“Oh, Sunset,” someone muttered a second before the skeletal mare was surrounded by her friends.

Many hooves, wings, and other appendages wrapped about the undead pony, squeezing her tightly. For once, Sunset was quite happy that she wasn't strictly speaking alive because she certainly wouldn't be capable of breathing at that moment. Not with nearly everyone in the room minus Chrysalis, Cadance, and Spike hugging her while also sobbing.

“Oh my gosh, I’m so sorry!” wailed Pinkie Pie. “You had it so hard!”

“I knew it was bad, but I didn't know it was that bad,” Rarity murmured, tears running down her face.

“It's like hearing about a train crash and actually seeing it,” Rainbow Dash added.

“Are you saying my life is a trainwreck?” Sunset replied, gently pushing Fluttershy away and allowing herself to see the rest of the room.

“Well, it certainly went off the rails there,” Pinkie Pie remarked.

“Heh, good one, Pinks,” Applejack added, sniffing and wiping a tear from her eye.

“You were very strong,” Fluttershy whispered. “I don't know if anyone could have survived what you went through.”

“It was impressive, in a way,” Twilight admitted.

“I don't know if that's the word I would use, but thank you anyway, Twilight,” Sunset replied.

“You’re welcome,” Twilight stated.

“So…” Spike began. “I assume everything went well?”

The various creatures all extracted themselves from Sunset and satback in their original spots. All save for Fluttershy whose eyes still watered, and her hooves still wrapped firmly about the skeleton’s neck. The ethereal pony didn't seem ready to move, and no one attempted to make her do so, not even Sunset Shimmer herself.

“That is one way of putting it,” Twilight answered, glancing expectantly at Sunset. “Though perhaps I am not the one to divulge what happened.”

Sunset winced as much as a skeleton devoid of facial muscles could and rubbed the back of her neck awkwardly. “I was healed… sort of. The wounds of my past remain, but I feel like they’ve finally scarred over so to speak.”

“That is wonderful to hear, Sunset,” Cadance whispered, a hoof held tight over her heart. “I can sense that you love a little more freely and that you don't harbor quite as much ill will towards yourself.”

Sunset Shimmer rotated her shoulders in a slightly uncomfortable manner. “I suppose that I did harbor unpleasant emotions.”

“But why?” wailed Fluttershy out of the blue. “You were the victim. You did nothing wrong, you sweet sweet little cinnamon roll.”

Rainbow Dash frowned. “Why do I feel weirdly jealous all of a sudden?”

Fluttershy peppered the top of Sunset’s skull in kisses while cooing quietly about how good of a job the skeleton had done. Unfortunately for the dryad, Sunset couldn't take such attention and soon waved her hooves over her head.

“Thank you, Fluttershy. That's quite enough now,” Sunset exclaimed.

“I just wanted you to know that you’re loved and that you’re not alone,” Fluttershy declared with a pout.

“I know that now, trust me,” Sunset replied, meeting the other female’s intense gaze with one of her own.

“Oh, alright, but we are doing something nice for you once this fight is over,” Fluttershy exclaimed.

Pinkie Pie’s ears popped up. “Party?”

“Let us speak of such things after we are not about to be attacked by a whole horde of sunsworn soldiers,” Chrysalis began. “And after you have healed my heart.”

“I thought it was Cadance’s heart that was in trouble,” Rainbow Dash remarked.

“She has my heart, err, is my heart.” Chrysalis frowned. “I am afraid I am not the wordsmith that Cadance is.”

The alicorn chuckled. “I think they know what you mean, love.”

Twilight was about to respond when all of a sudden a shadowy pony made of nothing but darkness formed in the center of the room. Midnight Moon stumbled briefly before falling soundlessly into Twilight's shadow.

“Hey, uh, are you okay?” Applejack asked, leaning down and whispering at the ground near Twilight's hooves.

Midnight Moon’s head reformed up out of the darkness, though her hair lacked its usual ethereal quality. “Helping to piece together all of those dreams and controlling that last one along with Twilight took a lot of me,” explained the dark apparition. “Why must you all have such strong wills?”

“We wouldn't be able to do half the cool stuff if we weren't as willfull,” Rainbow Dash declared.

“Yes, yes, you are all quite awesome and other adjectives that mean good. Now can we get on with the important thing?” Chrysalis demanded, gesturing to Cadance. “Like saving the only other living alicorn in the world?”

“I do not mean to be a bother, but it is getting quite close now,” Cadance muttered through gritted teeth.

“Oh, I’m so sorry. What do we have to do?” Rarity asked.

