“Twilight! Come on! We’re gonna be late!” I wiped the vomit from my mouth before stepping out of my bathroom. Morning sickness was the worst thing I had ever experienced. It was a bit weird to be experiencing these sorts of symptoms so early, but I ignored that. A lot of weird things have been happening lately. I took up the wide-brim black hat with magic and paused before putting it on. I turned towards the door, taking a deep breath before going through the door.

“I’m sorry Spike! I’m coming down now!” I moved down the stairs, careful not to trip on my black gown. It was just wrong to be wearing it. So wrong…

“I mean… Not that I want to go in the first place. But we do need to be on time… It’s just respectful to be on time, ya know?” It stung to hear Spike talking like that. He is too young to be talking like that. He’s too young for all of this. I always tried to shield him from all this, but I couldn’t shield him forever.

“Spike… You know you don’t have to come, right? This is… A lot to take in.” He nodded. He straightened his tie and jacket before looking up at me.

“Twi… I know what you’re thinking. But we both know I can’t skip a funeral. It’s part of growing up. And I’m getting older. I’m just a few years younger than you.” I turned away from him, looking at my hooves.

“I know you’re getting older Spike… But… You’re still like a baby brother to me. And you are a baby dragon. I just…” I returned my gaze to him. “I just wish you didn’t have to be exposed to this.” Spike furrowed his brow, looking annoyed now.

“Twilight. Seriously? What did you want for me? To grow up thinking the world is colorful and cheerful all the time? Just pretend that ponies don’t fight? That they don’t die? I would have had to go to a funeral eventually, Twi. I’d rather go to this one now than wait until yours.” I gasped, taken aback, but I put my head back down. He was right. I wasn’t going to keep arguing.

I headed for the door, and Spike hurried ahead, opening it for me. I nodded to him, half smiling. As I walked out of the library, I looked up at the morning sky. The clouds were nowhere to be seen, and Celestia’s light shone down across the entire town in brilliant shimmers. The bright blue sky seemed to radiate happiness just as much as Pinkie Pie. On any other day, this would have been the perfect day to do anything... Any other day I would have called this beautiful weather.

But today, it just made me want to vomit again.

As Spike and I walked down the streets, I realized something extremely odd for a town under martial law. It was deserted. The streets were empty, the forges were cold, and there was no noise other than the sound of the gentle breeze blowing through my ears. I would have expected there to be soldiers everywhere, but then I realized that the soldiers would be at the funeral.

“Oh no Spike… I think we’re late. No one is around.” Spike shrugged as I picked up the pace, placing the young dragon on my back.

“Maybe Red Storm gave everyone the day off from work. Anyone who didn’t want to come to a funeral at least.” I rolled my eyes.

“We’re at war, Spike. I really doubt Red Storm would skip an entire day, even for a friend of his.” I didn’t think that a great strategist like Red Storm would do something like that. We were barely keeping up with schedule as it was. To lose an entire day would be insane. We wouldn’t be able to prepare on time…

“Well, he did announce that anyone with family should spend time with them. I’m not too sure about the whole day… But still, I don’t think that Whitewash was ‘just a friend’. You and me… We’re friends. Whitewash was something else... More on Fluttershy’s level of intimacy, if you were to ask me.” Spike made a good point, but I cleared my head as we neared the cemetery.

I saw that there was a large crowd gathered around a raised platform. Red Storm along with the casket and several ponies stood on this platform, with Red Storm at a podium. I could see from here that Red Storm was wearing his golden armor, looking up at the blue sky. I could tell that joining Red Storm were Shining Armor, Princess Cadance, Cuddio, and Ditzy Doo. I could see that the casket was open, and inside was Whitewash.

