Sundance spent the first few minutes of the flight simply enjoying the scenery. Then she turned her attention to Harmony. Do you mind if I ask you something?

Of course not. What is it?

I noticed that you were upset yesterday.

Harmony sighed I should have known that you would catch that.

Sundance waited for Harmony to continue. When she didn’t, she hesitantly asked Is everything alright?

It is now. Harmony replied I was upset because I snapped at Magic when I shouldn’t have.

I see. Sundance slowly replied Don’t worry. I won’t ask you to go into detail. She paused while Harmony sighed in relief. However, if you don’t mind, I have another question for you.

What is it?

Why did you hide certain parts of your plan from Twilight?

How do you know about that? Harmony responded

It came up in our discussion with Star Swirl last night. Sundance answered

I see. Harmony said slowly As for your question . . . I hate to say this, but I felt that I couldn’t trust her to keep that part of my plan a secret.

WHAT?! Sundance exclaimed How can you not trust her?! Think of everything that Twilight has done for us!

I know that, Sundance. Harmony said softly I see now that I was mistaken. However, at the time, her anger worried me.

What are you talking about? Sundance asked

Twilight Sparkle was angry about the fact that I wouldn’t allow her to tell you, your husband, Celestia and Artemis about my plan. Harmony reminded her.

Of course she was! Sundance replied How would you feel if you were told that a similar plan existed for the sprits of the Elements . . . but that you weren’t allowed to tell them about it?

Harmony was silent for several minutes.

I’m waiting for an answer. Sundance commented

Harmony sighed I would be just as angry as she was.

I thought so. Sundance replied

Midnight Armor raised an eyebrow when he sensed his wife’s anger. Concerned, he nuzzled her before quietly asking. “What’s wrong, Honey?”

“I’ll tell you later.” Sundance replied I don’t want Twilight to hear this.

Midnight Armor looked at his wife for a moment before nodding. “Very well.” I’m sure she has a good reason.

Good morning, Midnight.

Midnight Armor raised an eyebrow. Good morning, Kindness. Is everything alright?

Yes. Kindness answered I just wanted to say “good morning”.

Laughter laughed The rest of us were about to say the same thing, but Kindness beat us to it.

I see. Midnight Armor replied In that case . . . good morning, Loyalty, Laughter, Honesty and Generosity.

Laughter, Kindness, Generosity, Loyalty and Honesty laughed.

I’m certainly not complaining. Midnight Armor remarked However, I thought the five of you wanted to focus on your current bearers.

You are correct, Midnight. Loyalty replied I DID tell you that. However, Kindness, Laughter, Generosity, Honesty and I have decided that we should split our attention between you and our current bearers.

What made you change your minds?

Tirek was able to capture our current bearers. Generosity answered I don’t think he will be able to escape Tartarus again. However, it brought up a good point.

I think I see where you’re going with this. Midnight Armor said slowly Applejack, Rainbow Dash, Rarity, Fluttershy and Pinkie Pie could be targeted, and captured, again. That means it may become necessary for me to wield your power . . . even if your current bearers are still alive.

That’s right. Kindness replied

Hmm. It might not be a bad idea for me to work with those girls.

What do you mean? Laughter asked

I don’t intend to turn them into soldiers, but I think those girls would benefit from a little training.

You’re right. Honesty responded That’s not a bad idea.

Applejack and Rainbow Dash have done most of the work themselves. Therefore, they shouldn’t require a lot of training.

Good point. Loyalty remarked

I’ll have to wait until Twilight gives birth before I can begin her training. Midnight Armor said thoughtfully. That leaves Pinkie Pie, Rarity and Fluttershy.

You’re right. Honesty commented

Pinkie Pie has a number of . . . unique . . . abilities. Midnight Armor shook his head. I’m not even going to pretend that I understand how she does what she does.

Laughter laughed Even I have no idea how she does some of the things that I’ve seen her do.

That means her training is probably going to be . . . interesting. Midnight Armor continued

Laughter laughed harder. You’re right about that!

Midnight Armor thought for a moment. From what I can tell, Rarity and Fluttershy haven’t had any training at all.

That is correct. Generosity replied Rarity will fight when she has to, but she says that isn’t “lady-like”. Therefore, she has no interest in physical combat or combat training.

That’s fine. Midnight Armor responded I don’t think physical combat is the right place for her anyway. However, I do think she can learn a few offensive and defensive spells. That will allow her to support her friends.

That’s perfect. Generosity responded I’ll help you convince her that it’s necessary.

Thank you, Generosity. Midnight Armor paused As for Fluttershy . . . it’s clear that she has a couple of unique abilities as well. It’s just that her abilities are nothing like the ones that Pinkie Pie possesses.

Kindness laughed Thank goodness.

Agreed. As Twilight once said, one Pinkie Pie is enough.

Kindness laughed harder. Loyalty, Laughter, Honesty and Generosity quickly joined her.

Loyalty waited until the five of them had calmed down before turning her attention back to Midnight Armor. When are you going to start training them?

Midnight Armor thought for a moment. I think I’ll wait until next weekend before I bring the idea up to the girls. That should give me enough time to come up with a way to convince them that it’s necessary.

You don’t have to worry about Rainbow. Loyalty replied

What do you mean?

She is already planning to ask you to give her some tips that will help her improve her flight. Loyalty answered She also plans to ask Sundance to teach her the barrel roll that she used in the fight with Golden Thunder.

Midnight Armor laughed Good. That will make things easy.

Loyalty laughed as well. You’re right.

As for the rest of the girls . . . Perhaps I should take some time to observe them before I bring up the topic.

How will that help? Generosity asked

I can learn a lot about them by watching the way they move. Midnight Armor responded

I see. Generosity slowly replied I’ve never heard of that, so it will be interesting to see what he does.

Twenty Minutes Later

Sundance, Midnight Armor, Twilight, Celestia, Artemis, Rainbow and the ponies pulling the chariot landed in front of Twilight’s castle. Spike and the girls climbed out of the chariot. Twilight helped Rarity unload all of her bags before nodding to Celestia.

Celestia turned to the ponies that had pulled the chariot. “Thank you.”

As one, the guards bowed. “You’re welcome, Princess Celestia.” They bowed to the rest of the Royal Family before taking off again.

“Welcome to Ponyville.”

Surprised, everyone turned to see that Mayor Mare was standing behind them.

Twilight smiled “Thank you, Mayor Mare. We’d like to rest for a while, but I will see you in Town Hall after lunch for our regular meeting.”

Smiling, Mayor Mare shook her head. “In light of the recent development in the Royal Family, I have postponed our meeting until next week.”

Twilight’s smile widened “Thank you.”

Mayor Mare turned to Sundance and Midnight Armor before bowing. “Welcome back to Equestria, King Midnight Armor and Queen Sundance.”

Surprised, Midnight Armor stared at her for a moment before smiling. “Thank you.”

Somehow, I keep forgetting that most of Equestria was watching our battle with Golden Thunder. Of course, she knows who we are. Sundance smiled as well. “Thank you.”

Mayor Mare turned to Twilight. “The citizens of Ponyville have been instructed to go about their weekend as they normally would.”