Sunset stood up, her commanding aura immediately making all eyes turn to her. “Downstairs. I have a primitive operating room already set up. Chrysalis can get the patient situated while you all do whatever magical word thing you need to in order to power me up.”

Chrysalis nodded. “Are you okay to walk a little further?”

Cadance winced and shook her head. “I’m afraid not. I barely have the strength to keep breathing.”

“Don't worry,” Chrysalis whispered, leaning down low. “I’ll carry you.”

Then, before a word could be uttered, the changeling gently lifted Cadance from the bed and trotted away. Though she walked only on her back hooves, the ruler of the changelings seemed completely comfortable with the odd position. With Cadance held in front of her, Chrysalis trotted towards the back of the library and down the stairs, vanishing around the corner.

Fluttershy sniffed, tears budding at the edge of her eyes.

Rainbow Dash rolled her eyes. “What now?”

“They just love each other so much,” whispered the dryad.

“Right,” Sunset interrupted, clopping her hooves together. “You better do whatever it is you need to do? Because unless you give my mana stores a boost, I doubt I’ll be able to pierce an alicorn’s natural resistance.”

“Should I, uh… stand over there?” Spike asked, gesturing towards a nearby corner.

“You should be fine,” Twilight replied. “I feel like we need to stand in a circle, with Sunset in the middle.”

“Sounds good,” Applejack replied.

In moments, the six friends had formed around Sunset, pushing the couches and tables out of the way in the process. It wasn't long before they were evenly spaced around the now slightly nervous-looking skeleton. Though unsure of what exactly was going to happen, Sunset Shimmer did her best to stand tall and appear confident.

“Ready, girls?” Twilight asked.

“Ready!” came the resounding response from the others.

“Then let's do this!” Twilight proclaimed.

Almost immediately, the six friends each began to glow with a light that was close to the shade of their coat. Though faint at first, the illumination grew, becoming so bright that Midnight Moon was forced to hide behind Spike. The brightness didn't seem to bother either Sunset nor any of the creatures that surrounded her in a circle.

With a strange warmth blooming within their chests, the six females began to feel as though they were growing lighter. They started to rise from the ground, light spilling from their eyes as a hum could be heard in the distance. This too became more and more noticeable, going from a simple vibration to what sounded almost like music.

No one had time to contemplate this bout of strangeness, however, as a strange urge passed between the casters. They all exchanged a look, an unspoken agreement passing through them without any having to so much as a nod. They simply knew that the others were ready and that whatever magic that had been building was nearing completion.

All they needed was to speak it into being, to give form to the formless, and gift Sunset with power beyond her imagination. It was a simple thing to utter the word, yet none of the six friends could do so as easily as one may speak their names. It took effort and willpower to bring it forth, though none present were lacking in either department.

They wanted desperately with all their hearts to heal Cadance, their resolve having been crystallized by what they had seen. After all their hardships, the pair of mistreated mares deserved the type of happiness that only health could bring. So with that thought in mind, the six friends all opened their mouths, breathed deep, and willed reality to change.

From Sunset’s perspective, it was all quite strange, with her friends all levitating a foot or so off the ground. Light poured out of their eyes and from their skin, bathing everything in a multi-hued rainbow glow. Then came the music, distant and ethereal at first but then loud and real, coming from all directions and stirring her soul.

She knew not the melody or the instruments that made up the song, yet it was the most beautiful thing she had ever heard. It stirred within her a strength she didn't know she had, one which only became more powerful when the music gained lyrics. They weren't words that she could understand using her ears, but her heart told her that they spoke encouragement.

It lifted her, both physically and metaphorically, filling her bones and spirit with a power so great she felt as though she could shatter mountains. With that rush came a sudden temptation to turn such strength against the demons of her past, against Celestia. Sunset wanted to gain back her body, to take revenge, to undo all the wrongs ever done against her, yet she refused.

Though the possibilities were enticing, she had a singular job laid before her, and a pony who needed her. Cadance had been hurt by Celestia, injured by the alicorn’s mad quest for ultimate order in the world. So Sunset would have her revenge not with violence, but by healing someone worthy.

The light began to dull, her friends’ vibrant coats and glowing eyes faded, their light flowing into Sunset. The rainbow drained from them and took root in Sunset’s soul, its magic coursing through the skeleton’s very being. The second the remaining light seeped into her bones, the energy shifted, becoming something different.

Her hooves touched the ground a moment later, just as her friends were returning to normal. Unlike Sunset, they looked exhausted, with their expressions drawn and their limbs shaking from the exertion.

“Are you girls alright?” Sunset inquired.

“We’re fine,” Twilight murmured. “That just took a lot out of us, I think.”