There were at least several dozen ponies there in the crowd, most of whom were in armor. I assumed these to be royal guards. Interestingly enough, I saw no other creatures other than ponies excluding the lone changeling standing by the casket, Whitewash’s lover from the Crystal Empire. I quickly spotted Big Macintosh towards the front of the crowd, and with him my friends. I let Spike off my back and we headed for the crowd. Everything was silent as we moved down the center aisle to our spot. When we finally took our spot, I kissed Big Macintosh on the cheek and he quietly kissed my forehead before turning back to Red Storm, who hadn’t moved. I glanced around and noticed that all of my friends were further down the row, and I immediately sensed their pain.

Rarity was closest, and she was wearing a much more intricate but still somber dress and hat. She wore a veil over her eyes, but she held a handkerchief to her nose with a hoof. Next to her was Rainbow Dash. Rainbow Dash was wearing a suit, unlike the Rarity, along with a pair of shades to cover her eyes. Rainbow Dash seemed just as statue-like as Red Storm, but also unlike Rarity, I could clearly see twin lines of tears staining her cheeks. Applejack was next to her, also in a suit, but wearing her Stetson tilted low. One hoof was on Rainbow Dash’s shoulder, and she was gritting her teeth. Next in line was Pinkie Pie… or so I thought. If it was, it looked nothing like the party pony I knew. She was slouching with depression, and her black gown hung off her in a very eerie way. Her usually bright pink coat was dark; almost red, and her mane suffered a similar discoloration as well as a loss in its gravity-defying suspension. She appeared to be taking it the hardest. But last in line was Fluttershy. She wore a very simple black dress and hat, and she looked almost calm. But her eyes burned with a passion unlike her, rivaling the fury contained even in “The Stare,” if not utterly surpassing it.

I looked back up at Red Storm who was still looking at the sky. Then, his gaze slowly lowered back to the crowd. I watched as his gaze hovered for a moment on the seven of us before looking around the crowd. Then, finally, his gaze shifted to the platform, and he nodded to the others standing up there with him. They all nod back in unison as Red Storm returns his focus to the crowd. If he was feeling anything, he was hiding it extremely well. But as a soldier of his prestige, I’m not surprised. He has to hide his emotions on a daily basis.

“As you are already aware, this day is to commemorate a soldier. A soldier who, even in death, may be the most formidable, talented, and one of the greatest soldiers in history. I say this not to undermine the memory of the countless soldiers who have passed before her. I say this so that you may all know who she was, and what she is.” He paused, scanning the crowd again before continuing:

“Whitewash had stood by me since we were both mere foals. However, while I slept in comfort and ate well as a prince, she bore hardships that I could only imagine in order to meet and surpass me. She was a mere mortal, who through countless hours of misery and training, could stand amongst demigods in terms of not only might, but in spirit. She took her pain and misery and she turned it into a reason to live. While most would break under her circumstances, she lived as she died… With a smile upon her lips.” Red Storm turned towards those standing beside him.

“This mare, who against all odds had found a shred of victory within the abyss of inevitable defeat. In the battle of the Crystal Empire, innumerable lives were lost. I am not imposing their lives were worthless. Every name shall be remembered and echoed in the halls of heroes. But none the louder than that of Whitewash, the mare who stood alone against Famine and managed to not only send word of the defeat through Cuddio, but also secure the lives of Princess Mi Amore Cadenza and Prince Shining Armor in place of her own.” I noticed my brother and sister tense at the mention of their lost Empire, but it quickly passed. Even though they were still horribly wounded, they found the strength to attend the ceremony. I couldn’t help but feel insignificant compared to their resolve.

“Lastly, I would like to say that Whitewash was not only a soldier worthy of an epic… But she was also a friend. Perhaps you all did not know her, but I believe I speak for all who did know her that she will be sorely missed.” Red Storm paused again, looking down at his hooves before looking back up, determination in his eyes.

“If any of you are worth your salt, then you shall not allow her death to be in vain. There is a new opening available as the greatest soldier in the world, and I expect every one of you to step up to the plate. I know that she wouldn’t want you to waste your tears on her. She would want you to fight harder and drink deeper in her place, because she would hate for asses to go unkicked and beer to go undrank just because she is gone. That is all.” Red Storm fell silent before moving off the podium and off the platform. I saw Princess Luna move up to take his place, and she spoke loudly, but not in her Canterlot Voice.