“Good idea.” Twilight replied, sighing in relief

Confused, Midnight Armor leaned down so he could whisper in her ear. “Why would she have done that?”

“Do you really want to deal with every citizen of Ponyville gathered around you?” Twilight quietly responded

Midnight Armor’s eyes widened “Good point.”

Mayor Mare smiled at the Royal Family. “Enjoy your time in Ponyville, your highnesses.”

“Thank you” Twilight, Sundance, Midnight Armor, Artemis and Celestia replied

Mayor Mare bowed once more before walking in the direction of her house.

Twilight turned to her friends. “We’re going inside so we can relax for a while. You’re welcome to join us.”

“Ah appreciate the offer, Twi.” Applejack responded “Unfortunately, ah can’t because ah have a lot of work waiting for me back on the farm.” She smiled at Sundance, Midnight Armor, Celestia and Artemis before walking in the direction of Sweet Apple Acres.

Rainbow lifted into the air. “I need to go check in with the Weather Team.”

Twilight nodded “We’ll see you later.”

Rarity glanced at Sundance and Midnight Armor before whispering something to Twilight.

“After lunch.” Twilight responded

Rarity smiled “I’ll see you then.” She smiled at everyone else before levitating all of her bags to her side as she walked towards her boutique.

“I-I’m sorry.” Fluttershy said softly “I-I need to go take care of my animals.”

Artemis smiled at her. “It’s alright. We’ll see you later.”

Fluttershy returned his smile before walking towards her cottage.

Pinkie bounced over to Twilight. “You’re still coming to the bakery for lunch, right?”

Twilight laughed “Yes, Pinkie.” She thought for a moment. “I haven’t been grocery shopping in a while, so we’ll probably be there for dinner as well.”

“Okie Dokie!” Pinkie replied “I’ll have a big party waiting for you!”

Sundance and Midnight Armor exchanged glances before turning to Pinkie.

“Kidding!” Pinkie giggled “You guys are funny! Even I won’t do that . . . well, not today.”

“Why not?” Sundance hesitantly asked Do I want to know the answer?

Harmony laughed

“I have a party to plan!” Pinkie answered

Midnight Armor raised an eyebrow. “What party is that?” Why is she planning another party?

Pinkie suddenly popped up in between Sundance and Midnight Armor before motioning with a hoof. “Down here!”

Curious, both of them lowered their heads to hers.

“Twilight’s birthday is Friday!” Pinkie whispered “I have to make sure that she has a super-duper fun party!”

Sundance smiled “I see.” I’m glad Pinkie Pie told us about that. This gives me enough time to make something for Twilight.

“Oops!” Pinkie glanced at Twilight. She sighed in relief when she saw that Twilight was talking to Artemis and Celestia. Then she turned back to Midnight Armor and Sundance. “It’s a surprise party. That means you can’t tell her about it, okay?”

Midnight Armor chuckled “Don’t worry.” He said softly “We’ll keep it a secret.”

Pinkie smiled at both of them before turning to everyone else. “I’ll see you later!”

Sundance, Celestia, Midnight Armor, Artemis, Twilight and Spike walked into Twilight’s castle. Each of them headed to their rooms to rest for a while.

Midnight Armor waited until he had closed the door of their room behind them before turning to his wife. “Why were you so angry earlier?”

Sundance walked over to the bed, climbed onto it and lay down before looking at her husband. “Harmony told me that she didn’t tell Twilight about certain parts of her plan because she felt that she couldn’t trust our daughter to keep them a secret.”

Midnight Armor’s eyes widened. “What?! How could she even think that?!”

“Twilight was angry about the fact that she wasn’t allowed to tell us anything specific about Harmony’s plan.” Sundance answered

“Do you blame her?” Midnight Armor asked

“Not at all.” Sundance replied “However, it concerned Harmony.”

Midnight Armor lay down next to his wife. “Both of us got angrier as time went on . . . and we still weren’t told what Harmony had planned for our souls. Unfortunately, there were times when each of us took that anger out on Twilight.”

Harmony gasped What?!

Sundance winced “Neither of us meant to do that. Additionally, we have repeatedly apologized to her.”

“I know, Honey.” Midnight Armor nuzzled his wife. “I brought it up because it brings me to my point.”

Sundance raised an eyebrow. “And that is?”

“Even then, Twilight didn’t reveal anything specific about Harmony’s plan to anyone that she wasn’t supposed to.” Midnight Armor replied “That should have proved that she could be trusted.”

Harmony suppressed a sigh. Midnight Armor is correct. I should have told Twilight Sparkle everything. She watched Sundance snuggle closer to Midnight Armor before both of them laid their heads on the bed and closed their eyes.

Three Hours Later

Midnight Armor opened his eyes when he heard his wife’s stomach growl. He was about to say something, but paused when his stomach growled as well.

Laughing softly, Sundance opened her eyes as well. “I think we should get our children and Spike before we head to the bakery for some lunch.”

Midnight Armor nodded “Let’s head to Artemis and Twilight’s room first.”

Sundance nodded as well. “Good idea.”

Both of them stood and stretched before heading into the hall.

Sundance and Midnight Armor walked over to the door to Twilight and Artemis’ room, but paused when they heard hoofsteps. Surprised, they turned towards the sound to see that Celestia and Spike were walking towards them.

Sundance raised an eyebrow. “Is everything alright?”

“Yes, Mother.” Celestia answered “We were just going to tell Artemis and Twilight that it’s time for lunch.”

Midnight Armor chuckled “Your mother and I were about to do the same thing.”

Celestia laughed as well. “In that case, Spike and I will join you. We can head to Sugarcube Corner after that.”

“Good idea.” Sundance opened the door to Artemis and Twilight’s room.

Sundance, Midnight Armor, Celestia and Spike paused just inside the room. They exchanged glances when Artemis and Twilight remained focused on something on the bed in between them. Artemis and Twilight looked up when Midnight Armor cleared his throat.

Twilight glanced at her husband. “When did they get here?”

Artemis shrugged

Sundance giggled as she walked over to the bed before nuzzling both of them. “We walked into your room almost a minute ago.”

“I see.” Twilight returned her mother’s nuzzle. “Is everything alright?”

Sundance nodded “We just wanted to tell you that it’s time for lunch.”

Artemis glanced outside before turning to his mother. “I’m sorry. We were so caught up in our book that we didn’t notice.”

Midnight Armor chuckled “It’s alright.”

Curious, Celestia walked over to the bed. “What are you reading?”

“Something that should come in handy in seven months.” Twilight answered

Artemis nodded “It’s a book about the last couple of weeks of pregnancy and giving birth.” He lifted another book off of one of the nightstands. “This one is about caring for newborns.”

“I see.” Celestia smiled at her siblings. “I’m sorry to interrupt your study time, but we need to get going.”

Artemis removed one of the feathers from his right wing and used it to mark their page. Then he levitated both books to the nightstand as he and Twilight climbed off of their bed.

Sundance gave them a moment to stretch before teleporting everyone out of Twilight’s castle. Twilight lead the way to Sugarcube Corner.

