Darkness. Dash gave a groan as she rolled over in her bed, looking outside at the early morning sky.

It was still dark out, Celestia still having yet to raise the sun. The pegasus pony grumbled to herself as she hoisted herself out of bed, yawning wide as she trotted into her bathroom for a quick shower. She wasn't used to getting up this early, instead preferring to do quite the opposite and sleep in until nearly noon, but Twilight had urged her to meet with the unicorn at the edge of the Everfree forest at 5:00 in the morning. It may have been inconvenient and a chore to raise herself up so early, but when Twilight wanted your attention, you gave it to her, no matter when or where she asked for it. As she took to the air, Dash noticed the eerie calm that seemed to pervade the early morning. The birds still weren't awake, there was no cheerful chirping, or even the buzz of insects. It was just...quiet. Very quiet. She frowned as she dove down, skimming along the ground as her wings beat at her sides, slicing through the air with ease as she pulled up and banked towards the pre-determined rendevouz point that Twilight had picked out. As the pegasus pony neared she could pick out the small violet dot that was Twilight, noticing her pacing back and forth while a bright yellow speck next to her stood vigilant at the edge of the forest. Must be Fluttershy... She mused to herself, before swooping down and breaking into a trot towards the duo as she touched down. Twilight only gave a brief glance in her direction, before resuming her nervous pacing around, and Dash noticed Fluttershy seemed oddly intent on staring the darkened overgrowth of the forest down. She raised an eyebrow in curiosity, before giving a nod to the purple unicorn present and clearing her throat. Right then, you make me get up at five in the morning so we can do what exactly? Watch Fluttershy have a staring contest with the forest? There'd better be a real good reason for dragging me out here besides that, Twilight. The purple unicorn paused, giving a sigh then frowning. A human told me. Dash balked slightly, before narrowing her eyes. That's it? 'A human told me?' You're wasting my time because a human wrote to you and told you go out and wait by the edge of Everfree? I know you're gullible Twilight, but I didn't think you were this gulli- She was interrupted by a shushing noise from the resident yellow pegasus, Fluttershy still staring intently at the forest. Oh come on Fluttershy, not you too? Fluttershy merely raised a hoof to quiet the cyan pony, narrowing her eyes. Sssh! Something's coming! Something...different. Rainbow groaned and slapped a hoof against her forehead. That's it, you've all gone crazy. This whole human thing has driven you two absolutely nuts. What, you think they're going to just waltz out of the Everfree and...and... She blinked as a rustling came from within the forest, along with the sound of footsteps. Twilight turned and watched along with Fluttershy, before a multitude of bipedal figures came stepping out from the underbrush. Dash's eyes went wide, her mouth going agape. ...no way. How- She was cut off by Twilight Sparkle, who was eyeing the group with a cautious eye. Dash, quiet. If these really are humans, they're not going to understand us... Actually, we sort of can. Hello, Ponies. Came a synthesized male voice from the human in the front in Equestrian. The looks of shock and confusion present on the quadrupedal equines was not unnoticed, as the human figure gave a little chuckle of amusement. Translator. Not perfect. But it works. It's me, Gig. Remember? Twilight raised an

eyebrow in curiosity, taking a tentative step forward. ...Gig? How are you...well...talking in Equestrian? Is it some sort of translation spell? I thought you humans didn't have magic? Another chuckle from the human. Not spell. Technology. It's complicated. Derriere explain. A look of utter confusion from the ponies. Gig cursed under his breath, lifting the small box and giving it a few prods. Derriere. DERRIERE. Cest des conneries! THAT. MAN. THERE. Will explain. Dash took a sidelong glance at Fluttershy, the fellow pegasus pony returning the gaze as she gave a small shake of her head she was just as lost as Dash was. Gig passed the small rectangular box to the man he had been pointing at, who cleared his throat and gave a nod to the trio of ponies present. My name is Crossman. He began to point at the rest of the humans behind him. Thats Shepard, Carter, Clinton, Danforth, Chang, Johnson, Wayne, MacArthur, Paulson, and Nimitz. Each of the humans gave a small wave or nod, Twilight and Dash responding in kind, while Fluttershy hid behind the long lock of her hair, stealing occasional glances at the odd bipedal creatures. Crossman continued. For all intents and purposes...maam, you will direct any questions you have to either Mr. Gig or myself. Now I'll be frank this world is in danger. A god you call Ignis is coming back, and he's starting with a sacrifice. Big one. Stalingrad. He glanced down at the box before giving a shrug. Close enough. It was Fluttershy's turn to speak up, frowning a little. But...I'm Ignis. I mean...I'm sure I am! I was going to burn that Qetuo human after he burned my house down, and- The man interrupted her. You're not Ignis. Fluttershy scowled, stamping her hoof though it was more like a soft pat at the ground. But- He shook his head. No. You're not Ignis. Ignis is trapped in another dimension, by Celestia. It was Twilight's turn to come to the forefront. The Princess would never do something like that! She's a kind and loving ruler, she wouldn't just banish Ignis away! I mean, she did with Luna but thats because she was possessed by Nightmare Moon, but that doesnt count! Besides, everypony knows that all the primal Gods all left on their own volition it's in the history books! Crossman shook his head, folding his arms over his chest. We have a human saying on Earth. 