“Thank you Red Storm. Whitewash was indeed a great soldier, and a greater friend. However, it is my duty now to give awards to commemorate the bravery and sacrifice of those on this stage.” She lifted a small box from behind the podium and opened it with her magic, floating out four large silver medals and one gold one.

“I present to Shining Armor, Princess Mi Amore Cadenza, Cuddio, and Ditzy Doo the Silver Moon medal, for exceptional bravery and for exceeding the expectations of the call of duty. All four of you have truly earned these, as you are indeed heroes.” As she stated this, she slowly lowered the medals over the necks of their recipients. She then turned towards the Casket and stated:

“And for actions of extraordinary valor, skill, and loyalty to the Province of Equestria, I present this Sun of Honor to Whitewash. May her spirit pierce the heavens, and may we all follow in her path.” With this, Luna lowered the medal over Whitewash’s body. As she stepped off the platform, I could see that past the platform, a large number of Griffons were assembling. They had antique muskets that had been outlawed in battle, but were still used in ceremonies like this. They stood in a line, numbering 17, plus two more out of the line. One looked like the commanding officer, and the other was blowing into a bugle, playing a sad tune.

They raised their rifles, and fired into the air; firing three volleys over the casket before lowering their rifles. The commanding griffon made a signal and they cleared out. Moments later, a squad of pegasi who I quickly recognized as the Wonderbolts approached in a low, flat flight. There were four of them, assembled in a V formation. There was one in front, flanked by two to their right, and one on their left. As they neared, the first Wonderbolt on the right broke formation, flying higher and higher as the rest continued straight forward. Eventually, they all flew out of sight, with the lone Wonderbolt disappearing into the blinding light of the sun. I looked back down to my friends, who were in similar states of despair as earlier. I looked to my right and looked at Spike. He seemed… Different. Something about how he held himself. I hoped I was just imagining it, but he looked a lot like one of the soldiers around us. I looked up again, and Red Storm was back at the podium.

“Now then. Now that we are done here… Would anyone like to pay their final respects before we lower the casket?” Silence. No one spoke up. I felt the need to say something, but I couldn’t find anything that hasn’t been said. Red Storm frowned.

“Very well.” He turned towards a small collection of guards to his right. “Stage Crew, please disassemble the platform and prepare for burial.”

Two hours later…

Red Storm was standing in front of the tombstone, exactly where he had been standing for the last hour. The funeral had been over for quite some time, and everyone had returned to their homes. Even Fluttershy was gone, preparing food for when Red Storm was ready to come home. Seeing as I had sent Spike home to do his chores, it seemed that only Red Storm and I were left in the cemetery. I slowly made my way to stand next to him by the grave. I tried my best not to disturb him, as he stood motionless with his helmet by his hooves, his eyes closed. He seemed to be mouthing something to himself, but I couldn’t make out any words. We stood in silence for several minutes before he spoke up, looking over to me with his piercing red eyes.

“Princess Luna was wrong you know. Those others… They aren’t heroes.” I was taken aback by this statement, but before I could respond he continued:

“The others. They are champions. Not heroes. The difference between a champion and a hero is that a champion lives to tell their tale of glory to the masses. A hero dies, and lets the masses tell their tale over their grave. Whitewash was a hero. Your brother… Cuddio… Ditzy… The Princess… They are champions. One must die to become a hero.” He turned away again to look at the grave. I bit my lip, unable to find any words. While he wasn’t exactly dictionary-correct, I could absolutely understand what he meant.

“I’m very sorry for your loss Red Storm. I think everyone in Ponyville was affected by this. Death doesn’t come often in Equestria. Especially not here. Ponyville has only ever had a hoofful of funerals. “But you really should go home. Fluttershy is waiting. And we still have a lot of planning to do.” Red Storm sighed. I leaned in closer to try and catch his gaze again.
“Are you going to be alright, Red Storm? No one likes seeing you like this.” Still no answer. “Are you alright, Red Storm?” He exhaled, and picked up his helmet.