Pinkie, Mr. Cake, Mrs. Cake, Pound and Pumpkin looked up when the door opened. They smiled when the Royal Family walked inside.

Mr. and Mrs. Cake bowed. “Good afternoon, your highnesses. We already have everything ready.”

Pinkie walked around the counter with a large tray balanced on her back. “We made Macaroni and Cheese with Broccoli for Twilight, a bowl of rubies and emeralds for Spike and vegetable subs with hay fries for everypony else.”

Spike licked his lips as he sat at the table.

Twilight sat down across from him before smiling at her friend. “Thanks, Pinkie. It looks delicious.”

Sundance, Midnight Armor, Celestia and Artemis joined Twilight and Spike at the table as Pinkie placed their food on the table. Mrs. Cake walked over with a bottle of apple juice for each of them.

Lunch was eaten quietly because each of them was focused on filling their stomachs. They had just finished their food when Pinkie walked back into the room.

Twilight smiled “Thanks for lunch, Pinkie. Spike and I are going to take Mom, Dad, Artemis and Celestia to a couple of places in Ponyville.” She paused “Do you want to come with us?”

Pinkie shook her head. “Mrs. Cake asked me to help with the baking today.”

Additionally, you’re still planning her birthday party. Laughter commented

I can’t tell her that! Pinkie replied It’s a surprise party!

Laughter laughed

“That’s alright.” Twilight responded “We’ll be back for dinner.”

“Okie Dokie.” Pinkie replied “Have fun!”

Twilight laughed as she led her family outside.

“Where are we going?” Midnight Armor asked

“You’ll see.” Spike replied

They walked into Rarity’s boutique a few minutes later.

Sundance looked around. I recognize this. She turned to Twilight. “Why are we in Rarity’s boutique?”

Twilight was about to answer the question, but Rarity beat her to it.

“I asked her to bring you here, of course.”

Midnight Armor raised an eyebrow as he turned to the unicorn. “Why did you do that?”

“I’m going to make something for each of you.” Rarity answered “Therefore, I need to get your measurements.” She levitated a pad of paper and a quill over to her.

What does she plan to make for us . . . and why is she doing so? Midnight Armor glanced at his wife before turning back to Rarity. “Very well.”

Sundance, Midnight Armor, Twilight, Celestia, Artemis and Spike looked on as Rarity collected Sundance and Midnight Armor’s measurements.

Rarity wrote the last of the measurements down before levitating the pad and quill to her desk. “I believe I have enough to get started.” She turned to Twilight. “I’d like to get a few more details from you next weekend.”

“Alright.” Twilight glanced at her parents. “We should get going.”

Midnight Armor raised an eyebrow as he followed his youngest outside. “Where are we going?”

“Sweet Apple Acres.” Twilight responded

Celestia and Artemis smiled at each other before turning back to their parents.

“Isn’t that the name of the farm that Applejack lives on?” Sundance asked

Spike jumped onto Twilight’s back before nodding to Sundance. “Applejack asked Twi to bring both of you there this afternoon.”

“Why did she do that?” Midnight Armor asked

Twilight smiled “You’ll see.”

Sundance, Midnight Armor, Celestia and Artemis followed Twilight to the farmhouse. They found Granny Smith, Big Mac, Applejack and Apple Bloom waiting in front of it.

Twilight turned to her parents. “I’d like to introduce you to the Apple Family. You already know Applejack.”

Smiling, Applejack nodded before gesturing to her grandmother. “This is my grandmother, Granny Smith.”

Granny Smith bowed slightly. “Welcome back to Equestria.”

We’ll probably be hearing that several times over the next couple of months. Midnight Armor smiled at the elderly mare. “Thank you.”

Applejack nodded at her siblings. “This is my older brother, Big Macintosh, and my little sister, Apple Bloom.”

Big Mac bowed slightly “Good afternoon.”

Apple Bloom grinned at Sundance. “It’s nice to meet ya!”

Sundance suppressed a giggle. I know that I’ve seen her several times with my spell, but she’s still a cute filly. “It’s nice to meet you as well.”

Applejack stepped forward. “Ah asked Twi to bring both of ya here because Granny Smith and ah have made a couple of things that we’d like ya to try.”

“I see.” Sundance replied

Big Mac opened the door to the farmhouse. Granny Smith led the way to the kitchen. Applejack, Big Mac, Apple Bloom, Twilight, Sundance, Celestia, Artemis and Spike followed her.

Sundance took a couple of minutes to look around the kitchen. I like the way this room looks.

“Is something on your mind, Queen Sundance?”

Startled, Sundance jumped slightly before turning to see that Granny Smith was looking at her. She smiled at the elderly mare. “My apologies. This kitchen is similar to the one that Midnight and I used to have in our old castle.” She glanced at the refrigerator and stove. “Well, except for . . . whatever those are.”

Granny Smith returned the smile. “Ah see.”

Confused, Apple Bloom looked at the refrigerator and stove before poking Twilight in the side. She waited until Twilight had leaned down before whispering “Why don’t they don’t know what a refrigerator and stove are?”

“Neither of those things existed fifteen hundred years ago.” Twilight quietly responded

“Oh.” Apple Bloom replied

“The bottom part of the larger one is called a refrigerator.” Celestia explained “It is used to keep food cold.” She pointed to the freezer. “This is called a freezer. As the name suggests, it is used to freeze food.”

Artemis nodded “The smaller one is called a stove. The top part is used for cooking food while the bottom part is used for baking.”

So the small one is for heating food and the large one is for cooling it. Sundance smiled “That’s easy enough to remember.”

Midnight Armor chuckled

“Applejack told me that your favorite fruit is apples, Queen Sundance.” Granny Smith commented

Surprised, Sundance turned to Applejack. “How did you know that?”

“Twi told me.” Applejack answered

Sundance glanced at her youngest before turning back to Applejack. “I see.”

Granny Smith gestured to the table next to her. “Applejack and ah made several things that we’d be honored if you would try.”

Sundance smiled “I would love to.”

Applejack turned to Midnight Armor. “We don’t specialize in blueberries, but Big Mac managed to get us a large shipment of fresh ones. Granny Smith and ah made more of those blueberry apple cupcakes that ya liked, some blueberry muffins and some homemade blueberry jam.”

Midnight Armor’s eyes widened “How did you . . .” He trailed off as he glanced at Twilight. “Let me guess. You told Applejack that blueberries are my favorite fruit.”

Twilight nodded

Apple Bloom pushed a large basket towards Midnight Armor. “Here are some fresh blueberries for ya.” She giggled when Midnight Armor levitated a few of them over to him before eating them.

Midnight Armor smiled at Apple Bloom. “Thank you.”

“Your apples are still on the trees.” Applejack told Sundance. “Ah just need to go out into the orchard and buck them for ya.”

“Buck?” Sundance repeated

“It’s how they harvest the apples.” Twilight explained

I have to see that. “Is it alright if we watch you?” Midnight Armor asked

Applejack nodded

Sundance sampled some fresh applesauce, an apple turnover, a small piece of apple bread and some dried apple slices before smiling at Granny Smith and Applejack. “Everything was delicious.”

