire replied dryly. Then she frowned, it seemed she had found a clue, “Look at the floor, do you see these small, strangely filled up holes?”

Cadence hummed to herself, “Do you think it was magic?” She didn’t have any other ideas to share.

“Maybe-”

Fleetfoot groaned loudly, the second hand of Spitfire was struggling to rear her head and opened her eyes, with difficulties.

The newly arrived women instantly took up positions at both sides of the awakened Wonderbolt.

“Hang in there soldier!” Spitfire commanded strictly, her features softened after she had Fleetfoot’s undivided attention, “What happened here? Who did this? And where are Prismia and High Fame?”

Remains of her tiredness disappeared in a heartbeat, the second lieutenant forcefully grabbed one of her captain’s arms and stared furiously into the other woman’s eyes, “Spits! She lied to us! It was Prismia all along!”

Cadence gasped and covered her mouth with both hands in disbelief, “P-Prismia did this?! She killed Political Drive?!”

“Yes!” Fleetfoot grimaced because of a headache, but then she remembered something important, “I mean no! It was High Fame! He stabbed him right in the chest with a dagger, though I think he works for Prismia. But that’s not important right now!”

Spitfire glared disapprovingly at her subordinate, “I never liked Political Drive very much, either, but you shouldn’t disrespect the dead.”

Fleetfoot groaned again and managed to straighten up her upper body, “I’m talking about Prismia, Captain! She isn’t who we thought she was! I saw it with my own two eyes, how her body changed, her clothes, everything! This woman looked like a freaking statue, or a golem, or whatever! Just more, I don’t know, otherworldly, I guess.” She rubbed her forehead in irritation, “It’s hard to describe.”

Cadence put a hand on the younger woman’s shoulder, “Take a deep breath and calm yourself. Do you remember any details? Maybe it can help us to understand what you saw,” she suggested soothingly, using her learned skills from her time at Crystal Prep.

Fleetfoot followed the her given instructions, it worked to some degree. She was gesturing wildly with her hands, “Her necklace! She touched its centerpiece a few times and suddenly there was this bright light. When it vanished, she was already changed.”

“Anything else?” Spitfire urged, barely able to stay patient.

“Well, her skin looked like made of the smoothest stone and her new outfit was like something straight out of a fantasy book. And her eyes. I remember that they were glowing after High Fame murdered Political Drive, I felt so tired. The next thing I know is seeing you two.” Fleetfoot looked at Spitfire in shame, “Sorry, that’s all. She didn’t say anything to us before we were put to sleep.”

Cadence narrowed her eyes at what she was told. Was this transformation a part of Prismia’s own magic? Possible. But why did she create a faction against everything magical, if she was clearly capable of using it herself?

Perhaps a distraction? And if that was the case, from what?

“We need to find her and High Fame as soon as possible,” the White Magic user declared firmly, “She could have planned who knows what. It might even endanger Ponyville, for all we know.”

Spitfire thought about the proposal, bending her head to the side, “You are right. Though in the moment I am more interested into apprehending High Fame.” Her steely eyes promised retribution, “Government or not, I won’t let anybody even think that he can commit such serious crimes these days without feeling the consequences. But we have to keep it to ourselves, for now.”

“What? Why? We don’t even know where they are! We have a much better chance of finding them when the others are with us,” Cadence gave to consider imploringly.

The Wonderbolt captain stubbornly shook her head, “I fear that we are in no condition to go on a manhunt. The Adepts of Khom could attack at any moment and everybody is needed where she or he is right now in order to oppose them with force.”

“And if we tell everybody about what happened, it could cause panic where we don’t need it. Those communication gems are not only in the possession of professionals, people will know that something isn’t right,” Fleetfoot added neutrally to support her friend.

“Either way, we can’t just ignore it and hope that nothing bad will happen. Especially right now,” Cadence insisted urgently.

Spitfire nearly snorted sarcastically at their situation, now it made sense. Whatever Prismia had planned, she waited on purpose for this moment, thereby nobody would interfere. Well, not on her watch! “Ms. Cadence, I really don’t like to burden you with such a task, but you have to look for Prismia and High Fame on your own. Fleet and I will take care of this mess here and inform Dr. Noble Heart for you.” She frowned, “However, it’s much too dangerous to send you alone, so you may recruit one of of the other magic users for the time being. I am confident that she can’t fight against two at the same time.”