“Yeah. I’m fine.” He slid his helmet over his head, turning his gaze up. “Except… It’s a terrible day for rain.” I looked up again, back at the beautiful sky above me. There was not a single cloud in sight.

“What do you mean? It’s not raining…” I looked back at him, his gaze still skyward. Except now, he had lines of tears running down his face.

“Yes… it is.” I held my breath. Neither of us moved or even breathed for what felt like minutes. I felt tears of my own starting to form in my eyes. Suddenly, his wings flew open, and he took off faster than I could react, headed for the mountains. I let my breath out, and took one final look at the headstone. It read:

I shook my head. I had forgotten that Whitewash faked her death before. Though I doubt she had faked this one. Still, it was apparent that Red Storm was quite conflicted on the matter. Our doctors were sure that this was Whitewash. But I’ve seen her magic before. Even I can’t come to a conclusion. For all I knew, she could be in Canterlot with a new name and identity, waiting once again for her time to re-immerge. But I pushed the thoughts from my mind. Big Mac was waiting for me at the library. As I turned to leave, I couldn’t help but wonder; if somepony like Whitewash couldn’t stem the tide, what chance do we have?

“Spike? Big Mac? I’m home!” As I walked inside the library, I quickly removed the hat, placing it on the rack beside the door. Spike and Big Macintosh were both sitting at the kitchen island chatting when I walked in, and both gave me a wave.

“What are you two talking about?” For the last couple of months since Big Mac started visiting, Spike usually avoided him and Big Mac did the same, likely out of awkwardness. This might have been the first time I saw them both talking so… casually.

“Well… We were talking about you, actually,” Spike said, scratching the spines on his head. I raised an eyebrow as Big Mac continued for him.

“We’ve been talking since the funeral, and we think it’d be best if you didn’t get involved in this fight. It’s no place for a pregnant mare such as yourself.” This comment took me aback.

“That’s really something coming from the father who’s going to be on the front lines!” The large red stallion sighed and put a hoof over his eyes. Spike sat up in his seat.

“Twilight, it’s unfair that you’d say that. Big Mac has a huge role right now. Red Storm himself has taken time out of his schedule to train him. Besides, you make it seem like he’s the only father who’s going to be fighting here. There are plenty of other soldiers with families. He’s doing his duty.” I recoiled at Spike’s new attitude. Quickly though, I felt my face flush red as I stomped down my hoof.

“I don’t care! This is absurd! Red Storm has plans for me too! You make it seem like I’m some sort of VIP because I’m pregnant! Besides, how could we use the Elements of Harmony without me?” Spike’s mouth hung open, trying to find words. The Elements were our best chance at leveling the playing field in this upcoming battle, a fact that had apparently escaped both Spike and Big Macintosh. Big Mac lifted his face again, and he wore an expression of conviction.

“Twilight, we know that you’re important. We aren’t telling you not to do your job. But you shouldn’t fight like this. Use the Elements, and then run. If the Elements don’t work, then run faster. That’s all I’m asking you to do. If I need to die for your safety, then so be it. But I’m not going to put you in any more danger than you’re going to have to be. My job as a father is to put your life and the life of my foal first.” Now it was my turn to be silent. I lowered my gaze to the floor, shuffling my forehooves. Big Mac was right, and all I could do was come to terms with the reality that anyone could die. But they would be dying in the defense of those who cannot defend themselves. I suppose that in that sense, it was noble. But I couldn’t shake the worry of Big Mac going to war. I looked back up at him, feeling choked up.

“Macintosh… Please… Promise me. Come back alive. I don’t want to lose you.” Big Mac stepped over and hugged me tightly, nodding. I kissed him on the cheek as Spike patted me on the shoulder.

“Come on Twi. I doubt Red Storm is going to let anything happen to us. He’s putting us first. I think he genuinely cares about the ponies around here, and I’m sure he’s doing everything he can to protect us.” I cracked a smile and put a hoof around Spike, pulling him closer.