“Yeah, we’re… woah, Sunset. You’re like a ghost,” Pinkie Pie remarked.

Sunset Shimmer blinked and glanced over to a mirror on the wall next to the entrance. There she saw that her old body had returned, or at least partially so, as her bones were still visible beneath. Yet despite that, Sunset could see there was an illusionary overlay of her old self that moved exactly as her old flesh had.

Though intrigued, Sunset Shimmer brushed aside that bit of strangeness for the moment.

“I can worry about that later. I have a patient in need,” Sunset Shimmer declared.

The skeletal mare immediately trotted towards the basement and all but leaped down the stairs. Leaving the rest of her friends to scamper after her in a mad dash, with Midnight Moon and Spike following behind. Together the group piled into the basement just in time to see Sunset Shimmer walk into one of the larger side rooms.

There she had indeed constructed a small operating space, one complete with the most up-to-date equipment available. Though not nearly as advanced as those she was used to working with in Canterlot, it was enough for her needs. After a round of tests and a few calibrations, Sunset Shimmer appeared ready to start, turning expectantly to Chrysalis.

“I will need absolute privacy,” Sunset stated.

Chrysalis seemed ready to argue, but Cadance’s hoof reached out from the metal table and brushed the changeling’s side. The couple’s eyes then met, and the pair had what appeared to be a completely silent discussion. One which ended mere moments later with Chrysalis sighing and shaking her head.

“If I must,” she muttered.

“I would not ask if it was not required,” Sunset declared. “This operation will be incredibly dangerous, and so much as a single errant cough could end in disaster.”

“I understand,” Chrysalis murmured, turning to Cadance. “I will see you again soon, my love.”

“And I, you,” Cadance replied in a hoarse, strained tone.

“That being said, I will need an assistant. Midnight, if you could,” Sunset exclaimed, turning to the shadowy mare.

“Me?” murmured the shocked creature. “But why?”

“You are semi-corporeal and will be able to tell me if things are going well,” Sunset Shimmer explained. “You also don't breathe, nor does your movement make noise, so there is far less of a chance of me being thrown off.”

Midnight nodded. “Then it will be my honor to help in whatever way I can.”

“Good,” Sunset Shimmer stated, turning back around. “The rest of you must remain out here. I don't know how long it will take, but I cannot have any interruptions. Is that understood?”

“You got it, boss lady!” Rainbow Dash shouted, snapping off a salute.

“Good. Now then,” Sunset Shimmer began. “Let us begin.”

The door to the small room slammed shut before disappearing completely, the tree itself lending a helping hand. And though all present knew just how important the operation was, that didn't stop a feeling of discontent passing between them. Though its source was mainly Chrysalis who immediately collapsed to the ground, her legs having turned to jello.

“Oh, stars above. I don't know if I can do this,” she muttered.

“What are you talking about? All you have to do is sit out here,” Rainbow Dash retorted.

Only to get her shoulder punched by Fluttershy, causing the thestral to wince.

“Try and be a little empathetic, will you?” hissed the dryad.

“I’m trying. I just figured that a little teasing would help take her mind off stuff,” Rainbow Dash explained.

Chrysalis snorted. “Nothing could ever take my mind off Cadance. Not the heavens falling upon us or Tartarus itself rising from the ground.”

“Hey, that was pretty good. And you said you weren't good with words,” Applejack declared.

“Even a broken clock is right twice a day,” Chrysalis muttered, her gaze never leaving the spot where the door had stood only a few moments earlier.

Twilight opened her mouth to say something, but resisted, unsure of what she could offer. Pinkie Pie, however, had no such qualms and after a brief moment of consideration walked up to Chrysalis. The troll then plopped down next to the changeling and glanced over at the despondent queen.

“Isn't it a bit egotistical for you to date Cadance?” Pinkie Pie asked. “I mean, in a way you are both the same person, so it's kinda narcissistic, don't you think?”

Everyone present was stunned to silence, save for Chrysalis, who immediately leaped back up and glared at the troll.

“It is not egotistical!” she shouted. “Both the mushroom and the flower are born from the same dirt, but they could not be further from each other.”

“Are they though?” Pinkie Pie questioned. “They both bloom kinda, some even look alike.”

Chrysalis groaned. “That's not what I meant.”

“Then what did you mean?” Pinkie Pie pressed.

“I meant to say that-” Chrysalis began, explaining her point in laborious and exasperating detail, as well as with a fair few insults thrown in for good measure.

Twilight remained silent and merely watched, at least for a few seconds, then she stood up. “I should probably do something,” she muttered half-heartedly.

“Actually, I think Pinkie Pie has it all under control,” Applejack stated.