Her second lieutenant nodded in agreement. Cadence looked between the two Bolts, before sighing in defeat.

Then they heard it, unholy screams, those had to be demons. They were running out of time.

Limestone Pie never considered herself to be an impatient person, impulsive, yes, but never the former.

Nevertheless, this waiting game was killing her right now, “Come on! Why do we have to stay here, instead of helping at the main gates?!”

“Mind your temper, recruit! If you are so eager to toss your life away, then that is your problem. But don’t scare the civilians,” their appointed squad leader, a young man in his late twenties with light lavender hair, blue eyes and pale ash gray colored skin, commanded with finality, pointing with a thumb over his shoulder at the fearful looking citizens.

Limestone groaned and gave the uniform she was wearing right now the evil eye. It was tagging her as a member of the Ponyville Militia.

This was a part of their plan to mingle with the other citizens of Ponyville, to fit in. They, the ones who were fighting at least, were all ‘recruited’ by Captain Iron Will, after he found them at Sweet Apple Acres. Or so was the official version. Though in retrospect, it was hilarious to watch how Pinks and the other Rainbooms had to fight with the fashion diva to get her into the red-blue uniform. If she remembered correctly, the word ‘tacky’ was used many times. Much to the bulky man’s displeasure, he had helped designing them after all.

She still couldn’t believe it that minotaurs were a thing now, too. That was all kinds of awesome.

Maud cleared her throat to get the man’s attention and bowed briefly, “Please, excuse my sister. Sometimes her tongue is faster than her head.”

The moody young woman could have sworn that the Stone Magic user was enjoying this far too much.

He scoffed in response and left the duo alone.

Limestone snorted, “Thanks, but I could have taken him on my own,” she whispered cockily.

Maud ignored the response, waited until he was out of earshot, then she reprimanded her sibling, “Limey, you know as well as I do why we were chosen to guard the town hall. Our more defense oriented abilities can come in handy, when worse comes to worse.”

Of course she knew that, the Warden Magic user didn’t mind protecting the innocent, not at all. But that didn’t mean she had to like it. There was no fun in playing babysitter.

A bright lightning at the southern gate announced the arrival of the enemy.

Ponyville Cathedral was truly a marvel of architecture, or so Shining Armor believed. He had helped to welcome the citizens since the early morning. The poor man didn’t even have much time to spend with Cadence, either.

Father Blade was a strange man. He thanked the paladin for his help and added mysteriously that he knew how Shining would feel. Saying that he had his fair share of nasty adventures during his younger days and how the mage should consider himself lucky that not every demon was out for one’s blood.

Whatever that was supposed to mean.

Still, he would protect them all with the help of his magic, citizens and refugees alike.

“Shining!” Night Light exclaimed lively, approaching his son with Igneous Rock at his side.

“Dad? Mr. Pie? I thought you were recruited as well,” the youngest of the trio said intelligently, seeing that they wore normal clothes.

The addressed astrologer and scientist for metaphysics laughed in slight embarrassment, “Heavens no! I couldn’t operate a gun for the life of me. But that doesn’t mean that I can’t make myself useful otherwise.”

Night glanced at the various groups of people, mostly families. He sighed worriedly.

Shining gave the family father an encouraging smile, “I feel the same, but don’t worry about Twily. She's not alone.”

“My faithful wife and Marble are within the lower levels of the cathedral, I decided to stay in order to ward them myself,” Igneous commented stoically, “Albeith I concede that Pinkamena’s obstinacy to bestead her friends at the front troubles me.”

“Well, at least they managed to convince her that sprinkles are not the most effective way to fight these warlocks. She should be safe,” the Paladin Magic user claimed positively.

Night Light couldn’t help himself and grinned at the thought he just had, “Speaking of Ponyville Hospital, your mother is there as well.”

Shining didn’t understand, “And?”

The patriarch of the family smiled even wider, “Remember when Velvet took care of you and your sister when you were sick during your childhood?”