“Thanks Spike… I hope so.” Suddenly, there was a knock at the door, disrupting our sappy moment. Spike padded over and pulled open the door, and standing there was Red Storm, in his armor with a package on his back. He was grinning widely.

“Speak of the devil and the devil will come, Twilight Sparkle.” I blushed. He had likely heard our conversation from down the street. Big Mac raised an eyebrow as Red Storm walked in, dropping the package on the floor with a hefty ‘thud’. It was a simple cardboard box with a lace string keeping it shut. There were red stains at the bottom, but I tried to pay those no mind.

“What’s in the box?” Spike asked, half inquisitively, half accusationally. Red Storm simply nodded towards Big Mac who stepped forward.

“This is something that your fiancé and I have been discussing; made to order with the finest magics that I could muster. Big Mac’s expression stayed the same as he stepped forward to open the box. Pulling off the string and folding away at the flaps, Big Mac grinned as widely as Red Storm.

“You like it, don’t you? I thought you would. It goes well with your eyes.” My curiosity got the better of me as I leaned in to examine the contents of the box. Inside, there were the disassembled but very distinct pieces of a suit of armor very similar to the armor that Red Storm wore. This armor was, however, red and less embroidered.

“Red Storm! What is this?” I cried out. Anything of Sanguinary make usually involved blood, something that I was not entirely comfortable with.

“This is armor that I had personally crafted for Big Mac. He will be facing Bloodthorn in one-on-one combat, and so he must be well equipped. Unlike most bloodsteel, I used a drop of my own blood to forge it. In doing so, the armor possesses great magic that will ensure your fiancés safety in the battle to come. I shall be making sets for Rainbow Dash, Applejack, and several others as well.” I frowned at this answer. Red Storm replied with another grin. “And don’t worry, this armor was made only with donated blood. I’m not a monster, you know.”

“Well thank you very much Red Storm. This… makes me feel a little bit better that the soldiers will be well equipped.” The pegasi was taken aback by this.

“But of course they will! Why do you think I’ve been having Rarity look for Blood Rubies and Soul Sapphires? I wish to keep casualties low. But, even with the help of the dragons and minotaurs, work is difficult. We may not be able to supply everyone with the best. But we’re trying our hardest. That armor there had taken me four days to make, and I am an expert of the craft… In fact, I could use some help.” He turned to Spike. “I told you long ago that I would teach you to smith. Are you still interested?” Spike began to nod furiously. I stepped forward.

“Hold on just one second, Red Storm. I don’t care if you’re a demigod or not, you will include me in Spike’s life decisions. I’m not comfortable with the idea of you teaching him how to make weapons, let alone teaching him blood magic.” Red Storm sighed.

“Twilight. I’m going to teach him how to make armor. Also, he couldn’t perform blood magic even if I wanted to teach him. Its… Complicated.” This answer didn’t appease me either. But I simmered down.

“Fine. I’ll allow it, but only because he’s so excited. I want him back before dinner, and no sugar!” Spike pouted slightly, but smiled again when Red Storm patted his head.

“Don’t worry. I don’t need him yet. We shall start tomorrow.” Red Storm’s grin turned into a frown. “I must finish grieving. Macintosh. Try on the armor tonight. It should fit fine, but bring it to me if it needs adjustments.” Big Mac answered with his signature “Eeyup” before Red Storm left and flew away. I sighed. All of this felt so overwhelming. Even Spike was getting involved in the war now. I just feel so… Powerless amongst it all.

“Twilight. Let’s have dinner. I’m sure you’re starving. After all, you’re eating for two now.” Big Mac snapped me out of my trance and I smiled at him. Perhaps I can allow myself some peace of mind for now. While I still can.

Author's Notes:

Bleh. I feel like crap right now. I'm gonna go to bed. You know the drill. Tell me about any mistakes you found.
...
And if anyone would like to PM me and chat, I'd love to. I'm rather lonely these days.
And of course, thank you all for reading my digital rag.