Twilight raised an eyebrow. “Do you really think so?”

“Well, she's not moping anymore,” Spike offered.

“I think it's safe to assume that Pinkie Pie knows what she's doing,” Rarity added.

“-but isn't bumping uglies with her almost incestuous?” Pinkie Pie exclaimed. “You came from her, after all, so I feel like there is some kinda weird mother-daughter thing going on.”

Chrysalis’s eyeballs bulged with rage. “I’m so angry I can't even find the words necessary to tell you how wrong you are!”

Pinkie Pie didn't seem concerned by Chrysalis’ outburst and merely rubbed her chin. “Or would that be more masturbatory than incestuous?”

“I-” Chrysalis huffed. “I am not having this conversation with you.”

“Why not? Is it too adult for you?” Pinkie Pie prodded.

“It is not! I simply refuse to entertain such nonsense!” Chrysalis loudly proclaimed.

“Yeah, I think she's got this one,” Rainbow Dash remarked.

“It seems so,” Twilight admitted. “At least she's not sad anymore. That was an… uncomfortable sight. I must admit.”

“She wears anger like an old hat,” commented Rarity.

“That's one way of putting it,” agreed Spike.

“So… what now?” Rainbow Dash asked.

“I was thinking we could get a board game going. Maybe snacks,” Twilight answered.

“Oooh, I can do that,” Spike offered.

“This seems a bit too serious for games,” Fluttershy murmured.

“Maybe just some cards?” Rainbow Dash inquired.

“I wouldn't mind something to drink. Maybe get some rummy going in the meantime. It would be nice to keep my mind off things,” Applejack remarked.

“That sounds delightful. I would greatly appreciate a fly patte served with some rice crackers,” Rarity offered.

“Alright, anyone else?” Spike asked.

“Ha, I win again,” Rainbow Dash declared, laying down her hand. “Three fours and a run of jack, queen, king.”

“Augh,” Applejack groaned, throwing her large mittful of barely connected cards into the pile. “Why the heck did we let Fluttershy sit in front of you in the turn order.”

“It seems a bit like cheating if she's helping you,” Rarity added before munching on a bug-covered cracker.

“I wasn't helping, honest!” Fluttershy exclaimed. “I just can't seem to help giving her the right cards.”

“Yeah, I didn't even show Fluttershy my hand or anything. Y'all just stink at rummy,” Rainbow Dash retorted.

Twilight sighed. “So where does that leave us? Rainbow Dash with four wins, everyone else at one?”

“I actually haven't won a single round,” Fluttershy offered, hoof raised in the air.

“Maybe one more then?” Spike offered, riffle shuffling the cards between his clawed hands.

A sudden groan made the players turn away from their game and glance over at Pinkie Pie. Who was ostensibly being choked out by a rather brutal headlock, though she didn't appear to be in any discomfort. Rather Chrysalis seemed to be cuddling the rocky troll while also making it look like she was attempting to harm the pink creature.

“I just want her to be okay,” Chrysalis muttered. “She's so innocent and pure. If I could give my life for hers, I would do so in a heartbeat.”

“I’m sure Sunset Shimmer can do it,” Pinkie Pie muttered, wincing briefly. “She was an expert, and she's got enough power in her to do it now.”

“I guess,” Chrysalis replied.

The changeling queen collapsed into a heap, lying next to Pinkie Pie and staring up at the ceiling.

“Can someone bring me something with alcohol in it?” Chrysalis asked.

“I don't think that's a good idea, darling,” Rarity replied.

“I’m not asking for a whole bottle. Just like a cup of wine,” Chrysalis shot back, glancing at the arachne out of the corner of her eye. “To take the edge off.”

“We could do that,” Spike reasoned, the dragon, in turn, looking to Twilight.

Who nodded. “I don't see why not.”

“Right. I think there were a few bottles of red hidden in the floorboards of my Twilight's old room,” Spike said.

The dragon passed the playing cards over to Rarity and hopped to his feet, then jogged towards the stairs. He didn't make it far, however, as a shimmer caught his eye and prompted him to stop in order to inspect it closer. What he and everyone else in the room saw was the triumphant return of the makeshift surgery room Sunset had established.

A moment after it appeared, the door opened and out trotted a haggard, but hopeful Sunset Shimmer. Her ethereal, illusionary form had remained, though her expression had darkened somewhat since then. Lines of worry ran deep, yet despite all that she wore a small smile that spread wider still after she laid eyes on Chrysalis.

“She’ll make a full recovery,” Sunset Shimmer declared.

In an instant, Chrysalis was back on her hooves, the changeling having leaped from the ground and twisted around in mid-air.