'History is written by the victorious.' Your Princess is not all that she looks, Twilight Sparkle. Ignis is coming back. And he's starting with setting all of Stallion Grad on fire. And he's pissing. The trio of ponies flushed in embarassment, Crossman blinking before giving a curse and speaking slower into the small box. He's pissed. Not pissing! Very very angry and upset. At Celestia, I mean. The trio of ponies relaxed a bit, but the slight tinge of embarassment still dotted their cheeks. Dash sidled up next to Twilight, looking over at her friend with a fair bit of worry in her eyes. Twilight...I've got friends in Stalliongrad. We can't just...well...even if they're lying, what's the worst that can happen? We've got magic on ourside, they've got...uhm...okay I don't know what they've got but it can't be anything that you can't deal with right? Twilight looked from Dash back to the humans. They were an odd lot. Like tall, hairless apes...in clothing. And those weird wands that they held with both hands didn't look all too friendly either. But still...she had to agree with Dash. Despite all that Gig had told her about humans, about them...eating...ponies...and all the war and violence on their world...well...they wouldn't have come here if they weren't being truthful in their words, right? She sighed, shaking her head softly. Alright...fine...we'll go. But I refuse to believe this whole Ignis and Celestia imprisoning

him thing! I know her, she's not like that! Maybe on your world it's commonplace for your leaders to do things like that, but not the Princess. Crossman merely shrugged, before tossing the device back to Gig, who affixed it to the front of his jacket. Dash looked about, realizing that Humans -probably- can't fly on their own, before clearing her throat and raising a hoof. Right, time to see if all that practice has paid off. Hhhow get wheee to theeere? The humans seemed to look surprised as mangled english was spoken by the cyan pony, a grin spreading over her muzzle, chest puffing out proudly. Gig's translator sparked to life again. Huh, not bad. Better than I thought. But. You sound a little hoarse. He paused for effect, but all he got from Dash was a blank stare. No? Okay, worth a shot. We'll fly. Our way. He motioned back deeper into the forest, as the rest of the humans turned and began heading in the implied direction. Fluttershy cleared her throat, nudging Twilight in the side as she lowered her head and rubbed a hoof nervously upon her other leg. Um...Twilight, if it's alright with you, um...I think I'm going to just...stay here. I don't...really trust them, you know. And...well, Applejack and Big Mac were going to help me pick out the timber for my new house and well...if I just went off with you lot, they'd be wondering where I went. I mean, if it's okay with you... Twilight smiled and gave a nod. It's okay Fluttershy, we'll be fine. You're the only pony right now that knows we're going with them...so...well, not to sound negative, but if anything happens to us, I want you to tell Spike right away, and get him to inform the Princess, alright? I'm sure it's not going to come to that but...just in case. Never hurts to be prepared, right? She gave a nervous smile, before noticing Dash already flying after the rest of the group. We'll be fine, take care of Spike and Owloysius while I'm gone, okay? Fluttershy nodded, giving the unicorn a hug before bidding her farewell. So how'd you get here? What's that? Is that a gun?! Have you ever shot anyone? What's with the weird horseshoes on your feet? You guys have fingers? What's that like? Why don't you have any fur on your head? Dash was zipping about between the group of humans as they walked, acting like Pinkie-Pie in a candy store as she barraged them with a multitude of questions. The translator was having a hard time keeping up with the speedy pony's rapid manner of speech, and gave up even trying about halfway through her 'interrogation'. Gig merely chuckled and tugged lightly on the chromatic tail which whipped by him, reeling the pegasus pony backward. Whoa there, Dash. This is a stealth mission, okay? Keep the chatter to a minimum. The pegasus pony gave a curt nod, saluting and putting on an aura of seriousness as she hovered along with the marching humans. Gig smiled to himself, amused at the cyan pony's reaction to actually meeting real live humans he supposed that if circumstances were different, he'd be acting much the same with her as she was with them. It didn't take long for the group of humans and ponies to reach a fairly large clearing within the depths of Everfree, and Dash's eyes grew wide as the gleaming, ebon stealth chopper that was parked there came into view. Whooooaaaa... She mumbled out, zipping forward and flitting here and there as she looked at the strange contraption. Dash, be careful! We don't know anything about their technology, it could hurt you! Twilight chided, to which Dash huffed and stuck her tongue out at the unicorn. Relax, Twilight! I know what this thing is! It's a...uh...I think it's a jet! Yeah... She gave the craft another look, before rubbing her chin with