His son blushed in response at being reminded of the very overbearing situations he had found himself in as a younger teenager. But he had to admit, her hot chocolate was to die for.

The sound of hundreds of gunshots were suddenly filling the air.

“What do you think, Ms. Redheart? Shouldn’t I get more blankets? You know, better safe than sorry, right?” Velvet asked, not noticing the dumbfounded expression she received.

Nurse Redheart was a beautiful woman in her mid thirties, a little taller than Twilight Velvet. Her light amaranthish gray hair was made in a bun and well kempt bangs, shining brilliant sapphire blue eyes and smooth light gray skin just added to the charm. She wore a completely white colored hospital staff outfit, a nurse’s cap with a symbol of a red cross and a pink heart in each corner on it, and light pink orthopedic shoes.

Nurse Redheart, who sat on her chair with folded hands, forced herself to smile politely, “Mrs. Twilight-”

“Please, call me Velvet. Twilight is the name of my daughter,” the mother of two magicians corrected kindly.

The nurse put her confusion aside, “Mrs. Velvet. I think we have more than enough fresh blankets by now to take care of an entire brigade.”

Night Light’s wife blushed fiercely, “Oh, I did it again.”

“Pinkie! We are in a hospital. Please, slow down!” a soft-spoken voice demanded nicely.

Pinkie Pie, who wore now the uniform of the militia, entered the little office like she owned the place, saluted with a serious expression on her face and proclaimed dramatically, like a very obedient soldier, “Nurse Redheart, madam! Recruit Pie reports for duty and is ready to keep the morale high!”

A heavily panting foursome of girls, Fluttershy, Octavia, Lyra Heartstrings and Ditzy Doo, entered shortly after the hyperactive teenager. The former students of CHS were each wearing a fitting nurse outfit as well.

“A-are we already too late?” Octavia asked, her voice memorable because of a British accent. Something very rare around these parts.

“S-she literally skipped faster than we ran,” Lyra added between breaths, annoyed by such logic defying shenanigans.

Pinkie didn’t even have to catch her breath like the rest of them.

They already met Head Nurse Greencross, a very… sturdy person. To put it plainly and simply, the aged witch wasn’t amused by Pinkie Pie’s antics at all and ‘tasked’ them to search for Nurse Redheart, if they truly wished to make themselves useful.

However, the two older women were amused by the lighthearted scene they just witnessed.

Nurse Redheart smiled warmly, proud that her former patients from CHS had volunteered. At first she feared the worst after Canterlot City, but was very relieved when Princ- Ms. Celestia told her that most of the campers survived. And they would need all the help they could get.

The former school nurse played along and saluted back, imitating a superior officer, “Recruit Pie! We are truly grateful for your service!”

Velvet chuckled and looked at the now recovered quartet, “Have you decided where you want to help?” glancing knowingly at Fluttershy.

“Critical care unit, if you don’t mind,” the Druid Magic user replied bashfully.

“My knowledge should be sufficient to help with the slightly injured casualties,” Octavia suggested truthfully.

“Same,” Lyra supported determinedly, pumping a fist to get her point across.

They all focused on the girl with the crossed eyes, “And I want to help in the kitchen! I can make muffins to cheer everyone up!”

“In this case, I hope for you that I will get one, too!” another female voice said from the door in good humor. The woman in question was casually leaning against the door frame.

“Doctor Noble Heart!” Fluttershy exclaimed cheerfully and embraced the co-founder of the Flora Fauna Federation party, who smiled fondly at the teenager.

It made her incredibly happy when she discovered that Ms. Tree Hugger and Dr. Noble Heart were alive and well. Even better was that they tried to stand up for the poor new animals, who were now feared and hated by others because of their nature.

Dr. Noble Heart even managed to pull Fluttershy out of her light depression because of what happened to the rest of her family. She was like a second mother to the animal lover.

Nurse Redheart bowed respectfully, “Dr. Heart, I hope your meeting went well.”

“Well, it was certainly-” Her pocket was glowing. And everybody, except Redheart, who was simply confused by it, knew what that meant.

“If you would excuse me for a second. My ruby is glowing,” Noble Heart apologized sheepishly and left the room.

The former school nurse crossed her arms and raised an eyebrow at the girls, specially Fluttershy, “Out with it. In what kind of world endangering events did you run into this time.”