“Where is…” Chrysalis’ words died on her tongue the second Sunset Shimmer stepped outside and made space for a narrow bed to be wheeled into the room.

Slowly, the wheels of the aged metal bed turned, pushed on by the diligent hooves of a withered Midnight Moon. Only half her usual height and a pale grey rather than pitch black, the shadowy pony had lost some of her consistency. Yet it was the alicorn borne upon the bed that bore the worst of it, with her eyes now resembling deep pits ringed with black.

The dark circles bellied exhaustion and a lingering pain yet also immense, nearly all-consuming joy. Just looking upon them made Chrysalis want to jump for joy and cry tears of unending anguish. This feeling was made worse by the mare’s bloodstained fur, sunken features, and the small but very obvious scar over her heart.

“Are- are you okay?” Chrysalis whispered, the changeling gliding effortlessly to the alicorn’s side.

“I’m better than I’ve been in a very long time,” Cadance whispered hoarsely.

“Good, because you look like crap,” Chrysalis deadpanned.

Cadance giggled, though the sound came out more like pained wheezing. “I hope I’m not too ugly for you now.”

“I would love you even if you looked like the ugliest rat in Canterlot,” Chrysalis replied.

“So, you’d love me even if I looked like Celestia then?” Cadance shot back.

Chrysalis frowned and hummed to herself. “It would be a struggle, but I think I would.”

“You goober, c'mere,” Cadance whispered.

Rarity sniffed and wiped a tear from the corner of her eye. “That was the most romantic and slightly confusing thing I’ve ever witnessed.”

“That's about as sweet as fresh-squeezed apple juice,” Applejack remarked, removing her hat and placing it over her heart.

Fluttershy leaned heavily on the thestral’s side and smiled. “Do you think we’ll still be like that when we're older?”

“No way. I’m going to be way sappier,” Rainbow Dash declared. “Like an apple that's been out too long, I’m gonna be downright mushy.”

Fluttershy giggled.

Spike smirked. “If you told me Cadance would settle down and find love with only a single person, I probably would have laughed at you. I guess some things can change.”

“I guess they… can?” Twilight muttered, her eyes widening.

The group watched as Chrysalis leaned down to plant a kiss on the prone alicorn’s lips. Though that was not what grabbed everyone so firmly. Rather it was the faint prismatic glow that came from the alicorn’s midsection.

“Is she pregnant?” Rainbow Dash whispered.

Sunset Shimmer shook her head. “No. I made sure to check, just in case.”

“Then what's going on?” Twilight asked.

“I’m not sure,” Sunset Shimmer admitted. “I expended every last bit of power I had remaining once the procedure was complete. Perhaps the lingering energy is doing something.”

“I think we're going to find out what real soon,” Applejack whispered.

Everyone watched as the two females kissed, their actions seemingly causing the energy to glow brighter. Once more, everyone found themselves overwhelmed by the light, even those who were undead had to look away. When they looked back, they found that both Chrysalis and Cadance were shimmering faintly, though it was rapidly fading.

In the wake of the rainbow glow leaving them, their scars had shrunk, their old unhealed injuries becoming far less noticeable. Cadance was the greater recipient of this surge, as a small layer of crystal had formed over her broken horn. Her eyes had returned to their ancient splendor, and even her missing forehoof was beginning to grow back. There were other notable changes, though they were smaller, such as her fur regaining its color, though they were mostly ignored.

Unlike the ebony cocoon which had appeared around Chrysalis’ own horn, completely obscuring the stump. Old scars shrunk, her eyes regained a bit of their luster, and several of the holes in her legs had either grown smaller or vanished entirely. Not only that, but both appeared younger, the marks of time having diminished until most were unnoticeable.

“Wow, you are really hot,” Chrysalis muttered.

“You ain't so bad-looking yourself,” Cadance replied, only to gasp and clutch her throat. “My voice.”

“It's as amazing as you,” Chrysalis replied.

“I never thought it would come back. And my horn…” Cadance went cross-eyed as she looked up at the long bony appendage. “I think it's regrowing.”

“That shouldn't be possible, but it's happening to me as well,” Chrysalis added.

Sunset Shimmer quickly interposed herself between the two of them, her horn glowing brightly. A scanning spell was used, first on Cadance, then on Chrysalis, only to be followed up by more complicated magic. At the end of which Sunset Shimmer stood there, her jaw opening and closing without any words spilling forth.

“I’m assuming it's good,” Chrysalis offered.

“Good? This is amazing,” Sunset Shimmer muttered. “I know that there was a bit of residual harmony magic left, but I would have never thought there was enough to do all that.”