a hoof. ...a very funny looking jet. Gig snickered to himself, as the commandos busied themselves with loading the chopper up with their supplies that had been stacked nearby. No, not a jet. It's a helicopter. Sort of like what Pinkie had when you had Gilda in town. The cyan pony blinked, looking back at the craft before a look of realization spread over her face. Ohhhyeaaaah....I see it now! Aww...I really wanted it to be a jet...then I'd race ya to Stalliongrad! Gig smiled and gave the pegasus a ruffle on the head, before stepping into the helicopter. Not today, I'm afraid. Now, both of you, inside. We're heading out lickety-split. Twilight looked at the craft with a look of apprehension, raising an eyebrow at Gig. Are you sure this thing is safe? Gig nodded and offered a hand to the unicorn. Positive. Might take some getting used to, but it's safe. Hop in! Dash had already taken up residence inside, marveling at the technology present within, before glancing at Twilight and giving her a wide grin. C'mon Twilight! You like that techie stuff, you really should see all this! The props to the helicopter began to slowly spin, it's engine whining to life as Gig helped the violet pony into the bay of the chopper, as Crossman shouted back at them loud enough for the translator to pick it up. When we land, keep your head down! Those blades'll take a pony's head clear off, so keep low! Twilight swallowed as she glanced outside at the rapidly whirling chopper blades, sinking further into the body of the craft before giving a little jump as Gig gave a soft pat to her side. Don't worry. He said. I was nervous my first time too. You get used to it. Soon the engine of the craft grew to a whirling pitch, and with a soft lurch the chopper lifted off from the ground, rising up above the Everfree forest and into the early morning sky beyond. -------------Stalliongrad. Possibly one of the most industrialized cities in all of Equestria. Sure, it had that whimsical charm that nearly all Equestrian architecture had, but by pony standards it was a cold, austere place. Shades of gray and brown were the norm here, and even despite its color inhabitants, the whole city let off an aura of depression. Twilight Sparkle heaved a grim sigh as the chopper as her human entourage had been calling it, slowly descended through the thick cloudbank that hovered perpetually over the city. This had all been a lot to take in, after all it was only a matter of weeks ago that she had been blissfully unaware of the strange pink bipedal creatures that now stood next to her, and though they wore no armor she knew that they were dressed for war. She eyed them carefully as the helicopter continued its decent, rocking slightly with the drafts of wind that billowed past it. It wasn't that she didn't trust Gig, or those who came along with him, it was just...well, very difficult to get past the fact that she was now standing side by side with a species she had only heard about in letters. A species that ate meat, that waged war on a daily basis, a violent, uncouth race that came from a wild, untamed world. She gave a soft shiver, wind blowing through her mane. It was just strange, and a lot to take in all at once. The voice of one of the pilots rose up above the din of the chopper's blades. He lacked a translator, the language foreign to her ears, Twilight only able to discern a vague understanding as the co-pilot pointed at a black screen upon the console of the craft. It may have been technology beyond her understanding, but she could tell that the image on the display was a map of Stalliongrad and the surrounding countryside, a long wide line rotating about it from the center, refreshing the image as it passed over it. Twilight felt Rainbow Dash give her a nudge in