Midnight Armor swallowed the food in his mouth. “The same should be said for the blueberry jam and the muffins.”

Granny Smith smiled “That’s good to hear.”

“Applejack and ah will deliver some fresh food to your castle tomorrow afternoon.” Big Mac told Twilight.

“Thank you.” Twilight replied

Sundance’s eyes widened as she turned to Twilight. “Is this why you told us to bring our saddlebags?”

Twilight giggled “Yes. I know that we have chefs in the castle, but Celestia, Artemis and I thought you might like to keep the food that Applejack and Granny Smith made in your room. They make good snacks.”

Artemis chuckled “If anypony knows about snacking at odd times of the day, and night, it’s Twilight.” He glanced at his parents. “She keeps food in our room in Canterlot.”

“Hey!” Twilight exclaimed “I’m pregnant!”

Artemis, Sundance, Celestia, Midnight Armor, Spike, Applejack, Granny Smith, Big Mac and Apple Bloom laughed.

That reminds me. The serving of macaroni and cheese with broccoli that Pinkie Pie gave her was rather small. Sundance cut a slice of apple bread and levitated it to Twilight. “Eat this. I won’t allow you to go hungry.” She laughed when the slice disappeared in less than a minute.

Twilight swallowed the food in her mouth before looking up at her mother. “What? You know that Lavender Selene likes apples!”

Laughing harder, Sundance nuzzled her youngest. “I know.”

Granny Smith, Big Mac, Apple Bloom and Applejack smiled at each other before turning back to the Royal Family.

“Ah think ah’ll go buck those apples.” Applejack looked at Sundance and Midnight Armor. “Do ya still want to watch?”

Nodding, Sundance and Midnight Armor followed Applejack outside. Celestia, Artemis, Twilight and Spike joined them. The seven of them arrived in the orchards a few minutes later.

Sundance stared at all of the apple trees around her. “I’ve never seen so many apple trees in one place.”

“My family ships our apples and apple juice all over Equestria.” Applejack explained

“That makes sense.” Sundance replied

Midnight Armor looked on in confusion as Applejack placed three baskets at the base of several apple trees. “Why are you doing that?”

“The baskets are there to catch the apples.” Twilight answered

“I see.” Midnight Armor raised an eyebrow as he watched Applejack walk away from the apple trees. What is she doing now?

Honesty laughed I’ll let her show you.

Very well. Midnight Armor replied

Applejack turned around before galloping towards the apple trees that had baskets at their bases.

Sundance raised an eyebrow as well. “If she doesn’t stop soon, she’s going to run into the trees.”

Twilight laughed “No, she won’t.”

Midnight Armor raised the other eyebrow. “She’s faster than I thought.” That is unusual because earth ponies are typically known for their strength.

Applejack suddenly turned before bucking the trunk of the first tree.

Sundance’s eyes widened when the apples fell into the baskets that Applejack had placed at the base of the tree. She looked on as Applejack moved onto the next tree. “Impressive.”

Sundance is correct. Midnight Armor watched Applejack buck the apples out of the second tree. It takes a lot of skill to determine the correct amount of strength to put into each kick.

What do you mean? Honesty asked

If Applejack uses too much strength, she could break the trunk of the tree. Midnight Armor explained However, the apples won’t fall if she doesn’t use enough. He watched Applejack move onto the third tree. I’ve noticed that she seems to instinctively know how much strength to put into each kick. Part of that is her passive earth pony magic at work.

And the rest? Honesty asked

Experience. Midnight Armor answered She has clearly been doing this since she was very young. He was pulled from his thoughts by Twilight’s voice.

“Look out, Apple Bloom!”

Sundance, Midnight Armor, Celestia, Artemis, Applejack and Spike followed Twilight’s gaze to see that Apple Bloom was walking out of the barn. They gasped when the drain above the door began to fall off of the roof.

“Oh no ya don’t!” Applejack pulled out a lasso as she began to gallop towards the barn. She used the lasso to pull Apple Bloom out of harm’s way before skidding to a stop next to her sister. The drain landed on the ground a few feet away from the sisters.

Midnight Armor’s eyes widened “Impressive.”

Sundance, Celestia, Artemis, Twilight and Spike nodded

Applejack nuzzled her sister. “Are ya alright, sugarcube?”

Nodding, Apple Bloom returned her sister’s nuzzle. “Thanks, AJ.”

Applejack smiled at her sister before walking over to examine the drain. Then she looked up at the roof that it had been attached to. She shook her head when she saw that the metal was rusty. “Ah know ah asked ya to tell Big Mac that he needed to replace that.”

“Ah did.” Apple Bloom replied “He said that he had to order a part from the store.”

“Ah’ll stop by the store later.”

Everyone looked up to see that Big Mac was walking up to them.

“Do you know if the part you need has come in yet?” Twilight asked

“Eenope.” Big Mac answered

Artemis levitated the drain over to the side of the barn so that no one would trip on it.

Applejack smiled at him. “Thanks, Artemis.”

Artemis returned the smile. “You’re welcome.”

Big Mac and Apple Bloom helped Applejack carry the apples back to the house. They placed the apples in a large basket that had been placed next to Midnight Armor’s basket of blueberries.

Sundance smiled at the Apple siblings. “Thank you.”

“You’re welcome.” Applejack, Big Mac and Apple Bloom replied

“Applejack, Apple Bloom and ah will bake both of ya fresh versions of everything that ya ate today.” Granny Smith turned to Twilight. “We’ll also bake ya a couple of loaves of apple bread.”

Twilight smiled “Thank you.”

“Great.” Artemis remarked “Something else for her to add to her food stash in our room.”

Twilight rolled her eyes as she turned to him. “You know that they probably won’t even make it to Canterlot.”

“Good point.” Artemis replied “They’re usually gone within two hours.”

Granny Smith raised an eyebrow. Ah think we should make her five loaves instead.

Everyone else immediately began to laugh.

Twilight turned to The Apple Family. “Unfortunately, we need to get going.”

“That’s alright, Twi.” Applejack responded “We need to get the ingredients together so we can start baking tomorrow morning.”

Sundance smiled at the Apple Family. “In that case, we’ll see you tomorrow.”

Applejack nodded “Have a good night.”

“I hope the four of you do the same.” Midnight Armor replied

Midnight Armor, Sundance, Celestia, Artemis, Twilight and Spike arrived in front of Twilight’s castle a little over five minutes later.

Sundance raised an eyebrow when they stopped in front of the front door. Curious, she turned to Twilight. “Why are we stopping out here?”

Twilight scanned the sky. “She should be around here somewhere.”

“Who are you talking about?” Midnight Armor asked

Everyone jumped when they heard a shout that echoed throughout the village.

“Look out below!”

“There she is.” Twilight commented

Spike pressed his palm to his forehead. “Here we go again.”

Celestia was about to ask Spike what he was talking about, but jumped when she heard a couple of crashes that were followed by a loud thud.

Twilight sighed “We’d better hurry.”

Midnight Armor, Sundance, Artemis, Spike and Celestia followed Twilight around the right side of her castle before stopping when they saw that Rainbow had crashed through a couple of trees before hitting the ground so hard that she created a small crater around herself.