“It seems like they are gaining back just about everything the sun tyrant took,” Applejack added.

Rarity hummed. “Most scars remain, but I’m certain a bit of foundation could cover most of those up.”

“Though I doubt Chrysalis would take you up on such an offer, I am intrigued,” Cadance admitted.

“Who cares about such frilly nonsense?” Chrysalis declared. “I’m finally going to be able to disguise myself. I never even got the chance to learn before my horn was removed by that wretch.”

“Oh, this is wonderful. I can already feel my strength returning,” Cadance exclaimed.

The mare attempted to sit up in bed, only for Sunset to gently, yet firmly push her back down.

“I know you’re feeling quite strong right now, but I insist on keeping you overnight for observation,” Sunset Shimmer declared.

“I suppose that's wise,” Chrysalis murmured.

“Err, yes. Sorry,” Cadance murmured.

“Just remain still for a few hours. By then the magic will have dissipated, and I’ll be able to perform a proper scan. If it comes back more or less clean at that point, you can walk around, but you’ll remain here,” Sunset stated.

Cadance giggled. “Yes, doctor.”

“You know, I never actually did get my doctorate,” Sunset Shimmer murmured, tapping her chin. “Perhaps once things settle down, I can attend whatever higher learning you have out here.”

“Wait, you're not even a real doctor?” Chrysalis gaped.

“Well, I certainly have enough experience, and I taught more than a few. My degrees merely lay in adjacent fields such as medical research, advanced magical healing, and the like,” Sunset explained.

“That makes me feel a little better,” Chrysalis muttered.

“Her bedside manner was excellent, and Midnight was a capable assistant,” Cadance declared.

“That's nice to hear,” Midnight remarked. “I certainly didn't feel very useful.”

“Nonsense. Luna had some experience as a field medic, and I feel that's one part of her you received in spades,” Cadance declared.

Midnight Moon nodded slowly, staring off, her mind deep in thought.

“So,” Applejack exclaimed, clopping her hooves together. “What now?”

“These two, along with Spike and I will remain here,” Twilight offered. “The rest of you should consider settling any affairs you may have.”

“Oh, that's right. We have quite the fight ahead of us,” Rarity muttered, shivering slightly. “I had almost forgotten.”

“How could you forget? We’ve been getting briefings on the fight every day. Heck, some people I know have been counting down the hours,” Rainbow Dash exclaimed.

“I would rather forget, I suppose,” Rarity admitted.

“Well, I’m headin’ back to the farm,” Applejack proclaimed. “Though after I see off Granny and Apple Bloom, it's going to be a might bit empty.”

“You could join us for dinner,” Spike offered. “I have more than enough food saved up.”

“That sounds like a wonderful idea. Perhaps that is what we should all do?” Rarity offered. “I know I would enjoy a bit of company after I say my farewell to Sweetie Belle.”

“Does that mean you finally convinced her to go?” Pinkie Pie inquired.

“It took raising her allowance, but she is going to leave with the others. Just to be safe,” Rarity answered.

Spike cursed. “Darn. I guess I won't see her for a bit then.”

“If we win, you’ll see her in only two days,” Rarity offered.

“And if we don't, you’ll have to wait for her in the afterlife,” Rainbow Dash added.

Only to receive an elbow from Fluttershy. “Don't be so uncouth.”

“What? It's true,” Rainbow Dash replied.

“That doesn't mean you should say it,” Fluttershy whispered.

“Well, I for one am in,” Pinkie Pie proclaimed. “Zecora wanted to talk about some stuff but after that, I’m totally free until judgment day tomorrow.”

“Can we please not call it judgment day?” Spike exclaimed. “That sounds so grim, and… I feel like it should include giant explosions or something.”

“Alright, how about D day?” Pinkie Pie shot back.

“What does the D stand for?” asked Applejack.

“Day, of course,” Pinkie Pie answered.

“I shouldn't have asked,” murmured the farmer.

“Well, Rainbow Dash and I are interested in coming for dinner. Aren't we, dear?” Fluttershy asked.

“Oh yeah, definitely. Just gotta send a letter and see how a few of my buddies in the guard are doin’,” Rainbow Dash declared with a shrug.

“And I just need to make sure my animals are secure,” Fluttershy added.

“Then it's settled,” Spike exclaimed. “Leave your food requests with me, and we will get cookin’.”

“Wait, we?” Twilight asked.

“Well, yeah. I sure ain't going to ask those two or Sunset,” Spike declared, gesturing to Cadance and Chrysalis. “They are going to be too busy getting all lovey-dovey while Sunset is standing there awkwardly.”