the side, the violet furred pony looking over at her companion as the cyan pony motioned out the open side of the craft. Uh, Twilight...you're gonna want to see this... Fire. The city was on fire. Black, oily smoke billowed up from the eastern sector of Stalliongrad, the yellow-orange glow of fire crawling along the ground and buildings like angry inching fingers. Her eyes went wide with horror, heart plummeting to the pit of her stomach. What...what could DO this?! She asked herself, before the craft lurched as it began a rapid descent. Closer and closer to the chaos it drew, and as Twilight looked on at the burning city she could make out a figure running about below, spewing flame from a strange contraption upon their back. The scent of burning timber and charred flesh hit her nose, the purple pony wrinkling her snout in disgust. Oh dear Celestia no...tell me they didn't. As the helicopter finally landed upon an open street, her worst fears were confirmed. The burning, smoldering skeletons of ponies, young and old nearly lined the streets, unfortunate victims of the crazed pony spewing gouts of flame about. She raised a hoof to her mouth in horror, as Dash ventured forward with the disembarking Humans. Jesus H. Christ... Muttered one of them, Crossman she thought Gig called him. The humans quickly formed a ring around the quadrupedal duo, their weapons raised as they advanced through the town. Dash had to slip on her flight goggles in order to keep the acrid smoke at bay, while Twilight's horn gave a subtle soft glow as she cast a small spell to provide much the same effect to her own eyes. She turned to Dash as they walked, crestfallen as they surveyed the destruction. I don't...why would...Dash, what in Celestia's name happened here?! The cyan pony shook her head, wings ruffling uneasily upon her back. I don't know, Twilight...but whoever did this is going to pay for it. Ponies murdering ponies...when did it come to this? Burn, BURN, BURN! Came the voice, echoing through the city streets as the commando team turned a corner. Before them stood a bright orange mare with a wild, whipped red and yellow mane, a massive tank strapped to her back, and attached to it a hose which was held within her mouth. Fire spewed from the nozzle at the tip, as she let loose with those terrifying gouts of destructive fire, a mad, crazy look in her eyes. The fire-flinging pony chanted something Twilight couldn't hear fully, the only part that was audible being the phrase Reth reth reth! Almost immediately as she was spotted, the humans suddenly went prone, weapons raised and trained on the mare parading about a few yards away. Orders sir? We're taking her out. Carter! Sir yes sir! One shot. Make it count. Twilight's eyes widened as she saw one of the humans step forward, bringing his long, scoped weapon up and pointed at the mare in the square. She looked back and forth between the humans, before turning and advancing on Gig. What's going on, what are they doing? Why is he pointing that...thing at her?! The frenchman gave a slow shake of his head, speaking that

odd language of his, before the translator upon his chest began it's work. She's an enemy, that's a gun, he's going to bring her down. It was Dash's turn to whirl around, mouth agape. They're going to kill her?! Twilight, we can't just let the- BANG. Carter gave a grin as he squeezed the trigger. It was the perfect shot, like hunting deer back home. The mare was too busy being enthralled with her task of setting every damn thing in her sight on fight to even notice the group. His rifle rang out, the clatter of the spent shell pinging off of the pavement... ...but she didn't fall. There wasn't even a spray of blood. His brow furrowed as through his scope, he saw his bullet actually stop in mid-air, before dropping harmlessly to the ground with a soft plink. The mare with the flamethrower ceased her pyrotechnic activities, her ears swiveling up to attention. The flamethrower kicked off, and she turned to fix the group with a mad gaze. Oh good...more kindling for the blaze. All hell broke loose. Shots rang out as the commandos opened fire at the now charging mare, a deranged look in her eyes as she brought that hose to bear. One of the humans shouted something, and Gig looked at her with frightened eyes. Again he spoke, and again the translator hummed to life. DAMMIT TWILIGHT YOU'RE A MAGIC PONY, WHAT IN HELL'S NAME IS UP WITH HER? Twilight looked back and forth from Gig and the quickly approaching mare, chewing on her bottom lip before screwing her eyes tight, concentrating as her horn gained an unearthly purple glow. Shield charm! I-I can't take it down completely, but I might be able to get someone through it! The mare was now upon them, the group scattering as a gout of flame hit where they all had been standing, Dash taking to the air and soaring upwards in a tight spiral, while the fire-toting mare cackled with glee. Fillies and gentlecolts, allow me to introduce myself. My name is Firecracker Burst, and I will be hosting your roast tonight! Now stand still and FRY LIKE A GOOD LITTLE FOAL! More shots rang out, all of them stopping short and falling uselessly to the ground, the rampaging mare letting loose with another gout of flame at her assailants. This time one of them wasn't fast enough to get out of the way, the burning naplam hitting him square in the back and enveloping him in flames, his screams echoing into the night air. Twilight winced, near perfect memory reminding her of the humans name - Nimitz. She shuddered as he turned, the image of his face wreathed in flame and contorted in sheer agony shaking her to her core. More mad cackling from Firecracker. Yes, YES, YES! Burn with me, giant ape! Burn and taste the cleansing glory of Ignis! She damn near pranced about as she chased after the retreating group, thick gouts of napalm firing from the hose held within her mouth as she hummed and giggled to herself.