Pinkie Pie, who was saluting non-stop since she entered the office, replied once again in her feigned voice, “Madam, you really don’t want to know! Trust me!”

The earth was trembling from the onslaught of Punisher Vyndrak’s legion.

Sunset Shimmer was sure of it, she chose the wrong gate. They were waiting at the northern entrance for hours by now, and no demon or cultist in sight.

She blew a strand of hair out of her face, gazing tirelessly in the direction of the Everfree Forest. Many Bolts and recruits of the militia did the same, some tried to kill time by playing cards on makeshift tables.

“Well, hello there, mysterious beauty. Is the empty space to your right taken? I would take the left too, you know?” a young, male voice inquired, clicking with his tongue and attempting to sound cool.

That did it, Sunset had to snort giggle, much to her embarrassment, at the absolute most terrible pick-up line she had ever heard. She turned around, “Hey Flash.” The magician smirked, “What’s wrong? Did all the other girls around here send you packing?”

Flash acted like she hurt his feelings and put a hand on his chest in mock-betrayal, then he shrugged, “I am sure that it has to do with the uniform. I swear, Rarity was onto something.”

The ex-couple laughed. It was refreshing in a way, the atmosphere was very tense.

“What is so funny?” Twilight wanted to know with a raised eyebrow, approaching the duo with two cups of coffee in her hands.

“Err, Twilight? We are three people, in case you didn’t notice,” Sunset joked, earning herself a pout by the Arcane Magic user. Though she accepted the offered drink nonetheless, “Thanks.”

Flash nodded silently and took a sip of the caffeinated brew, humming in positive acknowledgement of the taste.

“I already had my share.” The lavender teenager pointed down below the wall, “Moondancer can make an excellent coffee,” Twilight assured truthfully.

She remembered their late-night study sessions from the past, only now with the important difference that she appreciated the shared memories much more. Moondancer was the only reason why they were able to stay awake.

“Shouldn’t she be at the town hall, or somewhere else safe?” Flash asked unsurely, “As the one who mainly created the, you know.”

Twilight sighed empathically, “Moony needs that. She would drive herself insane, if she had to wait in some hideout, knowing that most of us are fighting for our survival. She even said so herself. I know I would.”

Another thought came to her mind, “Midnight? You didn’t say a word for a while, everything alright?” the Arcane Magic user queried worriedly.

“I… am not sure. There are so many different auras of magic near us at the same time that it is hard to keep up. I feel a little dizzy to be honest. Maybe the Adepts of Khom are coming,” the normally confident twin admitted, wincing every now and then in their mindscape.

Midnight Sparkle had done her own training, because there wasn’t much else to do for her. She tried meditation to expand her perception of magic. It worked quite well. When they were still at Sweet Apple Acres, she even felt the aura of the occasional mythical creature.

As if fate had decided to prove her right, sounds of battle reached their ears. Though they were coming from the other side of Ponyville. Many newbies reacted as one would expect, with fear. Only most of the Wonderbolts seemed to be calm, on the exterior. But all had an expression of grim acceptance on their face.

“Listen up!” Command Chief Master Sergeant Blaze, the highest ranking officer at the north gate, exclaimed with all the authority he could muster.

He stood on a platform built for their snipers.

It got him the attention he desired and gestured to his second-in-command, Misty Fly, who was at his side, “We just got the confirmation that the enemy is attacking the south gate as we speak! Half of all available troops are to follow Chief Master Sergeant Misty Fly’s orders as if they were my own to support Captain Iron Will and Second Lieutenant Soarin! Don’t be afraid to give everything you got, because these devil worshipers won’t spare your life either!”

Misty Fly took that as her cue, “Alright! Battalion 6 and 7 will come with me, the rest of you will hold this position until ordered otherwise, understood?!”

They all saluted, though most from the militia were simply imitating the behavior of the Wonderbolts, not knowing what else to do, “Madam, yes, madam!”

For Sunset it seemed like the troops were waiting for a motivational speech, or something like that. Nobody was moving a muscle.

Blaze noticed that, too, “Do you need an invitation?! Get on with it!” he commanded aggressively.