Midnight Armor, Artemis and Spike winced when they saw that three of her legs were broken . . . and that her right wing was dislocated.

Sundance, Celestia and Twilight quickly cast several different healing spells on her.

“T-thanks.” Rainbow tried to prop herself up with her good foreleg. “Damn it! I was sure that I was going to get it right that time!”

“Don’t move yet.” Sundance replied “We haven’t finished healing your injuries.”

“Got it.” Rainbow allowed herself to fall back to the ground.

Sundance watched her youngest carefully. Twilight is doing rather well. That is surprising because, as far as I know, she isn’t trained as a healer.

Perhaps it’s time to change that. Harmony suggested

I was already planning on it. Sundance replied I’m also planning to teach Celestia the final level of the healing spell that she is currently casting.

Harmony laughed I think both are good ideas.

It took Sundance, Celestia and Twilight almost thirty minutes to finish healing Rainbow’s injuries. Midnight Armor, Artemis and Rainbow looked on as the three of them sat down as soon as they were done.

Sundance cast a magic scan on Rainbow. Good. We didn’t miss anything. Satisfied, she turned to her daughters. “Well done, both of you.”

Celestia and Twilight smiled at each other before turning back to their mother. “Thank you.”

Twilight turned to Rainbow. “What happened?”

Rainbow slowly sat up. “I was trying to do the barrel roll that Sundance used against Golden Thunder.”

Sighing, Twilight shook her head. “I should have known.”

“I will teach you how to do it correctly.” Sundance responded “However, you are not allowed to perform that maneuver unsupervised until I give you permission. Is that clear?”

“Why not?” Rainbow asked

“I want to minimize the risk of you getting injured again.” Sundance answered “Do you understand?”

Rainbow nodded

“Good.” Sundance replied “Unfortunately, there will be no more training for you today.”

“Why not?!” Rainbow stood before slowly turning to face Sundance.

Sundance raised an eyebrow when Rainbow wobbled slightly. I can’t believe I need to answer that question. “You need to rest, Rainbow Dash.”

“Sundance is correct.” Midnight Armor remarked

“What do you mean?” Rainbow asked “I feel fine.”

“I don’t think you realize how hard you hit the ground.” Midnight Armor answered “In fact, I believe that you should refrain from training for the rest of the weekend.”

Rainbow sighed “Fine.”

Sundance suppressed a sigh of relief. Thank you, Midnight.

“Did you crash again, Rainbow?”

Surprised, Midnight Armor, Sundance, Celestia, Artemis, Twilight, Spike and Rainbow turned to see that Rarity, Sweetie Belle and Scootaloo were walking towards them.

Sundance, Midnight Armor, Twilight, Rainbow, Spike, Artemis and Celestia nodded.

“How did you know where we were?” Twilight asked

“It was rather obvious, Darling.” Rarity replied “We heard a simply headed towards the crashes that were followed by a rather loud thud.”

Rainbow winced

“I see.” Twilight turned to Rainbow. “You and Scootaloo are going to spend the night in my castle.”

“Good idea, Twilight.” Sundance commented “That will make it easier for me to check on her in the morning.”

Twilight looked at everyone around her. “I think we should head to Sugarcube Corner for an early dinner before heading to the castle for the night.” She turned to Rarity and Sweetie Belle. “Both of you are welcome to join us.”

“I wish we could, Darling.” Rarity replied “However, our parents are expecting us to be home for dinner soon.”

“That’s alright.” Artemis responded “I’m sure that we’ll be seeing both of you tomorrow.”

Rarity and Sweetie Belle nodded before heading for Rarity’s boutique. Everyone else walked towards the bakery.

Pinkie looked up when the Royal Family, Spike, Rainbow and Scootaloo walked into the bakery. “I thought you would be here early. Mrs. Cake made a really big vegetable casserole for everyone to share. We also have a couple of large pitchers of lemonade.

Twilight smiled “Thanks, Pinkie.” I have to go grocery shopping tomorrow.

Magic laughed

The meal was rather quiet. Sundance and Midnight Armor didn’t eat much because they were still full from sampling the Apple Family’s food. Everyone else ate their food before looking up when Pinkie walked back into the room.

“Thanks, Pinkie.” Twilight levitated a bag of bits to her friend. “This should cover lunch and dinner.”

Pinkie nodded “I’ll give it to Mrs. Cake.”

Celestia smiled at Pinkie. “We’ll see you tomorrow.”

Pinkie nodded again. “Good night!”

Laughing, everyone replied “Good night” before walking outside and heading to Twilight’s castle.

Twilight made a quick stop in the library to grab a couple of books before leading Rainbow and Scootaloo to the room that she had prepared for sleepovers. “The two of you can sleep in here tonight.”

Rainbow and Scootaloo nodded

Twilight levitated the books onto one of the beds. “I brought you a couple of Daring Do books.”

Rainbow smiled “Thanks, Twi.”

Twilight returned the smile. “You’re welcome. Have a good night.”

“Good night.” Rainbow and Scootaloo replied

Twilight closed the door before leading her family back down the hall.

“I’m going to read a few comics before going to bed.” Spike told Twilight.

I’m not surprised. Twilight nuzzled him. “Good night.”

“Good night.” Spike responded before walking towards his room.

Everyone else walked into the room that Twilight shared with Artemis and settled on the bed. They just relaxed until it was time for Celestia and Artemis to perform their celestial duties. Artemis brought all of them to the stars as soon as they were done.

In the stars, Star Swirl turned at a flash of moonlight. “Good evening.”

Everyone else laughed “Good evening, Star Swirl.”

Sundance, Midnight Armor, Night, Celestia and Twilight gave Artemis some to their magic. He added some of his own before giving their combined magic to Star Swirl.

Midnight Armor, Sundance, Celestia, Artemis and Twilight moved onto the cloud and lay down. All of them were tired enough that it didn’t take them long to fall asleep.

In the Dream Realm, Artemis brought the rest of his family into his dream. The five of them lay down to wait for Star Swirl.

Star Swirl arrived in Artemis’ dream roughly five minutes later. He smiled at Celestia, Artemis, Sundance, Twilight and Midnight Armor as he lay down next to Artemis. Then he turned to Sundance and Midnight Armor. “Are you ready to continue your story?”

Laughing, Midnight Armor nodded to Star Swirl before turning to his wife. “I believe it’s my turn.”

Sundance laughed as well. “You’re right, Midnight.”

- - - Midnight Armor’s Flashback - - -

Midnight Armor glanced at Sundance before turning to Amber, Smoky and Thunder. “I will return to the village after I have escorted Sundance back to the earth pony village.”

Amber smiled “It’s alright. We will wait here for you.”

Midnight Armor returned her smile. “Thank you.”

Sundance smiled at Amber, Thunder and Smoky. “I will see the three of you in a couple of days.”

Thunder, Amber and Smoky watched Sundance and Midnight Armor head in the direction of the earth pony village.

Twenty Minutes Later

Sundance and Midnight Armor looked up when they heard a shout.

“The monster is back!”