OhmanohmanohmanthisiscrazythisisSOcrazy Dash muttered to herself within her head. She banked left, hard as a fresh line of fire shot up at her, the pegasus pony gritting her teeth as she rolled over to dive back down towards Twilight. Twilight! You said you could get someone through that shield charm of hers, right? Use me then! I'm the fastest we've got here, she'll never see me coming! Twilight glanced backwards, watching as Firecracker chased after them with a mad sense of glee, before looking up at the pegasus pony and giving a nod. Her eyes closed, concentrating, feeling the magic well up within her, her horn glowing with arcane energy, before suddenly whipping out to envelop Dash with a strange violet glow. Twilight opened her eyes, panting softly from the exertion, before nodding to the cyan pony. There! Go, GO! Before she hurts somepony else! Dash didn't waste any time in taking the hint, already off like a rocket. She charged straight at Firecracker, zipping past the fleeing humans right at her target. Firecracker herself had stopped dead in her tracks, blinking at this strange show of courage before grinning wide. So, the little birdy wants to play chicken, mhh? LETS RUMBLE, EXTRACRISPY! She charged forward, bringing her hose up to aim at Dash, hooves hammering the pavement as the cyan pegasus drew closer and closer. Wait for it... Said Dash, eyes narrowing as muscles tensed, ready to move in an instant. A spark flew from Firecracker's flamethrower, arcing head-on towards Rainbow Dash but she was already gone. A blurrying rainbow-trail zigzagged around the gout of flame, Firecracker only allowed a moments realization before that chromatic blur slammed into her side with enough force to tear the flamethrower harness clean off her. It was done. It was over. Sniveling, simpering FOALS. You think you've won? Firecracker sneered as she lay upon her side, hooves bound with rope. One of the humans stepped forward, kneeling down to grab her by the mane and heft her head upward. We stopped you, didn't we? He asked. Firecracker merely grinned, snickering, before breaking into a fit of maniacal laughter. You've only delayed the inevitable! Can you feel it, ape? My master calls to me...already I can feel his presence! He comes on wings of fire and brimstone, burning embers in his wake! My sacrifices were not in vain, oh he is coming, and he will BURN both this world and yours to cinders! Another fit of cackling laughter, her hooves kicking uselessly in their bindings. The human who had been talking to the deranged mare shook his head, pulling out his firearm from it's holster, before pressing it against the temple of the mare. Dash blinked, charging over and knocking the gun out of the human's hand, standing defiantly before him. What the HAY do you think you're doing?! We don't KILL here! He paused for a moment, before the translator on Gig's chest sparked to life, giving the appropriate english sentence. She's a threat to the citizens of this town. She murdered one of my best men! Do you honestly think that she deserves the right to life? Dash's ears twitched at the synthesized voice of the translator, frowning and getting right up in the human's face. That might be in YOUR world, but you're on Equestrian soil. You play by our rules. We. Don't. Kill! The atmosphere was tense as both Dash and the human stood off, no words being said, before the human gave a soft grunt and retrieved his gun, reholstering it. Fine. We'll leave her in your government's care. They can deal with the paperwork then. He then turned to the rest of his group, readjusting the hat upon his head. Gentlemen. We're done here. Dash was about to take off after them, before Twilight suddenly gasped out, her horn sparking something fierce

as her knees buckled. In a flash the Element of Loyalty was at her side, a look of worry upon her face. Twilight? What's wrong, what's going on with your horn? The unicorn shuddered, wincing as she pried an eye open. I...I don't know...something...something's happening in Canterlot! The Princess! Dash, we need to get back there, NOW! The cyan pony looked from Twilight back to the humans, who were heading towards the sounds of riot deeper into the city. I don't think we're going to get much help from those guys...do you...you think you could teleport us? You've done it plenty of times before with yourself! Twilight chewed upon her bottom lip, looking onward towards the direction of Canterlot. I...think I can. I've only done it with just me, I've never done it with anypony else with me...but if I focus, I think I can! Dash merely nodded, taking up stance next to Twilight, as the latter's horn began to glow brighter and brighter as she began to cast the spell. The light from Twilight's horn reached a crescendo, and an odd buzzing hum filled the air around the duo before a thunderous crack echoed in their place, the two ponies gone in a flash. Gig turned around at the noise, giving a soft frown before turning back with the rest of the group. They gone? Inquired Crossman. Gig gave a nod, heaving a sigh. Oui. Probably back to Canterlot. Crossman merely gave a nod, pulling out a small remote with a single red button atop it. Good. Ignisssss...I know you can hear meeee~ A giggling chortle came from Firecracker Burst, her mad eyes looking up at the night sky. Did I do good, Master? Did I not do well in your name? Another round of crazed snickering, before the pyromaniac mare suddenly stopped, ears swiveling about. Beep. She frowned, looking around her. Some damnable beeping noise was coming from nearby. She squirmed in her bonds, wriggling about