It worked like a charm.

Flash took a deep breath and looked awkwardly at the two magicians, “Well, I was assigned to the 6th. So, yeah.” He rubbed the back of his head, not knowing what else to say, except, “Please, stay safe. Both of you.”

Twilight smiled sadly, “You too. Just... don’t do anything too crazy.”

“Take one down for us,” Sunset added with a half-grin.

Flash Sentry gave a thumbs up and disappeared.

While every soldier made the necessary preparations, two of the Shadowbolts were approaching the remaining duo. Sour Sweet and Sunny Flare.

“Oh my, what are we supposed to do now? Last time I checked we weren’t assigned to anybody in command,” the Emotion Magic user pointed out, crossing her arms beneath her bust during the second part of her statement.

After some discussion the people capable of using magic were only told where to go. And instructed to follow further orders as they came.

Sunny Flare put a hand on her friend’s shoulder, while speaking to all present, “Should we go together? Or-”

“You four!”

The magicians weren’t sure if they were spoken to, so the small group focused on the source of the voice. It was Blaze, still standing on the platform, though this time alone. He gestured for them to come up.

Twilight gulped nervously, “Do you think we are in trouble, because we didn’t follow the given order yet?”

“Just one way to find out,” Sunset replied neutrally and went ahead to meet their assigned commander. The three remaining girls glanced at each other, shrugged and followed suitly.

When they arrived, Command Chief Master Blaze stared at them, as if he was trying to judge their merit, “I’ll make it brief, ladies. Two of you will have to stay here with me, while the other half will accompany Misty Fly. We can’t let all of your kind fight at one side of the city and leave the north unprotected. That being said, who of you feels up for the task?”

Sunset didn’t like the sound of it, ‘your kind’ sounded like he didn’t consider them humans any longer. But maybe she was just interpreting too much into his words.

The decision was taken away from her, her sapphire was glowing.

Blaze chuckled dryly, “Well, congratulation Ms. Shimmer. I guess our fearless leader has other plans for you in mind.” He pointed at the Shadowbolts, “You two shall go to the south gate. Recruit Sparkle will remain here.”

Sunny and Sour saluted, “Sir, yes, sir!” gave their fellow magicians encouraging smiles, and left.

The Phoenix Magic user frowned at her glowing device, made sure that nobody was looking in their direction and answered the call as unobtrusively as possible, “Captain Spitfire? What can I do for you?”

But it wasn’t the captain who spoke, “Sunset Shimmer! It’s me, Cadence! Listen, it’s about Prismia. She fooled all of us, High Fame, too. We need to find them as soon as possible, that’s why I need someone with more experience concerning magic. You are the only person I can ask for help.”

Twilight was lost for words, while Blaze cursed their bad luck.

Sunset could only shake her head at the request, she knew that something felt fishy about the founder of Justice. Besides, the sudden attack didn’t leave much choices for the former dean to choose from. Zecora and Luviel were completely out of the question, and her aunts were surely fighting at the south gate right now.

She groaned loudly, annoyance and frustration were coloring her words quite thoroughly, “That’s just great! What did they do?”

This time another voice answered, it was Captain Spitfire, “We don’t have time for 20 questions!” the Wonderbolt interrupted firmly, leaving no room for discussions, “Shimmer, move your ass to the town hall this instant! You two have the task to take them in custody, preferably alive. But you have my permission to act on your own discretion, should the situation get out of hand. Spitfire out.”

Her MEVT went silent.

“You have your orders. Now go!” Blaze urged, breaking the young woman’s train of thoughts.

She could barely turn around before Twilight grabbed her hand. The best friends met eyes, “Be careful,” the Arcane Magic user demanded pleadingly.

Sunset simply nodded in response.

“Ms. Prismia? With all due respect, but what are we doing here? It is not safe, we should go back,” one of the two middle-aged members of the Ponyville Militia, who were ordered to escort them, said nervously, glancing every now and then in the direction the sounds of battle were coming from.

High Fame asked himself the same question since they arrived at their destination. What did she want in the Golden Oak Library? Though now he could partly understand why Prismia had desired more authority. They were halted many times on the way, but every soldier had to let them pass, because the founder of Justice was to be respected in terms of the command chain, as long as she didn’t overstep certain lines.