“Lower your bows!” A second stallion replied “She is with the unicorn that Elder Lila told us not to attack.”

“Take a closer look!” Another male voice responded “He isn’t a unicorn.”

“What do you mean?” The second voice asked “Y-you’re right! He is a monster as well!”

Midnight Armor sighed “I suppose I need to get used to hearing that again.”

Wincing, Sundance opened her mouth to respond, but paused what she heard the first archer’s voice.

“What should we do?”

Sundance and Midnight Armor exchanged glances before turning back to the village when they heard Lila’s voice.

“What’s going on out here?!”

“E-elder Lila!” The second stallion stammered “You need to see this.”

Sundance smiled when Lila walked over to the entrance to the village. “Good afternoon.”

Lila returned the smile. “Welcome back, dear.”

“Thank you.” Sundance gestured to Midnight Armor. “This is Midnight Armor.”

Surprised, Lila looked at him for a moment before turning back to Sundance. “I thought he was a unicorn.”

“I did as well.” Sundance replied

Lila raised an eyebrow. “What do you mean, dear?”

“We were attacked by five Chimeras during our picnic.” Sundance answered

Everyone within earshot gasped in shock. “What?!”

Sundance nodded “Midnight Armor revealed his wings before joining me in battle.”

“I-I see.” Lila stammered “W-what about the Chimeras?”

“There is no need to worry, Elder Lila.” Midnight Armor answered “We were able to kill all of them. Sundance and I fought them in the air while Amber, Thunder and Smoky assisted us from the ground.”

Sundance nodded “Additionally, we have already destroyed their bodies.”

Everyone, except for Sundance and Midnight Armor, sighed in relief.

“Thank goodness.” Lila replied

Midnight Armor turned to Sundance. “Unfortunately, I need to get going.”

Sundance smiled “I’ll see you in a couple of days.”

Midnight Armor returned her smile before spreading his wings and lifting into the air.

“Be careful on your way home.” Lila told him.

Midnight Armor’s smile widened “Thank you.”

Lila turned to Sundance. “Let’s get you inside. I want to hear all about your day . . . especially that attack.”

Laughing softly, Midnight Armor flew towards the picnic site. He landed in front of his friends a little over ten minutes later.

“How did it go?” Amber asked

Midnight Armor told them what happened as they walked towards the unicorn village.

Amber, Thunder and Smoky shook their heads.

“There you are. I was getting worried.”

The four of them looked up to see that a stallion with a black coat and green eyes was standing in the entrance to the village.

Smiling, Amber walked forward to nuzzle her father. “There is no need to worry, Father.”

Onyx raised an eyebrow. “We heard the roars of several Chimeras.”

“It’s alright, elder.” Thunder replied “Midnight Armor and Sundance battled them in the air while Amber, Smoky and I assisted them from the ground.”

Confused, Onyx turned to Thunder. “Midnight Armor battled in the air?”

Amber laughed “Take a closer look at him, Father.”

Onyx turned to Midnight Armor . . . and smiled when he saw the wings at his sides. “I see that you finally decided to stop hiding them.”

Midnight Armor nervously nodded “I needed to be able to use my wings in order to help Sundance battle the Chimeras.”

“We should head inside.” Onyx commented “I’m sure that we have much to discuss.”

Amber, Midnight Armor, Thunder and Smoky followed him through the village gates.

Midnight Armor suppressed a shudder when he noticed that several of the villagers were staring at him. Any minute now . . . He was pulled from his thoughts when a small filly ran up to him.

“Amber was right!” She squealed “You really do have wings!”

Surprised, Midnight Armor glanced at Amber before turning back to the filly. “That’s right, Summer.”

“Can I touch them?” Summer asked

Even more surprised, Midnight Armor stared at Summer for a minute before silently laying down in front of her and spreading one of his wings.

Summer gently ran a hoof over the feathers before looking back up at him. “They’re soft.” She glanced at the wing again before turning back to Midnight Armor. “Can I ride on your back while you fly?”

Onyx, Amber, Thunder and Smoky smiled.

Midnight Armor stared at her in shock for a couple of minutes.

Summer’s ears drooped as she looked at the ground. “Okay”

Finally shaking himself out of his shock, Midnight Armor nuzzled the filly. “I didn’t say “No”, Summer. I’m just surprised that you asked.”

Summer’s ears perked up as she raised her head. “Does this mean that I can?”

“If it’s alright with your mother.” Midnight Armor hesitantly replied

Both of them looked up when a unicorn mare walked up to them.

“I don’t have a problem with that.” She commented “I just ask that you stay above the village.”

Summer squealed in delight before climbing on Midnight Armor’s back.

“Don’t worry, Violet.” Midnight Armor replied “I will.” He stood and spread the other wing before glancing at the filly on his back. “Hold on tight.”

Nodding, Summer wrapped her forehooves as far as she could around his neck.

Midnight Armor slowly rose into the air before flying around the village a couple of times. Then he landed in front of Onyx and gently levitated Summer to the ground.

Summer bounced around him in a circle. “That was fun! Can we do that again?”

Midnight Armor chuckled “I need to discuss a few things with the elder. Perhaps I will be able to take you flying again tomorrow.” He raised an eyebrow. “But only if you behave yourself.”

“I will.” Summer immediately promised

Violet walked towards them. “Thank you, Midnight Armor.” She smiled when she noticed his expression. “I’m sure you are wondering why we aren’t treating you the same way that the members of the earth pony village treat the young mare named Sundance.”

Midnight Armor nodded

One of the villagers looked at everyone else before turning back to Midnight Armor. “There is no way that we would treat you like that. First of all, you have been living among us for a long time. Second, we are aware of the fact that you put your life on the line to protect us.”

The rest of the villagers nodded.

Violet stopped next to her daughter. “Elder Onyx told us about the night that you used all of your abilities to protect the village.”

Midnight Armor stared at her in confusion. She must be talking about that battle. But . . . how could she know about that? He turned when he heard Onyx’s laughter.

“I don’t blame you for being confused.” Onyx commented “You probably didn’t know that Amber and I were watching.”

Midnight Armor’s eyes widened W-what?!

Amber smiled at Midnight Armor. “We were walking towards the village gates when we saw you fight off a pack of Timberwolves before walking through the gate.” She glanced at her father before turning back to Midnight Armor. “That was when six Manticores attacked the village.”

Onyx nodded “Amber and I were about to wake several of the guards and ask them to assist you. However, we stopped when you revealed your wings. We were so shocked that we couldn’t do anything but stare at you.”

“We watched you place your barrier over the village before taking flight.” Amber continued “Neither of us had ever seen such skilled flying.”

“Or spellcasting.” Onyx added “We were planning to say something to you, but changed our minds when you cast another Camouflage Spell on yourself as soon as you landed. That was when we decided to let you tell us when you were ready.”

“I-I see.” Midnight Armor stammered

Summer looked up at Midnight Armor. “Why did you hide your wings? They’re really pretty.”

Midnight Armor winced “I’d rather not have to explain it twice in one day.”

“It’s alright.” Amber replied “We’ll tell them.”

Amber, Thunder and Smoky took turns telling the villagers what Midnight Armor had told them earlier.