before she rolled over onto her side, coming face to face with the offending noisemaker. BeepBeep. It was a small, brown block, no bigger than a bar of soap. Red wires ran from within it to a strange contraption embedded atop it, a small antennae leading from its top side. She frowned, inching forward towards the strange thing, curiosity getting the best of her. Beepbeepbeep. Gig jumped as a dull pop echoed behind him, the frenchman swiveling around in time to see the lifeless corpse or what was left of it anyways of Firecracker Burst slam into the pavement a good fifty feet away from where she had been bound. A small smoking crater lay where she had been, and Gig noticed, even from here, the slick sheen of blood upon the pavement. He turned to face Crossman, who was already putting the detonator back into his pocket. You said you wou- Crossman raised a hand, cutting off the conversation. I'll be

damned if I'm going to take orders from a magic talking horse. You don't like it, fine. But I'm the one in charge of this op, and we do things my way. Understood? Gig could only frown, giving a half-hearted nod of acquiescence. ------------Dash felt her stomach do loops within her belly as Twilight transported them back to Canterlot. It was a weird sensation, like the world was suddenly being sucked away from beneath your hooves, only to explode back into reality with a sensation of having been spun around like a top. No wonder Twilight always looked so out of it when she did this. And why did everything taste blue? Her thoughts on the mechanics of quantum tunneling were interrupted as a thunderous boom echoed above her, driving her attention skyward. They were in Canterlot alright...but this was definitely not the peaceful castle town she had seen during the Gala. The sky was a myriad of chaotic colors, fireballs arcing through the air, bursts of arcane magic crackling like lightning as they tore through the sky, all emanating from the highest point of the Royal Castle Celestia's throne room. Twilight gritted her teeth as she charged forward, weaving between panicking Canterlot residents as Dash took to the air and sped after Twilight. Twilight, what in the hay is going on?! We teleported from one warzone right into another! Twilight grit her teeth, bursting into the castle foyer and charging up the steps towards Celestia's chamber. I don't know Dash, but I aim to find out! If Ignis really HAS been released, and he's got a vendetta against the Princess...we've got to help her! Though HOW we're going to go up against an ancient God-Pony is beyond me... She thought to herself. As they burst into the throne room itself, a scene of utter chaos met their eyes. Pillars were in shattered ruins, tapestries burning, the ceiling itself coming loose and having sent chunks of stone crashing to the tiled ground, and at the epicenter of it all lay Princess Celestia herself, in full regal fury. Twilight's eyes widened as she noticed not just Ignis, but a whole pantheon of ancient Gods battling the Sun-Goddess. Ignis, the Lord of Fire, Nexus, the Envoy of Death, Terrestria of the Earth, Caeli of the Sky, even Astrus, the Shepherd of the Stars. And that wasn't all for bursting through the stained glass windows of the throne room came even more ancient pony deities. Natis and Lexus, the gods of Fertility and Law, swiftly joined by Maris and Agrius, the gods of the Sea and Agriculture. All of them came to bear against the fury of Celestia, the Princess' horn crackling with arcane energies. Stay out of this, my student! This fight is not of your own! She hissed through clenched teeth. Twilight balked, but given the current chaotic scene and the multitude of god-ponies encircling her mentor, she felt compelled to speak up. Would SOMEPONY please tell me WHAT IN THE VOID IS GOING ON!? Her own horn sparked with arcane power, emotions getting the better of her as she eyed the pantheon before her. She blinked as she noticed the whole group of god-ponies turn toward her direction. GOOD. Now that I've got your attention- They were not turning their attention towards you, Twilight Sparkle. Came a voice from behind her. She felt Dash bump into her, rapidly poking her with a hoof. Uh, T-Twilight? The

unicorn turned, before giving a gasp as the sight of Luna filled her field of view, the violent pony backing down into an impromptu bow. P-Princess Luna! I...we've got to help your sister! I don't know how but the entire ancient Pantheon is about to- I know. Said Luna. Twilight stared at the Lunar Princess. You...know? But ho- Because I summoned them here. A deep unearthly growl of rage came from Celestia's direction, her upper lip twisted into a snarl as she stared daggers at her younger sister. I knew it. You never stopped being Nightmare Moon, did you? All this time, I thought you had changed, that you were back to your normal self, but no. You're still the same, you're still trying to usurp me and everything that I've done for this miserable little world! Luna frowned, stepping forward and taking up place with the rest of the gods. No, my sister. I am still Luna, your sister, the same pony that was there when she was cleansed by the Elements of Harmony. This is not a power grab, this is a liberation. Twilight stared incredulously at Luna, before frowning and darting forward, standing between the Night Goddess and the Day Goddess. Liberation!? You call rallying together the old gods and overthrowing your sister a liberation?! Luna frowned and looked down at Twilight. Yes. My sister didn't tell you everything, did she, Twilight? She never told you how she forcibly disbanded