“Yeah, that sounds about right,” Chrysalis remarked before smooching Cadance on the cheek, causing the alicorn to giggle.

“Chrysalis, stop, there are people here,” Cadance fake whined.

“Let them watch. Their envy is delicious,” Chrysalis declared.

“Anyway,” Sunset purposefully interrupted, “maybe you could ask what Beaker and Sharp Eye are up to? I’m sure they would like to join us as well.”

“Ooh, maybe you could even teach Sharp Eye that spooky outline trick,” Pinkie Pie proclaimed.

Sunset Shimmer blinked and looked down at herself. “That wouldn't be a half-bad idea. She is a unicorn, and it would be nice to see what she looked like before she, well… passed.”

“She was rather pretty, but previous me didn't exactly look,” Twilight added.

“Then it's settled!” Pinkie Pie shouted. “One totally not a party coming up!”

With that, the troll vanished in a puff of pink smoke, leaving everyone else to stand there awkwardly.

“Uh, alright then. See you, girls, in a little bit, I suppose,” Applejack murmured.

“Err, yeah. Come on, Fluttershy, we can walk together until we reach the edge of town,” Rainbow Dash encouraged.

“Okay. See you soon. I hope you’ll feel better, Cadance,” Fluttershy offered.

“I’m certain I will,” Cadance replied.

“My well wishes are with you as well,” Rarity added, the arachne skittering away and stopping near Spike. “That was a wonderful idea, Spike.”

“T-thanks,” Spike murmured.

“I guess we should start cooking then,” Twilight muttered. “Not sure how much help I’ll be.”

“Don't worry. I remember Luna cooking all the time,” Midnight Moon declared.

Cadance slumped into the bed, her gaze turning skyward as her body fell slack. “I can't believe we really put all that behind us. I admit there were times that I thought I’d never be healed.”

Chrysalis snorted. “So long as there was a way, I would have never stopped looking.”

“I know,” Cadance replied with a soft smile. “But it was hard to imagine a world where we actually figured out a way to get that nail out of me before it was too late.”

“The timing could not have been closer,” Sunset Shimmer exclaimed, the unicorn cleaning a set of scalpels with her magic. “If we had been even a few days longer, I doubt there would be anything we could have done, harmony magic or not.”

Chrysalis turned to the undead and fixed her with a firm look. “You have no idea how happy I am that Cadance is okay. If there is anything I can ever do to repay you, you have but to name it.”

Sunset winced, her illusionary avatar shimmering briefly. “You really don't have to. It was the right thing to do.”

“Just let her have this,” Cadance warned, a hoof brushing Sunset’s shoulder. “She won't take no for an answer, trust me.”

“If you say so. Though it may be a long time,” Sunset replied.

Chrysalis snorted. “Unless that wretch in Canterlot has her way, we will have nothing but time.”

“I suppose,” Sunset admitted, glancing down at herself.

Cadance cleared her throat. “What exactly did you plan on doing with the nail?”

Sunset glanced over to the unassuming hunk of black metal lying on a nearby plate, its surface still covered in coagulated blood.

“I don't know,” Sunset answered. “I know that there are some who may wish to turn it into a weapon or use it again, but I would rather it be destroyed. The way it meddles with magic, the pain it inflicts, and the incredible difficulty of removal make it a truly barbarous thing.”

“As much as I want to use it against Celestia when the time comes, I can't help but agree with you,” Chrysalis agreed. “I would not wish to see anyone explore its capabilities.”

“Hide it then,” Cadance offered. “Place it somewhere no one will find it, and should the need arise, we may use it against our foes but only after deliberating carefully.”

“I would have thought you would want it destroyed,” Sunset offered.

“I want nothing more than to see that horrid thing wiped from existence, but we cannot avoid the fact that it could prove useful in the future,” Cadance exclaimed.

Chrysalis grunted. “Regardless, that's a discussion for another time.”

“I would very much like a bit of privacy,” Chrysalis added.

“Of course,” Sunset quickly said. “But only if you promise to not leave that bed and accept to have a monitoring spell placed on you.”

“I accept,” Cadance replied.

“I assume you are keeping track of heart rate and such things?” Chrysalis inquired.

Sunset nodded, her horn glowing brightly as she began to cast her spell. “Blood pressure, heart rate, and a few other key things that we will have to keep a close eye on for a while. It shouldn't be for long, given that your alicorn regeneration is no longer stymied by that dreadful thing.”

“I trust you, Sunset,” Cadance exclaimed.

Sunset Shimmer smiled. “Thank you, Cadance.”