She didn’t even give an honest answer whenever someone asked where they were going, only claiming that they had to check out something important.

The guards at the entrance certainly gave them funny looks when their little group of people appeared at the entrance of the library during an invasion like it was the most normal thing to do, but had no ground to refuse them access, either. Still, the librarian, a very eccentric young woman by the name of Twinkleshine, argued with Prismia a lot that the library should stay closed to safeguard the books.

At first High Fame was very surprised to see a civilian out here at all, he had thought that they all went into hiding somewhere. The quirky woman let it slip during the discussion that she saw it as her holy duty to protect one of Ponyville’s oldest and most sacred buildings, so she said, from being burned to the ground. Captain Iron himself tried to convince her to leave, but gave up at one point, too.

In the end she gave in, if only, because the guards had finally enough of Twinkleshine’s antics. The librarian even had to give up her own set of keys for the time being.

Prismia smiled mysteriously, “Patience, soldier. I am about to show you something only Mayor Mare, Captain Iron Will, Captain Spitfire, and as of recently, the other faction leaders and I know about. But since they are occupied for obvious reasons, it is up to us to make sure that Ponyville’s greatest secret can’t fall into the enemy’s hands.”

High Fame was completely confused by now, so he tried to look as impassive as possible. Their bodyguards clearly felt the same, their faces spoke volumes.

Then the other recruit, a woman, needed to satisfy her curiosity in face of such a revelation, “I-I didn’t know the city even had a secret. Ms. Prismia, are you sure we shouldn’t involve the Wonderbolts in this case?”

Her colleague frowned a little, he was certain that she didn’t tell everything, but let it slide, for now. He would ask Captain Iron Will later on, that was, if they all survived.

They followed Prismia to the lower level, where the archives and the basement storage room were located, she entered the later.

It had the charm of a forgotten collection camp, many relics of old were stored here, more or less protected by linen or glass. For one, because Ponyville never had the need to build a museum.

“Woah, it’s like we just stepped into another age,” the woman commented in childish wonder.

She was admiring very strangely made masks, which looked like they once belonged to some insane voodoo priests.

Prismia pointed at a very old looking quartet of stony statues, “There.”

High Fame couldn’t contain himself any longer, ”What are they?”

He never knew that something like them existed, his inner collector was celebrating the find. They had the appearance of four imposing dragons. The three smaller ones were arranged in a semicircle, heads bowing reverently, in front of the fourth, biggest statue. The bigger dragon’s wings were spread widely, the poise an allegory of dominance and his chest was adorned by a three-cornered diamond. Every pedestal was decorated by strangely looking letters of some kind of dead language, or so the humans thought.

“Now,” the Scion of Earth started seriously, “from what I was told, a secret entrance should be hidden here somewhere. Every one of these statues is designed with a button in the back of the throat. We have to press all four at the same time before we can go further.”

The woman laughed smoothly, “Wow, how old-fashioned.”

Her colleague investigated one of the smaller dragons and glanced at the inscription on the top of the pedestal. His eyes widened in disbelief, “I didn’t know that one of Ponyville’s founder was an eccentric collector.”

High Fame raised an eyebrow and took a look for himself, the recruit was right, “Basalt Copper Pie. Huh, who knew?”

Prismia smiled sweetly, “That is right. He invented the mechanism to open the secret door himself.”

The female bodyguard put her entire arm into the dragon’s long snout and tried to find the described button, her search ended unsuccessfully, “Err, Ms. Prismia? I didn’t find anything, there is nothing to push.”

An amused giggle was the first response, “Not that kind of button. I have to activate them first.” She looked invitingly at each of them, “Please put your arm into the jaws of the smaller dragons until you reached the end, I will do my part, then you will know what to look for.”

High Fame wasn’t so sure if he liked where this was going, but she never deceived him until now. Besides, he had already killed a person to get what he wanted the most, to become a Scion of Earth himself. With Prismia’s support. Yes, he would no longer have to fear the unknown any longer after he received the power he was promised in exchange for his help.

Only a little longer, then he could put this insufferable woman in her place. Beneath him.