the Council of the Gods thousands of years ago, locking them within a dimensional prison for all eternity, and leeching their power for her own gains. To put herself as the sole ruler of Equestria. This is not done out of hate, Twilight Sparkle. Quite the opposite, I love my sister very much, but she has gone too far...just as I did when I became Nightmare Moon. Luna turned to focus a narrow gaze on Ignis. Which means no revenge. The Fire God snorted a gout of flame, gritting his teeth and growling at Luna. She kept me imprisoned in that damnable nothingness for three-thousand years! You expect me to just stand and let that be!? Luna strode right up to the taller male God, causing him to step back in surprise. At least you had the rest of the Pantheon to spend that time with. I was imprisoned within the moon for a thousand years, all by myself. Alone. With nothing but dust and rocks for my entertainment. So do not lecture me on how bad your prison sentence was, because you at least had the luxury of company. Luna turned, facing her enraged sister, who tensed as the Night Goddess approached her, stopping short. We're reinstating the Council, sister. And there isn't anything you can do about it. Submit, and we'll let you stay. Celestia merely gave a wicked grin, rearing up on her hooves as the very castle itself shook itself to it's core, the sun rising up into the sky and burning bright upon the ponies gathered within her throne room. NEVER! She declared, before arcs of magic fired from her horn, striking several of the Gods gathered and sending them skidding backwards. Twilight yelped as she made a mad dash towards Rainbow, who quickly herded the unicorn back behind a shattered column, the cyan pony peeking out to watch the ensuing battle. GUARDS! TO MY AIDE! She shouted, the gilded centurions of Equestria's royalty swiftly springing to action as they attempted to pour into the Throne Room, but the sudden upheaval of the very earth itself by Terrestria blocked their advance. Ignis was the first to make any sort of offensive against the Sun-Goddess, taking to the air as his wings flared out, hurling massive balls of fire at Celestia, who evaded the majority of them, but let out a screech of pain as one managed to slam into her flank, burning the fur there to a blackened crisp. The other gods joined in the assault, Celestia put on the defensive as their attacks and magic slowly began to break her down, until with a shattering crack her last magical barrier was

torn asunder, the Sun-Goddess giving a groan as she was flung backwards into her throne, the backing splintering as she fell in a gasping heap. Luna spread her wings, ordering the rest of the Pantheon to hold, as she stepped forward, a crescent shaped jewel upon her chestplate beginning to glow. Slowly the light from outside dimmed, until it was as if night itself had fallen over Equestria. Twilight ventured a glance upward through one of the many holes in the ceiling, blinking as she watched as an ebon disc crossed over the sun itself, holding into position and blotting out the massive ball of fire in the sky a solar eclipse. Celestia hissed as Luna stepped forward, eyes glowing with arcane might, fixing her gaze upon her beaten and battered sister. The Sun-Goddess spat at Luna's hooves, breathing heavily. The Eye of Luna...heh...I thought you lost that thing... The Night Goddess gave a soft shrug. I did. It was about to be sent through the Rift to some human with delusions of grandeur...it was easy conjuring up a fake and replacing the real one with it. Celestia hissed as she struggled to sit up, panting heavily. Her mane was a mess, her feathers frayed, hide singed, bruised and cut. So...this is it, hmm? My end. Well? What are you waiting for? Finish me. Luna shook her head, standing firm before her sister. No, it is not as simple as that. You forgave me for being Nightmare Moon. I will do the same for you. Submit, sister. The choice is simple. Banishment, or surrender. Choose wisely. Celestia gazed at Luna, breath coming in ragged gasps, before she looked at the rest of the pantheon gathered around her...then crossing to meet Twilight Sparkle's own, terrified eyes. Her breath paused, her arrogant expression faltering. Thoughts spun in turmoil, before she closed her eyes and gave a deep sigh. I yield. The Council of the Gods will be...reinstated. All at once the tension within the air of the throne room seemed to lessen three-fold, as the glow within Luna's eyes faded, the solar eclipse moving away and once again bathing the land of Equestria in light. -------------Once a general agreement had been settled upon, and the various Gods returning to their old haunts from ages long past to resume their roles over Equestria's various aspects of nature, the two mares, one of Night, one of Day, sat in silence with each other. Luna was busy patching up Celestia's wounds, the older sister looking a fair bit dejected, to which her younger sister paused, frowning softly. Sister... Yes, Luna? You're not...mad at me, are you? A pause. Before Celestia shook her head. No. I was a fool, thinking I could get away with a transgression of this scale...I'm...sorry. All this time I tried to be the better, to be a decent role model for you...and I end up being no better than Nightmare Moon. Luna frowned and gave her older sister a firm nudge in the side, eliciting a soft oof of pain from the Solar Goddess. No. Don't ever say that. You are my sister, you've been there for me when I've needed you, and you still had faith in me even when I was corrupted. We may be Gods, sister...but we are not infalliable.