With a flash, the magic was completed, and for a moment several rotating discs could be seen hovering over the alicorn’s torso. They shimmered briefly before vanishing, the numbers visible within them lingering for a moment longer. Sunset then lit her horn and cast a much shorter spell, one which once complete recalled those same circles above the unicorn’s raised hoof.

“You are looking good, though your salt levels could be better,” Sunset Shimmer muttered.

“I’ll make sure she eats well,” Chrysalis declared.

“The last time you forced me until I nearly exploded,” Cadance complained.

“I did no such thing. I merely employed my patented puppy eyes attack,” Chrysalis retorted.

Cadance shook her head before glancing down at Sunset. “Thank you again, Sunset. I look forward to seeing you for dinner.”

“Right. I should probably go locate Beaker and Sharp Eye,” Sunset murmured.

“Is that… trepidation and desire I taste?” Chrysalis asked.

Sunset Shimmer stopped mid-trot. “I, uh… I didn't think you could detect the emotions of the undead?”

“You lot are quite subdued, so most changelings will find the task impossible, but I am not most changelings,” Chrysalis replied, leaning in close. “And you have not answered my question.”

Sunset Shimmer mimicked the action of sighing. “I suppose I am feeling a bit of trepidation. Sharp Eye has been nothing but kind, and I don't want to ruin that.”

Cadance chuckled. “I wouldn't worry about that.”

“Why do you say that?” Sunset Shimmer inquired.

“For one, she wants you, and secondly, friendship is hardier than you give it credit,” Chrysalis answered.

“There have been times where even Chrysalis and I have required a break,” Cadance added.

“Really?” Sunset Shimmer murmured, jaw hanging low. “I just assumed…”

“That we were the perfect couple? Well, you wouldn't be wrong,” Chrysalis exclaimed. “But a relationship can shift into something different as time goes on.”

“Don't get me wrong, we’ll always be together, but those feelings can change,” Chrysalis explained, leaning on the bed. “It could be a lengthy mission where we needed to be apart for a while, or a mutual desire to bring another into our little circle.”

“So long as you are honest and forthcoming, no harm will come,” Cadance exclaimed.

Sunset Shimmer glanced from Cadance’s wide, reassuring smile to Chrysalis's slightly cocky grin. For a moment the unicorn merely stood there, contemplating things before firmly shaking her head.

“Thank you both. I think,” Sunset Shimmer muttered.

“Good, now out with you. I need to be ridiculously mushy, and I can't have any witnesses,” Chrysalis declared, gently yet firmly pushing Sunset Shimmer towards the stairs.

“I’m going, I’m going,” Sunset Shimmer replied, diverting towards the teleport door.

“I would wish you good luck, but you won't need it!” Cadance called, her freshly healed voice cracking briefly.

“Thank you, Ca-” was all Sunset Shimmer could get in edgewise before she was all but shoved through the exit by an impatient Chrysalis.

The changeling then leaped upon the hospital bed, her forehooves landing on either side of Cadance’s head.

“Now then,” Chrysalis began in a low, almost menacing tone. “Where were we?”

“I think you were going to be embarrassingly mushy,” Cadance replied, her hoof caressing the underside of the changeling’s chin.

“I’ve changed my mind. I don't need to say anything, as actions speak louder than words. Wouldn't you agree?” Chrysalis asked before nipping at the alicorn’s ear.

Cadance shuddered. “Mmm, I’m listening.”

If you want to read the next updates for my biggest stories at the begining of the month rather at the end, or want to get a commission from me as well as access to patreon exclusive content, and the chance to submit story requests every month, head over to my patreon!

Join me over on patreon and get instant access to exclusive content and early looks at new stories, patreon only stories and other great stuff! Check it out!
Or just join the discord to ensure that you dont miss an update.

This update was made possible by the wonderful support of readers like you: Ech, Tailsic, Chrisb32, Nightwing, Tonoz, CoreyPeters, Thane, Renegade, Sunset Flash, Kyokimute, Monsterkittie, Louts Petals, Tacocat, Tom, MestreJ, Aang Slyver, Canary in the Coal Mine, Ceepert, Starless, Vi Watch, Facinus, M, Nfreak, Venerable Ro, Blade Tech, Cryil Shadeclaw, John Gonzales, Nightwing, Peter Coulthard, Srgtartman, Thane Kull, Victor, Dale, Dragons' Sheppard, Egery007, Gear change the earth pony, Ivar, James, Kali, Lich Lord Krosis, Menthol Qtip, Midnight Serenade, Mop Hop, Nathan Brown, Octavia Lowbar, Pacsik, Soundtea, Hannibal, Fiamgoku, Grub, Matias Duran, and Steven.