They did as instructed and Prismia put her own arm into the biggest dragon’s snout. Suddenly her warm expression was abandoned for a much more joyful one, but no longer made of kindness, more unholy glee, “Thank you kindly. I really couldn’t have done it without your help.”

She tapped on the raven and revealed her true form for the second time in a short while. Prismia used the moment of shock, and surprise in High Fame’s case, to channel elemental magic into the dragon’s body.

The jaws of the smaller copies snapped shut shortly after, making it impossible for the three humans to move.

“What in the world are you doing?! Let me go!” the male soldier exclaimed, absolutely terrified by the sudden change of events.

The woman just cried, trying desperately to free her arm, but of no avail.

Slowly but surely, a dark brown shimmer completely illuminated the carved eyes of every dragon, then the outline of the finely crafted scales, until even the strange symbols were infused by the scion’s power.

High Fame couldn’t understand what was happening. No, he refused! “Prismia!” he shouted, angry like never before in his life, “We had a deal! Release me this instant, you dishonorable whore!”

Prismia gasped dramatically, “Such language!” Then she pulled her arm out of the dragon and approached the captured man, observing him in mocking pity, “I fear I have to tell you something. You see, trash like you could never be worthy of becoming one of us. Such a position requires intelligence, stern discipline, and most of all, the will to serve a higher goal. You lack all of it.” She petted him like a good dog, “But you did well. As a reward, I will sacrifice your life force to the Stone Guardian to grant me entry.”

“W-what did you say?” the politician croaked pathetically.

The Scion of Earth smiled sardonically, “Now, don’t look at me like that. Basalt Copper Pie was my predecessor, the last Scion of Earth to my knowledge, and he built this to protect something very important from unworthy hands. He was a special man.” She turned his head with a cold, stony finger, making him look at the male soldier, “See?”

What the politician witnessed took all bravery and hope away from him. The man’s body was slowly starting to wither, like an old flower. Suddenly the dark brown energy completely surrounded him. In the next moment, he crumbled away to ashes, not even able to lament his own end.

High Fame could only stare hatefully at Prismia, not noticing his own deterioration. Not that she cared, “Earth to Earth, remember? All life returns to the soil at one point. And... Oh well.”

His body was already gone before the pudgy politician could respond.

When all sacrifices were made, two concentrated beams of magic shot from the smaller dragons’ eyes in the bigger one’s chest, directly into the diamond. The wings began to move, then its head and lastly the whole statue. It stepped down from its pedestal and stared at an excited Prismia.

A timbre and ancient voice filled the room, speaking in Kalamdur, “Servant of Earth, are you seeking the Tablet of Dust?”

She was only told that something of great importance was once hidden by Basalt Copper Pie, and how to reach said item. Nothing more. But she would never disappoint her master, “Y-yes! Can you please tell me where I can find it?”

The statue’s mouth even moved while speaking to her, despite the fact that the Stone Guardian had no vocal chords or other necessary body parts to produce sounds. Truly fascinating, “Certainly. I am its warden after all and it is my duty to show the path to all who paid the toll.” The dragon stepped in front of a wall and breathed its magic at it, an of pure energy made portal appeared in the same color, “This gateway shall stay open until you find the desire of your quest, Servant of Earth. May the Elemental Lords be with you.”

It returned to its pedestal, took the same position before it was awoken, and returned to its original state as a simple statue.

Prismia gulped, feeling nervous for the first time since she arrived in Ponyville, but remained certain of her success. After all, failure was no option. She entered.

“Still, thank you for your help!” Sunset shouted after the running Wonderbolt.

He was a sent scout from the front.

The Phoenix Magic user sighed in frustration. Another failure. She ran as fast as her legs could carry her and met up with Cadence at the town hall. They split up to find a cue on the missing politicians’ whereabouts, though the fiery, young woman had no such luck. It was maddening, especially after she was told what happened in the safe room.

And it felt as if the sounds of war from the south were mocking her. Every minute she had to look for Justice’s founder was a minute she couldn’t help her friends, potentially missing the chance to save them in a life-threatening moment.

“Sun... Sunset!” Cadence was calling.

The magician switched her attention to the one who spoke her name, or more, one of two aquamarines, being a part of the only spare pair of gems they still had in their possession. Captain Spitfire gave them to the hunting duo for better communication.