Celestia smiled softly, giving a quiet nod. I suppose that is so...and I am, truly sorry, for what I did. I just hope you and the others can eventually forgive me. Luna chuckled, wrapping a wing around her sister and pulling her into a hug. I already have, dear sister...though the rest of the Pantheon may take awhile. Tia? Mmh? ...I love you. No matter what, I will always love you. ...I love you too, Luna. The sappy scene was interrupted by the sound of a clearing throat, the immortal duo turning around to see Dash and Twilight sitting in the center of the throne room, the former with a wide grin on her face. So uh...everything's cool now? ------------Twilight gave a groan as she slumped down upon her bed. It had been a long day. A very long day. From humans to psychotic fire-belching mares, to a god-on-god battle royale. The whole day was just a confusing mess from her standpoint. She sighed and rolled over onto her side, grabbing her pillow and tucking it under her head, looking up at the now night sky. She still had questions...many questions. Celestia had done her best to explain herself in an impromptu counseling session back at the palace, but...well, she had always seen her mentor as this infalliable, perfect pony. And today, to see that all come crashing down, that it was all just a mask...that Celestia had locked away the rest of the Pantheon ages ago, and assumed control of Equestria all for herself...well... She rolled over again, fidgeting a bit. Her eyes made their way to the stack of letters upon her desk human letters waiting to be answered. Her thoughts turned to everything she had been learning from those interactions...about the human world, about the violence rampant within their society...and how it seemed that aura of chaos that pervaded their world had seeped into her own today. She grumbled and turned away, pulling her covers over her head. She felt that things would have been better off if they had never met the blasted creatures.

EPILOGUE
------------Gig gave a grunt as he fell back onto the bed of the rather posh hotel room in La

dfense, a rather busy district of Paris, that the orignization had set him up with for the duration of the covert operation. He was bushed. Not just physically from the operation itself, which had lasted a fair bit longer than he had wanted to, but emotionally as well. He was used to seeing that world through a plastic box in his living room, everything the perfect vision of paradise and serenity...but to actually go there, and see the atrocities committed, all in the same sickening pastel color that he had seen upon the television...it didnt sit well with him at all. The frenchman sighed, looking over to his right and spying the remote for the television in his room, clicking his tongue before grabbing at it, pointing it at the entertainment box and turning it on. NASA scientists are still bewildered as to what caused the eclipse, which apparently was unprecedented for this time of year. However, many religious cults believe it is another sign of the Apocalypse. The New Norse Church has stated that Ragnarok is nigh, Loki is freed. Some, however, blame the Ponies, who were discovered eighteen months ago, and are currently in contact with several humans on earth. The Pentecostal Church of Christ in Savannah, Georgia, has identified Princess Celestia as the anti-Christ, who seeks to conquer the human world. The Ambassador to Equestria, a Mr. Emilio Mendoza calls the accusations ridiculous and damaging. Next up, we talk about proposed legislation to ban hijabs, which the... He shut the TV off. If he were less exhausted, hed reflect on what just happened. Right now, however, he just wanted to sleep. His dreams were full of ponies and fire. -------------Applejack gave a frown as she stared at the headline for the mornings paper. LOCAL FARMER CLAIMS CREATURES FROM ANOTHER PLANET ABDUCTED HIS TOOLBOX It read. A Mr. Silver Maize reported to the Equestrian Gazette that strange bipedal alien creatures trespassed onto his property late at night, heading into his barn before absconding with his toolbox to repair their extra-terrestrial craft. Mr. Maize then went on to describe the craft in great detail, observing that it was a strange, black thing o metal, looked like a fish but had four queer antennae sproutin from its top. The Equestrian Gazette has secured photos of the alleged landing site of the craft, but experts remain skeptical. Its also inconclusive if these creatures have any relation to the sightings of tall hairless ape-things amidst the riots which rocked Stalliongrad earlier this week. Reports are limited in regards to the event, but at least a hundred are confirmed dead, with injured totalling at (CONTINUED ON PAGE 5) Big Mac peered over her shoulder as he chewed his breakfast, giving a glance at the paper his sister was intently reading, before looking up at her. That time of year again? He asked. His sister nodded. Yep. Better get the catapult out from th barn, big brother. Ill be darned if I let them extree-tuh-wrestlers spin them fancy arts out in the hayfields again!