All of the villagers gasped in horror.

Onyx stared at Midnight Armor for several minutes before slowly shaking his head. “I don’t blame you for that.”

Everyone else nodded

Onyx turned to his daughter. “What happened today?”

Amber told her father about the picnic and the attack.

Onyx shook his head again. “Now I really want to meet this young mare.”

Amber laughed “You will. Sundance told us that she will be at the meeting in a couple of days.”

Onyx smiled “Good.”

“She will also be travelling with me to the Meeting of the Tribes.” Midnight Armor remarked

Confused, Onyx turned to him. “Why will she be doing that?”

“Sundance is representing the earth pony village.” Amber answered

Onyx laughed as well. “It appears that Lila and I had the same idea.”

Midnight Armor, Amber, Thunder and Smoky nodded

Onyx looked at everyone around him. “I think it’s time for everypony to head home for the day.”

The villagers nodded to him before heading for their homes. Onyx, Amber and Midnight Armor headed for home as well.

- - - End Flashback - - -

Midnight Armor turned to his wife. “It’s your turn.”

Sundance smiled at her husband before turning to Twilight, Celestia, Artemis and Star Swirl. “I am going to begin two days later, just before the meeting between the two villages.”

The four of them nodded.

- - - Sundance’s Flashback - - -

Sundance twitched an ear when she heard someone enter her room. That must be Lila. “Is it time to leave?”

“Yes.” Lila walked over to Sundance before looking over her shoulder. She read the spell on the scroll before glancing at the younger mare’s face. “Are you still working on your new spell?”

“Yes.” Sundance answered “I’m sorry that it’s taking so long.”

“It’s alright.” Lila replied “I’m sure that Onyx won’t mind if we are a couple of minutes late.” She smiled “This is especially true if your spell works.”

Sundance stretched her wings a couple of minutes later. “It’s finished.” I know that it will work because I tested it as carefully as possible. Now I just need to cast it on Amber.

Lila’s smile widened “In that case, I believe we should get going.”

Sundance levitated her saddlebags onto her back before following Lila outside. They found the rest of the village waiting for them. They fell into step behind Sundance and Lila as they left the village.

“Is it wise for everypony in the village to come with us?” Sundance asked

“Why do you ask?” Lila responded

Sundance glanced at her. “What if there is a monster attack while everyone is gone?”

“I’m sure it will be fine.” Lila replied “This meeting isn’t supposed to last long.” She looked at the archers. “There will be no hostility between our villages before, during or after this meeting. I only allowed you to bring your weapons because there is a chance of a monster attack.”

Most of the archers nodded. “Yes, elder.”

Sundance glanced at the one who didn’t respond. I’d better keep an eye on him. She looked up when she heard the sound of approaching hoofsteps. She smiled when Midnight Armor, Amber, Thunder, Smoky and a large group of unicorns stopped a few feet in front of them.

The archer that didn’t respond suddenly reared back, drew an arrow, aimed at the unicorn stallion that was standing in front of the others and let the arrow fly.

Onyx’s eyes widened.

Everyone gasped when the arrow was suddenly caught in a field of light blue magic.

Sundance glared at the stallion who had shot the arrow. “Didn’t you hear what Elder Lila said, Storm?! There is no hostility between the villages today!” She broke the arrow in half before levitating the pieces back to him. “If you do that again, I will break you in half.”

“And we will help her.” The leader of the archers poked Storm in the chest. “Don’t you ever disobey Elder Lila again. Do you understand?”

Eyes wide, Storm silently nodded.

Lila sighed in relief. “Well done, Sundance.” She looked at Storm. “We will discuss your actions when we return to the village.”

Storm shuddered when he heard her tone. “Y-yes, elder.”

Lila turned to Onyx. “I’m sorry. It appears that he needs more training.”

“It’s alright, Lila.” Onyx replied “There was no harm done.” He turned to Sundance. “You must be Sundance.”

Sundance nodded

Onyx smiled “It is nice to finally meet you. I asked Lila to bring you because I wanted to thank you for treating my daughter’s injuries.”

“It is nice to meet you as well.” Sundance turned to Amber. “I created a new spell that I would like to cast on you.”

“What kind of spell?” Amber asked

“It is an advanced healing spell that will allow me to fully heal your injuries.” Sundance answered

“Go ahead.” Amber replied

“Are you sure?” One of the villagers nervously asked

“Yes.” Amber answered “Sundance has already proven that she can be trusted.”

Everypony looked on as Sundance used her magic to remove the bandages from Amber’s leg.

Lila winced when she took a closer look at Amber’s leg. “Her injuries are worse than I thought.”

Several of the members of the earth pony village winced as well before nodding.

Curious, Onyx walked around Amber so he that could get a better look at her leg. He shuddered when he saw the full extent of his daughter’s injuries.

I hope this spell is strong enough. Sundance cast her new spell on Amber.

Onyx’s eyes widened when Amber’s injuries began to slowly heal from the inside. “I-I’ve never seen anything like it.”

Everyone gasped when the last of Amber’s injuries healed a couple of minutes later.

Onyx carefully examined his daughter’s leg before turning to Sundance. “Y-you created that spell?!”

Sundance nodded “I finished it this morning.”

“I-incredible!” Onyx stammered

Every member of both villages nodded.

Onyx lowered his head. “Thank you for healing my daughter, Sundance.” Lifting his head, he glanced at Amber before turning back to Sundance. “She is the only member of my family that is still among the living.”

“You’re welcome.” Sundance replied

“Thank you, Sundance.” Amber used her magic to open her saddlebags as she walked over to Sundance. She levitated a small wooden bowl to Sundance. “I prepared some fresh apple slices for your trip.”

Sundance’s eyes widened for a moment before she smiled at Amber. “Thank you.” She placed the bowl into one of the sides of her saddlebags.

Midnight Armor took a couple of steps forward. “I believe we should get going.”

Onyx nodded “Good idea.”

“Be careful, dear.” Lila told Sundance.

Sundance spread her wings. “I will.”

Midnight Armor did the same. “We should be back in a couple of weeks.”

Everyone watched Sundance and Midnight Armor rise into the air.

- - - End Flashback - - -

“It took three days to get to the site of the meeting.” Midnight Armor commented “I am going to skip to when we arrived.”

“Good idea.” Sundance replied

Star Swirl, Twilight, Celestia and Artemis immediately turned to Midnight Armor.

- - - Midnight Armor’s Flashback - - -

Sundance and Midnight Armor landed next to the stone table, folded their wings and looked around.

“There isn’t anypony here.” Sundance commented

Midnight Armor shrugged “Perhaps we are the first to arrive.”

Both of them looked up when they heard a couple of voices.

“Have the representatives from the other tribes arrived yet, Cloud?”

“Not yet, Elder Gale.”

“Are we expecting Lila and Onyx again?” Gale asked

“No.” Cloud answered “According to this, a mare named Sundance is representing the earth pony village and a stallion named Midnight Armor is representing the unicorn village.”

Curious, Sundance and Midnight Armor spread their wings and lifting into the air.