She searched for a quiet spot before answering, “Did you find anything?”

“Yes! One of the recruits near the Golden Oak Library said that they came through a while ago. How close are you?”

“Five minutes. Why, do you really think they are in a library of all places?” Sunset wasn’t sure why they should be there.

“The young man I spoke to wasn’t sure, because Prismia was very evasive, but we don’t have any other options left,” the White Magic user countered.

It was better than nothing in the amber magician’s book, “I’m on my way!”

She even managed to reach her goal in three minutes.

“How is the situation?” Sunset asked the pacing Cadence.

“Finally!” the former dean pointed at Twinkleshine, who was conversing heatedly with another guard. Sunset was surprised, almost sure that they were nearly the same age. She had ivory skin, electric blue eyes and curly light mulberry colored hair, decorated with a barrette, which was designed to look like three sparkly, light blue stars. The librarian outfit was a given. “This young woman is the new librarian. She complained to me about our two fugitives, it seems they really entered the library, and took the keys with them.”

“Alright, let’s go!” Sunset urged impatiently.

They were barely in, when the next problem made itself known after analyzing the many signposts at the reception desk. Golden Oak was massive.

“Where could they-”

“Release me this instant, you dishonorable whore!” This clearly answered the question, though it could be anybody. They never met High Fame before.

“That sounded like it came from downstairs. Follow me!” the younger of the two magic users instructed, completely missing the amused expression of Cadence, because someone she would normally consider a student was giving her orders.

“We have to be quiet. Maybe we can surprise them,” Twilight Sparkle’s sister-in-law advised gently, sneaking closely behind the magic expert of their little group.

They tiptoed through the lower level for quite some time, then they found the basement storage room.

Sunset held up her hand, giving the sign to stop, “Wait. I can feel it, a very strong spell was cast here.”

A part of Cadence seriously wanted to know how she was able to feel such a thing, but there was something else worth mentioning, “Isn’t it much too quiet?”

The two women glanced at each other, as if they were talking mentally, before they proceeded.

Sunset gave an impressed whistle at what they found, “Let me guess. We’ll find them on the other side.”

Cadence scoffed playfully at the statement, looking completely unimpressed at the gate, “Oh, please. I was forced to enter a portal leading to literal hell. It can’t get much worse than that.” Then she turned to face the nearby dragon statues and couldn’t make any sense of what she saw, “Err, Sunset Shimmer? Do you maybe have an idea why two Ponyville Militia uniforms and a set of very expensive looking clothes are laying exactly in front of the smaller statues?” She furrowed her eyebrows, “Is that dust?”

Sunset stepped closer and took a sample of the substance, which was covering every piece of garment on the ground, between two fingers, “It feels more like... ash.”

At last the penny dropped. Her mouth fell open in horror and disgust painted her features. Sunset’s conclusion sent chills up and down Cadence’s spine, “I-I think I know how this portal was made, it would certainly explain the clothes. Someone must have cast a sacrifice ritual, because that’s no simple ash or dust, but cremains.”

Author's Notes:

Greetings my avid readers!

I wish you all a happy new year! 🎊 And I hope you enjoyed the chapter.

The last one was uploaded 30th March 2018... so 9 months ago. Wow, I feel so bad about that, though at the same time I can say that I had the writer’s block of my lifetime concerning this story.

But from the beginning. Before someone thinks I have abandoned this fic for ‘Dawn’, no, that wasn’t the case. I simply write something down when I know exactly what I want, and how to continue. Not that I don’t have any ideas for this story, more the exact opposite. I have so many ideas in my head that I could never decide which ones I’d like to take, and which not.

However, what I want to avoid the most is that I might write myself into a dead end. I saw so many great fics with a lot of potential which were completely given up, because the author wrote himself into a tight situation and didn’t know where to go from there on.

So I eliminated in my head quite a few paths and made decisions what I really want to include.

Furthermore, I edited through the chapters to the last one included, because I wanted to create a better balance of ‘Show vs. Tell’ and to break down unnecessarily long monologues.

To sum it up, the next chapter should come much sooner.

Thank you very much for reading and stay tuned!