Sundance noticed that a couple of pegasi were standing on a nearby cloud. She nodded to them before whispering. “Do you want to have a little fun?”

Midnight Armor nodded to Sundance before turning to the pegasi. “Good afternoon.”

Both pegasi jumped before turning towards the voice.

Sundance struggled to suppress her laughter. “My name is Sundance and this is Midnight Armor.”

Gale and Cloud stared at Midnight Armor and Sundance in stunned silence for a couple of minutes before turning to each other.

“T-they have wings and horns?!” Gale thought for a moment before turning to Cloud. “I thought those names were familiar.” He said softly “They must be the special ponies that the unicorns in the capital were searching for.”

Cloud nodded “This means that we won’t be able to use our usual tactic.”

“That’s right.” Midnight Armor replied as he and Sundance landed on the cloud.

The pegasi exchanged nervous glances before turning back to Sundance and Midnight Armor. All four of the ponies on the cloud jumped slightly when they heard a voice from the ground.

“Is anypony here?”

Sundance, Midnight Armor, Gale and Cloud spread their wings before flying to the stone table. They found a pair of unicorn stallions waiting for them.

Midnight Armor suppressed a shudder when he saw one of them. Why is he here?! I know that he is the leader of the capital, but I thought he would send a representative like he usually does. “Hello, Silver and Cypress.”

“Good afternoon, Silver.” Sundance turned to the second unicorn. “It has been a long time, Cypress.”

Cypress nodded “It is nice to see both of you again.”

“Good afternoon, my precious test subjects.” Silver shook his head. “I mean Midnight Armor and Sundance.” He turned to Cypress before whispering. “Don’t let either of them out of your sight. We can’t afford to lose them again.” He said something else that was too quiet for everyone else to hear.

Cypress nodded “Yes, Emperor. I will send the message as soon as we are done for the day.”

“Good.” Silver replied

Sundance raised an eyebrow. “Emperor?”

Silver nodded “That is correct, Sundance. I expect you to address me as such.”

Sundance laughed “Not a chance.”

Gale and Cloud glanced at each other in confusion before turning back to Sundance and Silver.

“You dare to defy me?!” Silver growled

“You may be able to fool some ponies.” Sundance replied “However, I am well aware of the fact that that position does not exist.”

Silver narrowed his eyes. “Yet”

“It never will.” Sundance responded “The laws that govern those that live in the capital, yourself included, don’t allow it.”

Silver growled again. “Perhaps it was a mistake to force you to handle some of our more mundane research for us.”

Sundance just smiled at him.

Midnight Armor stared at Sundance for a moment before turning to everyone else. “I believe we should get started.”

“That is a good idea.” Gale responded “I would like to get things started by creating with a schedule for the pegasi to collect the food from the unicorn settlements and the earth pony villages.”

“I’m glad you brought that up.” Midnight Armor remarked “The unicorn village will not be supplying the pegasi with any food this year.”

“The same goes for the earth pony village and our associated farms.” Sundance added

Gale glared at both of them. “What are you talking about?! Of course you will! It is in the contract!”

Sundance levitated a scroll out of her saddlebags. “I’m glad you mentioned that, elder. This is a copy of the contract that was signed by you, Elder Lila, Elder Onyx, and Silver. According to this, the pegasi were supposed to provide the necessary rain for our crops to grow.”

Gale nodded “I am aware of that.”

“The contract clearly states that, if the pegasi fail to uphold their end of the bargain, the unicorn and earth pony settlements do not have to provide them with any of the crops that they manage to grow.” Midnight Armor continued

Sundance pulled another scroll out of her saddlebags. “Elder Lila has been tracking the weather over the last year. This is a copy of her records. As you can see, the pegasi didn’t bring a single raincloud to the village or any of our farms.”

Midnight Armor levitated a scroll out his saddlebags. “Elder Onyx has been doing the same thing . . . with the same results. There is only one reason that our crops have survived. We gathered the necessary water from the nearby river.”

Sundance nodded “The ponies in the earth pony village did the same thing. Unfortunately, our farms weren’t as lucky. The main village has been providing our farms with food because most of their crops died several months ago.”

“The capital didn’t receive any rain either.” Cypress commented “However, in our case, some of our unicorns were able to catch the rain clouds that drifted close enough. That is how we were able to water our crops.”

Growling, Gale turned to Cloud. “Whose idea was it to fail to provide rain to the earthbound settlements?!”

Cloud backed up a couple of feet. “D-do you really want me to answer that question, sir?”

Gale paused “What do you mean?”

“I-it was your idea, sir.” Cloud stammered “Y-you had been drinking and declared that it would be amusing to see how the unicorns and earth ponies dealt with a year without rain. I gave you a couple of days to recover before asking you again. You insisted that we wouldn’t be providing them with any rain.”

Gale’s off white coat instantly became several shades paler. “I-I see.”

“I agree with Sundance and Midnight Armor.” Silver gave Gale a slight glare. “You failed to uphold your end of the contract, Gale. Therefore, as stated in the contract, the earth pony and unicorn settlements won’t be giving the pegasi any of their food this year.”

Gale backed up a couple of feet. “W-we’ll starve!”

“You should have thought of that before you decided not to honor the contract.” Silver responded

Everyone looked up when the sun began to set.

Silver turned back to the other ponies gathered around the table. “I think we should retire for the evening and continue this in the morning.”

Sundance, Midnight Armor, Cypress, Cloud and Gale nodded before heading their separate ways.

Sundance and Midnight Armor walked over to a large group of trees. Silver and Cypress watched them gather firewood before moving to a spot a few feet away.

Midnight Armor placed some of the logs on the ground before using his magic to set them on fire. Sundance set the rest of the logs a couple of feet away from the fire before beginning to pull food out of their saddlebags.

Silver watched Sundance and Midnight Armor work together to prepare their dinner before laying down side by side and beginning to eat. He looked up when Cypress set a clay plate full of food in front of him. “Thank you”

Sundance and Midnight Armor glanced at each other.

“I didn’t know that Silver knew how to say those words.” Midnight Armor said softly

“This is the first time that he has said them around me.” Sundance quietly replied “He has certainly never said them to me.”

Midnight Armor raised an eyebrow when he noticed that Silver and Cypress were also quietly discussing something. He watched Cypress stand and walk in the direction of the dirt path that connected the stone table to the rest of the country. “They’re up to something.”

“I know.” Sundance replied “We’ll have to keep an eye on them.” She looked at Silver for a moment before turning back to Midnight Armor. “I saw your reaction to seeing Silver. Did something happen between the two of you?”

Midnight Armor shuddered “He is the one who ordered the researchers to . . . examine me. Additionally, he was present every time they cut me open.”

Sundance shuddered as well. “I heard him call us his “precious test subjects”. Do you think that means something?”

“Probably.” Midnight Armor glanced at the moon before turning back to Sundance. “We should get some sleep.”

Sundance nodded “I have a feeling that tomorrow will be a long day.” She lay her head on her forehooves and closed her eyes.

Midnight Armor did the same.

- - - End Flashback - - -

Next Chapter: Chapter 79 Estimated time remaining: 2 Hours, 45 Minutes